phd in nursing new zealand

Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing

This course is available

Level of Study

Doctoral Degree

Next start date

Expected Jul 2024

Newmarket Campus

The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree and the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years.

This course is also offered at overseas locations.

Nursing has changed over the years and integrated care settings offer a varied and rewarding career where you can make a difference.

Research opportunities

As a student you’ll be taught and mentored by staff who are involved in research studies that have the potential to impact on patient outcomes, healthcare delivery and the wider community.

The School of Nursing is proud of its strong research culture and undertakes collaborative research activities with other schools in the faculty and other universities both nationally and internationally.

The School has rapidly gained recognition for its research outputs and has won grants from leading agencies such as the Marsden Fund and Health Research Council (HRC).

Our highly qualified research staff contribute directly to the development and teaching of the programmes to ensure they are underpinned by current evidence-based practice and research.

Programme structure

The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree.

On possible to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of goals to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam.

As part of your PhD study, you can take part in our doctoral skills programme, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes specialist subject librarians to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community.

Where could this programme take you?

Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own startup.

Entry criteria

Masters-level qualification or the equivalent of a bachelors degree with honours

Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study

English language requirements

• IELTS (Academic) - Overall score of 6.5 and no bands below 6.0
• Internet-based TOEFL (iBT) - Overall score of 90 and a writing score of 21
• Paper-based TOEFL - Overall score of 68 and a writing score of 21
• C1 Advanced (previously - Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)) - Overall score of 176 and no bands below 169
• C2 Proficiency (previously - Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE)) - Overall score of 176 and no bands below 169
• University of Auckland Foundation Certificate in English for Academic Purposes (FCertEAP) - Grade of B-
• University of Auckland English Pathway for Postgraduate Studies (EPPS) - Grade of B-
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic - Overall score of 58 and no PTE Communicative score below 50
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) - 85
• Trinity College London Integrated Skills in English (ISE) - ISE III with a pass in all 4 components
• LanguageCert - International ESOL - C1 Expert (LRWS) with a high pass overall and no less than a pass in each skill OR C2 Mastery with a pass overall and no less than a pass in each skill
• AEMG English for Academic Purposes Direct Entry Program (AEAP DEP) Final Exam - Overall score of 70% with no section below 65%
• English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment - Assessment Level 3 overall and no skill below Level 2

Studying in NZ

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Te Wāhanga Tātai Hauora

Faculty of --> faculty of health.

Conduct advanced original research and earn a PhD with the Wellington Faculty of Health.

The PhD thesis is a major piece of original research that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to carry out independent research and constitutes a significant and original contribution to knowledge or understanding of a field of study. As well as intelligence and an aptitude for research, the degree requires considerable dedication and tenacity.

The minimum period of registration before a PhD thesis can be submitted for examination is 36 months full-time (or equivalent).

Registering your interest and initial enquiries

Prospective PhD students can contact the PhD coordinator from the relevant School:

• School of Health, Dr Agnes Szabo
• School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice, Dr Brian Robinson

The Faculty of Graduate Research (FGR) website will link you to the online application process, provide you with details of available funding, application dates, and answers to questions you may have about what is involved in undertaking a PhD.

Your acceptance will depend on a number of factors, including your previous qualifications and experience, the suitability of your topic for PhD studies and our capacity to supervise you and your topic.

PhD applications

Applications for PhD study can be made at any time, but are considered three times a year: 1 March, 1 July and 1 November.

You will need a Bachelor’s degree with Honours or a Master’s degree at a New Zealand university, with an overall GPA or no less than 6 (letter grade B+) to apply to enrol for a PhD. Enrolment will be subject to the availability of supervisors and approval of the Associate Dean.

In certain circumstances, it is possible for a candidate to begin a Victoria University of Wellington Master’s thesis degree and upgrade to a PhD. Conditions apply.

Find out how to apply here. If you have any questions about the application process please email the Doctoral Admissions staff .

