A qualified nurse holds an equally vital role in the healthcare profession as a qualified doctor, particularly concerning the internal operations of a standard hospital. Their path to expertise entails obtaining a qualification from a registered nursing college, which equips them with crucial skills and knowledge through years of dedicated education and training.
Nursing is a profession in high demand, particularly in South Africa’s public hospitals, which frequently grapple with a significant shortage of nursing staff. Nevertheless, succeeding in this career requires a particular disposition, and it is important to consider various aspects before embarking on this path.
If you possess a genuine desire to set aside personal ambitions and prioritize selflessness in delivering healthcare to others, then nursing may present a suitable and fulfilling career, and you should read along to find out what it takes to become a nurse in South Africa.
Types of Nursing Qualifications in South Africa
- A Senior Certificate in Nursing
- A Diploma in Nursing
- A Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- (Baccalaureus Curationis (BCur) degree is offered as an alternative).
Types of Nurses in South Africa
Within the South African nursing profession, there exist three distinct types of nurses:
- Registered Nurses, also called Nursing Sisters: They supervise other nurses and perform various nursing duties. Often referred to as general nurses.
- Enrolled Nurses: They provide limited nursing care.
- Enrolled Nursing Auxiliaries: They perform basic procedures and offer fundamental care for patients.
Requirements To Study Nursing in South Africa
The requirements for studying nursing courses vary depending on the specific programme and higher education institution to which you are applying. Here are the general requirements for different nursing programmes:
- Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (1 year):
- Completion of National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an overall NSC score of 16 points.
- Minimum of 40% in English or home language.
- Minimum of 50% for Life Science or Biology.
- This programme is the shortest option available, lasting only one year to attain a higher certificate.
- Advanced/Diploma in Nursing (3 years):
- Matriculation with a passing grade in Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science.
- Enrollment as a nurse with the South African Nursing Council.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (4 years):
- Matriculation with a passing grade in Mathematics, English, a First/Home Language, Life Orientation, and Life Science.
- Enrollment as a nurse with the South African Nursing Council, similar to the requirements for the Diploma programme.
It’s important to note that these requirements are general guidelines, and it’s recommended to check with the specific nursing programme and institution you are interested in for any additional or specific prerequisites.
Institutions Offering Nursing Courses in South Africa
South Africa boasts several reputable nursing colleges that offer a diverse range of nursing qualifications. Prominent examples include Ga Rankuwa Nursing College, Worcester Nursing School, Netcare Education, and others.
In addition to these nursing colleges, South Africa is home to various public institutions that offer nursing courses. Recognizing the pressing need to increase the number of nurses, several private colleges and higher education institutions also provide nursing programs.
When it comes to pursuing a nursing degree, most public universities in South Africa offer comprehensive programs. Renowned institutions such as North-West University, the University of the Western Cape, the University of Cape Town, among others, stand as notable options. It is worth noting that some hospitals also offer nursing programs, presenting an alternative pathway to obtaining a nursing qualification.
For those interested in a different educational approach, the University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Nursing Science qualification.
It is worth noting that South African nursing students have the opportunity to receive financial assistance for their courses through nursing bursaries provided by the Department of Health.
It is important to note that each nursing course has specific admission requirements. These requirements may vary across different institutions, so it is advisable to thoroughly review the prerequisites of the specific college or university before initiating the application process.
What’s The Average Salary of a Nurse in South Africa?
Based on what nursing course you studied, and the hospital you work for,and the position you hold, nursing salaries in South Africa can have a wide range.
This can be something as wide as between R15 000 and R 37 000 per month. Nurses with the least experience, typically below 2 years, earn the lowest, while those with decades of experience and likely higher positions, can expect to earn over R37 000 per month.
However, an average salary for a nurse in South Africa is about R28 000 per month.
