Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing at Stellenbosch University

Programme overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing prepares nurses to work as specialist practitioners in primary care teams, providing comprehensive clinical care. It develops critical understanding of primary healthcare principles, theories and debates and advanced clinical skills for individuals of all ages and families.

Faculty: Medicine and Health Sciences | Department: Nursing and Midwifery | Duration: One year | Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

What you will study

Blended-learning theory in block periods on the Tygerberg campus plus 720 SANC-stipulated hours of simulation, clinical practice and role-taking at accredited Western Cape facilities. Modules: Principles and Processes of Primary Healthcare, Health Assessment, Diagnosis, Treatment and Care, Pharmacology, Specialist Primary Care Practice, Evidence-based Practice, Leadership and Development in Specialist Practice, and Praxis of Specialist Practice.

Career pathways

Specialist primary care nursing practice.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Postgraduate (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, specific to this diploma): one of (a) a bachelor's degree in Nursing (Regulation 174) and/or the Diploma in Nursing: General Nurses (Regulation 171) with the Advanced Diploma in Midwifery (Regulation 1497); (b) a two-year bridging diploma leading to registration as General or Psychiatric Nurse (Regulation 683) followed by a one-year Diploma in Midwifery (Regulation 254); (c) a four-year Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery (Regulation 425); or (d) a four-year bachelor's degree (Regulation 425). Current South African Nursing Council (SANC) registration as a Professional Nurse and Midwife, or as a General Nurse with a Midwifery qualification. Valid proof of a completed Basic Life Support (BLS) course is required on registration or within two months of starting. Two years' experience as a registered nurse and midwife, including experience in the speciality within the last two years, is recommended; computer literacy is highly recommended. Supporting documents: CV with three referees, proof of indemnity, ID or passport, matric certificate and a letter of employer support. Recognition of Prior Learning applicants may submit additional certificates (Basic Life Support, Advanced Life Support). Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission.

The application fee is R100 for South African citizens, permanent residents and refugee, asylum seeker and diplomatic status holders, and R400 for international applicants. Stellenbosch Business School applicants pay R1050 for the MBA and R850 for other SBS programmes. Some applicants are exempt; application fees are non-refundable.

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