Enquire about research programmes

Fill in our form for advice on Master of Health Research, PhD, or Professional Doctorate study with us.

Help with writing your thesis

The School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice offers all PhD students the opportunity to attend twice-yearly research school weeks in Wellington. This is a valuable opportunity to discuss research issues and work with your peers and academic staff, as well as national and international visiting academics.

When you complete your thesis, it will be examined by three examiners—usually one from Victoria University of Wellington, one from another New Zealand university and one from an overseas university. You will also be required to defend your thesis in an oral examination.

Related links

• Faculty of Graduate Research
• Te Kura Tapuhi Hauora—School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice

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Are you looking for Postgraduate courses in Nursing? Here you can find course providers offering full-time, part-time, online or distance learning options.

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THE World Ranking: 401

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THE World Ranking: 150

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THE World Ranking: 501

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THE World Ranking: 301

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Whitireia New Zealand

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• New Zealand Study Options

PhD Study in New Zealand

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. The study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a, student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in New Zealand are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

New Zealand institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree. English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment to remain in study, and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in New Zealand?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. Candidates can cost between $5,000-$20,000 per year, although this is still considerably cheaper than US or UK equivalents. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship.

Study a PhD in New Zealand

If you are interested in studying for a research degree in New Zealand, arrange a free consultation with SI-New Zealand today.

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Master of Nursing Practice

Already have a Bachelor's degree but want to start a career in Nursing? The Master of Nursing Practice enables graduates from a wide range of disciplines to apply for registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand to practice as a Registered Nurse.

Applications are open for 2025. The deadline for domestic applicants is 31 August 2024.  The deadline for international applicants is 8 May 2024.

240 points, 2 years

Division of Health

Trimester A (February)

Why study a MNursPrac?

This programme will prepare you to respond to the health needs of the Midland and Aotearoa populations with a particular focus on equity for Māori and Pacific, mental health and addiction, primary and community health.

Delivered in partnership with the Waikato District Health Board and its clinical partners, our nursing programme combines high academic standards with hands-on learning in a real healthcare setting from day one. The programme also has a specific focus on equity, wellbeing and Māori and Pacific health with opportunities to specialise in mental health and addictions.

On a practical level, you will divide your time between our University campus in Hamilton and health providers across the Waikato region and be guided by an experienced team of registered nurses and other health professionals. This diverse team includes active researchers who are changing the way healthcare is delivered in New Zealand and across the world. This team embraces cutting-edge teaching and learning methods to equip the next generation of nurses with skills and knowledge to meet the healthcare needs of tomorrow.

By the end of your two-year masters degree, you will be able to provide the highest quality care to New Zealanders, whether they are living in rural or urban locations, at home or in hospital or experiencing mental or physical illness.

Please note that spaces are limited, and we require applications before the 31st August in the year prior to your intended start year.

Career Opportunities

• Registered nurse
• Primary and community health care
• Hospital-based care

Degree information

• Plan your study

Selection of applicants for the Master of Nursing Practice is based on both academic background and suitability for nursing. Applicants may be asked to attend an interview.

Please note that spaces are limited, and all applications are considered on a case-by-case basis by the Selection Committee until all spaces are filled. We will begin to assess all applicants once applications close on 31 August and will communicate with you by mid-October if you have been successful. Our next intake is 2025.

You can apply for the Master of Nursing Practice if you have:

a) A bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) in any subject and achieved at least a B grade average in your final year of your degree, OR

b) Completed the Diploma in Postgraduate Preparation – Pre-Masters of the University of Waikato, with at least a B grade average.

The Nursing selection process also includes a personal statement, references and a criminal record check.

Estimated fees

$9,137 per 120 pts plus additional Ancillary Costs per year

Domestic tuition fees

Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.

Scholarships

Visit our Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.

Relevant as of 20 February 2024.

All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. View information about fees-free study .

$40,800 (120 points) $81,600 (240 points) per year

International tuition fees

Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for international students enrolled in one year of full-time study.

All amounts are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment. Please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees. 

