Nursing University of Otago

Overview

The Nursing programme at the University of Otago provides a transformative educational experience designed to develop the next generation of healthcare leaders. This comprehensive suite of postgraduate qualifications empowers students to address complex health challenges through innovation, research, and advanced clinical practice.

Learners engage with a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. The study environment is highly dynamic, utilising a blend of traditional lectures, interactive online modules, and sophisticated simulation labs. This multifaceted approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the evolving demands of global healthcare systems.

Each student benefits from the university's strong emphasis on inter-professional collaboration.

Why Nursing at the University of Otago?

The university maintains a prestigious reputation for research excellence and world-class facilities. Students have access to a dedicated simulation centre and extensive clinical connections throughout the Southern region. These partnerships provide rich opportunities for real-world practice and professional networking within the health sector.

Instruction is delivered by expert staff who are leaders in their respective fields. The institution's commitment to social responsibility and community wellbeing is reflected in the curriculum's focus on Māori and Pacific health protocols. This ensures that graduates possess the cultural competency required for modern nursing practice.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 51450 per year
• National fee: NZD 13158 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Mental Health Nursing Practice
• Health Assessment and Advanced Nursing Practice
• Mental Health Nursing Practicum
• Nursing - Critical Care & High Acuity
• Primary Health Care Nursing - Rural/Urban
• Nursing Research Methods
• Nursing - Applied Pharmacology
• Nursing Education - Principles and Practice
• Leadership and Management: Growing an Identity
• Leadership and Management: Quality & Strategic Change
• Nursing - Gerontology
• Long-term Conditions: Pathophysiology and Management
• Therapeutics for Advanced Nursing
• Intellectual Disability: Theory into Practice
• Therapeutics: Knowledge and Integration
• Evidence Based Nursing Practice

Year 1

• Professional Nursing
• Health Care in New Zealand
• Nursing Science 1
• Nursing Science 2
• Clinical Nursing Practice
• Nursing Clients with Altered Health States
• Applied Nursing Research

Year 2

• Nursing Science 3
• Mental Health Nursing
• Nursing Clients with Complex Health States
• Consolidation of Practice
• Integrating Practice
• Policy Analysis

Careers with Nursing

Graduates are prepared for high-impact roles across various healthcare settings. Many progress into positions as nurse practitioners or advanced clinical nurses specialising in mental health, gerontology, or high-acuity care. The programme also provides a foundation for leadership and management roles within health services.

Beyond clinical practice, alumni find success in health policy, academic education, and clinical research. Opportunities exist in rural and primary healthcare, as well as within large-scale public and private health organisations. The qualification is recognised for its rigour, opening doors to both local and international career pathways.