Study to become an enrolled nurse for free^

New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)

As part of the government’s Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF) to rebuild New Zealand's economy, this programme is now free^. For terms and conditions, more information, and other programmes covered by this scheme, click here.

Due to high demand, we are unable to take any more applications for our February 2022 intake.
We recommend applying early for our July 2022 intake.

Programme highlights

Launch your career as a nurse in an essential industry. 

Study this diploma to become a highly-skilled enrolled nurse. You will gain the necessary critical skills, learn in our modern clinical learning suite, and get the chance to work with patients in a range of healthcare settings.

When you graduate, you'll be ready to sit the Nursing Council of New Zealand State Examination and apply for registration as an enrolled nurse in New Zealand.

Māori and Pasifika pathways

If you are of Māori or Pasifika descent then you also have access to Te Ara Oranga while studying this programme.

Te Ara Oranga will support you to succeed in a way that suits your needs and you will get connected with industry, opening doors to your health career pathway.

Learn more

Please note: In accordance with the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Vaccinations) Order 2021, Covid vaccinations are mandatory for workers in the healthcare and education sector.  Placement is a compulsory component of MIT’s healthcare and education programmes.  To go on placement in these sectors, students will need to be fully vaccinated and provide proof of vaccination to MIT. Students that hold a medical exemption that prevents them from being vaccinated are permitted to work in the healthcare and education sectors, but will have limited placement opportunities.  Students that are not vaccinated, or that do not wish to share their vaccination status with MIT, will not be able to go on placement in the healthcare and education sectors and, accordingly, will not be able to complete their programme.  If you hold a medical exemption, or if you are unable or unwilling to provide proof of vaccination to MIT, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your options.

Key facts

Start month(s)

February, July
Study location(s)

MIT Manukau
Level 5
Domestic fees

Free^*

Click here to see individual course fees

See Key information for students
Youth Guarantee (fees-free*)

Not available

Click here to find out more
Programme code NZ2889
Duration

Full-time for 1.5 years (54 teaching weeks)
Study method

Full-time
Credits 180
International fees Not available to international students
Māori and Pasifika Trades Training Scholarship (fees-free*)

Not available

Click here to find out more
Qualification leads to

New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)

Study nursing at Manukau Institute of Technology

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to complete the Diploma in Enrolled Nursing?

The programme is 18 months of full-time study and must be completed within 3 years.

When can I start?

There is one intake a year in February at MIT Manukau. For more information contact us on 09 968 8736 to speak to one of the admin team.

What are the course hours?

When you are in theory, lectures and tutorials are generally scheduled between 8am and 5pm, these notional hours will include self-directed learning activities to complete in your own time. When you are on clinical placement, the hours vary considerably.

Will I have to do shift work when on clinical placement?

You are required to be able to manage your personal responsibilities so you can undertake the different start and finish times for clinical placements. Shift and start times will vary according to the organization however morning shifts start around 7am until 3.30pm and afternoon shifts are approximately 1 – 9.30pm.

Where will I go for my clinical experience and do I have to provide my own transport?

Students have clinical placements in the greater Auckland area extending from Pukekohe/Waiuku to Central and West Auckland. Areas outside of this would be negotiated with you. Students must be able to travel independently to all of their clinical placements.

Do I need to have a full driver’s licence?

It is recommended that you have at least a restricted licence as you need to travel independently to all of the clinical placements. Some placements may require a full licence as you may be required to drive a vehicle with passengers.

I have not studied for many years, can I still apply?

We welcome your application and we can work with you through the range of options in order to plan your pathway to registration as an Enrolled Nurse. There are a range of options available for you if you don’t initially meet the entry criteria and this can be discussed with you at the time of application.

What support is available for students?

We have a wide range of support services for students. These include Learning assistance, childcare centre, library facilities, disability services, language support, Kaiāwhina, Māori and Pacific support and counselling and health services.

How much does the course cost?

Course fees are set each year, please follow the link for current fee information for the New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing. In addition to this students are required to purchase textbooks, uniforms, badge, clinical equipment other items such as stationery or electronic devices.

Are there any scholarships available?

MIT produces a booklet outlining scholarships and grants available and staff pass information on to students as it becomes available.

Who can I talk to, to gain more information?

