Massey University

What you'll study

This programme combines advanced coursework with a substantial research or scholarly project to deepen clinical expertise, leadership capability and evidence-based practice. Typical subjects include advanced health assessment and clinical reasoning, advanced pharmacology and therapeutics, health systems and policy, leadership and quality improvement in healthcare, and research methods and biostatistics.

• Advanced clinical practice: focussed learning in assessment, differential diagnosis, clinical decision-making and management plans across a range of settings.
• Pharmacology and therapeutics: principles of medicines management, safe prescribing frameworks and monitoring of outcomes (within relevant regulatory limits).
• Leadership and management: service improvement, team leadership, governance and clinical risk management.
• Research and evidence-based practice: quantitative and qualitative methods, critical appraisal, and completion of a research project or dissertation that addresses a clinical or service problem.
• Specialist options and practicum: elective papers and supervised clinical hours allow specialisation (for example in primary health, mental health, aged care or acute care) depending on employer partnerships and clinical placement availability.

Structure

The programme is delivered through a mix of taught papers and a major research or capstone project. Delivery formats commonly include block intensives, online learning and supervised clinical placements. Students normally complete the programme over one to two years full-time or part-time equivalent, depending on prior study and clinical commitments.

Entry requirements

• Current registration as a Registered Nurse with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (or equivalent professional registration from your jurisdiction) and an active practising certificate where required.
• A relevant bachelor degree in nursing or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. Applicants without a degree may be considered on the basis of extensive professional experience and prior learning, subject to approval.
• Evidence of recent clinical practice is usually required to ensure readiness for advanced practice learning; employers’ statements or a clinical portfolio may be requested.
• Academic merit requirements: a satisfactory academic record in previous tertiary study. Some applicants may be required to complete specified prerequisite papers before entry.
• Depending on the applicant’s background, an interview and/or referee reports may be part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for senior and specialised nursing roles across primary, community and acute care settings. Common career paths include clinical nurse specialist, nurse consultant, clinical leader or manager, nurse educator, and roles in health policy, quality improvement and clinical research. The degree also provides a pathway towards further doctoral study or advanced practice endorsements where local regulatory processes allow (for example nurse practitioner training requires separate endorsement processes and specified clinical preparation).

Why study at Massey University

• Clinical relevance: Massey integrates research-informed teaching with strong clinical links across New Zealand health services so students apply learning directly to practice.
• Flexible delivery: programmes are designed for working professionals with blended learning options, including online components and intensive workshops.
• Research strengths: access to supervisors and research expertise in nursing, health systems and allied disciplines supports high-quality capstone projects.
• Support and facilities: students benefit from academic supervision, simulation resources and professional development opportunities suited to advancing nursing careers.