postgraduate study nursing nz

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• Study at Wintec
• Health and Wellbeing

Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing

• About the Programme
• Entry Criteria
• Your First Day
• Prospectus (Course Guide)

Course details

• Feb 2025 Jul 2025
• Fee dependent on modules selected
• Hamilton City Campus

This programme provides registered nurses with the opportunity to extend their clinical knowledge and skills in a specific area of practice including registered nurse prescribing in primary health and speciality teams. It is delivered through a combination of block courses and online. A candidate may take up to four years to complete this postgraduate diploma.

The programme consists of four modules: two core modules and two practise modules covering a range of advanced speciality practice areas.

After successfully completing any two postgraduate nursing modules students may choose to exit with the Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing . They ​can then return to complete the postgraduate diploma at a later date provided this is within four years of their first enrolment in the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing programme.

Registered Nurse Prescribing endorsement

Wintec offers prescribing practicums for nurses who want to become registered nurse prescribers in primary health and speciality teams.

The programme is in response to the recently introduced regulation that allows suitably qualified nurses working in collaborative teams to prescribe from a restricted list of medications for people with common and long-term conditions. The Wintec Postgraduate Diploma of Nursing – Registered Nurse Pathway is specifically for nurses who have at least three years of experience and are looking to become a registered nurse prescriber. The programme, which will take two years (part-time) to complete, requires the study of pathophysiology, pharmacology, assessment, clinical reasoning and long-term and related conditions, prior to undertaking a supervised prescribing practicum of 150 hours.

Download our postgraduate course guide

View programme modules.

Note: no value in the pre/co-requisite columns means there are no pre/co-requisites for that module. All modules listed below have an individual module credit value of 30 credits. The range of modules offered will vary from year to year.

Group A: Compulsory module

Group B: Core module

Group C: Compulsory modules for the Registered Nurse Prescribing endorsement

Group D: Elective modules

Group E: Compulsory modules for the endorsement in M ā ori Mental Health

Career/further opportunities

Employment in advanced nursing practice positions, management, research or independent practice.

If you have any enrolment questions, send them to [email protected] ​ and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

To discuss your pathway options within the programme and what modules would best compliment your area of work, contact the postgraduate team at [email protected]

About the faculty

The Postgraduate Office at Wintec has been created to support postgraduate students in their studies and research by providing dedicated resources and advice. Wintec also has a dedicated Research Office which is the hub of research at Wintec and caters to all researchers, both staff and students.

Hamilton City Information Session

Explore study options at our Hamilton City Campus available for Semester 1 2025! This whānau-friendly event is a great opportunity to ask any pātai (questions) you may have and get your enrolment sorted.

More Upcoming Events

Disclaimers

*  Fees disclaimer applies

Entry criteria

• An undergraduate Nursing degree, or other undergraduate degree assessed as relevant by the Centre for Health and Social Practice Postgraduate Programme Committee, conferred by a New Zealand tertiary education institution, or
• a qualification approved as equivalent by the ​Postgraduate Programme Committee.

b. Candidates who have not gained a relevant undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification may submit a portfolio for informal transfer of credit and, if the application is successful, may be admitted on an equivalent basis.

• Have at least two years’ of clinical experience in the mental health field, gained within the past five years, and
• identify as Māori, demonstrating knowledge of their whānau, hapū and iwi, and
• demonstrate understanding of the role of tikanga Māori within their own nursing practice.
• Have completed three years’ equivalent full-time practice in an area of common and longterm conditions nursing.
• Demonstrate up-to-date clinical knowledge relevant to their intended area of prescribing practice and have attained a B grade in NURS801 Integrated Science and Assessment, NURS804 Pharmacology for Nursing Practice, and NURS812 Advanced Practice in Longterm Conditions.
• Have a collaborative working relationship within an interprofessional team and the support of a designated, authorised prescriber (DAP), (a vocationally registered medical practitioner or nurse practitioner who has current indemnity insurance ) as a mentor who will provide clinical supervision for prescribing practice.
• Have professional/personal indemnity insurance.
• Be employed within an organisation that enables nurse prescribing through policy, audit, peer review and accessibility of continuing education, while undertaking the prescribing practicum.
• Have documented approval from an area of clinical practice in which to undertake the prescribing practicum.

