Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, clinical practice components and a substantial research project or thesis. Core study areas typically include advanced health assessment and clinical decision-making, pharmacology for advanced practice, advanced pathophysiology, evidence-based practice and advanced research methods (qualitative and quantitative).

• Advanced clinical skills and complex care management
• Health systems, policy and leadership in nursing
• Research design, data analysis and scholarly writing
• Health promotion, population health and long-term condition management
• Electives or specialisation options (for example mental health, primary health care, Māori and Pacific health, aged care or acute care), depending on availability
• A major research project or thesis that develops skills in independent enquiry and contributes to practice or policy
• Practicum or clinical supervision elements for clinically focused pathways, where required

Students may choose between a more practice-focused pathway with coursework and clinical components, or a research-focused pathway culminating in a thesis. The exact mix of papers, clinical hours and research requirements will depend on the chosen pathway and accreditation requirements.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires registration as a nurse in your practising jurisdiction (for example registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand) and a relevant bachelor’s degree in nursing or an equivalent qualification. Applicants without a nursing qualification but with a relevant health degree and substantial professional experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

• A completed bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent, or a recognised postgraduate diploma in nursing
• Current registration as a registered nurse and evidence of recent clinical practice
• Academic references and a statement of intent outlining clinical or research goals
• For research-thesis entry, a proposal or evidence of research potential may be requested and supervision must be available
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and satisfy any student visa, health screening and police check conditions

Career prospects

Graduates progress into senior and specialist nursing roles across tertiary, primary and community health services. Common career directions include clinical nurse specialist or team leader positions, nurse educator roles, clinical nurse consultant posts, health service leadership and management, and research or policy roles within health organisations.

The degree also provides a pathway towards advanced practice and, where local regulatory requirements are met, progression to nurse practitioner endorsement. Graduates are well placed to work in hospitals, primary health organisations, aged-care and disability services, Māori and Pacific health providers, academic institutions and health research centres.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT’s nursing programmes are delivered within a health faculty with strong links to local health services and research centres, providing opportunities for applied learning and clinical placements across a range of settings. The university emphasises interprofessional education, simulation-based training and research that addresses real-system challenges.

Students benefit from experienced academic staff and clinical partners, access to clinical simulation facilities and support for research supervision and publishing. AUT’s location in Auckland also provides access to a diverse patient population and a wide range of clinical and community health placement opportunities.