New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing

NZ5354

Course details

Jul 2026
18 months
Full-time or Part-time
$9,019* first year + Additional Costs
Level 5
Available for International Students. International Fee Guideline
Hamilton City Campus

Please note that places on this programme are limited.

Applications will be assessed as they are received. Click here to find out more about the process. We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible.

Summary

This programme is for those who want to work in clinical settings as an enrolled nurse and a valued member of the health team.

Students will gain knowledge in nursing, social science, and the structure and function of the human body. They will learn skills in simulated learning environments which can then be applied on placements in clinical practice. A range of clinical courses in different health care settings will prepare students to practice in areas including rehabilitation, acute care and mental health.

After completing this programme students will be able to apply to the Nursing Council of New Zealand to sit an exam to be registered as an Enrolled Nurse.

Tihei Mauri Ora Roopu
Students who identify as Māori or Pacific** have the option to complete their programme within the Tihei Mauri Ora Kaupapa (stream). The Tihei Mauri Ora Kaupapa is focused on improving Māori health outcomes in the community. Participation provides students with an increased focus on Māori health, customs, and protocols, as well as additional support through a manaaki model of pastoral care. This is achieved through the integration of individual knowledge and that of whānau, hapū and iwi. Tauira are encouraged to work together (mahitahi) with their academic whānau (whanaungatanga) to achieve excellence in nursing practice. You will be part of a programme where you are supported by senior nursing students and by staff in a way that is representative of Māori culture. The Tihei Mauri Ora kaupapa reinforces the need to protect and legitimise mātauranga Māori from both traditional and contemporary worlds within a professional nursing context.

Please note, this programme has additional costs.

View programme modules

Note: no value in the pre/co-requisite columns means there are no pre/co-requisites for that module.

Module code	Module title	Level	Credits	Pre-requisites
NURS4400	Human Body Systems	4	15
NURS4401	Nursing Practice 1	4	15
NURS4402	Professional Practice	4	15
NURS4403	Hauora Population Health	4	15
NURS5500	Knowledge and Evidence for Practice	5	15	NURS4400 NURS4401 NURS4402 NURS4403
NURS5501	Pathophysiology and Pharmacology	5	15	NURS4400 NURS4401 NURS4402 NURS4403
NURS5502	Nursing Practice 2	5	30	NURS4400 NURS4401 NURS4402 NURS4403
NURS5503	Nursing Practice 3	5	30	NURS4400 NURS4401 NURS4402 NURS4403
NURS6600	Transition to Enrolled Nursing Practice	6	30	NURS4400 NURS4401 NURS4402 NURS4403 NURS5500 NURS5501 NURS5502 NURS5503

Scheduling and workload

Students will have up to 6 hours per week of scheduled directed learning per module which may be in a classroom, online, or a nursing simulation laboratory. They will also have blocks of clinical placement throughout the three semesters.

Career/further opportunities

Enrolled Nursing (Nēhi Whakauru) provides an opportunity for those wishing to be employed or already employed in health care to gain registration with the NCNZ as an enrolled nurse and develop a career pathway.

Graduates of this programme (who also meet Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements) will be competent to practise as an Enrolled Nurse in a variety of health care settings. Graduates of Enrolled Nursing (Nēhi Whakauru) are able to deliver nursing care and health education across the lifespan of health consumers.

On completion of the programme, graduates are eligible to apply to NCNZ to sit the state exam for registration as an enrolled nurse. Graduates will have gained a nationally recognised qualification in a sector with strong employment opportunities and career pathways.

Placements

In the first semester you’ll undertake one placement for three weeks anywhere within Health NZ Waikato. In the third semester, you’ll undertake a 6-week transition to practice placement anywhere within the Health NZ Waikato.

Please note that while you are on placement you will need access to a computer and the internet so you can undertake assessments and communicate with your tutor, etc.

