Course Overview
Do you want to practice as a nurse in New Zealand?
If you are a New Zealand registered nurse returning to practice, this NCAP training scheme enables you to apply for an annual practicing certificate and/or registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ).
Combining classroom theory and independent study, you'll learn what is required to practice nursing competently in Aotearoa New Zealand, including an understanding of cultural safety, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and New Zealand legislation and guidelines. Supervised clinical placements assess and prepare you for professional practice.
Nurses looking to return to practice may also be eligible for funding set up by the Ministry of Health (MOH). The funding is in place to support the growth of the workforce, safe staffing, and improve access to care. To see if you qualify, visit the MOH website.
Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) who need to complete a Competence Assessment Programme to work in New Zealand can also apply for funding to reduce costs.
Funding will be prioritised for those who have secured full-time employment. IQNs working part-time will receive pro-rated financial assistance based on how many hours they are working.
If you’re an IQN and are interested in applying, visit the Te Whatu Ora website.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- Nursing Competence Assessment Programme for New Zealand (NCAP)
| Locations | Tauranga |
|---|---|
| Next intake | Sep 2024 View more details |
| Study options |
12 weeks full-time, including holidays (if applicable) This course is usually delivered in 9 weeks and 3 extra weeks is available for students who require longer in practice to show evidence of competency. Only open to New Zealand and international registered nurses. |
| Total credits | 35 |
| Indicative Fees | $1,921 for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career opportunities
Graduates will have the requirements for the Nursing Council of New Zealand registration, if they are overseas registered nurses or if they are New Zealand registered nurses returning to practice, and are able to apply for a Nursing Council of New Zealand practicing certificate.
Nursing Council of New Zealand registration will enable graduates to pursue employment and career opportunities within a range of health care settings, including primary, secondary and tertiary health care settings.
Topics you'll cover
- Tapuhi o Nāianei i Aotearoa: Contemporary Nursing in New Zealand
- Mahinga Tapuhi i Aotearoa: Nursing Praxis in New Zealand
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | $1,921 for domestic students |
|---|---|
| Course related costs |
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* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Help with fees
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course does NOT meet the requirements for student loan or allowance applications through StudyLink.
Find out more at studylink.govt.nz
Course Entry Information
Entry criteria
Domestic registered nurses seeking entry must provide:
- Written notification from the Nursing Council of New Zealand of the requirement to complete a competence assessment programme before registration.
- Authorised evidence of registration in New Zealand.
- Authorised evidence of successful completion of qualification leading to registration.
- A current Curriculum Vitae, including a history of nursing practice as a RN domestic.
- Two character references. These references need to be done by people who supervise your current employment or an employee. References from relatives are not acceptable.
- A current passport or proof of residency.
- A criminal record check (Ministry of Justice report).
- Evidence of Health Screening requirements that ensure safety to practice.
Overseas registered nurses seeking entry must provide:
- Written notification from the Nursing Council of New Zealand of the requirement to complete a competence assessment programme before registration.
- Authorised evidence of registration in country of origin.
- Authorised evidence of successful completion of qualification leading to registration.
- A current Curriculum Vitae, including a history of nursing practice as a RN internationally.
- Two character references. These references need to be done by people who supervise your current employment or an employee. References from relatives are not acceptable.
- A current passport with visa.
- Evidence of Health Screening requirements that ensure safety to practice.
- Evidence (obtained within the past two years) of your ability to speak and write in English.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
Other Considerations
From time to time, places on this NCAP course may be limited due to non-availability of suitable placements in health care facilities for completion of practicum experience.
English language requirements
IELTS academic score of 7.0 in all bands
Return to course overview
Course Locations and Intake Information
| Location | Campus | Start Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tauranga | Windermere Campus | 30 Sep 2024 |
Study options
- 12 weeks full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
- This course is usually delivered in 9 weeks and 3 extra weeks is available for students who require longer in practice to show evidence of competency.
Only open to New Zealand and international registered nurses.
