SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Nursing 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99375  Diploma in Nursing 
ORIGINATOR
MEDICLINIC (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Curative Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0733/25  2024-06-30  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to provide the learner with the necessary knowledge and skills that are required to function as a Registered Staff Nurse in both private and public health care facilities.

Upon qualifying Nurses will be able to:
  • Utilise their knowledge of anatomy, microbiology, physiology and pathophysiology to assess patients.
  • Function in a wide variety of healthcare settings and provide healthcare to patients with a wide range of conditions.
  • Play a preventative and health educational role.
  • Under the supervision of a registered professional Nurse or medical practitioner, manage and treat a wide range of patients with stable uncomplicated conditions.
  • Manage patients requiring rehabilitation.
  • Manage a nursing unit with stable uncomplicated patients.
  • Conduct a nursing diagnosis, draw up a basic nursing care plan, implement the care and treatment and evaluate the plan and care given.
  • Assist other registered health professionals with treatment of patients.
  • Develop skills that allow for handling of emergency situations.
  • Deliver a service in accordance with the required health and safety regulations, ethics and health codes of practice.

    Rationale:
    South Africa, like many other countries has identified an urgent need to address nursing skills and staff shortages. This shortage of Nurses is being experienced in both the private and public health care institutions. Individuals intending to study towards a nursing qualification are also currently experiencing that qualifications are not readily available for them at tertiary institutions to be able to train as registered Nurses. Thus, both the critical shortage of Nurses and the lack of qualifications have led to the need to provide private training for Nurses. This qualification will enable the learner to function as a clinically focused, service orientated, independent Registered Staff Nurse, who will be able to render nursing care as determined by the appropriate legislative framework.

    This qualification is also suitable for the public sector as it equips learners with the necessary knowledge and skills required for practical application in the workplace. This qualification also enables registered staff Nurses to be competent to work in certain areas where there is a critical shortage of Nurses in the country. This qualification prepares the qualifying learner as a Generalist Nurse who will be able to meet the service delivery needs of the country. The Nurse with this qualification will be able contribute significantly to the current situation of human resources in health in South Africa, taking into consideration the country's historical background and the shortage of professional Nurses and Doctors in the country. The practice of this Nurse is focused on quality service delivery within a broad spectrum of health services and in a variety of settings, including rural areas.

    This qualification is suitable for the following:
  • Nurses working in Community clinics.
  • Nurses wishing to work as part of a multidisciplinary team in a hospital setting.
  • Nurses with the potential to become managers of nursing units with stable uncomplicated patients.

    The successful learner will be eligible for registration as a Registered Staff Nurse with the South African Nursing Council. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL is applicable for entry selection within the context of the institutional policies and guidelines. The RPL process will incorporate a holistic approach and comply with the current regulations of SAQA and CHE. The learner has the right to have previous experience and qualifications taken into consideration when applying to do further qualifications.

    Learners may be granted access through RPL. Evidence of prior learning must be provided by employing a portfolio and other appropriate evidence, including challenging theoretical and clinical examinations. Clinical and work-based experience must be relevant to the qualification the learner is applying for. The assessment(s) will be done by a registered assessor, and a registered moderator will validate the assessment process.

    Credit transfer may be granted according to current institutional policy and guidelines of the relevant statutory health council, the CHE, and SAQA. Credit accumulation transfer will only be considered for a learner with an accredited and registered qualification. The credits transferred must be on the same level as the module the credits are transferred towards; the content and outcomes of the module(s) correspond with the module(s) presented by the institution, and the learner passed the additional assessments if required. All credits transferred will be submitted as part of completing training/academic records. Thus, all transcripts will reflect exemptions achieved through CAT and the credit points.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirements for this qualification are:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, without endorsement
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Nursing, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7, totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Professional Practice 1, 16 Credits
  • Integrated Science (General) 1, 16 Credits
  • Anatomy 1, 12 Credits
  • Physiology 1, 12 Credits
  • Nursing Science 1, 48 Credits
  • Sociology and Psychology 1, 16 Credits

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 164 Credits:
  • Professional Practice 2, 12 Credits.
  • Nursing Science 2, 76 Credits.
  • Anatomy 2, 16 Credits.
  • Physiology 2, 16 Credits.
  • Professional Practice 3.1: Management, 4 Credits
  • Nursing Science 3, 40 Credits

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 76 Credits:
  • Professional Practice 3.1: Management, 12 Credits.
  • Professional Practice 3.2: Management, 16 Credits
  • Nursing Science 3, 48 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge of natural and biological sciences in the practice of nursing
    2. Apply knowledge of psychosocial sciences in the practice of nursing
    3. Apply knowledge of pharmacology in nursing practice
    4. Provide nursing care throughout the lifespan in various healthcare settings
    5. Render nursing care within a legal and ethical framework
    6. Use and maintain healthcare information systems for nursing practice
    7. Manage a health care unit by implementing the management process
    8. Provide reproductive health care to promote and maintain the optimum health of individuals and families. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology in caring for the healthcare user.
  • Apply knowledge of microbiology in caring for the healthcare user.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply knowledge of psychology and sociology in ways that benefit the quality of healthcare delivered to healthcare users.
  • Analyse and apply knowledge of human behaviour and psychological development throughout the life span
  • Implement social and diversity-sensitive care in nursing practice.
  • Identify and manage a range of psychological emergencies accordingly.
  • Deal with the emotional demands of nursing practice effectively.

    Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Apply knowledge of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics in nursing practice within the applicable scope of practice.
  • Control, dispense, and administer Medications in various healthcare settings within legislative requirements

    Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Provide preventative, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative nursing care to different age groups in various health care settings.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Render nursing care within an ethical, legal framework.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Use health care information systems and maintain in the practice of nursing.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 7:
  • Implement the management process in managing a health care unit.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 8:
  • Promote and maintain the optimum health of individuals and families is through the provision of reproductive health care.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The institution will adhere to qualification and subject policies to assess learners effectively. The goal is to create an interactive learning environment that supports learners in achieving the desired outcomes. Through this approach, learners will demonstrate competence in a practical context, meeting the specific outcomes in the exit-level outcomes and their associated assessment criteria, theoretical knowledge, and critical cross-field outcomes.

    Work-integrated learning (WIL) is fundamental to the teaching and learning process, seamlessly incorporating workplace relevance into the classroom, simulation laboratory, and on-site workplace training. Learners will spend designated WIL hours in the workplace settings, where they will complete a portfolio of evidence (PoE), and an essential component of the assessment process.

    Assessment will include formative and summative methods aligned with work-based integrated learning objectives. Various assessment forms will be employed, with an integrated assessment approach that includes cognitive, psychomotor, and affective aspects.

    A variety of formative assessment strategies and/or approaches will be used, including, but not limited to:
  • Tests (written and electronic)
  • Assignments
  • Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) / Workbooks
  • Projects
  • Practical demonstrations
  • Clinical assessments
  • Case presentations
  • Oral presentations
  • Questioning
  • Direct observation in simulated and/or controlled work environment

    Formative assessment of all clinical procedures is conducted to monitor learner progress, identify areas needing improvement, and evaluate the standard of their work. Progress is documented in learner records through monthly reports from unit managers or clinical mentors to monitor competence, affective skills, and professional characteristics such as honesty, integrity, reliability, and caring.

    Learners will complete 1970 hours of work-integrated learning (WIL), which includes work-based experience, clinical skills laboratory practice, and other clinical training. Of the WIL, 70% will be supervised and mentored, while 30% will involve independent role-taking.

    Summative evaluation may be conducted through:
  • Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) /workbook
  • Written examination and/or
  • Clinical examination

    To gain examination entry, learners must achieve at least a mark of 50% in continuous theoretical assessments conducted by nurse educators and at least 70% in clinical assessments. A minimum score of 50% is required to pass the theory examination and 50% for the clinical examination. Quality assurance will adhere to Mediclinic Private Higher Education policies, with marks recorded following institutional protocols. If learners have concerns regarding assessment results, they can address these through established institutional procedures.

    Educators conduct weekly to bi-weekly follow-ups with learners in the clinical setting to assess progress and ensure that learners rotate through the various disciplines or areas as outlined in the rotation schedule. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is aligned to the Global Standards for the Initial Education of Professional Nurses and Midwives as produced by the Department of Human Resources for Health, World Health Organisation. The Global Standards for the Initial Education of Professional Nurses and Midwives are intended to serve as a benchmark for ensuring that education and learning systems achieve a common competency-based outcome in an age of increasing globalisation.

    According to the global standards, educational institutions and the curriculum need to ensure:
  • Graduates demonstrate established competencies in nursing and midwifery practice.
  • Graduates demonstrate a sound understanding of the determinants of health.
  • Graduates of an initial programme in nursing or midwifery meet regulatory body standards leading to professional licensure/registration as a Nurse or a Midwife.
  • Graduates are eligible for entry into advanced education programmes.
  • Nursing or midwifery schools employ methods to track the professional success and progression of education of each graduate.

    Upon completion of the qualification or learning programmes, graduates will be able to:
  • Be knowledgeable practitioners who adhere to the code of ethics and standards of the profession.
  • Demonstrate use of evidence in practice, cultural competence, the ability to practice in the health care systems of their respective countries, and meet population needs.
  • Demonstrate critical and analytical thinking.
  • Manage resources and practice safely and effectively.
  • Maintain effective client advocacy and professional partnerships with other disciplines in health care delivery and community service orientation.
  • Demonstrate leadership ability and continual professional development.

