Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (Registered Nurse Prescriber)
Nursing
A course by
UC Online
A flexible, part-time postgraduate qualification for registered nurses seeking to become nurse prescribers. Offered online with up to 8 days of onsite learning and at least 150 hours of clinical practicum, this diploma equips you for registration as a nurse prescriber in New Zealand.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
UC Online & Onsite Intensives at University of Canterbury (Ilam and Manawa), Christchurch
It will take a total of 2 years


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Critically analyse pathophysiological processes
Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the pathological basis and clinical manifestations of disease processes for informed clinical decision making.

Advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning
Utilise advanced health assessment and diagnostic reasoning skills to formulate differential diagnoses, evidence-based management, and therapeutic interventions.

Pharmacological decision making
Apply advanced knowledge of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, pharmacogenetics, and evidence-based pharmacological interventions to prescribing practice.
What You're Signing Up For
The Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (Registered Nurse Prescriber) is a two-year (part-time) programme delivered primarily online with supplementary onsite intensives in Christchurch. It is designed for registered nurses aiming to upskill as nurse prescribers, focusing on advanced health assessment, clinical reasoning, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and prescribing practices. The programme includes at least 150 hours of supervised clinical practice. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a nurse prescriber with the Nursing Council of New Zealand, or they can apply credits toward a Master of Advanced Nursing.
Course Content
- Advanced Pathophysiology (HLTH661)
- Advanced Health Assessment (HLTH662)
- Advanced Pharmacology (HLTH663)
- RN Prescribing Practicum (NURS664)
- Clinical practicum (minimum 150 hours)
- Face-to-face onsite intensives (up to 8 days)
- Online coursework and assessments
What you need to know first
Current Registered Nurse practicing certificate from Nursing Council of New Zealand
At least three years of clinical experience
Relevant NZ nursing degree (B average at 300-level) or equivalent qualification (minimum 3 years tertiary study, B average)
Completion of prerequisite courses: HLTH661, HLTH662, HLTH663 for entry into NURS664
Confirmation of access to suitable clinical practice setting and mentorship by an authorised prescriber

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health
Nursing
Healthcare

Future employment opportunities might be
Registered Nurse Prescriber
Advanced practice nurse in primary care or specialty care
Pathway to Nurse Practitioner (with further study)


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Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details