Best Universities for Nursing in South Africa
Find the best universities for nursing in South Africa, including Wits, UP, UKZN, Stellenbosch and other SANC-accredited nursing institutions.
Nursing is one of the most important healthcare professions in South Africa, and becoming a professional nurse can provide a wide range of career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, community healthcare, private healthcare and specialised nursing fields.
For students who want to study nursing after matric, choosing the right university is an important decision. You need to consider the nursing programme offered, admission requirements, clinical training, location, fees, funding opportunities and whether the programme is properly accredited.
There is no single official ranking that determines the “best” university for nursing in South Africa. However, several South African universities have established nursing departments and offer recognised nursing qualifications.
This guide looks at some of the universities students should consider when looking for the best universities for nursing in South Africa.
Important: Check SANC Accreditation
Before applying for any nursing programme, students should confirm that the institution and programme are accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
SANC is responsible for accrediting nursing education institutions and the nursing programmes they offer.
This is extremely important because completing an unaccredited programme may not provide the professional registration pathway required to practise as a nurse in South Africa.
Students should therefore verify the current accreditation status before paying application or tuition fees.
Best Universities for Nursing in South Africa
1. University of Cape Town (UCT)
The University of Cape Town is one of South Africa’s leading universities and has a strong reputation in health sciences and medical education.
UCT’s health sciences environment gives students access to a multidisciplinary academic setting and exposure to healthcare-related education and research.
For students interested in nursing, UCT can be an attractive option for those who want to study in Cape Town and develop their healthcare knowledge in a major research-intensive university environment.
Before applying, prospective students should check UCT’s current undergraduate nursing offerings and admission information because programme structures and admission requirements can change.
Best for: Students interested in healthcare, research and studying in Cape Town.
2. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits, offers a Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs).
The programme is four years full-time and prepares students for general nursing and midwifery practice. Wits says nursing students work with real-life health scenarios and study in a multidisciplinary environment.
The programme can lead to career opportunities in areas including:
- General nursing
- Child nursing
- Intensive care
- Psychiatric nursing
- Trauma and emergency nursing
- Midwifery
- Nursing education
- Research
Wits lists English as an admission requirement and provides additional information about the application process, fees and funding on its nursing programme page.
Best for: Students who want to study nursing in Johannesburg in a research-intensive university environment.
3. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers a four-year Bachelor of Nursing.
The programme is community-health oriented and leads to registration in several areas, including general nursing, mental health nursing, community health nursing and midwifery.
UKZN’s Discipline of Nursing is also accredited to offer undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications leading to registration with SANC. The university describes its nursing education as competency-based and primary-healthcare oriented.
The programme can therefore be particularly attractive to students interested in community healthcare and a broad nursing education.
Best for: Students interested in community health, primary healthcare and nursing in KwaZulu-Natal.
4. University of Pretoria (UP)
The University of Pretoria offers a Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNurs) through its Faculty of Health Sciences.
The programme takes four years to complete and includes theoretical and clinical training in general nursing and midwifery. UP states that the programme is accredited with SANC.
The UP programme information states that successful graduates can register with SANC as a professional nurse and midwife/accoucheur, subject to meeting the applicable requirements.
UP’s nursing programme includes areas such as:
- General medical and surgical nursing
- Trauma nursing
- Community nursing
- Psychiatric nursing
- Paediatric nursing
- Neonatal nursing
- Midwifery
- Nursing management
- Nursing education
For the intake, UP listed a minimum APS of 28 and minimum achievement levels for English, Mathematics and Life Sciences, although meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Best for: Students looking for a four-year nursing degree with strong clinical and academic training in Pretoria.
5. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Stellenbosch University is another major South African university with an established nursing and midwifery department.
SANC’s list of universities accredited for the new nursing programmes includes Stellenbosch University for the Bachelor of Nursing. The same SANC information lists several postgraduate nursing qualifications at Stellenbosch.
