| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-03-03 | - |
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs) at the University of Auckland is a highly regarded program that equips students with the knowledge and skills to become registered nurses. It emphasizes sound scientific knowledge, hands-on nursing experience, interprofessional collaboration, and a supportive learning environment. Graduates are eligible for registration as comprehensive nurses with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities in healthcare.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The BNurs is a highly regarded program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to become registered nurses. It offers a comprehensive education in nursing science and practice, emphasizing:
- Sound scientific knowledge and skills: The program provides a strong foundation in biological, physical, and social sciences, preparing graduates for the demands of nursing practice.
- Hands-on nursing experience: Students engage in simulation learning using modern technology, practicing their skills in a safe environment before transitioning to real-world clinical placements.
- Interprofessional collaboration: The program encourages interdisciplinary interaction with students from other health professions, fostering teamwork and communication skills essential for effective healthcare delivery.
- Supportive environment: Dedicated lecturers, who are also registered health professionals, provide ongoing support and guidance throughout the program.
Outline:
Program Structure:
The BNurs is a six-semester program organized into three parts:
- Part I (105 points): Foundation year focusing on biological, physical, and social sciences alongside other health professional students.
- Part II (120 points): Focuses on core nursing knowledge and skills through two key courses:
- Nursing Clients with a Pathophysiological Problem (60 points)
- Nursing in Mental Health, Addictions and Disability (60 points)
- Part III (120 points): Develops advanced nursing expertise through two core courses:
- Child and Family Health Nursing (60 points)
- Professional Nursing Practice (60 points)
Clinical Learning Experiences:
Clinical placements form a central component of the BNurs, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in various healthcare settings:
- Acute and chronic healthcare facilities
- Inpatient and outpatient clinics
- Institutional and community health agencies
- Primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare services
Sample Program Structure:
The BNurs program incorporates a diverse range of courses across the three parts.
Part I (Year 1):
- BIOSCI 107: Biology for Biomedical Science: Cellular Processes and Development (15 pts)
- POPLHLTH 111: Population Health (15 pts)
- MEDSCI 142: Biology for Biomedical Science: Organ Systems (15 pts)
- HLTHPSYC 122: Behaviour, Health and Development (15 pts)
- NURSING 104: Applied Science for Nurses (15 pts)
- NURSING 105: Nursing in Practice (30 pts)
- General Education course (15 pts)
- NURSING 199: English Language Competency (0 pts)
Part II (Year 2):
- NURSING 201: Nursing Clients with a Pathophysiological Problem (60 pts)
- NURSING 202: Nursing in Mental Health, Addictions and Disability (60 pts)
Part III (Year 3):
- NURSING 301: Child and Family Health Nursing (60 pts)
- NURSING 302: Professional Nursing Practice (60 pts)
Assessment:
Assessment methods in the BNurs program vary depending on the individual course. Common assessment types include:
- Exams: Written and practical examinations to evaluate knowledge and understanding.
- Assignments: Essays, case studies, and projects to assess critical thinking, problem-solving, and written communication skills.
- Presentations: Opportunities to demonstrate communication skills and articulate complex concepts.
- Clinical assessments: Observation and evaluation of clinical skills and performance in real-world settings.
Teaching:
The BNurs program employs various teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences:
- Lectures: Traditional lectures deliver core content and introduce key concepts.
- Tutorials: Smaller group sessions facilitate discussion, problem-solving, and active learning.
- Workshops: Hands-on workshops provide opportunities to practice skills and techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors.
- Simulation learning: Advanced simulation technology allows students to safely practice procedures and decision-making in realistic scenarios.
- Clinical placements: Real-world clinical experiences offer invaluable opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge and develop professional skills under the supervision of experienced nurses. The BNurs faculty comprises accomplished and dedicated lecturers, who are also registered health professionals. This combination of academic expertise and practical experience ensures students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship throughout the program.
Careers:
Graduates of the BNurs program are eligible to apply for registration as a comprehensive nurse with the Nursing Council of New Zealand. This qualification opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities, including:
- Community nurse: Providing healthcare services and support to individuals and families within the community.
- Mental health nurse: Specializing in the care of individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
- Nurse educator: Educating and training future generations of nurses.
- Nurse manager: Leading and managing nursing teams within healthcare settings.
- Child health nurse: Focusing on the health and wellbeing of children and families.
- Specialist nurse working in older peoples' health: Providing specialized care for older adults with complex health needs. The nursing profession is continuously evolving, offering various career paths and opportunities for ongoing learning and development. Graduates of the BNurs program are well-positioned to pursue successful and fulfilling careers in healthcare.
Other:
Conjoint Options:
The BNurs program offers conjoint options with other undergraduate degrees, allowing students to earn two qualifications simultaneously:
- Bachelor of Health Sciences/Bachelor of Nursing
- Bachelor of Nursing/Bachelor of Science These conjoint options provide graduates with a broader skillset and knowledge base, enhancing their career opportunities in various healthcare fields.
Further Study Options:
Graduates of the BNurs program can pursue further postgraduate study in various specializations, including:
- Bachelor of Nursing (Honours)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Health Sciences
- Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences
- Master of Nursing
- Master of Nursing Practice
- Doctor of Philosophy Continuing education and specialized training enable nurses to advance their careers, deepen their expertise, and take on leadership roles within the healthcare system.