Selection Criteria In addition to the above criteria, all candidates must hold a current New Zealand practising certificate as a Registered Nurse.

Unless otherwise stated, all candidates must have completed a minimum of six months of post-registration clinical experience within the past five years.

All candidates must be employed for a minimum of 16 hours per week.

• Whether candidates meet the pre-requisites for each paper, and
• commitment to study as demonstrated at admission interviews, and
• references supplied.

Where the industry and/or community have indicated a need for graduates from the programme with a particular specialisation, and/or have provided sponsorship for candidates to undertake modules leading to a particular specialisation, applicants for that specialisation and/or those modules may be given priority.

Candidates will complete their enrolment before the commencement of each semester.

Candidates for the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (Māori Mental Health) will normally be enrolled in a part-time programme of study over two years, to enable them to fulfil the clinical requirements of that endorsement stream.

Candidates for the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing, Registered Nurse Prescribing endorsement, will normally be enrolled in a part-time programme of study over two years, to enable them to fulfil requirements for the supervised Prescribing Practicum.

English Language Requirements Candidates who have English as a second language are required to have an International English  Language Test System (IELTS) Academic band score of 7.0, with no band score less than 7.0; or  equivalent. The language assessment must be less than two years old at the time of application. 

Check what  documents are required  to enrol in this programme.  To ensure you receive the correct information for programme regulations, please download the document below.

Click  here  to view the Internationally Recognised English Proficiency Outcomes for International Students Table.

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  [email protected]  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 .

Programme information will be emailed to you approximately 2–4 weeks before your first workshop or at the start of your module.

What you will need

Logins for computer access All course information, workshop timetables, and relevant content will be available online through Moodle .

Computer requirements  We require students to have access to 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 . 

Timetable information

How to find your way around, parking and bus information, 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 information, 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

• Campus Books (previously Bennetts)
• Academy Books
• TextbooksRUs

General book suppliers

• The Book Depository
• Google Books

First aid certificate

Health status, clinical placement, 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.

Request an emailable or printed copy of the Prospectus

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Leave your details here and we will come back to you:

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Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing – PGCertNurs

Take the next step in your nursing career. Massey’s Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing provides registered nurses with the knowledge needed to develop their professional practice within a clinical specialty.

Entry requirements

• Qualification structure
• Courses & specialisations
• Fees & scholarships

Type of qualification

Level of study.

Once you’ve graduated with a bachelor’s degree – or have equal experience – you can study at the postgraduate level. Doctoral qualifications require additional entry requirements.

More about study levels

Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.

Find out more about NZQF levels

Time to complete

Where you can study.

• International students

International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.

Definition of New Zealand citizens and residents

Admission application due dates Course enrolment dates for accepted students Semester dates

Study a Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing – PGCertNurs

Develop your practice.

If you are a registered nurse and would like to develop your clinical knowledge and skills, the  Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing is for you.

Learn from the best in your field

You’ll learn from academics and professional clinicians who are highly experienced registered nurses. Their expertise in practice and research means their teaching, course content and assessment is relevant and up-to-date.

You’ll be supported all the way

There is always plenty of help at hand. Along with contact with your lecturers, learning consultants in the Centre for Learner Success are available to support your study and academic writing skills. Each library has a subject librarian who supports you on campus or at a distance.

Find out more about nursing at Massey

See the Study nursing page for more information.

Further study

You can study towards a Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing or progress to a Master of Nursing as preparation for advanced practice roles and/or nurse practitioner registration.

A PGCertNurs is a good fit if you:

• are a registered nurse eager to complete clinically focused courses at postgraduate level
• have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• want to develop your professional practice within a clinical specialty.

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

• Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

To enter the Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing you will:

• have been awarded or qualified for a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, and
• have New Zealand Nursing Council registration or equivalent.

You will need to provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University. 

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

• Massey University English language requirements .

Prior learning, credit and exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:

• review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
• contact us through the Get advice button on this page.

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Maximum time limits for completion

There are maximum time limits to complete some undergraduate and all postgraduate qualifications. If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.

More information

• General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Certificates.
• Contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification .

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Structure of the Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing

If you study full-time you’ll take two 30-credit courses in one semester.

If you wish to study part-time over two semesters, you will take 30 credits per semester.

This qualification is awarded without a specialisation.

Several postgraduate courses in nursing are delivered via ‘distance or block mode’ with compulsory face-to-face teaching. This happens in on-campus contact workshops, web-based teaching, relevant readings and other study material. This is designed to make the courses available if you are in employment and located at a distance from the university.

Courses and specialisations

Credit summary.

• Courses from the Schedule – 60 credits

Course planning key

Schedule for the postgraduate certificate in nursing (choose 60 credits from).

The health care systems of New Zealand and selected nations are compared and critically analysed from a management perspective.

Restrictions: 250742

Issues relevant to the efficient and effective delivery of health services are identified and examined.

Restrictions: 250746

Topics relevant to study and/or research into selected aspects of Nursing are investigated.

The multidimensional aspects of managing long term conditions within contemporary society, including self-management and models of chronic care, are examined and applied to improve health service delivery, and optimise health and independence.

An examination of a range of theoretical perspectives and sociomaterial and sociocultural aspects influencing clinical teaching and learning. Sociomaterial and sociocultural perspectives recognise that learning is influenced by the context, by human and non-human aspects, and by the variety of interactions occurring in the learning space. Alternative approaches to the design, delivery, and assessment of practice-based education are explored.

Philosophical, ethical and methodological issues in relation to health research are examined. Selected quantitative and qualitative methods are explored in depth, in preparation for developing a research proposal for a thesis, or research project.

Restrictions: 168810, 168710

The multidimensional aspects of pain management including physiological and psychological components are examined. This knowledge is applied to refine nursing interventions in order to manage the pain experienced by people with acute or chronic ill-health conditions and those receiving palliative care.

Evidence based practice (EBP) is an approach to problem solving and service provision based on the integration of “best evidence” with expert opinion and client/consumer perspectives. Students will develop EBP skills needed to critically evaluate information available from research findings, professional consensus statements and other sources of information, as well as communicating the results.

This practical course advances students’ comprehensive assessment, formulation, clinical decision making, and treatment planning abilities in a range of clinical settings within mental health nursing. Emphasis is placed on trauma-responsive and culturally affirming practices alongside evidence-based tools, frameworks, and approaches.

Critique of a range of philosophical approaches and practical ethical decision-making frameworks, focussed on practice application across diverse nursing roles. Particular attention is brought to nurses’ role as moral agents in ‘everyday’ practice. Significant themes include social justice; links between biculturalism, cultural safety and ethics; and the ethical implications of the socio-political context of contemporary healthcare.

Selected modules related to providing a health service to older people are offered. The specialist knowledge base and skills for working in a variety of older persons' health settings will be critically examined and their application in particular practice contexts explored.

This practical course enhances students' clinical nursing practice through the teaching of advanced treatment planning and evidence-based mental health interventions. Key concepts and skills are drawn from psychological interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Emphasis is also placed on reflective practice and clinician self-care.

Kawa Whakaruruhau - cultural safety is essential to improving health outcomes for Māori and other populations. This course aims to explore cultural systems and improve care through developing practitioner awareness of difference, decolonising, considering power relationships and barriers to clinical effectiveness. Practitioners can act to overcome racism within the structures, policies, and practices of their organisations and the health system.

The multidimensional aspects of wound management including physiological, pathophysiological and psychological components are examined and applied in the clinical practice setting.

Primary health care is central to improving equity. This course critiques the primary health care system and clinical practice on a continuum from health promotion and disease prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care. By prioritising equity and complying with guarantees of Te Tiriti o Waitangi health professionals can achieve equitable health outcomes for Māori and other underserved populations.

Development of advanced nursing practice knowledge and skills and comprehensive holistic health assessment and clinical decision-making.

Leadership in professional practice is explored within the broader context of health care. The course critically examines the political, legislative, economic, ethical and cultural issues influencing nursing leadership and the provision of health services within particular scopes of practice.

Translational and clinically relevant physiological and pathophysiological concepts as they apply to nursing practice are examined. Selected signs/symptoms are considered in terms of physiological processes at biochemical, cellular and functional levels. The emphasis is on normal physiological processes and their possible subsequent development to pathophysiological phenomena.

