Course details

New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)
NZQF Level 5

About the course

Enrolled nurses are a valued part of the health workforce in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, contributing to high‑quality healthcare delivery.

The New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing has been developed in response to the updated Standards of Competence for Enrolled Nurses. It builds on the strengths of the previous diploma and reflects the ongoing evolution of enrolled nurse education.

You’ll be prepared to practise confidently within an updated scope of responsibility, with greater autonomy, accountability and meaningful participation in clinical settings.

You’ll work collaboratively with registered nurses and other healthcare professionals, while taking responsibility and accountability for your own nursing practice.

The qualification prepares you to deliver safe, equitable and informed nursing care across the lifespan. You’ll develop knowledge of the concepts and worldviews of both tangata whenua and tangata Tiriti and embed these understandings into your nursing practice. You’ll practise in partnership with tangata, whānau, and hapori, and contribute as part of interprofessional healthcare teams.

You’ll study the fundamentals of nursing and the human body and gain practical experience in simulated learning environments and clinical placements. You’ll also build skills across a range of contexts, including rehabilitation, acute care, mental health and community health.

This diploma offers a fast and flexible study pathway. You can complete it in just 18 months, either on campus at Manawa in Christchurch or through blended delivery from anywhere in Canterbury or the West Coast.

If you’re accepted into the programme, you’ll need to provide evidence of immunity or vaccination against certain infections and diseases.

See FAQs for more details.

Entry requirements

What if English is not my first Language? Overall IELTS 6.5 Academic 6.5 Listening 6.5 Reading 6.5 Writing 6.5 Speaking If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study. Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.

About the provider

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.

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