Feel free to contact us on 09 968 8736 to speak to one of the admin team initially and an appointment can be made for you to meet with the relevant programme staff.

Do you have the course available part-time, and what are the hours and how flexible are these?

Part-time study is not available for the Diploma in Enrolled Nursing.

If my IELTS score is not 6.5 in all bands, can I still enter the programme?

The results of the English language test need to be 6.5 in all bands. Applicants can re-sit the test and focus on the bands they did not achieve. An English language assessment is required of anyone whose schooling was not in New Zealand even if the medium of teaching was in English. The exception is for applicants who schooled in Australia or applicants who have completed at least 3 years of secondary education in New Zealand and who have achieved the required literacy credits.

I have been a caregiver for quite some time, does this qualify me for entry?

Having caregiving experience won’t qualify an applicant for entry to the Diploma in Enrolled Nursing programme however we can assist you to work out a pathway for yourself.

What are the holiday periods? Do they coincide with national school holidays?

The programme often has holidays that coincide with school holidays in the first year however after that students frequently do not have school holidays.

Are uniforms and books included in the fees?

Uniforms, badge, clinical equipment and books are not included and there are other items that need to be purchased including an electronic device. The Programme Administrators can give you a more detailed list of items and costs.  Other costs will include transport and parking for example when on clinical placement.

Specific information for students applying from the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation:

Why do I need English language testing if I have passed courses in the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation?

They are testing two different things. The programme covers a range of content and skills to ensure you are fully prepared to study at degree level and the English language assessments, (IELTS) test English language proficiency. The Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) requires all registered nurses who have not done their schooling in either New Zealand or Australia to provide evidence of English language proficiency at 7.0 minimum in all bands.  We assume that as you will be studying in English, your scores will increase over the three-year degree so we will accept a minimum of 6.5 in all bands.

Why do I need an English language assessment if all my schooling was in English?

As above, if your schooling was in either New Zealand or Australia and you meet literacy for University Entrance you will have evidence of your ability to study a degree in an English language medium.

How do I prepare for IELTS?

Once you have booked with MIT you will receive 30 hours free online training.

What if my IELTS result is not ready in time?

You should inform us of the test date and the expected date of your results and we may be able to offer you an opportunity to attend orientation while we await your results. There is no offer of a place at this stage and this would only be available to applicants who had actioned the request for an English test within an appropriate timeframe. You are encouraged to action any request for additional information as soon as possible.

What if I haven’t got 6.5 in all bands?

As 6.5 in all bands is the minimum for entry you will not be considered to have met entry requirements.

Am I guaranteed entry to the DEN if I have C grades from New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation?

You may be offered a place subject to a C grade or higher, suitable references and available places. We would accept applicants from a list that is in order of application date. Therefore, the sooner you apply the better your chances of getting in to the next intake. We do try to accommodate all successful students, however sometimes the demand for places on the DEN exceeds available places and you may be offered a place on the next available intake. If a place does become available you may be contacted to see if you would like the earlier place.

If I applied to the DEN and was referred to a New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation, do I have to reapply (and do I need more referee reports)?

We can hold your application for one semester.  If you are required to study for more than one semester we will require a new application unless overall you are still within one year of first applying for the programme.

If I am studying the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation do I have to apply to the DEN – and when should I do that – and who can be a referee?

Apply early in your programme. You will require one reference from a lecturer and no reference can be over one year old when you start in the DEN so you may need new references. Your other referee should meet the requirements stated on the application form.

Which programme should I apply for - the Diploma in Enrolled nursing the BN or the BNP?

Check the programme descriptions and get a sense of which one will allow you to meet your own personal aspirations. You can make an appointment to talk to a staff member if you are unsure about programme selection. Each course above has been accredited and approved and therefore the most appropriate programme is a matter of personal choice for the applicant along with the appropriate entry criteria.

Entry requirements

The School of Nursing encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds who want to be employed in healthcare. If you believed you meet the following entry criteria with alternative evidence, please contact us to assess your eligibility for this programme.

Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

Academic requirements

  • NCEA Level 2 which must include 12 credits in Level 1 Mathematics.

Alternative requirements

  • Evidence of literacy, numeracy and an ability to study at the appropriate level. This can be through study, work and/or life experience. MIT literacy and numeracy assessments are available.