The university’s postgraduate nursing offering includes fields such as:
- Perioperative nursing
- Primary care nursing
- Midwifery
- Adult critical care nursing
- Nursing education
- Mental health nursing
- Emergency nursing
This makes Stellenbosch particularly attractive to students who may eventually want to specialise after completing their undergraduate nursing qualification.
Best for: Students interested in nursing education, research and postgraduate specialisation.
6. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
The University of the Western Cape is another institution prospective nursing students can investigate.
UWC has a strong health sciences environment and offers opportunities in health-related education and professional development.
Students interested in nursing should check the university’s current programme information and SANC accreditation before applying because nursing programme structures have been changing as South Africa transitions to new nursing qualifications.
Best for: Students looking for health sciences education in the Western Cape.
7. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg is another university that students interested in nursing can investigate.
UJ offers health sciences education and has a large student population, making it an attractive option for students who want to study in Johannesburg.
Prospective nursing students should check the current UJ programme and admission information for the specific intake because nursing programme availability and admission requirements can change.
Best for: Students looking for healthcare education in Johannesburg.
8. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha is another option for students looking to pursue nursing in the Eastern Cape.
The university provides health sciences education and can be considered by students who want to study nursing outside the country’s largest metropolitan areas.
Applicants should confirm the current nursing qualification, admission requirements, application dates and accreditation before applying.
Best for: Students in the Eastern Cape and those interested in studying in Gqeberha.
9. North-West University (NWU)
North-West University is another institution students can consider when searching for nursing education in South Africa.
The university has health sciences programmes and serves students across its campuses.
Before applying for nursing, check the current programme availability and admission requirements because universities periodically update their qualifications and selection criteria.
Best for: Students looking for health sciences education in the North West region.
10. University of Limpopo (UL)
The University of Limpopo is an important option for students from Limpopo who want to pursue healthcare-related studies.
The university has a strong focus on health sciences and serves a region where healthcare education is particularly important.
Prospective nursing students should verify the current undergraduate nursing programme, admission requirements and SANC accreditation before applying.
Best for: Students from Limpopo and those interested in healthcare serving rural and underserved communities.
11. University of Venda (UNIVEN)
The University of Venda is another university worth considering for students interested in nursing and health sciences.
Located in Limpopo, UNIVEN provides opportunities for students who want to study closer to home while pursuing a healthcare career.
As with all nursing programmes, applicants should verify the current programme information and accreditation before registration.
Best for: Students in Limpopo looking for a university-based healthcare education.
12. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University is a specialist health sciences university in Gauteng.
Because the university focuses heavily on health sciences, it can be particularly appealing to students who want to study in an environment centred around healthcare professions.
Students should check the university’s current nursing programme, admission requirements and available places before applying.
Best for: Students who want to study at a specialist health sciences university.
Which University Is Best for Nursing?
The answer depends on what you are looking for.
| University | Location | Why Consider It |
|---|---|---|
| UCT | Cape Town | Strong health sciences and research environment |
| Wits | Johannesburg | Four-year BNurs and broad nursing career pathways |
| UKZN | KwaZulu-Natal | Community-health and primary-healthcare focus |
| UP | Pretoria | Four-year BNurs with clinical and midwifery training |
| Stellenbosch | Stellenbosch | Nursing and strong postgraduate opportunities |
| UWC | Cape Town | Health sciences environment |
| UJ | Johannesburg | Health sciences and urban setting |
| NMU | Gqeberha | Eastern Cape option |
| NWU | North West | Regional health sciences option |
| UL | Limpopo | Healthcare education in Limpopo |
| UNIVEN | Limpopo | Regional university option |
| SMU | Pretoria/Gauteng | Specialist health sciences environment |
This table is not a formal national ranking. Students should compare current programme information and accreditation before deciding.
What Nursing Qualification Should You Study?
South Africa has different nursing qualification pathways.
The current nursing education framework includes qualifications such as:
- Higher Certificate in Nursing
- Diploma in Nursing
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Postgraduate nursing qualifications
The exact qualification you choose should depend on the level of nursing practice you want to enter and your long-term career plans.
