Nursing at (UNISA) University of South Africa
In 1975, the Department of Nursing Science, now the Department of Health Studies, was established under the leadership of Professor Charlotte Searle. The aim was to meet the need of thousands of nurses for post-registration distance education at the University level.
The Department intended to provide access to education, to many nurses who could not meet the costs of traditional university education, or cope with the difficulties of attending a residential university. During the past 30 years, distance education for nurses and other health professionals developed into strengthening the health professions.
Today it is a WHO Collaborating Centre. It provides a powerful means of education and development of the health professions in general and nursing in particular. The University of South Africa is a sub-chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International.
Healthcare problems within Africa demand concerted efforts in the re-evaluation of systems and methods for effective education of health professionals. Acceptance of changing philosophies and methods of providing health care is essential. So is the concentration on appropriate research. The Department of Health Studies is prepared for the challenge of equipping its students with research skills and expertise to assist in reaching global health needs.
Bachelor of Arts in Nursing Science
Admission and re-admission requirements
Qualification admission requirements
Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification.
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) (Degree endorsement) with at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning,
or
A Senior Certificate (SC) with matriculation exemption or qualifies for the exemption from the Matriculation Board with at least a D symbol on HG or a C symbol on SG in the language of teaching and learning.
Applicants have to be registered with the SA Nursing Council (SANC) or equivalent registering body as a professional nurse.
Applicants, who do not comply with the above requirements, should consider applying for a lower-level qualification for which they meet the statutory and additional requirements.
Student fees and funding your studies
Application fee
Pay the application fee once you’ve received your student number:
R105 for online applications
R160 for hard-copy applications
Please note that this application fee is non-refundable even if you decide not to study through Unisa or do not qualify for admission to Unisa.
What Are The Requirements For Nursing At UNISA?
What Are The Requirements For Nursing At UNISA?: How many years is nursing at Unisa?
Unisa offers nursing courses for students who are interested in studying the courses. The University of South Africa (UNISA) has admission requirements for nurses who want to apply for the academic year 2024-2025, these requirements are provided to assist all applicants with what they are to submit during the application process if only they are qualified. The requirement for nursing at UNISA is provided below applicants should read and know more!
The University of South Africa (UNISA) is renowned for its comprehensive nursing programs that prepare students for rewarding careers in healthcare. If you aspire to become a nurse and are considering studying at UNISA, it’s essential to understand the admission requirements for their nursing programs. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on the prerequisites and qualifications needed to pursue nursing studies at UNISA.
UNISA Nursing School Admission Requirement 2024
Below are the minimum admission requirements for any applicant who wishes to study nursing at the University of South Africa (UNISA):
- Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Biology are recommended for matriculation studies. Candidates will be admitted to the program if they have completed level 4 or literacy level 5 in mathematics, level 4 in physical science, and level 4 in life science.
- Clinical training will take place at general and midwifery hospitals, mental hospitals, the community, and community health service facilities in the province in question.
Application fee
Pay the online application fee of R115.00 once you have received your Unisa student number.
Academic Qualifications
To be eligible for nursing studies at UNISA, you must meet specific academic requirements. The primary qualifications considered for admission include:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC):
If you have completed the South African National Senior Certificate, you must achieve the minimum NSC admission requirements. The specific subjects and minimum grades required may vary, so it is essential to check the UNISA website or prospectus for up-to-date information.
- National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV):
For applicants with a National Certificate (Vocational), the qualification will be converted into points to determine eligibility. Refer to UNISA’s conversion scale to calculate your points accurately.
- International Qualifications:
Students with qualifications from outside South Africa must have their qualifications evaluated and converted into South African equivalents by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). UNISA’s International Admissions office can guide this process.
Compulsory Subjects
UNISA requires applicants to have completed specific compulsory subjects during their high school education. These subjects may include, but are not limited to:
- Life Sciences:
This subject provides essential knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and biology, forming the foundation for nursing studies.
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy:
Strong mathematical skills are crucial for nursing calculations and data interpretation.
Eligibility Requirements when Applying for Nursing at UNISA
To enroll at the University of South Africa, prospective students must have the following requirements:
- Copy of your school qualifications (eg Senior Certificate)
- Copy of your official tertiary academic record(s) (if applicable)
- An Admission Point (AP) 40
- Language of instruction 50%
- 40% in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy 70%
- 60% in Life Sciences or Physical Sciences 50%
NB. Either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is required, as well as either Life Sciences or Physical Sciences. nursing requirements
Note: Please ensure that your application is attached with all the supporting documents including:
- A medical certificate
- A South African Identification card
- Passport numbers for international students
- A working cell number
- A unique email address
The requirements to study each of these course options are as follows:
- Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (1 year):
Student must have acquired their National Senior Certificate (NSC) at the end of their matric academic year with an overall NSC score of 16 points including at least 40% in English or their home language and at least 50% for Life Science or Biology.
- Advanced/Diploma in Nursing (3 years):
Students must acquire at least a matric education standard and have passed Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science. Finally, the student must enroll as a nurse with the South African Nursing Council.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (4 years):
Students must acquire at least a matric education standard and have passed Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation and Life Science. Finally, similarly to the Diploma enrolment requirements, the student must enroll as a nurse with the South African Nursing Council.
Why study at UNISA Nursing school
- Receive accredited training.
- UNISA Nursing School offers competent educators, in a safe and secure environment.
- Have a well-equipped simulation laboratory where you can practice your clinical skills before entering the clinical environment.
Additional Requirements
In addition to academic qualifications and points, there may be other requirements for certain nursing programs at UNISA. These could include:
- Health Clearance:
Some nursing programs may require you to provide evidence of good health and immunization to ensure you can participate in clinical placements safely.
- Police Clearance:
Given the nature of nursing work, you may be required to obtain a police clearance certificate to demonstrate your suitability to work with vulnerable populations.
Pursuing nursing studies at the University of South Africa (UNISA) opens the door to a fulfilling career in healthcare. To be considered for admission, aspiring nursing students must meet specific academic qualifications, including a National Senior Certificate or its equivalent, with compulsory subjects such as Life Sciences and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. It’s crucial to achieve the minimum required points and demonstrate English language proficiency if applicable. Remember that admission requirements may change, so always check UNISA’s official website or prospectus for the most up-to-date information. By fulfilling these requirements, you can take the first step towards becoming a skilled and compassionate nurse, ready to make a positive impact on the lives of others. APPLY NOW
UNISA Contact Infomation
Student enquiries
0800 00 1870
Contact details for student assistance and service
Ethics Hotline
0800 075 278
unisa@thehotline.co.za.