Practical experience

You will undertake 1,400 hours of clinical experience throughout the programme. Within each trimester, there are both teaching and clinical blocks.

Please note, once you are enrolled in the Master of Nursing Practice, you will also need to complete further tasks prior to commencing Clinical Placement. These are to meet the requirements set down by the  Nursing Council of New Zealand  for registration as a nurse in New Zealand.

You will need to:

• hold a current Comprehensive First Aid Certificate which covers the following Unit Standards: US6400, US6401 and US6402.
• show you meet the immunisation standards of practice for healthcare professionals in NZ by having the Immunisation Screening Form completed and signed by a GP.
• Note:  There are  Ancillary Costs  for this qualification.
• Immunisation Screening Form

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Department of Nursing

Te tari tapuhi.

The Department of Nursing (formerly the Centre for Postgraduate Nursing Studies) at the University of Otago, Christchurch is ranked in the top 100 nursing schools in the world ( QS rating, 2022).

Master Of Nursing Science

For graduates of any discipline, become a registered nurse in just two years.

Master Of Advanced Nursing Practice

Preparing RNs to become a Nurse Practitioner Mātanga Tapuhi

Postgraduate Courses For Registered Nurses

Clinically-focused certificates, diplomas, masters', and PhD qualifications.

Improving clinical outcomes for people with long-term, acute, complex conditions

Postgraduate Research Opportunities

Explore current PhD opportunities in the Centre.

Downloads for prospective students

• Prospectus for registered nurses considering postgraduate study (PDF)
• 2024 study block timetable (PDF)

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Medical and Health Sciences

Master of Nursing Science MNSc

Do you have a degree in Health Science or Science and are thinking about your career options? A Master of Nursing Science will fast-track your postgraduate journey and equip you to become a registered nurse in New Zealand.

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Programme overview

The two-year (240 point) Master of Nursing Science will fast-track your masters qualification and eligibility to become a registered nurse in New Zealand.

The programme has been designed to meet New Zealand’s health workforce need for more nurses, without compromising on quality of training.

For the first time at the University of Auckland, you can enter Nursing at masters level without a BNurs qualification.

If you have a bachelor’s degree in Health Science (BHSc) or Science (BSc) with courses in Physiology and Psychology, then consider all the possibilities a career in nursing can offer.

Programme structure

• Entry requirements
• Fees and scholarships

Requirement:

• 210 points: MAORIHTH 701, NURSING 742, 746, 780, 787, NURSPRAC 721, 722
• 30 points: NURSING 789 Research Project

Students will complete four semesters of the specified programme with concurrent clinical placements (minimum of 1,100 hours to meet Nursing Council of New Zealand requirements) in two years full time study:

• Year 1 – Semester 1 (total 60 points): NURSING 787 – Fundamentals of Nursing Care (30 points), NURSING 742 – Biological Science for Practice (30 points); Semester 2 (total 60 points): NURSPRAC 721 – Integrative Nursing Practice (45 Points), MAORIHTH 701 – Foundations of Maori Health (15 points)
• Year 2 – Semester 1 (total 60 points): NURSING 780 – Mental Health and Addictions Nursing (30 points), NURSING 746 – Evidence Based Nursing and Implementation (30 Points) Semester 2 (total 60 points): NURSPRAC 722 – Transition to Professional Nursing Practice (30 points), NURSING  789 – Research project (30 points)

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment .

Sample programme structure

Year 1 120 points.

• Code: NURSING 787 Name: Fundamentals of Nursing Care Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: NURSING 742 Name: Biological Science for Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: NURSPRAC 721 Name: Integrative Nursing Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 45 pts
• Code: MAORIHTH 701 Name: Foundations of Maori Health Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts

Year 2 120 points

• Code: NURSING 780 Name: Mental Health and Addictions Nursing Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: NURSING 746 Name: Evidence Based Nursing and Implementation Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: NURSPRAC 722 Name: Transition to Professional Nursing Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts
• Code: NURSING 789 Name: Research Project Type: Compulsory core course Points: 30 pts

Subjects available in this programme

• Nursing Science

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:, programme requirements, minimum programme requirements.