If your goal is to become a professional nurse and eventually pursue postgraduate studies or specialist nursing, a bachelor’s degree can provide a strong academic pathway.
How Long Does It Take to Study Nursing?
A Bachelor of Nursing generally takes four years full-time.
For example, Wits lists its Bachelor of Nursing as a four-year programme, while the University of Pretoria’s BNurs is also a four-year programme.
Nursing is not simply a classroom qualification. Clinical and practical training form an important part of the programme.
UP notes that its compulsory practical and clinical training takes place over four years and that the programme cannot be completed in less than four years because of these requirements.
What Subjects Do I Need to Study Nursing?
Requirements differ between universities.
Commonly important school subjects include:
- English
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, depending on the university
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences at some universities
For example, the University of Pretoria’s BNurs admission information specifies minimum achievement levels for English, Mathematics and Life Sciences and an APS requirement.
Wits also publishes its own nursing admission requirements, so students should never assume that the requirements at one university automatically apply to another.
What Is the APS Score for Nursing?
There is no single APS requirement for nursing across South Africa.
Each university establishes its own admission and selection criteria.
For example, the University of Pretoria’s BNurs programme lists a minimum APS of 28, with specific requirements for English, Mathematics and Life Sciences.
A student should therefore compare the requirements of several universities rather than assuming that one APS score applies everywhere.
Is Nursing Difficult to Study?
Nursing can be academically and physically demanding.
Students have to combine theoretical knowledge with practical and clinical training.
Depending on the programme, students may study:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
- Psychology
- Nursing science
- Medical and surgical nursing
- Community health
- Midwifery
- Mental health
For example, the Wits curriculum includes anatomy, medical sciences, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, general nursing sciences and midwifery.
Students should therefore be prepared for both academic study and hands-on clinical work.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Nursing in South Africa?
Nursing tuition fees vary considerably between universities.
Your total cost can include:
- Tuition
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Transport
- Textbooks
- Uniforms
- Clinical equipment
- Stationery
- Other university costs
There is no single national nursing tuition fee.
Before applying, check the university’s current fee schedule and calculate the total cost of studying for the entire academic year.
How to Fund a Nursing Degree
Students who cannot afford university costs can investigate several funding options.
NSFAS
Eligible students attending qualifying public institutions can investigate NSFAS funding.
NSFAS support can cover approved study-related costs depending on the student’s circumstances and applicable funding rules.
Nursing Bursaries
Healthcare organisations, provincial departments, hospitals, foundations and other organisations may offer nursing bursaries.
Bursary conditions vary, so students should check:
- Eligibility
- Required marks
- Institution requirements
- Service obligations
- Closing dates
- What expenses are covered
University Funding
Universities may offer:
- Scholarships
- Financial aid
- Merit awards
- Need-based assistance
Check the funding page of the university you plan to attend.
What Can I Do With a Nursing Degree?
A nursing qualification can lead to a variety of career paths.
Depending on your qualification, registration and further training, possible areas include:
- General nursing
- Midwifery
- Community health nursing
- Psychiatric nursing
- Paediatric nursing
- Intensive care
- Trauma and emergency nursing
- Oncology nursing
- Nursing education
- Nursing management
- Nursing research
Wits, for example, lists career opportunities including intensive care, psychiatric nursing, nephrology, oncology and palliative nursing, trauma and emergency nursing, research and midwifery.
Do I Need SANC Registration to Work as a Nurse?
Yes, professional nursing practice is regulated in South Africa.
Students should ensure that they complete an appropriate accredited nursing education programme and meet the requirements for professional registration.
SANC is responsible for regulating nursing education and registration in South Africa.
Do not pay an institution simply because it advertises a nursing course online. Verify its current accreditation status first.
How to Choose the Best Nursing University
Before applying, compare the following.
1. Accreditation
This should be one of your first checks.
Confirm that the institution and specific nursing programme are appropriately accredited.
2. Admission requirements
Check the university’s:
- APS requirement
- Subject requirements
- Minimum marks
- Selection process
- Additional tests or interviews
3. Clinical training
Nursing requires practical and clinical experience.