    Country: United States of America
    In the United States, the qualification that most closely compares to the Diploma in Nursing is the associate degree in nursing (ADN). The ADN is a common pathway for becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) and is comparable to the diploma as an entry-level nursing qualification. The purpose of the ADN programme is to prepare learners to become Registered Nurses (RNs) capable of providing direct patient care in various healthcare settings. The programme focuses on developing core nursing skills, patient care techniques, and clinical competencies needed to enter the nursing workforce as an RN upon successful licensure.
    Admission requirements for an ADN programme in the USA include:
    High School Diploma or GED. Courses such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and sometimes mathematics are often required before admission. Some programmes may require entrance examinations like the Test of Essential Academic Skills. Background checks and health clearances (immunizations, TB test) are usually mandatory.

    Graduates of an ADN pqualification can expect the following outcomes: Completing an ADN program allows graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. ADN graduates can work as RNs in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Many ADN graduates go on to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) through RN-to-BSN bridge programs. ADN programmes include a mix of theory and clinical practice with courses in: Foundations of Nursing, Adult Health Nursing, Maternal and Child Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, Microbiology and Anatomy & Physiology, and Clinical Practice.
    The ADN is an undergraduate degree and is considered an associate degree level qualification in the U.S. educational system. It is typically classified as a Level 5 qualification according to the U.S. Department of Education's classification of postsecondary education.

    ADN qualifications require 60-72 credits to complete. General Education Credits: Usually include general education subjects such as English, psychology, and mathematics in addition to nursing-specific courses. The ADNqualification is 2 years of full-time study. Some programmes offer part-time options, which may extend the duration.

    Comparison:
    This diploma is an entry-level qualification for nursing practice in South Africa, much like the ADN in the U.S. Both programmes qualify graduates to provide hands-on patient care, involve a balance of theoretical learning and practical clinical experience, and require passing a licensing examination to practice professionally. However, in the U.S., there is often a strong emphasis on pursuing a BSN degree for advancement, while this diploma provides foundational skills that may lead to further specialisation within the South African context.

    The associate degree in nursing (ADN) programme is widely offered across the United States at community colleges such as Miami Dade College, Los Angeles City College, and at technical and Vocational schools such as Concorde Career College (various locations)
    Chamberlain University College of Nursing (various occasions) and State Colleges and universities, such as the University of Alaska Anchorage, Weber State University.
    Online and hybrid programmes are also available, and some community colleges offer partial online courses.

    Country: United Kingdom
    In the United Kingdom, the qualification comparable to this Diploma in Nursing is the Nursing Associate Foundation Degree. This programme is designed as an entry-level qualification to prepare individuals to work as Nursing Associates, providing direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN).
    The Nursing Associate Foundation Degree was introduced in the UK to fill a skills gap between healthcare assistants and Registered Nurses. It is designed to prepare Nursing Associates to deliver hands-on, essential nursing care in a range of settings, from hospitals to community health services. Nursing Associates work as part of a team, supporting RNs in delivering patient-centred care.

    Admission Requirements for the Nursing Associate Foundation Degree include:
  • Educational Qualifications: Generally, applicants need GCSEs (or equivalent qualifications) in English and Mathematics at Grade 4/C or above.
  • Experience in Health or Social Care: Although not always required, prior experience working in healthcare as a healthcare assistant or support worker is often preferred.
  • Functional Skills: Some programs may accept applicants with equivalent functional skills qualifications.
  • Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: A background check is required due to the clinical nature of the work.

    Graduates of the Nursing Associate Foundation Degree can expect the following outcomes:
    " Eligibility for Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC): Upon completion, graduates can register with the NMC as Nursing Associates, a regulated role in the UK.
    " Employment in Healthcare Settings: Nursing Associates are employed in various healthcare environments, including hospitals, community care, mental health, and social care settings.
    " Pathway to Further Nursing Qualifications: Many Nursing Associates go on to pursue additional qualifications to become Registered Nurses through "top-up" or bridge programs.

    The Nursing Associate Foundation Degree curriculum includes a combination of academic learning and hands-on clinical training. Modules include Foundations of Nursing Practice, Anatomy and Physiology, Public Health and Wellbeing, Clinical Skills, Mental Health Awareness, Patient Care in Context, and Professional Development.
    The Nursing Associate Foundation Degree is classified as a Level 5 qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) in the UK. It is considered equivalent to the first two years of an undergraduate degree. The program requires completion of 240 credits. Credits are earned through a combination of classroom-based courses, simulations, and clinical placements.

    The Nursing Associate Foundation Degree program is generally 2 years of full-time study. Some part-time options are available, extending the program duration, often aimed at those already employed in a healthcare setting and wishing to upskill.