Pharmacology topics relevant to advanced nursing practice are critically examined. These include pharmaceutics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and a range of pharmacotherapeutic topics.

This course is designed for experienced critical care nurses seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of critical care. This course critically examines advanced concepts, evidence-based practices, and complex scenarios encountered in critical care settings. Students will develop a deeper understanding of critical care management, advanced nursing interventions, and leadership in complex environments.

This course provides a foundation of theoretical knowledge about critical care nursing. Principles, concepts, and practices of critical care nursing will be examined to prepare students in the provision of comprehensive care to critically ill patients. Trauma-informed care underpins nursing practice for this course, which recognises the individuality of each patient's experience, promoting a holistic approach to care. Trauma-informed care and Tiriti-led care share common ground in their emphasis on cultural competence, partnership, empowerment, and addressing disparities.

A course designed to equip nurses with knowledge and skills to address the inequities in health that children and young people face on an individual level, nationally and internationally, and to understand the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for future generations.

An examination of current issues in Occupational Safety and Health and issues commonly found in the work environment.

An examination of sleep and circadian science in relation to health and healthcare, including healthy sleep, sleep disorders and sleep in those with medical conditions.

Restrictions: 252702

Fees and scholarships

Fees, student loans and free fees scheme.

Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.

There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.

• Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
• View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable

Already know which courses you're going to choose?

You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.

• Course search

Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme

You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.

The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme, including how much could be covered and your eligibility on the Fees Free website.

• Student loans ( StudyLink )

Scholarship and award opportunities

Fees disclaimer.

This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice .

What our students say

“Massey is a great place to learn, and the curriculum is very well planned and laid out. The lecturers are great and they have in-depth knowledge.”

Hutt Valley District Health Board, Registered Nurse

Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing

Accreditations and rankings

QS Ranking - Nursing

Massey nursing is ranked in the world's top 150 universities by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS).

ShanghaiRanking - nursing

Massey University is ranked in the top 200 universities in the world in the subject area of nursing by the ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

Related study options

Bachelor of nursing – bn.

Make a difference in someone’s life every day. Nursing offers diverse employment positions, and many options for professional development and postgraduate study.

Master of Clinical Practice (Nursing) – MClinPrac

Are you passionate about helping people? Massey’s Master of Clinical Practice (Nursing) is a vocationally focused qualification that is a postgraduate pathway to becoming a registered nurse.

Master of Nursing – MN

Massey’s Master of Nursing prepares you for a range of clinical leadership roles in specialty areas. Develop your advanced knowledge and skills in your chosen field through a mix of theoretical and clinical courses.

Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing – PGDipNurs

Keen to take the next step in your nursing career? The Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (PGDipNurs) will advance your practice and prepare you for further development towards senior nursing roles.

Useful planning information

• Find more courses or qualifications
• Planning your study
• Application process overview
• Semester dates
• Fees and funding
• Scholarships and awards search

Key information for students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions. Learn more on careers.govt.nz

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Medical and Health Sciences

Master of Nursing MNurs

Perfect for registered nurses seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in clinical practice and step up in their careers.

Breadcrumbs List.

• Ngā akoranga | Study
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• You are currently on: Master of Nursing

Programme overview

The MNurs is an advanced programme that has been approved by the New Zealand Nursing Council.

If you are a registered nurse in New Zealand wanting to upskill, this programme is designed to advance your skills with a substantial focus on clinical orientation.

Prepare yourself for advanced practice roles with this thorough and beneficial programme.

Clinical courses have been developed in collaboration with clinical agencies and clinical staff are involved in the teaching and delivery of courses. This programme has guaranteed scholarships.

Programme structure

• Entry requirements
• Fees and scholarships

The MNurs has two pathways: Taught (120 and 240 points) and Research (120 and 240 points).

Taught (120 points)

• Enter from a postgraduate qualification
• Choose a Dissertation (60 points) and
• Advanced level courses in Nursing Practice, Population Health and Practice that are listed in the Master of Nursing schedule (60 points).
• A Clinical project (30 points) and
• Advanced level courses in Nursing Practice, Population Health and Practice that are listed in the Master of Nursing schedule (90 points).

