Bachelor of Nursing
Nursing
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Study towards becoming a Registered Nurse with Otago Polytechnic's Bachelor of Nursing. Engage in a combination of nursing theory, human sciences, and extensive clinical placements, preparing for the State Final Examination and a rewarding career in healthcare.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
This course requires 40 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Demonstrate clinical competence
Apply knowledge and skills in diverse healthcare settings through supervised clinical practice to meet industry standards for registered nurses.
Understand human sciences and nursing theory
Integrate anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and behavioural sciences in the provision of safe, effective, person-centred healthcare.
Apply evidence-based practice
Access, interpret and apply research evidence to support nursing practice and improve client outcomes.
What You're Signing Up For
Otago Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Nursing is a three-year, Level 7 degree programme enabling graduates to apply for registration as a Registered Nurse in Aotearoa New Zealand. Study covers nursing practice, human behaviour, pharmacology, body systems, and population health. The programme features blended learning—including online activities and hands-on experience in simulation suites and clinical placement. Graduates are in demand and can specialise in a range of practice areas such as medical, surgical, mental health, child and community health. Māori and Pasifika nurses are particularly sought after. The programme includes 50% clinical practice in the final year, with placements potentially throughout southern New Zealand. Full-time study is over three years, part-time over five years (limited places).
Course Content
- Nursing Practice 1
- Knowledge for Practice 1
- Evidence Based Nursing 1
- Human Body Systems
- People of this Place 1: Population Health
- Human Behaviour
- Pharmacology
- Nursing Practice: Community Health 2
- Nursing Practice: Acute Care 2
- Nursing Practice: Senior Persons Health 2
- Nursing Practice: Mental Health and Addictions 2
- Knowledge for Practice 2
- Evidence Based Nursing 2
- Pathophysiology of Human Body Systems
- People of this Place 2: Tangata Whenua
- Nursing Practice: Community Health 3
- Nursing Practice: Acute Care 3
- Nursing Practice: Mental Health and Addictions 3
- Knowledge for Practice 3
- Evidence Based Nursing 3
- Transition to Registered Nurse Practice
What you need to know first
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Nursing
Health
Healthcare
Future employment opportunities might be
Registered Nurse
Medical and surgical nurse
Community health nurse
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.