If you have a passion for caring for others and want a meaningful, in-demand career, Nursing is one of the most rewarding fields you can choose. South African universities offer high-quality Nursing programmes that prepare students to become professional, registered nurses locally and internationally.
Here’s a complete list of where you can study Nursing in 2026 at top universities across South Africa — including Nelson Mandela University (NMU), North-West University (NWU), Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), Stellenbosch University (SU), University of Fort Hare (UFH), University of Johannesburg (UJ), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), University of Limpopo (UL), University of Venda (UNIVEN), University of the Western Cape (UWC), University of Pretoria (UP), and University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Location: Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Eastern Cape
Faculty: Health Sciences
NMU’s School of Nursing produces highly skilled nurses who play a vital role in South Africa’s healthcare system.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs)
- Bachelor of Nursing (Extended Curriculum)
Students gain hands-on clinical training and theoretical knowledge in primary healthcare, medical-surgical nursing, and community health.
2. North-West University (NWU)
Location: Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, Vanderbijlpark
Faculty: Health Sciences
NWU offers one of South Africa’s most comprehensive nursing programmes.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNSc)
This four-year degree prepares students for careers as professional nurses and midwives, with training in hospitals and community healthcare facilities.
3. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Location: Ga-Rankuwa, Gauteng
School: Health Care Sciences
SMU is a health-focused university that trains nurses who are ready for both local and global healthcare challenges.
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc)
The programme blends theory with practical experience in clinical settings, focusing on patient care, community nursing, and leadership in health systems.
4. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Faculty: Medicine and Health Sciences
Stellenbosch University’s nursing programme is world-renowned for excellence.
- Bachelor of Nursing (B Nursing) – 4 years
Students are equipped to provide holistic and evidence-based nursing care across diverse healthcare environments, from hospitals to rural clinics.
5. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
Location: Alice, Eastern Cape
Faculty: Health Sciences
UFH offers an excellent nursing programme that integrates theory, research, and practice.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs)
Graduates are prepared to deliver compassionate, professional care and meet the health needs of South Africa’s communities.
6. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Location: Auckland Park, Gauteng
Faculty: Health Sciences
UJ’s Department of Nursing focuses on innovation and technology in healthcare.
- Bachelor of Nursing
Students benefit from simulation labs, clinical placements, and interdisciplinary training, preparing them for leadership roles in modern nursing.
7. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
College: Health Sciences
UKZN’s Nursing programme is among the most sought-after in the country.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs)
The course covers nursing science, community health, midwifery, and research, equipping graduates to work in both public and private healthcare sectors.
8. University of Limpopo (UL)
Location: Mankweng, Limpopo
Faculty: Health Sciences
UL is known for producing community-focused healthcare professionals.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs)
The degree focuses on primary healthcare, public health, and clinical competence, addressing health challenges in both rural and urban areas.
9. University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Location: Thohoyandou, Limpopo
Faculty: Health Sciences
UNIVEN’s Nursing programme is designed to meet regional and national healthcare needs.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs)
Students receive training in nursing science, pharmacology, psychology, and public health, enabling them to work confidently in hospitals and community health centres.
10. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Location: Bellville, Western Cape
Faculty: Community and Health Sciences
UWC’s School of Nursing is internationally recognised and research-driven.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNur) – 4-year and 5-year options
- Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery
The programme emphasises clinical excellence, research, and leadership, preparing nurses to serve diverse communities.
11. University of Pretoria (UP)
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
Faculty: Health Sciences
UP’s Department of Nursing Science is among the oldest and most respected in South Africa.
- Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNurs)
This programme develops competent, ethical, and research-minded nurses skilled in clinical, midwifery, and community health practices.
12. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Faculty: Health Sciences
Wits’ School of Therapeutic Sciences provides modern and research-informed nursing education.
- Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs)
The course offers in-depth learning in nursing management, medical-surgical nursing, and community health, with a strong focus on evidence-based practice.
Why Study Nursing in South Africa?
- Global Opportunities: South African nursing qualifications are internationally recognised.
- Practical Training: Programmes combine theory with real-world clinical experience.
- Job Security: Nurses are in high demand in hospitals, clinics, and private healthcare sectors.
- Rewarding Career: Beyond a good salary, nursing offers a chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.
Final Thoughts
A Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs) or Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) opens doors to careers as a Professional Nurse, Community Health Practitioner, Nurse Educator, or Midwife. South Africa’s top universities are committed to equipping students with the compassion, skill, and leadership needed to thrive in this noble profession.
If your dream is to care, heal, and serve, now is the time to apply for Nursing 2026.
Applications for 2026 are open. Visit university websites to check closing dates and APS requirements:
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