Taught (240 points)

• Enter from a postgraduate degree
• Advanced level courses as outlined in the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences in Advanced Nursing or Mental Health Nursing Schedule (120 points) and
• A Clinical Project (30 points)
• Advanced level courses as outlined in the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences in Advanced Nursing or Mental Health Nursing Schedule (120 points).

Research (120 points)

• Choose a Thesis (120 points) 
• A Research Portfolio (120 points)
• A Research Portfolio (90 points) and
• Advanced level courses in Nursing Practice, Population Health and Practice that are listed in the Master of Nursing schedule (30 points).

Research (240 points)

• Choose a Thesis (120 points) and
• A Research portfolio (120 points) and
• Advanced level courses as outlined in the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences in Advanced Nursin g or Mental Health Nursing Schedule (120 points).

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment .

2025 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:, programme requirements, minimum programme requirements.

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences or Bachelor of Nursing (Hons)

Bachelor of Nursing

Calculate your Grade Point Average (GPA)

Further programme requirements

Select your study option:.

You need to have completed:

• a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences in Advanced Nursing  or Mental Health Nursing with a GPA of 5.0 or higher
• a Bachelor of Nursing (Honours) with a GPA of 5.0 or higher.

You also need to hold current registration as a nurse in New Zealand.

You need to have completed a Bachelor of Nursing with a GPA of 5.0 or higher in 60 points above Stage II.

Alternatively, have completed a Bachelor of Nursing and passed 60 points in a relevant postgraduate certificate or diploma (or 60 points of relevant level 700 courses) with a GPA of 5.0 or higher (provided that the postgraduate certificate or diploma has not been awarded).

• a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences in Advanced Nursing with a GPA of 5.0 or higher

One year of postgraduate study in nursing

An undergraduate degree in nursing

No bands less than 6.0

See alternative English language requirements

Calculate your Grade Point Equivalent (GPE)

You must have completed one year of postgraduate study in nursing at a recognised university (or similar institution), following an undergraduate degree. You will need a GPE of 5.0.

You will also need to hold current registration as a nurse in New Zealand.

You need to have completed an undergraduate degree in nursing at a recognised university (or similar institution) with a GPE of 5.0.

How much does a Master of Nursing cost per year?

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $9.24 per point, estimated at $1,108.80 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

Note: For international applicants, the application closing date for Semester Two 2024 is  24 May 2024 .

1 December start available for 120-point research masters only, subject to supervisor availability.

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Start dates.

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year , including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

Where could this programme take you?

The Master of Nursing provides a pathway to career advancement and into management. Graduates often pursue careers in healthcare consulting, research and specialist nursing. We advise that the University of Auckland is not involved in the employment of graduates and can make no guarantee of post-qualification registration or employment in New Zealand or any other country.

Jobs related to this programme

• Advanced nurse practitioner
• Clinical nurse specialist
• Nurse administrator
• Nurse consultant
• Nurse educator
• Research nurse

Further study options

• Doctor of Philosophy

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services .

Do you need help?

Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?

Need to speak to someone.

You can phone us directly.

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Nursing - Master of Health Practice

Do you want to further your nursing career? The AUT Master of Health Practice in Nursing degree prepares nurses for all advanced practice roles.

The Master of Health Practice in Nursing is ideal for health professionals who want to extend their practical knowledge and are ready for the next step in their career. It's designed for health professionals with at least three years of clinical experience. You can select courses that reflect your career needs and interests. AUT’s postgraduate nursing courses are practice-focused and responsive to the changing needs within healthcare services. Study options are flexible: on campus, online, in block mode and at hospital sites around Auckland.

This is part of the Master of Health Practice .

Master of Health Practice

Download programme guides

• AUT Prospectus (2024)
• AUT Prospectus (2025)
• What you study
• Related programmes

You need a total of 180 points to complete the Master of Health Practice in Nursing.

