These programs vary in length and specialization, allowing students to pursue the right path to meet their professional goals in healthcare.
1. Diploma in Nursing (General Nurse) – 3 Years
The Diploma in Nursing is a comprehensive three-year, full-time program that prepares students to become general nurses, capable of working in a variety of healthcare settings. This program is ideal if you’re looking for a full-spectrum nursing education that provides in-depth knowledge and training. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to register with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a General Nurse.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 3 years, full-time
- Outcome: Eligible to register with SANC as a General Nurse
- Career Opportunities: Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare environments
This diploma equips students with the skills to provide quality care across a range of health conditions and patient needs, making it one of the most versatile options at Netcare for those committed to a long-term career in nursing.
2. Higher Certificate in Nursing (Auxiliary Nurse) – 1 Year
The Higher Certificate in Nursing is a one-year program designed for students who want to enter the nursing profession quickly. This program prepares graduates to work as nursing auxiliaries, providing basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses. It’s a great choice if you’re interested in beginning your nursing journey but aren’t ready to commit to the longer diploma course.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 1 year
- Outcome: Eligible to register with SANC as an Auxiliary Nurse
- Career Opportunities: Graduates often work in supportive roles within hospitals, nursing homes, and community health settings
By completing this program, students can start working in healthcare sooner, gaining valuable experience while continuing their education in the future if they choose to pursue more advanced nursing qualifications.
3. Elementary Critical Care Nursing – 6 Months
The Elementary Critical Care Nursing program is a six-month course specifically tailored for those interested in working in critical care settings. This program provides focused training to prepare nurses for the demanding and rewarding field of adult critical care. It’s an ideal choice for existing healthcare professionals looking to expand their expertise or specialize further.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: 6 months
- Outcome: Skills and knowledge to work in adult critical care settings
- Career Opportunities: Nurses trained in critical care can work in intensive care units (ICUs) and other high-acuity areas in hospitals
This short-term course is suitable for those who wish to specialize in critical care nursing without the extended time commitment of a diploma or degree.
4. Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing
The Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing program is designed for nurses who want to specialize in caring for critically ill newborns. This specialized training equips nurses with the skills required to work in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where they support premature or critically ill infants.
Key Highlights:
- Duration: Varies (generally short-term; contact Netcare for specifics)
- Outcome: Skills and expertise in neonatal critical care
- Career Opportunities: Work in NICUs, providing specialized care to newborns with complex medical needs
This program is ideal for nurses who have a passion for working with infants and who seek to make a difference in one of the most sensitive areas of healthcare.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.