This programme provides an excellent academic pathway for students who aspire to become nurses or healthcare professionals.

Key reasons to study include:

• Prepare for entry into nursing and health-related qualifications.
• Develop the academic, communication and study skills required for tertiary education.
• Gain practical learning experience in MIT's modern clinical learning suite.
• Build confidence and independence in a supportive learning environment.
• Strengthen literacy, numeracy and critical thinking skills relevant to healthcare.
• Learn through authentic projects linked to nursing and health settings.
• Receive personalised support from experienced lecturers.
• Access M?ori and Pasifika learner support through Te Ara Oranga.
• Progress to programmes such as the New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5), Bachelor of Nursing (Level 7) or Bachelor of Nursing Pacific (Level 7) after meeting entry requirements.

Programme Structure

Students complete the following four compulsory courses (60 credits):

Skills for Successful Tertiary Study (15 Credits)

Students develop:

• Academic study skills
• Learning strategies
• Time management
• Independent learning
• Preparation for nursing studies

Project Pathway A (15 Credits)

Students:

• Apply science knowledge through authentic learning experiences.
• Integrate literacy and communication skills.
• Prepare for nursing and health careers.

Project Pathway B (15 Credits)

Students:

• Apply numeracy skills in healthcare contexts.
• Complete project-based learning activities.
• Strengthen analytical and problem-solving skills.

Building Communication Competence (15 Credits)

Topics include:

• Academic reading and writing
• Oral communication
• Professional communication
• Information literacy
• Critical thinking
• Communication for healthcare environments

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students study:

• Academic Literacy
• Scientific Foundations
• Numeracy Skills
• Nursing Preparation
• Communication Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Study Skills
• Research Skills
• Professional Communication
• Healthcare Project Work
• Problem Solving
• Independent Learning

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

This qualification is offered as the Nursing Studies pathway and prepares students for further study in:

• Nursing
• Health Studies
• Enrolled Nursing
• Community Health
• Counselling
• Health Promotion

Programme Highlights

• NZQA Level 4 nationally recognised qualification.
• Direct pathway into MIT nursing and health programmes.
• Practical learning in a modern clinical learning suite.
• Small class sizes and personalised lecturer support.
• Supportive multicultural learning environment.
• Strong emphasis on academic preparation for tertiary nursing study.
• Access to Te Ara Oranga support services for Maori and Pasifika learners.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Hands-on project-based learning linked to healthcare careers.

Career Outcomes

This qualification is primarily a pathway programme rather than a direct employment qualification.

Graduates may progress to:

Nursing Pathways

• New Zealand Diploma in Enrolled Nursing (Level 5)
• Bachelor of Nursing (Level 7)
• Bachelor of Nursing Pacific (Level 7)

Health and Counselling Pathways

• New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4)
• New Zealand Certificate in Public Health and Health Promotion (Level 5)
• Bachelor of Applied Counselling (Level 7)

Completion of these higher-level qualifications can lead to careers such as:

• Registered Nurse
• Enrolled Nurse
• Community Health Worker
• Public Health Practitioner
• Health Promotion Officer
• Counsellor (with further qualifications and, where required, professional registration).

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is currently full for the 2026 intake due to high demand.
• Students undertake practical learning in MIT's clinical learning suite.
• Literacy and numeracy assessments (minimum 70% in each) are compulsory for entry.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available.
• International students must attend on-campus classes.
• The programme includes access to comprehensive academic, wellbeing and cultural support services, including Te Ara Oranga.
• A Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is payable in addition to tuition fees.

Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before commencing studies.

Applicants generally require:

• Offer of Place from MIT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition fees and living expenses.
• Medical and travel insurance.
• Evidence of English language proficiency in accordance with MIT and Immigration New Zealand requirements.
• Student visa approval from Immigration New Zealand.