Becoming a nurse is not just a career choice; it’s a calling to serve and care for others. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or considering a career change, this guide will reveal how to become a nurse in South Africa.
Table of Contents
Before we dive in, let’s take a look at the role of a nurse in South Africa.
What Does a Nurse Do?
Over the years, the nursing profession has expanded its reach, covering an increasingly diverse range of healthcare areas. Nurses work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and doctor’s offices, often being the first point of contact between patients and physicians.
Nursing professionals are responsible for a multitude of duties, including:
- performing physical examinations
- promoting health education and counselling
- analysing patient health history and electronic graphics
- administering injections
- caring for wounds, and issuing medication
Nurses also play a crucial role in collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, and contributing to improved healthcare practices.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Nurse?
The length it takes to become a nurse in South Africa depends largely on the qualification you would like to study toward.
In South Africa, there are several levels of nursing qualifications that individuals can pursue to embark on a rewarding career in the healthcare sector. These nursing qualifications range from certificate programmes to advanced degrees, each offering unique opportunities and responsibilities.
Higher Certificate in Nursing (HCN)
The Higher Certificate in Nursing (HCN) is a one-year full-time course that qualifies you to work as a Nursing Auxiliary. This entry-level nursing qualification focuses on providing basic nursing care and assisting registered nurses in their duties.
Diploma in Nursing (DipN)
The Diploma in Nursing (DipN) is a three-year full-time course that qualifies you to work as a General Nurse. This qualification equips you with the knowledge and skills to provide comprehensive nursing care to patients in various healthcare settings.
Bachelor of Nursing (BN)
The Bachelor of Nursing (BN) is a four-year full-time course that qualifies you to work as a Professional Nurse and Midwife. This degree programme offers the highest level of nursing education in South Africa, preparing you for advanced clinical practice, management, and leadership roles within the healthcare system.
Nursing Qualification
Programme Length
Average Monthly Salary
The table above outlines the various nursing qualifications available in South Africa, along with their respective programme lengths and average annual salaries.
What Are the Requirements to Be a Nurse in South Africa?
The National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 4 (50%) in each of the following subjects is commonly required:
- English
- Mathematics
- Life Science
- Home Language
You may also need to take several subjects in higher grade.
Where Can You Study to Become a Nurse in South Africa?
If you’re considering a career in nursing in South Africa, it’s crucial to ensure that the institution where you’ll be trained is accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC) and that the nursing programme you choose is also accredited by the Council. The SANC is responsible for protecting the public’s right to receive care from well-educated nurses and midwives who can provide competent, compassionate, and ethically based care.
Here are some of the top accredited nursing schools in South Africa that offer a range of nursing qualifications, including certificates, diplomas, and degrees:
- AHC Nursing College
- Ann Latsky Nursing College
- Lilitha College of Nursing
- University of Pretoria’s Department of Nursing Science
- Western Cape College of Nursing
- University of Stellenbosch (Maties)
- KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing (Main Campus)
- University of Free State (UFS)
- University of South Africa (Unisa)
- North West University (Mafikeng)
It’s important to note that the SANC publishes lists of accredited nursing education institutions for the public’s reference and verification. Individuals can report suspected illegal institutions or programmes to the SANC for investigation and potential closure through involvement of law enforcement.
Several public nursing colleges in South Africa offer diplomas in nursing, such as:
- University of Pretoria (TUKS)
- University of Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Mediclinic Higher Education
- Netcare Education
- Life College of Learning
Additionally, major public universities in the country, including:
- University of South Africa (Unisa)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Western Cape (UWC)
- North-West University (NWU)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
It’s crucial to ensure that the nursing education institution you choose is accredited by the SANC to ensure that your training meets all the requirements for registration as a practitioner in South Africa.
When selecting a nursing school, it’s essential to thoroughly research the institution and its accreditation status to ensure you receive the best possible education and training to become a successful nurse in South Africa.
Nursing School
Qualification Offered
Province
Choosing an accredited nursing school in South Africa is a crucial first step towards a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. By selecting a SANC-approved institution, you can be confident that you’ll receive the necessary training and qualifications to become a competent and ethical nurse, ready to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and communities across the country.
What is the Average Salary of a Nurse in South Africa?
On average, registered nurses in South Africa earn around +-R21,900 per month or +-R262,700 annually.
With that said, it’s important to note that a nurse’s salary in South Africa can differ based on factors such as experience, qualifications, specialisation, geographic location and the employer.
How to Become a Nurse in South Africa
Embarking on a nursing career in South Africa involves a well-defined process. Whether you aspire to become a registered nurse, a midwife or an auxiliary nurse, understanding the necessary steps is crucial. Let’s explore the key milestones you’ll need to navigate to achieve your nursing ambitions.
Qualify for the Entrance Requirements
The first step is to ensure you meet the nursing entrance requirements. In South Africa, the typical prerequisite is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 50% in English, Mathematics, Life Science, and Home Language. These subject requirements may vary depending on the specific nursing programme you wish to pursue.
Apply for a Nursing Programme
Once you have fulfilled the entrance requirements, you can apply to the nursing programme of your choice. South Africa offers a range of nursing qualifications, including the Higher Certificate in Nursing (HCN), the Diploma in Nursing (DipN), and the Bachelor of Nursing (BN). The duration of these programmes varies, with the HCN being one year, the DipN being three years, and the BN being four years.
Complete Your Nursing Programme
During your nursing programme, you will undergo theoretical and practical training to develop the necessary knowledge and skills. This may include clinical placements at various healthcare facilities to gain hands-on experience. Upon successful completion of your nursing programme, you will be eligible to sit for the final examinations.
Pass Final Examinations
To become a certified nurse in South Africa, you must pass the final examinations at the end of your nursing programme. These exams assess your theoretical and practical competencies, ensuring you are ready to provide safe and quality healthcare.
Register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC)
The next step is to register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC), the autonomous body responsible for regulating nursing education and practice in the country. Only registered and certified nurses are legally permitted to work in the healthcare sector in South Africa.
Fulfil Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Requirements
To maintain your nursing registration with SANC, you must fulfil the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements. This involves completing a specified number of CPD hours each year, which ensures nurses stay up-to-date with the latest developments and best practices in the nursing profession.
Fund Your Studies With Fundi
If you’re aspiring to become a nurse in South Africa and need funding for your studies, Fundi is here to help!
Fundi offers students the financial support they need to cover all educational expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, technical devices and more.
Curious to see if you qualify for a Fundi study loan? Try out the Fundi Loan Calculator and start your educational journey today.
