Career pathways for enrolled nurses

Diploma in Enrolled Nursing Level 5

The Diploma of Enrolled Nursing should take you 18 months to complete.

Once you’ve completed the qualification you are eligible to apply to Nursing Council of New Zealand for registration as an enrolled nurse and then you’re ready for your first role!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your career pathway can vary depending on your interests and career goals, but here are some of the career opportunities open to you.

 

Two female students learning how to become a registered nurse in New Zealand by practising checking IV drips in a hospital

Hospital nursing

Many enrolled nurses start their careers in hospitals, working in a variety of settings such as medical, surgical, and mental health units. Enrolled nurses in hospitals work under the supervision of registered nurses and provide direct care to patients. You could be working in the public sector or in one of our industry partners such as MercyAscot or ABI Rehabilitation.

Aged care and community nursing

Enrolled nurses are in high demand in aged care facilities or community health settings, providing care to elderly patients, people with disabilities, or those recovering from illness or injury.

 

Primary health care

Enrolled nurses can work in primary health care settings, such as medical centres or general practices, assisting registered nurses and doctors with patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.

Specialised nursing

Some enrolled nurses choose to specialise in a particular area of nursing, such as mental health, paediatric, rehabilitation or palliative care. Specialised nursing may require additional training and education beyond the Diploma of Enrolled Nursing.

HANZ students learning how to become a registered nurse in New Zealand by roleplaying taking a patient's blood pressure in a hospital bed

Education and leadership roles

Enrolled nurses with experience and additional training may move into leadership roles, such as a team leader. They may also choose to pursue further education and become registered nurses, nurse practitioners, or educators.

Overall, the career pathway for a graduate of the Enrolled Nursing Diploma is diverse and offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development. With further education and experience, as an enrolled nurse you can advance your career and take on leadership roles within your chosen field.

 

Care for a career at the Healthcare Academy of New Zealand