Complete the following course

• NURS806 Advancing Nursing Practice (15 points)#

And complete 75 points from

• MENH802 Concepts of Recovery in Mental Health (30 points) ##
• MENH808 Assessment for Mental Health Practice (15 points) ##
• MENH809 Intervention for Mental Health Practice (15 points) ##
• MENH810 Foundations for Addiction Practice (15 points) ##
• MENH811 Assessment and Formulation for Addiction Issues (15 points) ##
• HEAL816 Special Topic (15 points)
• HEAL823 Innovation in Primary Healthcare (30 points)#
• HEAL824 Advanced Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning (30 points)*#
• HEAL843 Interdisciplinary Practice with Older Adults (30 points)
• HEAL844 Activity and Nutrition for Older Persons Health and Wellbeing (15 points)
• HEAL846 Management of Children with Acute Illness (30 points)
• HEAL847 Chronic Illness and Disability in Childhood (30 points)
• HEAL848 Children in Context (15 points)
• HEAL857 Managing Long-term Conditions (30 points)#
• HEAL866 Mental Health Advanced Specialty Practice (30 points)
• NURS804 Science for Advanced Practice (30 points)*
• PHMY801 Pharmacology Science (15 points) *
• PHMY802 Applied Pharmacotherapeutics (15 points)*
• RHAB805 Concepts of Rehabilitation (15 points)

And choose one of

• HEAL811 Research Design and Methods (15 points)
• HEAL840 Critical Inquiry for Evidence Based Practice (15 points)
• MAOH801 Maori Health Research Practice - Te Rangahau Hauora Maori (15 points)
• PUBH810 Pacific Health Research and Design (15 points)
• HEAL812 Health Professional Practice (15 points)
• HEAL813 Practice Reality (15 points) (only offered in Semester 2)
• MAOH804 Te Hau o te Ora – Hauora Māori Development (15 points)

And complete one of

• HEAL997 Practice Dissertation (60 points)
• HEAL986 Research in Practice (45 points)** and
• And a relevant 15-point  postgraduate health science course***

* Recommended for those seeking registration as a Registered Nurse Prescriber. # Course has special requirements ## Recommended courses for mental health nursing focus **Students who enrol in HEAL986 Research in Practice are not eligible for progression into the Doctor of Health Science/PhD ***With approval from the programme leader 

The mental health and addictions nursing focus pathway focuses on the recovery of people with mental health challenges and the mental health nursing role. It equips nurses with the evidence based and critical academic skills to inform, guide and evaluate practice. As is expected in mental health, this draws on diverse knowledge and privileges the experience of recovery.

And choose three from*

• MENH802 Concepts of Recovery in Mental Health (30 points)
• MENH808 Assessment for Mental Health Practice (15 points)
• MENH809 Intervention for Mental Health Practice (15 points)
• MENH810 Foundations for Addiction Practice (15 points)
• MENH811 Assessment and Formulation for Addiction Issues (15 points)

And choose two from^

• HEAL824 Advanced Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning (30 points)**
• HEAL846 Management of Children with Acute Illness (30 points)
• HEAL847 Chronic Illness and Disability in Childhood (30 points)
• HEAL849 Specialty Practicum (30 points)#
• HEAL855 Cognitive Health and Wellbeing in Older Adults (15 points)
• MAOH804 Te Hau o te Ora - Hauora Māori Development (15 points)
• MAOH805 Te Pu o te Ora - Māori Health Praxis (15 points)
• NURS804 Science for Advanced Practice (30 points)**#
• PHMY801 Pharmacology Science (15 points)*#
• PHMY802 Applied Pharmacotherapeutics (15 points)**#
• MAOH801 Māori Health Research Practice - Te Rangahau Hauora Māori (15 points)
• HEAL986 Research in Practice (45 points)***
• And another relevant 15-point  postgraduate health science course****

# Course has special requirements *Choose three 15-point courses, or one 30-point course and one 15-point course ^Choose two 15-point courses or one 30-point course  **Recommended for Nurse Practitioner route ***Students who enrol in HEAL986 Research in Practice are not eligible for progression into the Doctor of Health Science/PhD **** With approval from the programme leader

Ready to enrol in your courses?

Find out how you can enrol in the courses and classes for your programme, whether you’ve just joined AUT as a new student or you’re already studying with us. If you’re looking for more info on a specific course use our course search .