Additional requirements

  • 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 by MIT to the Police Licencing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Dean of the Faculty. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website;
  • A valid workplace/comprehensive first aid certificate from a recognized provider which is current at the time the programme starts;
  • Applicants who meet academic entry criteria will be required to attend an interview;
  • 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;
  • In order to participate in the clinical components of the programme, you must meet the requirement of placement providers related to immunity and immune status;
  • Additional course related costs include the purchase of a uniform.

English requirements

  • If English is not your first language you may also be required to provide evidence of your English language skills as listed below. If you have no evidence of your English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, contact us for an assessment;
  • IELTS 6.5 Academic (no lower than 6.5 in any subtest). For acceptable alternatives refer to the English Proficiency Outcomes Chart. MIT’s ELP test is an acceptable alternative.

Provisional entry

Students who have attained the age of 20 years and do not hold the minimum entry requirements for a programme or training scheme may be eligible to be enrolled. Such decisions must consider any applicable pre-requisites and will be made by the Head of School. Students who have not attained the age of 20 years and do not hold the required minimum entry requirements may also be eligible to be enrolled in exceptional circumstances where they can demonstrate capability for study at the required level. Such decisions must consider any applicable pre-requisites and will be made by the Head of School.

Programme structure

You will need to complete the below eight courses (180 credits):

Level 4

726.407 Nursing as a profession: enrolled nursing (15 credits)

Enables you to develop contemporary knowledge underpinning enrolled nursing.

726.408 Foundation for enrolled nurse practice (30 credits)

Enables you to participate in simulation and gain clinical experience in a range of health care settings to meet entry level Nursing Council of New Zealand competencies for the enrolled nurse scope of practice. You will be required to attend a minimum of 250 hours of clinical experience.

726.409 Clinical skills for enrolled nurses (15 credits)

Enables you to safely practise skills in a simulated clinical setting under the direction of a registered nurse.

726.410 Applied structure and function of the human body (15 credits)

Enables you to understand and apply the basic structure and function of major body systems to enrolled nursing practice.

726.411 Applied social science for enrolled nurses (15 credits)

Enables you to understand key concepts from developmental, cultural and social theories and how these influence the health of consumers, families/whanau and the community.

Level 5

726.501 Enrolled nursing practice: rehabilitation (30 credits)

Enables you to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes to meet the requirements of the Nursing Council of New Zealand competencies for the enrolled nurse scope of practice in settings that support the principles of rehabilitation.  You will be required to attend a minimum of 150 hours of clinical experience.

726.504 Enrolled nurse practice: mental health and addiction (30 credits)

Enables you to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes when working with heath consumers in mental health settings to meet the requirements of the Nursing Council of New Zealand competencies for the enrolled nurse scope of practice. You will be required to attend a minimum of 150 hours of clinical experience.

726.505 Enrolled nurse practice: acute care (30 credits)

Enables you to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes in an acute care (medical/surgical/perioperative) setting to meet the requirements of the Nursing Council of New Zealand competencies for the enrolled nurse scope of practice.  You will be required to attend a minimum of 150 hours of clinical experience.

Key dates and timetables

To find the key dates and timetables of this programme, please view the nursing calendar.

Career opportunities

A range of potential jobs as an enrolled nurse. For potential salaries visit careers.govt.nz.

Further training or study

Key information for students

New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)

Entry requirements
Minimum requirements [?] Any minimum or preferred criteria for entry to this qualification. Academic Requirements NCEA Level 2 which must include 12 credits in Level 1 Mathematics. Alternative Requirements Evidence of literacy, numeracy and an ability to study at the appropriate level. This can be through study, work and/or life experience. MIT literacy and numeracy assessments are available. Additional Requirements 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 by MIT to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Dean of the Faculty. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website. A valid workplace/comprehensive first aid certificate from a recognized provider which is current at the time the programme starts. Applicants who meet academic entry criteria may be required to attend an interview. 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. In order to participate in the clinical components of the programme, you must meet the requirement of placement providers related to immunity and immune status. Additional course related costs include the purchase of a uniform. English Requirements If English is not your first language you may also be required to provide evidence of your English language skills as listed below. If you have no evidence of your English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, contact us for an assessment. IELTS 6.5 Academic (no lower than 6.5 in
Detailed requirements [?] Click here for more information on any additional entry criteria for this qualification. More information about entry to this qualification
Duration [?] The minimum amount of time it takes to complete this qualification. 1.5 Years
Tuition fees Annual Total qualification
Student fees [?] Annual:
The annual tuition fees payable by a student to study this qualification, additional to what the government contributes. (This is an average based on recent course enrolments. Your fees may differ depending on your course selection.)

