Auxiliary nursing course at UNISA and the requirements: Complete list

The University of South Africa (UNISA) takes pride in being one of the best institutions of higher learning in SA. It serves local and international students and offers a wide array of courses in engineering, arts, and medicine. In the medical faculty, the university trains upcoming nurses, surgeons, doctors, and clinical officers. These details about the auxiliary nursing course at UNISA highlight what it is about and if you can enrol for it.

Auxiliary nurses are healthcare providers who assist nurses and other healthcare providers. The auxiliary nursing course at UNISA has been grooming students to be directly or indirectly responsible for patients and to function under registered nurses' direct or indirect supervision. Granted the technicality of the job, one has to study the ins and outs of the profession to be fully competent.

Auxiliary nursing course at UNISA and the requirements

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has been offering an auxiliary nursing course at the higher certificate educational level, but only for a limited period. The programme is preferred by students who do not meet the requirements to pursue a degree in nursing. Here is all you need to know about the course.

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What is auxiliary nursing?

An auxiliary nurse is also known as a healthcare assistant or a nursing assistant. This a professional who works closely with other healthcare professionals to provide patients with a high standard of care.

Where can an auxiliary nurse work?

An auxiliary nurse works in a hospital, private practice, or community setting, such as a nursing home. Their job description involves the tasks listed below.

• Dressing patients
• Changing bed linens
• Washing and toileting patients
• Making patients feel safe and secure
• Monitoring blood pressure
• Taking body temperatures
• Monitoring patients' weight
• Administering medicine under the supervision of a registered nurse

Does UNISA have an auxiliary nursing course?

Yes, it is possible to pursue a Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing at UNISA. In fact, many people have done the course and graduated. However, this will soon change as the authorities have deemed fit.

With a higher certificate in auxiliary nursing, you can further your education and pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Science to obtain a degree in nursing or any other degree in Health Science.

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Requirements for an auxiliary nursing course at UNISA

The auxiliary nursing course at UNISA aims to provide students with the required scientific knowledge, interpersonal skills, and relevant clinical practice.

The programme also socialises them into the profession and ensures they demonstrate the appropriate behaviour, attitude and image in the medical field. All students are also taught how to uphold the profession's ethical codes.

Below are the general requirements for an auxiliary nursing course at UNISA.

• An applicant must have attained the minimum statutory NSC requirements for entrance into higher education, diploma entry level.
• An applicant must have mathematical literacy at an NSC achievement rating of 3 (40-49%)
• An applicant must have English language proficiency at an NSC achievement rating of 4 (50-59%)
• An applicant must have Life Sciences at an NSC achievement rating of 3 (40-49%)
• An applicant must have Computer literacy at an NSC achievement rating of 3 (40-49%)

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How to apply for auxiliary nursing at UNISA

After ascertaining that you meet the requirements for nursing at UNISA, prospective students have been applying online via the university's portal. The application process generally involves the steps listed below.

• Visiting the UNISA website.
• Selecting the type of applicant you are, first-time or returning student.
• Choosing the academic qualification you intend to enrol in.
• Filling in the online application form.
• Uploading the supporting documents as required.
• Submitting your application within the stipulated period. Tendering your application within the stipulated period increases your chances of being selected. However, it does not guarantee that your application will be considered.

Critical points to note

• The Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing course will be available until 2026. This means it is only open to students who were previously enrolled in this course.
• Students re-enrolling can complete their registration for the academic year during the assigned registration time frame.
• UNISA holds the authority to invalidate registrations if improper admission to a qualification is detected.
• Individuals applying for the first time and students from UNISA need to receive a placement offer, which they must accept online to continue with the registration process.

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How long do you study for an auxiliary nurse?

UNISA's auxiliary nursing course has been running for one year. After completing the higher certificate level, you can advance your studies as you deem fit.

Auxiliary nursing course fees at UNISA

Ongoing students receive their fee structures before the beginning of every semester. It is essential to refer to the official UNISA website for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding course availability, admission requirements, and student fees.

Where can you study auxiliary nursing in South Africa?

Apart from UNISA, these are the institutions you could consider if you wish to pursue auxiliary nursing in South Africa:

• Ukase School of Nursing, Johannesburg
• Letjhabile Libellee Nursing College, Johannesburg
• Khamis Nursing School, Johannesburg
• Ukwazi School of Nursing, Johannesburg
• Netcare Education (Pty) Ltd
• Gem Auxiliary Nursing School, Johannesburg
• Future Nurses Nursing School, Bedfordview

Does UNISA offer auxiliary nursing?

The University of South Africa is currently offering the course. It is worth noting that the course will be on offer until 2026.

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What is an auxiliary in nursing?

An auxiliary in nursing is a professional who provides essential support to doctors and registered nurses to improve the quality of care and well-being of patients.

Does UNISA offer short courses in nursing?

UNISA does not offer short courses in nursing. However, it offers short learning programmes that nurses can benefit from.

Is there an online auxiliary nursing course at UNISA?

UNISA does not offer an online auxiliary nursing course.

What is the diploma in auxiliary nursing course fees at UNISA?

UNISA does not offer a diploma course in auxiliary nursing. As a result, there is no fee structure for it.

These details about the auxiliary nursing course at UNISA address all the bits and bobs about the programme. The information is important for people who have been contemplating venturing into the field of nursing.

Briefly.co.za recently published a list of higher certificate courses at UNISA and their requirements. Students who fail to obtain the minimum requirements for a particular diploma or degree qualification at UNISA can still pursue their dream course by doing a related higher certificate course.

The minimum requirement for enrolment is a grade 12 certificate or an equivalent qualification. There are over 15 higher certificate courses at UNISA.

Source: Briefly News