Application process

Apply online or download and complete an Application to Enrol Form. Please check the closing dates for applications at the top of this page.
Complete the online Self-Disclosure Form. If you have applied in hard copy, you will also need to complete a Self-Disclosure Form, if you have applied online this form is included as part of the online application process.
If applying in hard copy, and if you are unsure that you meet the entry criteria, complete the online Additional Information Form. This will enable us to assess your application further.
If you have them, provide us with certified copies of your prior academic transcripts. Find out more about supporting material for enrolment here.
We may also need to verify your identity (your legal name and date of birth) as well as your residency status. If you are a domestic student, we may be able to do this through your National Student Number (NSN); if we cannot access your NSN number, you will need to provide evidence of this by supplying verified copies of your birth certificate or passport.

Once you have submitted your application

You will receive confirmation that your application has been received and we will let you know if there is anything additional that we need from you.
If you are accepted to study, we will send you an enrolment offer letter – you will need to accept this to confirm your place on the programme. Click here to find out more about enrolment and accepting your offer.

After you have accepted your offer

If you do not have a current Comprehensive First Aid Certificate (NZQA units 6400, 6401 and 6402), you will need to complete this before you start the programme.
At the start of the programme, you will need to provide evidence of your immunity and vaccination status. Your doctor will need to complete the Wintec Immunisation Form.
During your induction, you will be required to complete a number of safety checks to comply with the provisions of the Vulnerable Children Act 2014. You can find out more about the safety check process and the Vulnerable Children Act here.

Frequently asked questions

What can I expect from the class schedule and workload?

In the first semester students can expect up to four days at Wintec plus up to two hours of lecture directed work for each module, and other readings as scheduled. Students will have blocks of clinical placement throughout the following two semesters.

Undergraduate, semester, pathway, module and cross-disciplinary - what do these words mean?

Undergraduate means any study up to the level of completing a bachelor degree. Our academic year is made up of two main semesters, one from February to June and the other from July to November. We also have a summer semester for some classes. A degree is made up of a mix of compulsory and elective modules, modules are worth between 15 and 60 credits. A year’s worth of full time study is 120 credits.

What are the additional costs associated with this programme?

There are additional costs when studying nursing. Here's a link to more information about these costs.

Events

Disclaimers

* Fees disclaimer applies

** Students wishing to apply for the Tihei Mauri Ora Kaupapa, please contact info@wintec.ac.nz.

Entry criteria

General Academic Admission

a) Candidates are required to have:
i) Based on NZ high school achievement (secondary school study):
NCEA Level 2 including 10 credits in Level 1 Mathematics/or Numeracy, and 12 credits in Level 2 Science rich subjects; or

ii) Based on study completed at a NZ tertiary institution:
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Health Science Pathway; or

iii) a recognised equivalent (Bridging or Pre-Health); or

Based on Discretionary Entrance

Applicants who do not meet any of the entry options stated above, and think they have what it takes to complete this programme, can apply for ‘Discretionary Entrance’. The application is based on the applicant’s ability to demonstrate a likelihood to succeed in the programme. The decision is at the discretion of the Head of School/Centre Director or their delegate. The ability to progress into further study depends on how successful the applicant is within the programme they apply and are accepted into under ‘Discretionary Entrance’.

Selection criteria

A self-declaration, providing information regarding:

i) criminal convictions;
Applicants are required to indicate whether they have been convicted of, or have been prosecuted for, a criminal offence. Under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 some types of criminal conviction may result in the NCNZ refusing to register a person as an enrolled nurse.

ii) mental and physical conditions;
Applicants are required to indicate if they have had any mental and/or physical conditions, to demonstrate that they are fit for practice as a registered nurse. Under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 some types of physical or mental conditions may result in the NCNZ being unable to register a person as an enrolled nurse. A medical report may also be requested, where evidence of good health is required, as per NCNZ requirements.

iii) any learning disabilities or challenges that might affect participation in the programme; this will be used to activate support services.

iv) Personal statement, should outline why the applicant has chosen nursing as a career, demonstrate communication skills, describe personal qualities and self-responsibilities in relation to relevant aspects from their life experiences, their learning and practice which will enhance the application.