Practice as a health professional in New Zealand is governed by legislation and a number of ‘Responsible Authorities’ (such as the NZ Psychologist Board, Physiotherapy Board and the Nursing Council who register practitioners). Overseas qualified health professionals who wish to practise in New Zealand should communicate directly with the relevant Responsible Authority. Qualifications recognised for professional registration at AUT are undergraduate; study at postgraduate level is not considered equivalent recognition for NZ Board certification.

• Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing Practice
• Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Advanced Nursing Practice
• Master of Health Science in Advanced Nursing Practice
• AUT is one of the leading nursing educators in the world
• Focused on advancing knowledge to improve patient outcomes and recovery
• Includes a practice project in an area of your interest
• Strong links to district health boards, hospitals and private practices

The information on this page was correct at time of publication. For a comprehensive overview of AUT qualifications, please refer to the Academic Calendar .

EASTERN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY | Te Aho a Māui | New Zealand

0800 22 55 348   [email protected] | [email protected]

Studying at EIT in 2025  Click here for more information about the recent Government announcement

• Nursing and Health Science / Online Courses and Distance Learning / Postgraduate Study

Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner)

Hawke's Bay Campus

Study Options

Online, Full-time, Part-time

Specialise your nursing knowledge

Study at your pace, in your place, at locations throughout New Zealand!

The EIT Master of Nursing programme will enhance your nursing knowledge, skills in critical analysis, constructive synthesis, along with advanced practice and research within your specialty area, particularly in preparation for advanced practice roles.

This qualification has been specifically designed to prepare nurses for the advanced practice role as a Nurse Practitioner and is approved by the Nursing Council of New Zealand as a “masters with a clinical focus, including the content for preparation for nurse prescribing”.

For nurses considering the Nurse Practitioner pathway, the Nursing Council of New Zealand requires that you complete specific courses.

Workforce Development Funding for Comprehensive Primary and Community Care Teams

About this funding

This funding covers one 30-credit course per student, for Semester Two, 2024 only and is intended to support those nurses on a Nurse Practitioner or Designated Nurse Prescriber pathway. No funding for travel or release from your work is available. 

The list of courses that are eligible to be funded are:

• MN8.402 Advance Pathophysiology for Health Professionals
• MN8.409 Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Nursing
• MN8.401 Advanced Clinical Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning
• MN8.424 Registered Nurse Prescribing Practicum

Application close date: 31 st of May.

For further information about the available courses and enrolment documents please click on the ‘Download info’ tab above.

If you have any questions or require assistance in completing the enrolment forms, please contact Jamie Hanley, Postgraduate Programme Coordinator, [email protected]

The Master of Nursing degree is a 240 credit (three to six years), applied clinically-focused programme characterised by advanced study in nursing.

You will develop advanced nursing knowledge, skills of critical analysis, constructive synthesis, advanced practice and research within your specialty area.

The Master of Nursing is awarded upon successful completion of four courses from the programme schedule plus MN9.490 Masterate Research Thesis, or MNSC9.001 Critical Inquiry for Nursing Practice and MNSC9.002 Research Project, followed by MN8.427 Advanced Practice for Nurse Practitioners.

For nurses intending to apply for Nurse Practitioner registration, the following courses must be included in the schedule of study:

• MN8.401 Advanced Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning
• MN8.402 Advanced Pathophysiology for Health Professionals
• MN8.409 Pharmacotherapeutics for Advanced Nursing/Midwifery Practice
• MN8.427 Advanced Practice for Nurse Practitioner

It is recognised that those undertaking this programme are often engaged in full-time clinical practice and study part-time.

Where there is a clinical practice component to the learning, you need to be employed in a clinical setting.

This programme is accredited by the Nursing Council of New Zealand for the Nurse Practitioner pathway.

We recommend that you take the opportunity to discuss your study options with the School of Nursing Postgraduate Programmes Coordinator, prior to enrolment, to help ensure that you select the most appropriate pathway to meet your career goals.

Jamie Hanley on 06 830 1111 or email [email protected] to discuss.

Online / Blended Delivery

Our postgraduate courses are offered either online or with blended delivery. This means that the majority of the work is located on a virtual teaching and learning platform with directed activities and learning that you work through. Lecturers work within the virtual classroom setting so that they maintain contact with you.

