Course details

Master of Advanced Nursing Practice (MAdvNP)

About the course

The 240-point Master of Advanced Nursing Practice (MAdvNP) is a focused pathway of study toward the prescribing scopes of practice in nursing under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act (HPCAA) 2003.  It provides educational opportunities for New Zealand registered nurses to meet the Nursing Council of New Zealand competencies for nurse practitioners (NCNZ 2017). This eight-paper degree is underpinned by mastery learning principles, and builds on the nurse's relevant clinical and professional practice.

This research-informed degree aligns with strategic directions for improving the health of populations, and provides teaching and clinical experiences to meet the diverse contemporary health needs of New Zealanders.

Components of learning in prescribing practicums involve completing supervised clinical experience with an authorised prescriber in relevant health service organisations. Applicants must provide evidence of employer support in accommodating their clinical learning, and identify the population(s) that will be the focus for their learning and future practice.

Graduates will be well prepared to lead in direct care:

  • Gaining enhanced capacity to practice collaboratively and autonomously in their field.
  • Interpreting and applying new knowledge to enable the translation of research into practice to benefit those they nurse.
  • Contributing positively to society.

About the provider

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation. 

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves. 

The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents. 

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