The Master of Health Sciences Professional Practice (Nursing) and Bachelor of Nursing joint initiative between the University of Canterbury and Ara gives the opportunity for students who already hold a degree relevant to health sciences to gain two further qualifications in just two years.
This is a fulltime two-year programme. Students will complete a UC Master of Health Sciences Professional Practice (Nursing) [MHealScProfPr(Nursing)] and a Bachelor of Nursing (BN). Students will be eligible to attend graduation ceremonies with both institutions.
The option of completing the Master of Health Sciences with a research component is also available.
Who is this initiative designed for?
It will be of interest to anyone who wishes to become a nurse. Students are normally required to have a recognised degree which is considered relevant to Health Sciences and the proposed course of study or an appropriate health or allied professional qualification requiring at least three years equivalent full-time tertiary study at an appropriate level.
Non-Health Science degrees are considered with evidence of Bioscience knowledge to NZQA level 5. Students may be required to attend an interview as part of the application process.
Course information
For more details see the degree regulations for the Master of Health Science Professional Practice.
The tables below outline the combined structure, with UC courses in red.
| YEAR ONE | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Semester One | HLTH 465 | HLTH 466 | |
| Mid term break | BNNP 542 | ||
| Semster Two | HLTH 467 | HLTH 468 | |
| Summer break | BNNP 641/BNNP 643 |
| YEAR TWO | ||
|---|---|---|
| Summer break | BNNP 463 continues | |
| Semester One | HLTH 463 | HLTH 464 |
| Mid term break | ||
| Semester Two | BNFW 740 | BNTR 701 |
| Summer break | NCNZ registration exam third Thursday in November |
How to apply
- You will apply to both UC and Ara. Check that you meet the requirements for admission at both UC and Ara.
- Your first step to enrolment is to apply to Ara on their website
- If successful, you will be provided with a conditional offer from Ara. You then need to apply to UC, using the online application process and provide evidence of Ara’s conditional offer (such as a letter or email from Ara).
- If you are accepted to the MHealScProfPr programme, you will receive a formal offer. UC will advise Ara and your enrolment in the BN will be adjusted accordingly.
Fees and funding
Fees include tuition fees, administration fees, additional course-related costs (text books, equipment), the New Zealand Nursing Council examination fee, and student services levies from both UC and Ara.
- Visit the UC fees and funding webpage
- Visit the Ara fees and finance webpage
- Search the UC scholarships database for potential funding avenues.
Career opportunities
Having completed the MHealScProfPr/BN programmes graduates will be eligible to gain employment as nurses in New Zealand. The MHealScProfPr will give graduates a thorough academic knowledge which may be beneficial to employment but it is important to note that graduates of this
Research pathway
Students who are interested in completing postgraduate research should apply to complete the Master of Health Sciences by thesis. This pathway requires an additional 60 points and will extend the time required to complete this degree. Those who have completed their Masters by thesis may be later interested in doctoral study. UC offers a PhD in Health Sciences. Students interested in this pathway should contact the Programme Coordinator for further advice.