If you dream of becoming a nurse or specializing in midwifery, the North West Department of Health Student Nurse Training Intake 2026 offers an incredible chance to start your journey. Through this programme, aspiring healthcare professionals can access structured training, gain hands-on experience, and build meaningful careers in the nursing profession.
Below, you’ll find a complete breakdown of the available nursing programmes, entry requirements, course structures, and application guidelines.
Nursing Training Opportunities in North West
The Department of Health is offering three main qualifications for the 2026 intake, catering to different career paths in nursing:
1. Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Start Date: 17 February 2026
- Campuses: Mafikeng and Klerksdorp
- Study Mode: Full-time (Contact)
This qualification focuses on maternal and neonatal health. It prepares students with specialized midwifery skills covering pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care.
Key Modules:
- Applied Bio-Psycho-Social Sciences & Pharmacology
- Midwifery Preconception & Pregnancy Care
- Midwifery Intra-partum Care
- Midwifery Peurperium & Neonatal Care
- Midwifery Professional Practice and Research
Outcome: Graduates qualify as professional midwives, equipped to provide care for mothers and newborns.
2. Diploma in Nursing (R171)
- Start Date: 17 February 2026
- Duration: 3–4 years
- Campuses: Mafikeng and Klerksdorp
- Study Mode: Full-time (Contact)
This is a professional nursing qualification leading to registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a General Nurse. It combines theory with clinical practice.
Exit Outcomes:
- Apply knowledge of natural, biological, and psychosocial sciences.
- Deliver holistic nursing care across life stages.
- Promote reproductive and community health.
- Manage healthcare facilities effectively.
- Work within legal and ethical frameworks.
Curriculum Overview:
- Level 1: Basic Nursing Science, Natural & Biological Sciences, Primary Health Care, Applied Psycho-Social Sciences.
- Level 2: Communicable & Non-Communicable Diseases, Mental Health, Pharmacology.
- Level 3: Community Nursing, Reproductive Health, Healthcare Information Systems, Health Unit Management, Professional Development.
Outcome: Graduates become professional nurses, able to serve in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
3. Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R169)
- Start Date: 17 February 2026
- Campuses: Mafikeng and Klerksdorp
- Study Mode: Full-time (Contact)
This entry-level nursing qualification provides foundational knowledge and clinical skills. It prepares students to work under the supervision of registered nurses.
Compulsory Courses:
- Basic Nursing Science
- Foundations and Legislations of Nursing
- Natural & Biological Sciences
- Primary Health Care Approach
Outcome: Graduates qualify as auxiliary nurses, assisting with basic patient care in healthcare facilities.
Admission Requirements
Diploma in Nursing (R171)
- Senior Certificate: English & Biology/Physiology (C on Standard Grade or D on Higher Grade). APS = 18 minimum.
- NSC: English Level 4 and Life Science Level 4, plus two other subjects at Level 4. APS = 23 minimum.
Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing (R169)
- APS score as required by the Council of Higher Education (CHE).
- Senior Certificate or NSC with relevant subjects.
Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
- Must hold a recognised nursing qualification.
- Must be registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
Why Choose Nursing in North West?
- High demand for skilled nurses in hospitals, clinics, and rural areas.
- Guaranteed career opportunities in the healthcare system.
- Study close to home while serving your community.
- Nursing remains one of the most respected professions in South Africa.
How to Apply for the 2026 Nursing Intake
- Visit the North West Department of Health official website once applications open.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload certified copies of:
- Identity Document (ID)
- Matric Certificate/NSC
- Any other required documents
- Submit your application before the official closing date.
👉 Apply Here on the North West Department of Health website.
Conclusion
The North West Department of Health Student Nurse Training Intake 2026 is more than just a study opportunity—it’s a doorway into a respected and rewarding career in healthcare. Whether you’re aiming to qualify as an auxiliary nurse, a general nurse, or a midwife, this programme gives you the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to make a real difference in people’s lives. If nursing is your passion, now is the time to take that step toward your future.