This programme equips students with sophisticated knowledge and understanding of phenomena specific to the field of nursing science. They are also empowered to perform independent and advanced research. On completing this programme they will join the pool of specialised nurses who have the clinical, management, research and educational knowledge, skills and attitude to be leaders and specialist consultants in health care services.

Structure and duration

Students receive study materials, complete assignments and write examinations as required. They keep in contact with their lecturers according to their individual needs through e-mail, telephone, fax or post.

Study material and broadcasts are in English. However, examination papers are set in both Afrikaans and English, and may be answered in either of the two languages. Students are also welcome to correspond in either English or Afrikaans.

Computer literacy in word processing and spreadsheet programs and competence in using e-mail and the internet is essential.

The duration of the programme is two years (after a Diploma in Nursing or B Nursing) or one year (after an honours degree in Nursing).

MODULES AND ASSESSMENT

. Nursing Science 877

This module consists of 2 sub-modules, namely Capita Selecta (Management; Ethics and Ethos; Law; Nursing theories) and Research (research methodology; approaches to and methods of research; planning of a research project; instruments for gathering of data research process; data analysis and presentation of results; writing a research report; other research approaches and designs).

. Nursing Science 877

From the second year students plan and conduct research about a topic of their choice and write a thesis. The degree is awarded after successful completion of the thesis. A study leader will be appointed by the Head of the Division and/or module coordinator to assist students through this process.

Students doing the programme after an Honours degree, only conduct a research study and write a thesis.

. Contemporary Health and Nursing Practices 873

. Research Methodology (Nursing) 872

. Research Assignment

Continuous assessment occurs during the first year with two three-hour examinations where an average of 50% must be achieved for each examination. Continuous assessment is done during the research process in the second year as well as assessment by an external examiner on completion of the project.

Admission requirements

See here for admission requirements.

Cost of the programme

Prospective students wishing to estimate fees and budget for the academic year, may request a provisional fees statement by following the “Fees” tab above and, under the button “Provisional fees statement”, selecting “Distance education PG”.

Application information

To apply, use the link “e online applications” below, where the closing date for application is also shown.

For more information

Course coordinator: Dr Ethelwynn Stellenberg

Tel: +27 21 938 9244/9036

Fax: +27 21 931 7810

Programme Administrator: Joan Petersen

Tel: +27 21 938 9036