Look at the university’s clinical training arrangements and healthcare facilities.
4. Location
Consider whether you want to study in:
- Johannesburg
- Pretoria
- Cape Town
- Durban
- Gqeberha
- Limpopo
- North West
- Another province
5. Fees
Compare tuition, accommodation and other expenses.
6. Funding
Find out whether you qualify for:
- NSFAS
- University funding
- Nursing bursaries
- External scholarships
7. Postgraduate opportunities
If you eventually want to specialise, investigate the university’s postgraduate nursing programmes.
Stellenbosch, for example, offers postgraduate nursing opportunities in areas including emergency nursing, mental health nursing, critical care, midwifery and nursing education.
When Should I Apply for Nursing?
Nursing programmes can have strict application deadlines and limited places.
For example, the University of Pretoria’s programme indicated a limited intake of 50 first-year students and considered only first-choice applicants.
Wits listed 30 June as its undergraduate nursing application closing date for the intake.
These dates are examples rather than permanent deadlines. Universities can change their dates every year.
Apply as early as possible and always check the current university application portal.
Nursing Universities in South Africa: Final Advice
There are several excellent universities and health sciences institutions to consider when planning a nursing career in South Africa.
The University of Pretoria, Wits, UKZN and Stellenbosch are among the universities with clearly established nursing programmes and current official programme information. Other institutions, including UCT, UWC, UJ, NMU, NWU, UL, UNIVEN and SMU, should also be researched based on the programme currently available and the student’s preferred location.
The most important thing is not simply choosing the university with the strongest reputation.
Look for a programme that:
- Meets your career goals
- You qualify for academically
- Is properly accredited
- Provides appropriate clinical training
- Fits your budget
- Offers suitable funding options
- Gives you opportunities for future professional development
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best university for nursing in South Africa?
There is no official single “best” nursing university. Wits, University of Pretoria, UKZN and Stellenbosch are among the institutions worth considering, while the best choice depends on the programme, admission requirements, location, funding and career goals.
Which university has the best nursing programme in South Africa?
Students should compare programmes rather than relying on a single ranking. Wits, UP, UKZN and Stellenbosch all have established nursing programmes and different strengths.
How many years is a nursing degree in South Africa?
A Bachelor of Nursing is generally a four-year full-time qualification. Wits and the University of Pretoria both list four-year undergraduate nursing degrees.
What APS do I need to study nursing?
APS requirements vary by university. For example, UP’s BNurs programme lists a minimum APS of 28.
Can I study nursing without Mathematics?
It depends on the university and qualification. Some programmes have specific Mathematics requirements, while others may have different requirements. Always check the current admission criteria of the institution you are applying to.
Can I study nursing with Mathematical Literacy?
Some nursing programmes may accept Mathematical Literacy while others require Mathematics. UKZN, for example, currently lists Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy among its subject requirements.
Is nursing a good career in South Africa?
Nursing can provide a wide range of career opportunities in healthcare, including general nursing, midwifery, community health, mental health, critical care, emergency care, education and management.
Can NSFAS fund nursing?
Eligible students studying at qualifying public institutions can investigate NSFAS funding. Students should check the current NSFAS rules and whether their chosen qualification and institution qualify.
How do I know if a nursing college is legitimate?
Check the institution and programme against the South African Nursing Council’s current accredited nursing education institution information.
Can I specialise after a nursing degree?
Yes. Registered professional nurses can pursue further qualifications in areas such as midwifery, emergency nursing, critical care, mental health nursing, nursing education and nursing management, subject to the applicable admission and registration requirements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing where to study nursing is an important decision because your university will form the foundation of your professional healthcare career.
Don’t choose an institution based only on its name or what you see on social media. Compare the nursing qualification, admission requirements, accreditation, clinical training, fees, funding and postgraduate opportunities.
Most importantly, verify the current SANC accreditation status before enrolling.
For students who meet the academic requirements and have a genuine interest in healthcare, nursing can provide a meaningful professional career with opportunities to work in different areas of the South African healthcare system.