In South Africa’s evolving healthcare landscape, nursing is a cornerstone profession, offering rewarding career opportunities and vital service to communities. However, the journey to becoming a qualified nurse begins with a crucial first step: choosing the right educational institution.
The South African Nursing Council (SANC) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the quality of nursing education in the nation. Through rigorous accreditation processes, SANC-approved institutions maintain the high calibre of nursing education that South Africa’s healthcare system demands.
How to choose the right nursing school
While the number of nursing education institutions in South Africa continues to grow, focusing on these key factors will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your professional goals.
1. SANC Accreditation Status
- Verify the institution’s current accreditation status directly through SANC’s official website
- Check how long the college has maintained its accreditation
- Look for any past compliance issues or warnings
2. Program Offerings
- Ensure the college offers your desired nursing qualification (Diploma, Bachelor’s degree, or specialized programs)
- Check if the curriculum includes both theoretical and practical components
- Look for programs that offer clinical placement opportunities at reputable healthcare facilities
3. Location and Accessibility
- Consider travel time and transportation costs
- Evaluate accommodation options if relocating is necessary
- Research the safety of the area, especially for clinical rotations
4. Teaching Facilities and Resources
- Modern simulation laboratories
- Well-equipped skills training rooms
- Updated learning materials and library resources
- Access to technology and online learning platforms
List of SANC-Approved Nursing Schools in South Africa
Gauteng Province
- Ann Latsky Nursing College
- Located in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, Ann Latsky Nursing College stands as one of Gauteng’s premier public nursing institutions with over 40 years of excellence in nursing education.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, Post-Basic Specialization Programs
- Notable Feature: State-of-the-art simulation laboratories and extensive clinical placement networks
- Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College
- Situated within the largest hospital in Africa, this institution offers unparalleled exposure to diverse clinical cases. The college is renowned for its comprehensive hands-on training approach and research opportunities.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNS), Advanced Diplomas in various specializations
- Notable Feature: Direct access to Africa’s largest hospital for clinical practice
- SG Lourens Nursing College
- A leading public nursing college in Pretoria, offering modern facilities and innovative teaching methods. The institution is known for its strong focus on community health nursing and primary healthcare.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, Specialized Nursing Programs
- Notable Feature: Advanced e-learning platforms and dedicated research support
Western Cape Province
- Western Cape College of Nursing
- One of the largest nursing colleges in the Western Cape, offering comprehensive nursing education with a strong emphasis on practical skills development. The college boasts modern facilities and diverse clinical placement opportunities.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, Specialized Programs
- Notable Feature: Multiple campuses across the province ensure accessibility
- University of Cape Town Nursing Division
- Part of one of Africa’s leading universities, the nursing division offers world-class education with a strong research focus. International partnerships enhance the learning experience.
- Programs: Bachelor of Nursing, Master’s in Nursing, PhD in Nursing
- Notable Feature: Strong research orientation and international collaboration opportunities
- Stellenbosch University Nursing Department
- Renowned for its innovative approach to nursing education and research, offering programs in both English and Afrikaans. The institution maintains strong ties with local healthcare facilities.
- Programs: Bachelor of Nursing Science, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s and Doctoral Programs
- Notable Feature: Bilingual instruction and rural health focus
KwaZulu-Natal Province
- King Edward VIII Hospital Nursing College
- A historic institution with a strong reputation for producing skilled nursing professionals. The college benefits from its location within one of KZN’s largest teaching hospitals.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Certificates, Specialized Training Programs
- Notable Feature: Extensive clinical exposure in urban healthcare settings
- Prince Mshiyeni Nursing College
- Located in Umlazi, this college focuses on community-oriented nursing education. Strong emphasis on primary healthcare and preventive medicine.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Post-Basic Specialization Courses
- Notable Feature: Strong community health focus and rural placement opportunities
- Grey’s Hospital Nursing College
- Situated in Pietermaritzburg, this institution offers comprehensive nursing education with a strong emphasis on practical skills. Known for its excellent clinical training facilities.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diplomas in various specializations
- Notable Feature: Advanced simulation facilities and diverse clinical rotations
Eastern Cape Province
- Lilitha College of Nursing
- A multi-campus institution serving the Eastern Cape, offering comprehensive nursing education with a strong rural health focus. The college maintains partnerships with several regional hospitals.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diplomas, Specialized Programs
- Notable Feature: Multiple campuses ensuring provincial coverage
- Nelson Mandela University Nursing School
- Offers innovative nursing programs with a strong emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. The institution maintains excellent facilities and international partnerships.