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

Bachelor of Health Sciences, Bachelor of Science, or equivalent

Calculate your Grade Point Average (GPA)

Further programme requirements

Taught 240 points.

The MNSc is designed for students with a relevant undergraduate degree (BHSc or BSc) with a GPA of 5.0 or higher in 75 points above Stage II.

Applicants will also be required to consent to a disclosure of criminal convictions and safety checks required by the Children’s Act 2014 to ensure they meet the requirements of the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003.

No bands below 6.0.

See alternative English language requirements

Calculate your Grade Point Equivalent (GPE)

Whether a degree is considered relevant will depend on the courses taken; relevant areas may include Physiology and Psychology.

Entrance may be subject to satisfactory police check/s, safety checks, an interview and referee reports.  

How much does a Master of Nursing Science cost per year?

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Start dates.

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year , including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

Where could this programme take you?

The Master of Nursing Science provides a pathway to career advancement and into management. Graduates often pursue careers in healthcare consulting, research and specialist nursing. We advise that the University of Auckland is not involved in the employment of graduates and can make no guarantee of post-qualification registration or employment in New Zealand or any other country.

Jobs related to this programme

• Advanced nurse practitioner
• Clinical nurse specialist
• Nurse administrator
• Nurse consultant
• Nurse educator
• Research nurse

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services .

Key Information for Students

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Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing – PGDipNurs

Keen to take the next step in your nursing career? The Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (PGDipNurs) will advance your practice and prepare you for further development towards senior nursing roles.

Entry requirements

• Qualification structure
• Courses & specialisations
• Fees & scholarships
• Careers & jobs

Type of qualification

Level of study.

Once you’ve graduated with a bachelor’s degree – or have equal experience – you can study at the postgraduate level. Doctoral qualifications require additional entry requirements.

More about study levels

Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.

Find out more about NZQF levels

Time to complete

Where you can study.

• International students

International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.

Definition of New Zealand citizens and residents

Admission application due dates Course enrolment dates for accepted students Semester dates

Study a Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing – PGDipNurs

Most students undertaking postgraduate study in nursing are in full-time practice and study part-time. Several postgraduate courses in nursing are delivered via ‘distance learning’ and/or ‘block mode’.  These can include compulsory face-to-face teaching in on-campus contact workshops, web-based teaching, relevant readings and other study material. It means the courses are available if you are in employment and located at a distance from the university.

Learn from the best in your field

You’ll learn from academics and professional clinicians who are experienced registered nurses. Their expertise in practice and research drives the development of relevant, up-to-date course content, teaching, and assessment of your work.

You’ll be supported all the way

There is always plenty of help at hand. Along with contact with your lecturers, learning consultants in the Centre for Learner Success are available to support your study and academic writing skills. Each library has a subject librarian who supports you on campus or at a distance.

Find out more about nursing at Massey

See the Study nursing page for more information.

Further study

You can progress to a Master of Nursing as preparation for advanced practice roles and/or Nurse Practitioner registration.

A PGDipNurs is a good fit if you:

• successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
• wish to develop and advance your professional practice
• seek to enhance your contribution to people’s health and wellbeing.

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

• Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

To enter the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing you will:

• have been awarded or qualified for a relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification, and
• have New Zealand Nursing Council registration or equivalent.

You will need to provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.

Admission criteria for course 168750 Registered Nurse Prescribing Practicum:

Note that in order to be admitted to the Registered Nurse Prescribing Practicum course, which is part of the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing, you will have:

• completed course 168733 Physiology and Pathophysiology, and
• achieved at least a B grade in courses 168728 Assessment and Clinical Decision-Making and 168734 Clinical Pharmacology, and
• the Nursing Council requires you to have completed three years’ equivalent full time practice in the area of practice being prescribed in.

You may need to upload a revised CV ensuring your practice areas are fully detailed, before you will be approved into this course.

