If you want to become a nurse or specialise in midwifery in the North West province, here is your guide to the Student Nurse Training Intake 2026 under the North West Department of Health. This article gives you what you need to know: courses offered, curriculum, requirements, how to apply, deadlines, and tips for success.
⚠️ Note: Course start dates are to be confirmed. Keep an eye on official notices from the Department of Health or the nursing colleges.
Student Nurse Training Opportunities
Below is a breakdown of the available qualifications, course structures, and requirements.
1. Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Course Starts: 17 February 2026
- Duration: Not Available
- Site: Mafikeng Campus and Klerksdorp Campus
- Study Mode: Full Time (Contact
This qualification equips nurses with specialized skills in midwifery and maternal health care. The program focuses on all aspects of preconception, pregnancy, childbirth, and neonatal care.
Compulsory Courses:
- Applied Bio-Psycho-Social Sciences & Pharmacology (8 credits)
- Midwifery Intra-partum Care (16 credits)
- Midwifery Intra-partum Care (24 credits)
- Midwifery Preconception & Pregnancy Care (16 credits)
- Midwifery Pregnancy Care (16 credits)
- Midwifery Peurperium & Neonatal Care (8 credits)
- Midwifery Peurperium & Neonatal Care (16 credits)
- Midwifery Professional Practice (8 credits)
- Midwifery Practice Research (8 credits)
Outcome: You will graduate as a midwife with the knowledge and skills to support women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care.
2. Diploma in Nursing R171
- Course Starts: 17 February 2026
- Duration: 3 to 4 Year(s)
- Site: Klerksdorp Campus and Mafikeng Campus
- Study Mode: Full Time (Contact)
This is a professional nursing qualification that leads to registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a General Nurse. The program combines theory and clinical practice to ensure that graduates are competent to work in hospitals, clinics, and community healthcare settings.
Exit Level Outcomes (ELO):
- Apply knowledge of natural, biological, psychosocial sciences, and pharmacology.
- Provide holistic nursing care across all stages of life.
- Work within legal and ethical frameworks.
- Manage healthcare units effectively.
- Promote reproductive health and community health care.
Curriculum Overview
Level 1 Courses
- Basic Nursing Science (32 credits + 24 credits)
- Foundations and Legislations of Nursing (8 credits)
- Natural and Biological Science (8 + 8 credits)
- Primary Health Care Approach (16 + 16 credits)
- Applied Psycho-Social Science (8 credits)
Level 2 Courses
- Communicable Disease: Adult (24 credits)
- Communicable Disease: Child (32 credits)
- Introduction to Mental Health (8 credits)
- Non-Communicable Diseases: Adult (24 + 8 credits)
- Non-Communicable Diseases: Child (16 credits)
- Pharmacology for Nurses (8 credits)
Level 3 Courses
- Community-Based Nursing (16 credits)
- Community Engagement and Development (24 credits)
- Healthcare Information Systems (16 credits)
- Health Unit Management (32 credits)
- Personal and Professional Development (16 credits)
- Reproductive Health Care (16 credits)
Outcome: Graduates will be able to function as professional general nurses, serving in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
3. Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing R169
- Course Starts: 17 February 2026
- Duration: Not Available
- Site: Mafikeng Campus and Klerksdorp Campus
- Study Mode: Full Time (Contact)
This program is designed for individuals who want to enter nursing at an auxiliary level. It provides foundational knowledge and practical skills to work under the supervision of a registered nurse.
Compulsory Courses:
- Basic Nursing Science (32 + 24 credits)
- Foundations and Legislations of Nursing (8 credits)
- Natural and Biological Science (8 + 8 credits)
- Primary Health Care Approach (16 + 16 credits)
Outcome: Graduates will be able to provide basic nursing care to patients, assisting with daily health needs and supporting professional nurses in healthcare facilities.
Admission Requirements
For Diploma in Nursing (R171)
- Senior Certificate Matriculants: English & Biology/Physiology (C symbol on Standard Grade or D symbol on Higher Grade). APS minimum = 18 points.
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): English (Level 4) and Life Science (Level 4). Two additional subjects at Level 4. Minimum APS = 23 points.
For Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R169)
- Minimum APS as required by the Council of Higher Education (CHE).
- Senior Certificate or NSC with relevant subjects.
For Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Must already hold a nursing qualification.
- Must be registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
Why Choose Nursing in North West?
- High demand for skilled nurses in hospitals, clinics, and rural health facilities.
- Guaranteed job opportunities within the healthcare system.
- Opportunity to study close to home and give back to your community.
- Nursing is one of the most respected professions in South Africa.
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How to Apply for the Student Nurse Training Intake 2026
- Visit the North West Department of Health official website during the application window.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload certified copies of your ID, Matric Certificate/NSC, and other required documents.
The Student Nurse Training Intake 2026 by the North West Department of Health is an excellent opportunity for those who are passionate about healthcare and want to make a difference in their communities. Whether you are interested in becoming an auxiliary nurse, pursuing a diploma in nursing, or specializing in midwifery, there is a course tailored to your career goals.
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