If you're an aspiring nurse in South Africa, it’s important to know the nursing colleges registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC). These institutions offer accredited nursing education and training, ensuring that you receive the proper qualifications to practice nursing in the country.
This list includes private nursing education institutions, public nursing colleges, and universities accredited by SANC to offer nursing programs. Students who dream of becoming professional nurses can choose from any of the registered colleges and apply for admission to pursue their studies.
The South African Nursing Council (SANC) is the regulatory body responsible for accrediting Nursing Education Institutions (NEIs) and the training programs they offer. Under the Nursing Act of 2005 (Section 42), no institution in South Africa can provide education or training aimed at qualifying individuals to practice as nurses or midwives unless the institution and its programs are accredited by SANC.
This ensures that nursing qualifications in South Africa meet a recognized standard.
It's essential to attend a SANC-registered and accredited nursing institution because only these institutions offer recognized nursing qualifications. Graduating from an accredited institution allows you to register with SANC, which is mandatory to practice as a nurse or midwife in South Africa. Furthermore, you will receive high-quality education and training that aligns with national and international nursing standards.
Each SANC-registered nursing institution offers various nursing courses. While programs may vary across institutions, the most common courses include:
These programs cater to different levels of nursing education, from beginner certificates to advanced postgraduate diplomas.
Nursing colleges registered with SANC are spread across all nine provinces of South Africa:
Each province has at least one SANC-registered nursing school, ensuring accessibility to quality nursing education throughout the country.
Higher Certificate in Nursing: One-year program offered by both public and private institutions.
Diploma in Nursing: A three-year qualification provided by various public and private nursing colleges.
Advanced Diploma in Midwifery: One-year course focused on midwifery, offered at many accredited institutions.
Bachelor of Nursing: A four-year degree typically offered by public universities like Nelson Mandela University, Walter Sisulu University, and others.
Postgraduate Diplomas: For nurses seeking advanced specialization in fields like oncology, perioperative nursing, or mental health nursing, SANC-registered universities offer various one-year postgraduate programs.
Attending a SANC-accredited institution is critical for securing legitimate qualifications. Once you complete your studies, you must register with SANC before practicing as a professional nurse or midwife in South Africa. This ensures you are recognized as a qualified practitioner and meet the legal standards required to deliver quality healthcare.
Choosing to study at one of the nursing colleges registered with SANC is the first step towards a rewarding career in healthcare. With numerous accredited programs and colleges spread across the country, prospective students have the flexibility to choose a path that aligns with their goals, whether they’re interested in general nursing, midwifery, or specialized fields such as oncology or mental health nursing.
Make sure to select a SANC-registered institution for the best educational foundation, recognized qualifications, and the ability to register as a nurse or midwife in South Africa.
Savanis