Applicants may be required to attend an interview to ensure they will meet the Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements for registration on completion of the programme.

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 Nursing. Information on the Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website

Safety check

The safety check will be required to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Children’s Act 2014. This may include, but is not limited to:

Reference checks,
Police check,
A risk assessment.
CV which provides an account of all experience – part time, full time and voluntary, including care of own children for the preceding five years.

Unsatisfactory results arising from the full safety checking process may result in the ākonga being declined entry or withdrawn from the programme of study.

English language requirements

Candidates who have English as a second language are required to have an International English Language Test System (IELTS) score of 6.5 in the academic band, (no lower than 6.5 in any subtest and must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test).

Note: The English Language requirements for this programme are higher than the minimum set by NZQA, therefore; applicants who have met New Zealand University Entrance may be required to provide evidence of English Language proficiency.

PTE is not accepted for this programme as evidence of English language proficiency.

The Head of Nursing can request at any point that an IELTS or equivalent English language test be undertaken by an ākonga where English is a second language and where ākonga are experiencing communication difficulties in theory and/or clinical learning experience courses during the DEN programme. This additional testing will be at the cost of ākonga. Ākonga must achieve a minimum as set out above. Failure to demonstrate English language proficiency at this level will result in ākonga being withdrawn from the programme. (HPCA ACT 2003)

Want to see full details of the entry criteria?

VIEW PROGRAMME REGULATIONS

Don't meet the entry criteria?

Pathways

To check what you need to gain direct entry to a course, review the entry criteria available on each programme page. These assist you in understanding what qualifications or experience are typically required to gain entry. You can contact our team at info@wintec.ac.nz or 0800 2 Wintec at any time for further guidance.

Your first day

Are you ready for your first day of class? Check out your start date and where you need to be. You can also find useful information about studying at Wintec on our welcome page.

Are you a first-year Māori or Pasifika student? Come meet your Kaiāwhina crew, bring your whānau, get prepped, and step into Day One with confidence. Register now to book your visit.

Semester 1 2026

Whānau evening

Date: Wednesday, 28 January 2026

Time: 5pm

Venue: The Atrium, City Campus

Induction

Date: Monday, 2 February 2026

Time: 8.30am

Venue: The Atrium, City Campus

Returning students, please check your timetable below for your first day of class.

What you will need

Bring a pen and notebook with you. We recommend you bring a device, such as a laptop or a smartphone, that has access to a video player, PDF reader and Microsoft software. Find more about device specifications here.

You will also need to bring your ID documents for Police Vetting (VCA). For more information, click here.

Please wear closed footwear, bring your lunch and a drink bottle or cup. There are microwaves, hot water and snack vending machines in The Hub. If you prefer, sushi and our café serve an array of hot and cold food and beverages or alternative food establishments close by.

Timetable information

All Wintec timetables are available online here.

How to find your way around

Campus maps can be found here.

Parking and bus information

Both the Rotokauri and City campuses have parking available - payment and permits may be required. Learn more about parking and find out about bus services here.

He reo pōwhiri, your official welcome to Wintec

Tēnei te mihi mahana ki a koe e piki nei, e kake nei ki te Kuratini o Waikato.

You are warmly invited to attend the official welcome to Wintec for all new students, staff and whānau (family) at either our marae, Te Kōpū Mānia o Kirikiriroa or Rotokauri campus. The pōwhiri is a welcoming ceremony involving mihimihi (speeches), waiata (singing), and will conclude with kai timotimo (light refreshments). Please gather at the campus hubs, and a staff member will guide you through our pōwhiri.

Click here to find out when the next pōwhiri will be.