- Programs: Bachelor of Nursing, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s Programs
- Notable Feature: Modern simulation labs and research facilities
Other Provinces
Free State
- Free State School of Nursing
- A comprehensive nursing education institution with multiple campuses across the province. Strong focus on rural health and community nursing.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Certificates, Specialized Programs
- Notable Feature: Extensive rural placement network
Limpopo
- Limpopo College of Nursing
- Multi-campus institution serving rural and urban areas of Limpopo. Strong emphasis on community health and primary care nursing.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Post-Basic Programs
- Notable Feature: Strong focus on rural healthcare delivery
Mpumalanga
- Mpumalanga College of Nursing
- Offers comprehensive nursing education with a focus on addressing provincial healthcare needs. Strong partnerships with local healthcare facilities.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Specialized Training Programs
- Notable Feature: Integration of traditional health practices in the curriculum
North West
- North West Nursing College
- Multi-campus institution offering diverse nursing programs. Strong focus on community health and primary healthcare delivery.
- Programs: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diplomas
- Notable Feature: Extensive clinical placement network
Each of these institutions maintains strict compliance with SANC regulations and undergoes regular quality assessments.
Nursing Programs Available in South Africa
The South African nursing education system offers various pathways to enter and advance in the nursing profession.
Program Type | Duration | Minimum Entry Requirements | Clinical Hours | Career Opportunities | Annual Salary Range (2024) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Diploma in Nursing | 3 years | Matric + 50% in key subjects | 3,000 hours | General nursing, clinics | R23k – R447k |
Bachelor of Nursing | 4 years | Matric + 60% in key subjects | 4,000 hours | Advanced practice, management | R169k – R408k |
Advanced Diploma in Midwifery | 1-2 years | Nursing qualification + experience | 1,000 hours | Maternity care specialist | R294k – R621k |
Postgraduate Diploma (Specialization) | 1-2 years | Bachelor’s degree + experience | 500-1,000 hours | Specialized units | R117k – R413k |
Master of Nursing | 2-3 years | Bachelor’s with honours/PG Diploma | Research-based | Leadership, education, research | R204k – R393k |
1. Diploma in Nursing
- Purpose: Entry-level qualification providing fundamental nursing skills
- Duration: 3 years
- Requirements:
- Matric certificate with a minimum of 50% in English
- Life Sciences/Biology (50% or higher)
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (50% or higher)
- Life Orientation (minimum 40%)
- Career Paths: General nursing units, clinics, community healthcare centres
- Clinical Hours: 3,000 practical hours required
- Registration: Enables registration as a General Nurse with SANC
2. Bachelor of Nursing (BNur)
- Purpose: Comprehensive undergraduate degree in nursing science
- Duration: 4 years
- Requirements:
- Matric certificate with university exemption
- English (60% or higher)
- Life Sciences (60% or higher)
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy (60% or higher)
- Physical Sciences recommended
- Career Paths: Advanced clinical practice, management positions, teaching roles
- Clinical Hours: 4,000 practical hours required
- Additional Benefits: Includes midwifery and psychiatric nursing components
3. Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Purpose: Specialization in maternal and infant care
- Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- Requirements:
- Diploma in Nursing or BNur degree
- Current SANC registration
- Minimum one year clinical experience
- Career Paths: Maternity units, birthing centres, private practice
- Clinical Hours: 1,000 supervised midwifery hours
4. Postgraduate Diploma in Critical Care Nursing
- Purpose: Specialization in intensive care nursing
- Duration: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time
- Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Nursing
- Two years of clinical experience
- Current SANC registration
- Career Paths: ICU, trauma units, specialized care facilities
5. Master of Nursing (MNur)
- Purpose: Advanced research and specialized clinical expertise
- Duration: 2 years full-time or 3 years part-time
- Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree with honours or postgraduate diploma
- Minimum 65% average in previous qualification
- Research proposal
- Career Paths: Advanced practice, research, education, healthcare management
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the FAQs prospective nursing students may have about studying the course in South Africa.
How can I verify if a nursing college is SANC-accredited?
Check the official SANC website (www.sanc.co.za) for their updated list of accredited institutions, or contact SANC directly. Never rely solely on a college’s claims about accreditation status.
What happens if my college loses SANC accreditation during my studies?
SANC typically has transition arrangements to protect current students. You may be transferred to another accredited institution to complete your studies.
What’s the difference between part-time and full-time nursing programs?
- Full-time programs:
- Regular weekday classes
- Complete clinical hours during standard shifts
- Typically 3-4 years for completion
- More intensive schedule
- Often preferred by younger students
- Part-time programs:
- Evening/weekend classes
- Flexible clinical hour arrangements
- Usually takes 1-2 years longer to complete
- Allows for work-study balance
- Suitable for working professionals
Are there opportunities to work overseas with a South African nursing qualification?
Yes, South African nursing qualifications are well-regarded internationally, though additional registration processes may be required for different countries.
We hope we have been able to guide you in your nursing career in SA. Remember to do your due diligence before applying to any educational institution. Do well to share this article with your friends and if there’s anything you think we missed, feel free to leave a comment below.