Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT)Bachelor of Nursing
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Summary
Whether you're starting out, seeking purpose in a new career, or someone inspired by the resilience of healthcare professionals, take the next step and become the caregiver, leader, and innovator you’re meant to be.
Ready to begin a career where you genuinely change lives? NMIT’s Bachelor of Nursing (BN) sets you up with the knowledge, practical experience, leadership capability, and confidence to thrive as a registered nurse. Study in Nelson or Marlborough and learn in a programme respected across Aotearoa for its strong academic foundations and extensive hands-on training.
Over three evidence-based years, you’ll move confidently between classroom learning, simulation labs, and real clinical placements. Through these experiences, you will develop the skills and judgment necessary to deliver safe, competent, and compassionate care. Our learners gain exposure to a wide range of healthcare environments, developing practical capability and critical thinking in real-world settings within their community.
As a graduate, you won’t just enter the workforce - you’ll join a profession that directly improves the health and wellbeing of individuals, whānau, and communities. Your internationally recognised qualification and registration will open doors here and around the world.
Nursing isn’t just a job—it’s purpose, it’s people, and it’s the chance to make a real impact every day. It embodies compassion and leadership, placing you at the forefront of health and wellbeing. As a registered nurse, you may work in hospitals, communities, aged care facilities, mental health services, and beyond, making a tangible impact every day.
If you’re driven by purpose, inspired by people, and ready to challenge yourself, the BN programme at NMIT is where your journey begins.
Two excellent pathways. One shared goal.
At NMIT, we deliver high-quality nursing education that prepares you for a future-focused career in healthcare.
From 2026, we’ll offer two Bachelor of Nursing (BN) pathways during a transition period. Both are designed to give learners strong clinical experience, academic excellence, and the confidence to thrive as registered nurses.
Current learners (Year 2 and above)Students already in the programme will continue in the established ARA BN curriculum through to 2027. This proven programme has supported many graduates. It guarantees consistency, stability, and high-quality clinical placements for those progressing from 2025 onwards.
New learners (starting Year 1)From 2026, Year One students will join our refreshed delivery, based on the Otago BN curriculum. It offers:
- Deeper Te Tiriti o Waitangi integration,
- A strong focus on equity and sustainability, and
- The latest clinical placement models that reflect contemporary healthcare
You’ll earn a future-ready qualification blending traditional nursing education with innovation, cultural competence, and practical relevance.
Both pathways prepare you well for a nursing career. You can expect a supportive environment with dedicated tutors, expert clinical teaching, and strong connections to local health providers.
Our dual-delivery approach ensures continuity for current students and growth for future cohorts. Every NMIT nursing student will be equipped to make a real impact in their community.
New full-time study in Marlborough
NMIT’s Marlborough campus now has a dedicated on-campus nursing team, including a nurse lead, experienced tutors, and a refreshed clinical skills lab. Providing students with hands-on, high-quality learning right in the heart of the region. Marlborough students can now complete their full Bachelor of Nursing journey locally, supported by expert staff and strong connections to local health providers.
Why Choose NMIT. Study local, take your impact far.
Stay close to home, or if you come from further abroad, choose to study in a region with stunning nature right on your doorstep, while earning a nursing degree recognised across Aotearoa and abroad. Your future starts here in Te Tauihu, Top of the South.
Clinical excellenceStep into real-world healthcare with diverse placement opportunities across Nelson, Marlborough, and beyond. Our strong industry connections mean you’ll graduate with experience that counts.
Supportive environmentLearn in small classes where tutors know your name, understand your goals, and support your journey every step of the way.
Future-focused educationJoin a programme that puts sustainability, equity, and innovation at the centre of nursing education—preparing you to lead change in tomorrow’s healthcare system.
Innovative, blended learningNMIT’s Bachelor of Nursing programme uses innovative teaching strategies to ensure your participation, engagement, and academic success. Our blended learning model includes:
- Face-to-face lectures and group tutorials
- E-learning and online resources
- S...
Entry criteria
Minimum academic entry criteria are:
University Entrance (UE): NCEA Level 3 including:
- Three subjects at Level 3 or above, made up of a minimum of:
- 14 credits in science e.g. biology, chemistry, general science, or approved science subjects
- 14 credits in English OR an English rich subject
- 14 credits in one other approved subject
- Remaining credits may come from either achievement or unit standards
And
Literacy -10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of:
- 5 credits in reading
- 5 credits in writing
And
Numeracy - 10 credits at Level 1 or above, made up of:
- Achievement standards - specified achievement standards available through a range of subjects
- Applicants over 20 years of age must have completed the equivalent of NCEA Level 3 science (or NZQA-approved qualification) within the last five years. This may be achieved by successfully completing a bridging programme, such as the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways, Level 4; however, completion of these pre-entry qualifications does not guarantee automatic entry into this programme.
To be considered for entry in the Bachelor of Nursing programme evidence of health, abilities and conduct that align with fitness for registration as a nurse including:
- physical and mental health status including any health condition(s), and that the applicant has the level of health and abilities that will enable them to achieve clinical learning experience competencies in the programme;
- any learning disabilities or challenges that might affect participation in the programme;
- all existing or pending criminal convictions;
- consent to undergo a process of safety checking as required under the Children’s (Requirements for Safety Checks of Children's Workers) Regulations 2015.
- providing evidence of immunisation status as required by Health NZ Te Whatu Ora and healthcare organisations before commencing a clinical learning experience. Clinical learning experiences cannot be guaranteed without this evidence, as per agreements with clinical learning experience providers.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language are required to provide proof of English proficiency. Applicants must meet all stated entry requirements and demonstrate English language skills with an IELTS overall band score (academic) of 6.5 with no band score less than 6.5 Or Occupational English Test (OET) with a C+ band/score in each section in one sitting or equivalent approved test. Tests must be from an outside organisation and results must be from within two years from applying.
English language assessment can be requested for those with English as a second language at the discretion of the Head of Nursing at any time during the programme to ensure public safety as per the HPCA (2003). The Nursing Council of New Zealand regularly reviews their requirements, which will be reflected by changes.
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