Course Overview
*This course is pending approval and is planned to be open in July 2026.
Are you a graduate with a health science or another health-related degree? If you're ready for a career change or to upskill, the Master of Nursing Science is designed to fast-track your journey to becoming a registered nurse in New Zealand.
This course is a great fit for you if you have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and at least a B grade (65%) in your final year of study. The curriculum combines advanced theory with practical clinical experience at Levels 8 and 9, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.
Upon successful completion of the course, you'll be eligible to apply to the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) to take the State Final Examination and become a registered nurse.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- Master of Nursing Science
| Locations | To be confirmed |
|---|---|
| Next intake | To be confirmed View more details |
| Study options |
2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable) Part-time study available |
| Total credits | 240 |
| StudyLink assistance | Available |
| Indicative Fees | To be confirmed for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career opportunities
Registered nurses in a range of health care service settings
Topics you'll cover
- Foundations of professional nursing practice
- Health assessment
- Pathophysiology and pharmacology for professional practice
- Hauora
- Community Hauora
- Research and evidence-based practice
- Nursing clinical practicum
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | To be confirmed for domestic students |
|---|---|
| Course related costs | Uniform ($200) and text books |
Your final fee may vary if:
- you have a choice of topics/papers to study
- the qualification excludes GST
- there are extra course materials to purchase
- student levies apply
We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.
* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Help with fees
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.
- A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
- A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.
Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz
Scholarships
Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.
Course Entry Information
Entry criteria
Applicants must hold a health science or appropriate health or allied professional bachelor’s degree with a minimum B grade (65%) in the third year of their qualifying degree.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
All students (domestic and international) must:
Have completed a bachelor's degree, bachelor's degree with honours, or a postgraduate diploma in a cognate subject recognised by Toi Ohomai; OR
Be able to demonstrate at least five years equivalent relevant practical and/or professional experience; AND
Provide evidence of ability to complete academic and other requirements (special admission requirements).
Other Considerations
Applicants must provide references, hold a first aid certificate, medical assessment and clearance.
English language requirements
Applicants who have English as a second language are required to have an International English Language Test System (IELTS) Academic band score of 7.0 with no individual band score less than 7.0 or Occupational English test (OET) equivalent.
Return to course overview
Course Locations and Intake Information
Intakes to be confirmed Ask to be notified when the next intake becomes available
Study options
- 2 years full-time, including holidays (if applicable)
- Part-time study available