Total qualification:
The total tuition fees payable by a student to study this qualification, additional to what the government contributes. (This is an average based on recent course enrolments. Your fees may differ depending on your course selection.) 		$7,061 $10,592
Government tuition subsidy [?] Annual:
The average annual amount paid by government towards the tuition fees for this qualification, additional to what the student pays. (This is an estimate based on the fees subsidy paid by government to tertiary providers last year.)

Total qualification:
The average total amount paid by government towards the tuition fees for this qualification, additional to what the student pays. (This is an estimate based on the fees subsidy paid by government to tertiary providers last year.) 		$9,984 $14,976
Total [?] Annual:
The combined total of the annual amount paid by both the student and government towards the tuition fees for this qualification. (This is an estimate based on recent course enrolments and the fees subsidy paid by government to tertiary providers last year.)

Total qualification:
The combined total of the amount paid by both the student and government towards the total tuition fees for this qualification. (This is an estimate based on recent course enrolments and the fees subsidy paid by government to tertiary providers last year.) 		$17,045 $25,568
Compulsory student services fee
Student loan information [?] Click here for more information on loans and allowances. StudyLink
Student success
Successful course completions [?] The percentage of students who successfully completed courses towards this qualification last year. 92%
National graduate outcomes (3 years after completion)
Median earnings [?] The median represents the middle value for all earnings of young graduates who completed a qualification in this subject area at this level nationally. Earnings do not relate specifically to graduates who completed qualifications at this TEO. N/A
Earnings range [?] The range shows the upper and lower quartile values representing the one quarter point and three quarters point for all earnings of young graduates who completed qualifications in this subject area. Half of all graduates had earnings within this range. N/A - N/A
In employment [?] This percentage relates to young graduates who completed a qualification in this subject area at this level nationally and does not relate specifically to graduates who completed qualifications at this TEO. N/A
In further study [?] This percentage relates to young graduates who completed a qualification in this subject area at this level nationally and does not relate specifically to graduates who completed qualifications at this TEO. N/A
On a benefit [?] This percentage relates to young graduates who completed a qualification in this subject area at this level nationally and does not relate specifically to graduates who completed qualifications at this TEO. N/A
Note: all KIS information is the most recent available relating to domestic students only.
Click here for more information about the Key Information for Students

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*Additional resource costs may apply.

Information is correct as at 19 January 2022. Programme fees are based on a full-time student and may vary depending on your final selection of courses that make up your programme. To provide you with an indication of costs, the approximate fees quoted in this publication are based on the indicative 2022 fee structure. The indicative programme fees for 2022 do not include the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF). The CSSF is an additional levy to your 2022 programme or course fees. Further information about the CSSF can be found here www.manukau.ac.nz/cssf. Programmes stated as eligible for free study in 2022 are based on the 2021 fee structure and subject to funding confirmation for 2022. All fees are in New Zealand Dollars. You will be advised of the current fees at the time of enrolment. All courses and programmes will proceed subject to numbers and academic approval. Manukau Institute of Technology Limited is accredited under the provisions of the Education and Training Act 2020. International students must study in class and will not be able to enrol for online study options.

^Free study for this qualification may be available to you under the government’s Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund (TTAF). If you’re enrolled in an eligible programme, TTAF will automatically cover your fees from 1 July 2020 until 31 December 2022. Visit https://www.tec.govt.nz/funding/funding-and-performance/funding/fund-finder/targeted-training-and-apprenticeship-fund/faqs-for-learners/ for eligibility criteria and more information. Students must be eligible to study as a domestic student and meet any other entry criteria as required. Some costs may also apply. Free study is subject to funding confirmation. Note: if your programme of study goes beyond 31 December 2022, your courses after this date will be subject to applicable course costs.  Please talk to us at that time though, as you might be eligible for fees-free study or other options to cover the rest of your tuition fees.

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