New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing
Gain the skills and knowledge needed to help meet the growing demand for nurses in New Zealand.
Nurses are in very high demand right across the country. To help address this situation, the scope of practice for Enrolled Nurses is currently under review and will broaden significantly so Enrolled Nurses can work in almost any area of health care that requires nurses.
If you’re considering a career in nursing, the diploma is an excellent study option. It takes just 18 months and can be studied either at our Manawa campus in Christchurch, or from wherever you are in Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough or the West Coast, using a blended delivery model. More information on this option is available here.
The diploma combines theory with practice in simulated environments and clinical placements in different health care settings. You’ll practise your skills in a variety of nursing contexts—such as rehabilitation, acute care and mental health—while studying the fundamentals of nursing and the human body.
Theory classes are timetabled between 8am-4pm Monday to Friday. Clinical placements (in your local region) will require you to work shift work anytime between 6.30am-11.30pm.
Please note: if you’re accepted into this programme, you’ll be required to show evidence of immunity or vaccination against certain infections and diseases. Read FAQs about nursing study and careers (PDF)
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
NCEA Level 2 which must include 12 credits in Level 1 Mathematics
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3) Ara Pre Health Pathway or equivalent.
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
In addition you need to:
provide a first aid certificate (Red Cross Comprehensive or St John's Workplace) which is current at the time the programme starts.
- provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee report(s). Your referee reports, personal statement and interview (if required) should provide evidence of appropriateness to study in the nursing profession.
- In your personal statement you should outline why you have chosen nursing as a career and describe personal qualities and relevant aspects from your life experiences which will enhance your application
- meet various Health Authority requirements in order to participate in the clinical components of the programme. Currently, MRSA clearance is required by most clinical practice areas.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information 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 Department. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
- you may be required to attend an interview if you meet academic entry criteria.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
What if English is not my first Language?
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.
- 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.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- 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.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.5 Academic
- 6.5 Listening
- 6.5 Reading
- 6.5 Writing
- 6.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
As a graduate of the programme (who also meets Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements) you will be competent to practise as a beginning level enrolled nurse under the direction and delegation of a Registered Nurse in a variety of health care settings such as hospitals, community aged care facilities, iwi and Māori trusts, mental health and other health care facilities.
Study pathways
Upon competing this diploma you can take your professional nursing career to the next level with our Bachelor of Nursing.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing
Gain the skills and knowledge needed to help meet the growing demand for nurses in New Zealand.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ2889 |
| Application close date | 1 November |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 1 November for March start |
| Credits | 180 |
| Level | 5 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Uniform, equipment and costs associated with placement such as travel and accommodation. Costs will vary. |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2889-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
provide a first aid certificate (Red Cross Comprehensive or St John's Workplace) which is current at the time the programme starts.
- provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee report(s). Your referee reports, personal statement and interview (if required) should provide evidence of appropriateness to study in the nursing profession.
- In your personal statement you should outline why you have chosen nursing as a career and describe personal qualities and relevant aspects from your life experiences which will enhance your application
- meet various Health Authority requirements in order to participate in the clinical components of the programme. Currently, MRSA clearance is required by most clinical practice areas.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information 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 Department. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
- you may be required to attend an interview if you meet academic entry criteria.
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
- Diploma in Enrolled Nursing Additional Requirements Form PDF, 133 KB
- Referee Report 1 PDF, 240 KB
- Referee Report 2 PDF, 239 KB
Area of Interest
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