If you’re looking to start or advance your nursing career in South Africa, the KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing (KZNCN) offers a range of accredited nursing programmes to meet your needs. Applications for 2026 will open soon, and this guide outlines all the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes available, including admission requirements and key facts.

1. Diploma in Nursing (R171) – Full-Time, 3 Years

The Diploma in Nursing is a full-time, contact programme offered over three years. It follows a block system that alternates between theoretical instruction and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health facilities.

Admission Requirements:

• National Senior Certificate with a Diploma pass

• Minimum 25 points calculated from 6 relevant subjects

• English: Level 4

• Mathematics / Maths Literacy: Level 3 or higher

• Life Sciences / Physical Sciences: Level 4

• Home Language / First Additional Language: Level 3 or higher

• Life Orientation: Level 4 (compulsory but not scored)

Only applicants who reside in KwaZulu-Natal are eligible to apply.

2. Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (R1497) – Full-Time, 1 Year

The Advanced Diploma in Midwifery is a one-year full-time programme offered to in-service nurses employed by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. It also uses a block system for both theory and WIL.

Minimum Entry Requirements:

• Grade 12 Senior Certificate

• Registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a General Nurse (R683 or R171)

• Must be permanently employed in the KZN Department of Health

Application Process:

• Applications open once a year via internal departmental advertisements.

• Applications must be submitted through the relevant District Health Education Training and Development Committee (DHETDC) and approved by the District Human Resource Manager.

• Candidates are selected based on DHETDC minutes and approval by the KZNCN Central Selection Committee.

3. Postgraduate Diplomas in Nursing (R635)

The KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing has been accredited by the South African Nursing Council and the Council on Higher Education to offer several specialist Postgraduate Diplomas. These are offered to in-service nurses employed by the KZN Department of Health and follow a block system for learning.

Postgraduate Programmes Offered:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing

• Postgraduate Diploma in Nephrology Nursing

• Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing

• Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Critical Care Nursing

• Postgraduate Diploma in Perioperative Nursing

• Postgraduate Diploma in Orthopaedic Nursing

• Postgraduate Diploma in Ophthalmic Nursing

Purpose of the Programmes:

Each diploma is designed to prepare nurse specialists with advanced knowledge and practical skills in their chosen field, enabling them to provide high-quality, specialized care across different healthcare settings in the province.

How and When to Apply for the KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing 2026 Applications

Application Process:

• Applications for all programmes are announced once a year via:

  • Local newspapers

  • Hospitals and clinics

  • KZN Health website: http://kzncn.kznhealth.gov.za

• Follow the instructions as published in the official advertisement.

• No Z83 forms, hand-delivered applications, or direct applications to hospitals or the college will be accepted.

Important Points:

• Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

• Shortlisted candidates must undergo a knowledge assessment, medical screening, and document verification.

• Successful applicants must be prepared to attend full-time classes and participate in shift-based WIL, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Financial Support

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health provides bursaries for successful applicants. However, individuals who have previously received departmental funding for any nursing programme will not be eligible.

Conclusion

Whether you're just starting your nursing journey or looking to specialize further, the KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing offers a variety of accredited programmes to help you achieve your goals. Keep an eye on the official KZN College of Nursing website and local announcements for the 2026 application opening date.

Prepare your documents now and be ready to apply when the window opens.