English language requirements

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

•  Massey University English language requirements

Time limits for Honours, Distinction and Merit

Where your qualification is completed within the stated time limit and to a high standard, you may be able to graduate with Distinction or Merit. 

• Look for information under ‘Student Progression’ in the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas and Postgraduate Certificates.
• Contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Prior learning, credit and exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:

• review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
• contact us through the Get advice button on this page.

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Meeting requirements for industry membership

Postgraduate diploma in nursing for nurse prescriber training.

After you have finished the Postgraduate Diploma you must apply to the Nursing Council, pay the fee and submit all portfolios, etc before you can become a Nurse Prescriber.

Maximum time limits for completion

There are maximum time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications.  If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification .

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may be no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

Structure of the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing

The School of Nursing recommends that you study the Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing part-time. If you want to study full-time, it is recommended that you contact the School to discuss your options.

Some postgraduate courses in nursing are delivered via ‘distance or block mode’ with compulsory or recommended face-to-face teaching in on-campus contact workshops, web-based teaching, relevant readings and other study material. This is designed to make the courses available if you are in employment and located at a distance from the university.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing is awarded without a specialisation (endorsement).

The courses for this pathway are:

• 168733 Physiology and Pathophysiology
• 168728 Assessment and Clinical Decision-Making
• 168734 Clinical Pharmacology
• 168750 Registered Nurse Prescribing Practicum

Before you enrol in 168750 you will have passed the other three courses and have achieved at least a B grade in both of 168728 and 168734. You will also have completed three years’ equivalent full time practice in the area of practice being prescribed in, in accordance with the requirements of the Nursing Council .

Courses and specialisations

Credit summary, 120 credits.

• Core course(s) from Schedule A – At least 30 credits
• Elective courses from Schedule C – Up to 90 credits

Course planning key

Schedule a: core courses (choose at least 30 credits from).

Philosophical, ethical and methodological issues in relation to health research are examined. Selected quantitative and qualitative methods are explored in depth, in preparation for developing a research proposal for a thesis, or research project.

Restrictions: 168810, 168710

Evidence based practice (EBP) is an approach to problem solving and service provision based on the integration of “best evidence” with expert opinion and client/consumer perspectives. Students will develop EBP skills needed to critically evaluate information available from research findings, professional consensus statements and other sources of information, as well as communicating the results.

Translational and clinically relevant physiological and pathophysiological concepts as they apply to nursing practice are examined. Selected signs/symptoms are considered in terms of physiological processes at biochemical, cellular and functional levels. The emphasis is on normal physiological processes and their possible subsequent development to pathophysiological phenomena.

Schedule B: Elective courses

The health care systems of New Zealand and selected nations are compared and critically analysed from a management perspective.

Restrictions: 250742

Issues relevant to the efficient and effective delivery of health services are identified and examined.

Restrictions: 250746

Topics relevant to study and/or research into selected aspects of Nursing are investigated.

The multidimensional aspects of managing long term conditions within contemporary society, including self-management and models of chronic care, are examined and applied to improve health service delivery, and optimise health and independence.

An examination of a range of theoretical perspectives and sociopolitical factors underlying approaches to clinical teaching and learning. Alternative approaches to the design and delivery of practice-based education are explored.

The multidimensional aspects of pain management including physiological and psychological components are examined. This knowledge is applied to refine nursing interventions in order to manage the pain experienced by people with acute or chronic ill-health conditions and those receiving palliative care.

Health assessment across the age continuum including physical assessment, assessment of mental status and the selection and application of diagnostic tools for clinical decision-making. A range of therapeutic modalities for working with people in crisis and those living with enduring mental illness is introduced (includes 25 hours lab/practicum).

Critique of a range of philosophical approaches and practical ethical decision-making frameworks, focussed on practice application across diverse nursing roles. Particular attention is brought to nurses’ role as moral agents in ‘everyday’ practice. Significant themes include social justice; links between biculturalism, cultural safety and ethics; and the ethical implications of the socio-political context of contemporary healthcare.

