Mediclinic Higher Certificate in Nursing

Kholofelo Modise25 July , 2025

If you’re passionate about healthcare and want to make a difference without spending years at university, the Mediclinic Higher Certificate in Nursing offers a powerful, one-year path to becoming a registered Auxiliary Nurse. Whether you’re a recent matriculant, a working adult with healthcare experience, or someone looking to switch careers, this programme could be the ideal starting point.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from requirements to funding options—to help you take your first confident step into the nursing field.

What Is the Mediclinic Higher Certificate in Nursing?

This is a one-year accredited programme designed to prepare students for registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as an Auxiliary Nurse. The programme combines classroom instruction, simulation lab practice, and real-life clinical experience in Mediclinic hospitals across South Africa.

Qualification Outcome

Upon completion, graduates are registered under GN R.169 of 8 March 2013, making them eligible to work in a wide range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centres.

Key Admission Requirements

Depending on when you completed matric or what kind of qualification you hold, the requirements vary slightly:

New Senior Certificate (Post-2008 Matric)

Grade 12 with NQF Level 4
English: Level 4
Life Sciences or Physical Science: Level 3
Maths Lit: Level 4 OR Maths: Level 3
Minimum 19 APS points (20 if using Maths Lit)
Computer literacy (NQF Level 3) is recommended

Old Senior Certificate (Pre-2008 Matric)

Grade 12 aggregate of 950 marks or more
English: HG D / SG C
Life or Physical Science: HG E / SG D
Maths: HG E / SG D
Computer literacy is a plus

National Vocational Certificate (NVC)

NQF Level 4
English: Level 5
Life Science or Physical Science: Level 4
Maths Lit: Level 5 OR Maths: Level 4
Minimum 24 APS points (25 if using Maths Lit)
Computer literacy is recommended

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): An Option for Mature Applicants

If you’re 25 years or older and don’t meet all subject requirements but have 5 or more years of healthcare experience, you may still qualify through RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning).

RPL Criteria:

Valid matric or equivalent
Missing either Life Sciences or Physical Science
Pass the relevant RPL course
Provide a motivational letter from your employer (if applicable)

Only one subject may be RPL’d.

Course Modules and Practical Exposure

The programme is structured to give you a strong foundation in both theory and practice.

Core Subjects:

Professional Practice
Applied Psychology and Sociology
Anatomy and Physiology
Integrated Science
Nursing Science

Teaching Approach:

English medium of instruction
Contact-based learning (face-to-face)
Simulation rooms and real-life placements at Mediclinic hospitals and Department of Health facilities

Where You Can Study: Locations Across South Africa

The programme is available at Mediclinic Learning Centres in the following regions:

Western Cape: Bellville, Stellenbosch, George, Paarl, and more
Gauteng: Pretoria, Sandton, Midstream, Brits
Free State: Bloemfontein, Welkom
Limpopo: Polokwane, Tzaneen

Each centre is led by qualified nurse educators registered with SANC.

How to Apply for the Programme

Step-by-Step Application Process:

Visit: https://careers.mediclinicstudents.co.za
Prepare the following:
- Short CV
- Certified copy of matric certificate or Grade 11 results
- Certified ID copy
- Proof of South African citizenship (if applicable)
- Proof of payment for the non-refundable application fee

Applications open from 1 May to 30 June for programmes starting in January.

Selection Process: What to Expect

Admission is competitive. After submitting your application, you may be invited to:

Psychometric testing
Health assessment
Formal interview
Travel to a designated learning centre for assessments

Fees and Bursaries: What It Costs and How to Get Help

Fees are determined annually and published on the Mediclinic website. Here’s how payments work:

Payment Structure:

25% before the programme begins
25% by end of March
Remaining 50% by 30 June

Bursaries:

Mediclinic awards a limited number of bursaries each year, which:

Cover tuition costs
Include a monthly stipend
Require a work-back contract equal to the programme duration

Students must arrange their own accommodation and transport.

Academic and Clinical Expectations

To successfully complete the programme:

Achieve 50% per module (theory and clinical)
Pass all formative and summative clinical assessments
Work a minimum of 42 hours per week
Attend scheduled day shifts (no permanent night duty)

Student Support and Resources

Mediclinic provides a range of support services:

Academic counselling and study skills coaching
Professional wellness counselling
Access to library, computer labs, and simulation rooms
Disability support through policies and referrals

Real-World Success: Why Choose Mediclinic?

Many students have started successful careers through Mediclinic’s nursing programmes, finding employment in both the private and public sectors. Graduates are well-prepared, practically trained, and in high demand across South Africa.

Also check: How to Effectively Research Salary Expectations in Your Industry

If you’re serious about a career in healthcare and ready to commit to one year of intensive training, the Mediclinic Higher Certificate in Nursing offers a trusted, accredited, and respected pathway into the profession.

Don’t wait—applications open from 1 May to 30 June annually.
Visit the Mediclinic student portal: https://careers.mediclinicstudents.co.za to begin your journey.

Disclaimer: Information is accurate as of 1 May 2025. Programme details, application dates, and fees may change. Always confirm on the Mediclinic website or contact the learning centre directly.