Blended delivery means that there are contact sessions or workshops with the bulk of the learning activity undertaken in the online environment.

This flexible delivery method allows you to study at your pace, in your place, at locations throughout New Zealand.

Generally the courses are delivered online. However, some courses may require attendance at online sessions or face-to-face workshops. Any requirement for attendance at face-to-face sessions is identified in the course information.

Please  click here  to refer to the programme timetable, showing full year and semester dates, and compulsory study days or contact Stacey Wong, the Postgraduate Programmes Administrator on 06 830 1507 or  [email protected]

Each credit for the course represents 10 hours of learning/study time over the period of the course.

You are expected to spend subsequent time in independent/self-directed study, critical reflection, and work-integrated learning in your place of study or work.

Work-integrated Learning

Some courses will require you to be actively involved in clinical practice in the area of specialty.

There are two entry dates per year:

Start dates can vary depending on courses selected, however generally 30 credit courses are semesterised and commence in either February or July each year.

Career Opportunities

The Master of Nursing programme is specifically designed to prepare nurses for the advanced practice role as a Nurse Practitioner.

You will be supported to extend your knowledge and advanced practice skills in order to enhance your capacity to improve patient outcome and health services.

Career opportunities / advanced practice roles may include:

• Nurse practitioner
• Nurse consultant
• Nurse educator
• Clinical leader
• Clinical nurse specialist
• Clinical charge nurse
• Case manager / case coordinator
• Health services manager
• Nurse researcher

Entry Requirements

An interview may be part of the application process where required or appropriate.

The academic entry requirement for the Master of Nursing is one of the following:

• Completion of the HB3963 Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science (Registered Nurse Prescribing endorsement) with a B average or higher; or
• A postgraduate nursing qualification deemed equivalent to the HB3963 Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science (Registered Nurse Prescribing endorsement) with a B average or higher.

Where the applicant’s undergraduate degree does not provide the basis of study at the level required for more advanced study, enrolment in transitional or undergraduate courses may be required before the applicant can be admitted.

Special Conditions

Applicants must provide evidence of a current annual practising certificate with the Nursing Council of New Zealand.

For those considering the Nurse Practitioner pathway, please seek guidance from the Postgraduate Programmes Coordinator in regard to course choices before enrolling.

English Language Entry Requirements

Applicants from countries in which English is not the primary spoken language must demonstrate an acceptable level of English language fluency prior to acceptance in the programme. Ways in which English language fluency may be demonstrated include:

• Completion of a programme of study in which English was the language of instruction (conditions apply*); or
• Approved scores on IELTS tests, namely an Academic score of 7 for reading, listening and speaking and a minimum score of 6.5 for writing.  An applicant can achieve the minimum score in the English language tests over more than one sitting; however, the required score must be met within 12 months of first sitting the test and met within three years of the CGFNS report being transmitted to Nursing Council.

*See NZQA English language entry requirements for international learners at https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers-partners/qa-system-for-teos/english-international-students/

Entry with Credit

Applicants may be admitted with credit transfer or recognition of prior learning. The Postgraduate Programmes Cluster Committee has discretion in the granting of academic credit.

Academic credit may be awarded as specified credit where there is a substantial match between previous learning and the course for which academic credit is sought. Unspecified credits are not considered for this programme.

Credit granted shall not be for course(s) completed as part of an undergraduate degree, nor shall credit be granted that exceeds one-half of the total programme credits.

A Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)/entry with credit application pack is available on enrolment. It is recommended that applications for RPL/entry with credit are made as part of your initial application. Entry with credit cannot be processed until you are enrolled.

For further information please contact the Postgraduate Programmes Administrator, Stacey Wong, on 06 830 1507.

Academic Learning Services

Academic Learning Services is here to assist you on your journey towards the successful completion of your studies at EIT. Our aim is for you to become confident, competent and independent learners.

We have dedicated advisors who can assist with your learning.

Find out more:

Hawke’s Bay Campus Tairāwhiti Campus

Scholarships

You can find a list of EIT scholarships here however there are many more scholarships offered nationally.  Information about these is on an database called “givME”. givME is accessible at EIT or at some public libraries. If you would like to come to EIT to look through the giveME database don’t hesitate to contact [email protected] or call in for a chat.

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