    Comparison:
    The Nursing Associate Foundation Degree in the UK is an entry-level qualification similar to this Diploma in Nursing. Both prepare graduates to work under the supervision of Registered Nurses during their training. The Nursing Associate qualification in the UK provides a structured pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse for those who wish to progress. At the same time, the graduates of the Diploma in Nursing in South Africa will be eligible for registration as a Registered Nurse with the South African Nursing Council.

    The Nursing Associate Foundation Degree is offered at various institutions, including Universities such as the University of West London, Birmingham City University, and the University of Derby. Further Education Colleges and Healthcare Providers also provide training.
    The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) regulates the role of Nursing Associate in the UK. The NMC must accredit programs to ensure that graduates are eligible to register as Nursing Associates upon completion.

    Country: Australia
    In Australia, the qualification comparable to the Diploma in Nursing is the Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse - EN). The Vocational Education and Training (VET) system offers this qualification and qualifies graduates to work as Enrolled Nurses (ENs). Enrolled Nurses perform a range of clinical tasks under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) in hospitals, aged care facilities, and community health settings.

    The Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse) prepares learners for roles as Enrolled Nurses, where they work under the supervision of Registered Nurses to deliver direct patient care. Enrolled Nurses perform a wide range of clinical and patient-support tasks and are crucial in providing hands-on care in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and aged care facilities. The diploma serves as both an entry-level nursing qualification and a pathway to further nursing studies.

    Admission Requirements:
    Completion of Year 12 or equivalent (Australian secondary school education) is commonly required, although some programs accept Year 11 completion with relevant experience, English Language Proficiency, Numeracy and Literacy Assessments, Immunisations and Health Checks, Police Check, and Working with Children Check.

    Graduates of the Diploma of Nursing can expect the following outcomes:
  • Eligibility for Registration as an Enrolled Nurse: Graduates are eligible to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as Enrolled Nurses.
  • Employment in Various Healthcare Settings: Enrolled Nurses find employment in hospitals, residential aged care facilities, mental health services, and community health centers.
  • Pathway to Further Nursing Education: The diploma provides a pathway for those who wish to pursue the Bachelor of Nursing to become a Registered Nurse, often through credit transfers or "EN to RN" bridge programs.

    The Diploma of Nursing curriculum includes both theoretical coursework and practical clinical placements. Modules include Foundations of Nursing Practice, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Medication Administration, Wound Management, Aged Care Nursing, Mental Health and Behavioural Care, and Clinical Placement.

    The Diploma of Nursing is classified as an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5 qualification. It is a vocational qualification intended for those entering the healthcare profession at an intermediate level. The diploma comprises 18-25 units of competency, with a total of 1,200-1,500 hours of study and practical work. Credits are awarded through a combination of classroom study, simulated labs, and clinical placement hours, which are essential to achieving the required competencies for Enrolled Nurse registration. The Diploma of Nursing program usually takes 18-24 months to complete as a full-time program. Some part-time options may be available, extending the duration to approximately three years, especially for learners balancing work and study.
    Comparison:
    The Diploma of Nursing in Australia is comparable to the Diploma in Nursing in South Africa. Both qualifications are entry-level nursing programmes. The Diploma of Nursing aims to prepare graduates to provide supervised patient care, while the Diploma in Nursing prepares graduates to function as independent registered Nurses. Both programmes focus on developing practical skills for direct patient support, medication administration, and patient monitoring in various healthcare environments.

    The Diploma of Nursing is offered at several institutions across Australia, including Technical and Further Education (TAFE) Colleges, Private Registered Training Organizations (RTOs), and Community Colleges and Institutes. Some institutions include TAFE Queensland, TAFE NSW, Holmes Glen Institute (Victoria), and the Australian College of Nursing and Health Skills Australia. Clinical Placement: A crucial component of the Diploma of Nursing is clinical placement, which provides learners with hands-on experience in real healthcare environments. Placement hours vary by institution and range from 400 to 500 hours across different healthcare settings. The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) oversee the accreditation and regulation of nursing programs in Australia.

    Conclusion:
    From the above-cited information, we are confident that this qualification meets the criteria set out by the Global Standards for the Initial Education of Professional Nurses and Midwives. It has been found comparable to the areas of best practice identified amongst the currently existing qualifications, where other countries are also moving towards the training of a generalist nurse. Due to the increase in the burden of disease, this qualification will be of great benefit in both the private and public sectors in South Africa and will also be of benefit to our immediate neighbours and subsequently, all sub-Saharan Africa. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Community Nursing, Level 6.
  • Diploma in Emergency Medical Care, Level 6.
  • Diploma in Community Nursing Science, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Nursing Education, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Nursing Administration, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Trauma and Emergency Nursing, Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Critical Care Nursing, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Occupational Health Nursing, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Nursing Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Nursing Science and Art, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal Articulation
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. MEDICLINIC (Pty) Ltd 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.