Paying for your study

Course-related costs

Additional to programme fees, the following are other costs associated with studying this programme. All costs are approximate, dependent on where the item is purchased, and are subject to change.

Health screening and vaccinations
All students must have completed a Health Screening Form and be cleared for clinical practice placement. Immunisation status can only be ascertained by a blood test arranged by your doctor/health provider, and there will be associated costs. Forms will be available during your first week. Vaccinations are available from Wintec Health Services or from a medical practitioner/medical centre. The Wintec Immunisation Form is available online here.

Cost: Up to $300 depending on provider and screening/vaccinations required. In addition, you may require follow-up screening or vaccinations. Annual flu vaccinations during the declared influenza season are also a requirement for undertaking clinical placement in Te Whatu Ora Waikato (unless using an approved face mask).

First aid certificate
All students must have a current comprehensive first aid certificate (NZQA units 6400, 6401 and 6402). If you do not have a current first aid certificate you will not be given a clinical placement. The cost is approximately $120-$240.

Uniforms for nursing practice
Our uniform supplier will be at our main campus during your induction to custom-fit your uniform to order. Uniforms are available from $79-$99. You will also need to provide your own full-length navy trousers, and black or dark brown lace-up shoes or closed-in style, non-porous with a soft sole and low heel. You will also require a watch with a second hand that can be clipped to your uniform.

Cellphone
Costs depend on the type of phone and plan chosen.

Additional information

Booklist

Required book
Koutoukidis, G., Stainton, K., & Houghson, J. (Eds.). (2021). Tabbner's nursing care theory and practice (8th ed.). Chatswood, Australia: Elsevier.

Recommended book
Herlihy, B. (2021). The human body in health and illness (7th ed.). St Louis, Missouri Elsevier.
Copies of this textbook are available for borrowing through the Wintec Library. An electronic version of the textbook is also available to read online and instructions on how to access this will be given in class.

Purchasing textbooks

If your programme requires you to have access to textbooks, these can be purchased through a range of suppliers listed below:

New Zealand-based suppliers

General book suppliers

First aid certificate

Health status

Uniform

Equipment

Clinical placement

Travel, parking, and accommodation
In your second semester, you will undertake two placements. One placement for six to seven weeks and one placement for four weeks. Both placements are anywhere within the Waikato Region. You will be required to pay for your own travel, parking and accommodation when undertaking clinical placements.
Please note that while you are on placement, you will need access to a computer and the internet so you can undertake assessments and communicate with your tutor, etc.

Placement locations
Placements are situated across the Waikato region, ranging from Taumarunui to the south of Hamilton and the Coromandel to the north, each approximately 160km from the Hamilton City Campus. Local placements may require travel of up to 40km, with associated costs like travel, parking, and accommodation being the student's responsibility.

Schedule and transportation
Typically, clinical placement shifts extend eight hours, starting at 6.30am (AM shift), 2.30pm (PM shift), or 11pm (night shift). Public transport may not ensure timely arrival or departure from your placement location. All students should plan for a minimum of one out-of-town placement, but there may be more. A lack of a driver's licence does not mean a student will not be allocated an out-of-town placement. You can find information on driver's licences in New Zealand here. For international students, having a driver's licence before arriving in New Zealand will expedite getting a New Zealand licence.

Preparation and resources
We work closely with placement providers to find excellent learning opportunities for all students. Placement providers determine the location, roster, and availability of student placements. All placements offer valuable learning experiences.

Vaccination guidance
It is highly recommended that you are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 (two primary and one booster) if you want to apply for this programme.

Prospectus (course guide)

The Wintec Prospectus (otherwise known as a course guide) outlines everything you need to know about Wintec. It contains information about the Wintec campuses, student life, and the programmes that are on offer.

Access your copy of the Wintec Prospectus

The Wintec Prospectus (course guide) is available by downloading the file - click on the document below to access the file. Alternatively, to request a copy via email or the post, please complete the form below.

Undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate course guide (Prospectus)