Selected modules related to providing a health service to older people are offered. The specialist knowledge base and skills for working in a variety of older persons' health settings will be critically examined and their application in particular practice contexts explored.

A range of therapeutic modalities including family therapy and cognitive therapy are examined and their application in particular practice contexts explored. Optional modules are offered in selected areas of advanced speciality practice, e.g. youth and adolescent services, alcohol and drug services, Māori or Pacific Island services, and the knowledge base and skills for practice in each setting are examined.

Strategies for the development of a Māori-centred approach to nursing practice will be examined. Partnership frameworks will be developed based on Māori aspirations and strengths with the aim to achieve positive health outcomes for Māori.

The multidimensional aspects of wound management including physiological, pathophysiological and psychological components are examined and applied in the clinical practice setting.

A critical examination of primary health care nursing practice in the New Zealand context. The course addresses the notion of aligning nursing practice with community need as understood through the lens of the social determinants of health.

Development of advanced nursing practice knowledge and skills and comprehensive holistic health assessment and clinical decision-making.

Leadership in professional practice is explored within the broader context of health care. The course critically examines the political, legislative, economic, ethical and cultural issues influencing nursing leadership and the provision of health services within particular scopes of practice.

Pharmacology topics relevant to advanced nursing practice are critically examined. These include pharmaceutics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics and a range of pharmacotherapeutic topics.

The development of advanced nursing knowledge and practice to safely care for critically ill patients and their family. Students studying this course must be working in a critical care department and must have done so for at least six months prior to enrolment.

A supervised placement in an approved setting in which assessment, clinical decision-making and prescribing is undertaken in accordance with the Nursing Council of New Zealand competencies for registered nurse prescribing practice.

Prerequisites: 168733 and 168734 (B grade), and either 168728 (B grade) or 168714 (B grade) Restrictions: 168850

A course designed to equip nurses with knowledge and skills to address the inequities in health that children and young people face on an individual level, nationally and internationally, and to understand the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for future generations.

An examination of current issues in Occupational Safety and Health and issues commonly found in the work environment.

An examination of sleep and circadian science in relation to health and healthcare, including healthy sleep, sleep disorders and sleep in those with medical conditions.

Restrictions: 252702

Fees and scholarships

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This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice .

Careers and job opportunities

The Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (PGDipNurs) prepares nurses like you for advanced practice and to develop towards senior nursing roles or becoming a registered nurse practitioner.

What our students say

“I chose to pursue my postgraduate studies at Massey because it offered distance learning. It meant I was able to balance my study life around work and family. Having that option to study via distance and part-time has definitely helped me to be successful in my studies.”

I hail from the Kingdom of Tonga Ma’uafanga and Kolofalahola, Vavau. Also the beautiful Island of Samoa-Luatanu'u

Nurse Practitioner

Master of Nursing

Accreditations and rankings

QS Ranking - Nursing

Massey nursing is ranked in the world's top 150 universities by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS).

ShanghaiRanking - nursing

Massey University is ranked in the top 150 universities in the world and first in New Zealand in the subject area of nursing by the ShanghaiRanking's Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

Related study options

Bachelor of nursing – bn.

Make a difference in someone’s life every day. Nursing offers diverse employment positions, and many options for professional development and postgraduate study.

Master of Clinical Practice (Nursing) – MClinPrac

Are you passionate about helping people? Massey’s Master of Clinical Practice (Nursing) is a vocationally focused qualification that is a postgraduate pathway to becoming a registered nurse.

Master of Nursing – MN

Massey’s Master of Nursing prepares you for a range of clinical leadership roles in specialty areas. Develop your advanced knowledge and skills in your chosen field through a mix of theoretical and clinical courses.

Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing – PGCertNurs

Take the next step in your nursing career. Massey’s Postgraduate Certificate in Nursing provides registered nurses with the knowledge needed to develop their professional practice within a clinical specialty.

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