University of Auckland

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Nursing is a practice-led programme that mixes campus learning, simulated clinical scenarios and extensive placements in hospitals and community settings. Core study areas include anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing practice across the life course (maternal/child, adult, older person care), mental health nursing, and community and primary health care.

Students also learn research methods, evidence-based practice and professional issues such as ethics, health policy and interprofessional teamwork. There is a strong curriculum focus on indigenous and population health, with modules addressing Māori and Pacific health perspectives, cultural safety, and working with diverse communities.

Practical learning is supported by clinical skills laboratories and simulation centres where students practise assessment, clinical decision-making and technical procedures under supervision before applying those skills on clinical placements. Placements occur across acute, primary, community and aged-care settings, enabling exposure to a broad range of patient groups and healthcare teams.

Entry requirements

Applicants need to meet New Zealand university entrance or an equivalent qualification, and demonstrate academic preparedness for degree-level study. Prior study in a science subject (for example biology) is strongly recommended but not always mandatory. The programme requires evidence of literacy and numeracy competence and applicants for whom English is not a first language must meet the University's English language requirements.

Successful applicants must satisfy health and safety checks typical for clinical programmes, which commonly include immunisation requirements, a police vetting/background check, and any clinical-site specific screening. Selection is competitive; entry may be based on academic performance and other selection criteria used by the School of Nursing.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing Council and practise as registered nurses in a wide range of settings. Common early-career roles include positions in hospital wards (medical, surgical, maternity), emergency departments, primary care clinics, community nursing and aged-care facilities.

With experience and further study, nurses may specialise in areas such as intensive care, mental health, paediatrics, midwifery collaboration, public health, or become nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, educators, managers or policy advisors. Graduates also commonly pursue postgraduate study in clinical specialisms, public health, health leadership or research.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland’s School of Nursing offers a curriculum informed by strong research and close partnerships with major hospitals and community health providers across the region. Students benefit from well-equipped simulation facilities and integrated clinical placements that provide diverse hands-on experience.

The School emphasises equitable health outcomes and culturally competent practice, with explicit teaching on Māori and Pacific health frameworks. Being based in New Zealand’s largest city provides access to a wide range of clinical settings and interprofessional learning with other health disciplines, which helps prepare graduates for a broad spectrum of nursing careers.