Programme outline
Enrolled nurses are a valued part of the healthcare workforce in Aotearoa New Zealand, providing high-quality nursing care across a wide range of health settings. Working alongside registered nurses and other health professionals, they play an important role in supporting positive health outcomes and improving the well-being of the people they care for.
Throughout this 18-month programme, you will develop the knowledge, skills, and professional attributes needed to provide safe, equitable, and evidence-informed nursing care across the lifespan.
You will learn how to apply the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in your nursing practice and develop the skills to work in partnership with tangata whenua, whānau, and hapori (communities) to support positive health outcomes. The programme promotes culturally safe nursing practice, helping you to provide respectful, inclusive, and person-centred care that values the beliefs, cultures, and experiences of the people you care for.
Successful completion of the programme allows you to sit the Nursing Council of New Zealand State Final Examination. After passing the examination, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand as an Enrolled Nurse.
Programme structure
Course-related costs
Before you start the programme, you will need to complete a health screening and provide evidence of your current immunisation status. This is a requirement of our clinical placement providers and helps ensure the safety of you, your colleagues, and the patients you will work with.
Information about the health screening process and the confirmed programme-related costs is sent out with offer letters. The costs listed below are intended as a guide only and may be subject to change.
- Health screening $330
- Medical equipment $185
- Uniform: $200
- Vaccinations: costs will vary depending on the vaccination required.
- Clinical Travel Costs: These will vary depending on where you live and where your placements are.
Entry requirements
Domestic
NCEA Level 2, which must include:
- 10 credits in Level 1 Mathematics/or Numeracy
- 12 credits in Level 2 Science-rich subjects
or
New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Health Pathway; or a recognised equivalent (Bridging or Pre-Health)
and
Evidence of suitability based on interview, health screening, safety check* and referee reports.
International students
IELTS 6.5 Academic (no band lower than 6.5 taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and valid for two years from the date of the test) or equivalent.
*International fee displayed is for 1.5 years of study (equivalent to 180 credits). For fee exclusions, please see our terms and conditions. International ākonga study grants are available. Contact international@wandw.ac.nz for eligibility details.
Alternative Requirements
If you are unable to provide evidence that you meet the academic requirements but can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be approved for alternative entry by the Head of Nursing. This may include Recognition of Prior Learning.
How to apply
Before you start you online application, you will need the following documentation available to upload when requested:
- Completed Supplementary Application Form
- Referee report*
- Verified ID
- Verified official transcripts
Give the referee report to someone who is willing to be your referee. Ask them to complete the forms and return them to you (so you can upload with your application).
Alternatively, completed applications can be emailed to enrolments@wandw.ac.nz
For international applicants - please email your completed application to international-admissions@wandw.ac.nz
Whitireia and WelTec is a business division of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST).
Last updated: 13/7/2026
