New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)
Course details
| 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.
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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. If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment. IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test. OET C+ minimum across all bands in one sitting The Head of Nursing can request at any point an ILETS or equivalent English language test be undertaken by an ākonga where English is a second language and where ākonga are experiencing communication difficulties. This can be in theory and/or clinical learning experience courses during the DEN programme. This additional testing will be at the cost of ākonga. Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements? If you are unable to evidence meeting Academic Requirements but you can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained from study, work and/or life experience, applicants may be approved for alternative entry by the Head of Nursing. In addition, you must also meet the following programme specific requirements at the time of application and provide: A self-declaration with information regarding criminal convictions, mental and physical conditions, learning disabilities or challenges. A personal statement outlining why you have chosen nursing as a career, demonstrating communication skills, describing personal qualities and self-responsibilities in relation to relevant aspects from life experiences, learning & practice. At least two written references which demonstrate that you have good character and personal attributes which are sufficient for safe and effective practice as an enrolled nurse as required by the Children's Act 2014. One will be a personal report and one from your school or most recent employer. Referees may not be a family member, partner or flatmate. You may be required to attend an interview to ensure you will meet the Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements for registration on completion of the programme. Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form. The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service and returned in confidence to the Head of Nursing. Information on the Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website. A safety check will be required to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Children's Act 2014. Unsatisfactory results arising from the full safety checking process may result in being declined entry or withdrawn from the programme. A selection process will take place for this programme. Where the number of applications exceeds the number of available places, applicants may be waitlisted. NCEA Level 2 which must include: 10 credits in Level 1 Mathematics/or Numeracy 12 credits in Level 2 Science rich subjects OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Health and Science Pathway (Ara); or a recognised equivalent (Bridging or Pre-Health) If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
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.