Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College is one of South Africa’s most prestigious nursing education institutions. Located in Soweto, adjacent to the renowned Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, the college has a long history of producing skilled, compassionate nurses who serve in healthcare facilities across the country.
Named after the anti-apartheid leader Chris Hani, the college is a public nursing education institution under the Gauteng Department of Health. It offers high-quality, accredited nursing programmes at subsidised fees, making it accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College for 2026, including how to obtain the application form, entry requirements, fee structure, and courses offered.
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College Form, Requirements, Fees & Courses Offered: Complete Guide
About Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College is a public nursing college located in Soweto, Johannesburg. It operates under the auspices of the Gauteng Department of Health and is accredited by the South African Nursing Council.
The college benefits from its proximity to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the world. Students gain extensive clinical experience in this busy, world-class facility.
Accreditations:
South African Nursing Council accreditation.
Department of Higher Education and Training registration.
Gauteng Department of Health oversight.
Quick Reference: Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College (2026)
| Programme | NQF Level | Duration | SANC Registration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing | NQF 5 | 1 year | Auxiliary Nurse |
| Diploma in Nursing (Staff Nurse) | NQF 5 | 2 years | Enrolled Nurse |
| Diploma in Nursing (Registered Nurse) | NQF 6 | 3 years | Professional Nurse |
| Postgraduate Advanced Diploma in Midwifery | NQF 7 | 1 year | Midwife |
Note: Programme availability may vary by intake. Always confirm with the college for the latest details.
Programme 1: Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing
This is the entry-level nursing qualification. Graduates become enrolled auxiliary nurses, providing basic patient care under supervision.
NQF Level: 5
Duration: 1 year full-time
SANC Registration: Enrolled Auxiliary Nurse
Curriculum:
Anatomy and physiology.
Basic nursing care.
First aid and basic life support.
Communication in healthcare.
Ethics and professional practice.
Clinical practice in hospital wards.
Clinical Placements:
Students gain hands-on experience at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and other healthcare facilities in Gauteng.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with:
Pass in English (Home Language or First Additional Language) at 40 percent.
Pass in Life Sciences or Biology at 40 percent.
Pass in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy at 30 percent.
National Certificate (Vocational) with relevant subjects may also be considered.
Career Outcomes:
Auxiliary nurses work in hospitals, clinics, old age homes, and home-based care under supervision.
Programme 2: Diploma in Nursing (Staff Nurse)
This programme prepares students to become enrolled nurses, also known as staff nurses. They have more responsibility than auxiliary nurses.
NQF Level: 5
Duration: 2 years full-time
SANC Registration: Enrolled Nurse
Curriculum:
Medical and surgical nursing.
Primary health care.
Pharmacology.
Maternal and child health.
Mental health nursing.
Advanced clinical skills.
Clinical placements in various departments.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with:
Pass in English at 50 percent.
Pass in Life Sciences or Biology at 50 percent.
Pass in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy at 40 percent.
Alternatively, completion of the Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing may provide access.
Career Outcomes:
Enrolled nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They can administer medication and perform procedures under supervision
Programme 3: Diploma in Nursing (Registered Nurse)
This is the professional nursing qualification. Graduates become registered nurses capable of practicing independently and supervising other nurses.
NQF Level: 6
Duration: 3 years full-time
SANC Registration: Professional Nurse
Curriculum:
Comprehensive nursing science.
Community health nursing.
Psychiatric nursing.
Midwifery.
Leadership and management.
Research methodology.
Advanced medical and surgical nursing.
Extensive clinical placements across all departments.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with:
Pass in English at 50 to 60 percent.
Pass in Life Sciences or Biology at 50 to 60 percent.
Pass in Mathematics at 40 to 50 percent.
Higher achievement levels increase chances of acceptance.
Selection is competitive.
Career Outcomes:
Registered nurses work in all healthcare settings. They can specialise, move into management, education, or research.
Programme 4: Postgraduate Advanced Diploma in Midwifery
This is a specialised qualification for registered nurses who want to become midwives.
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 1 year full-time
SANC Registration: Midwife
Curriculum:
Advanced midwifery theory.
Antenatal care.
Intrapartum care.
Postnatal care.
Neonatal care.
Complications in pregnancy and childbirth.
Clinical placements in maternity units.
Entry Requirements:
Current registration as a Professional Nurse with SANC.
At least one year of clinical experience.
Selection based on academic record and interview.
Career Outcomes:
Midwives work in hospital maternity units, clinics, and private practice. They can also specialise further in areas like neonatal care.
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College Fees 2026
As a public nursing college, fees are subsidised by the government. The following are estimates for 2026:
Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing:
R5,000 to R8,000 per year.
Additional costs: Uniforms, textbooks, SANC registration.
Diploma in Nursing (Staff Nurse):
R6,000 to R9,000 per year.
Additional costs: Uniforms, textbooks, SANC registration.
Diploma in Nursing (Registered Nurse):
R7,000 to R10,000 per year.
Additional costs: Uniforms, textbooks, SANC registration.
Postgraduate Advanced Diploma in Midwifery:
R8,000 to R12,000 per year.
Additional costs: Uniforms, textbooks, SANC registration.
Additional Costs:
Application fee: R100 to R300 (non-refundable).
Registration fee: R500 to R1,000 per year.
Uniforms and equipment: R2,000 to R4,000.
Textbooks: R1,500 to R3,000 per year.
SANC registration fees after qualification.
Payment Options:
Upfront payment.
Instalment plans may be available through the college.
NSFAS funding is available for eligible students.
NSFAS Funding
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College is a public institution, so eligible students can apply for NSFAS funding.
NSFAS covers:
Tuition fees.
Accommodation allowance.
Transport allowance.
Book allowance.
Living allowance.
Requirements:
South African citizen.
Household income below R350,000 per year.
Accepted into a approved programme.
Apply online at www.nsfas.org.za.
Application Form And Process
Obtaining The Application Form:
Forms are typically available from the college during the application window.
They may also be available for download on the Gauteng Department of Health website.
Check the official channels for the 2026 application form.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
Step 1: Confirm programme availability.
Check which programmes are open for the 2026 intake.
Ensure you meet the entry requirements.
Step 2: Obtain the application form.
Collect from the college admissions office.
Or download from the official website if available.
Step 3: Complete the form.
Fill in all sections accurately.
Use black ink and block letters.
Do not leave any sections blank.
Step 4: Gather required documents.
Certified copy of your ID.
Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate.
Certified copy of your academic transcript if applicable.
Proof of residence.
Motivational letter (may be required).
Other documents as specified.
Step 5: Submit the application.
Submit in person at the college admissions office.
Or submit by registered mail.
Keep proof of submission.
Step 6: Pay the application fee.
Confirm the amount with the college.
Pay via the specified method.
Attach proof of payment to your application.
Step 7: Await feedback.
The college will review applications.
Shortlisted candidates may be called for interviews or assessments.
Successful applicants will receive an offer.
Step 8: Accept the offer.
Respond by the deadline.
Pay the registration fee.
Complete registration.
Application Deadlines
Applications for 2026 typically open in the second half of 2025.
Tentative dates:
Applications open: July to August 2025.
Closing date: September to October 2025.
Interviews and selection: November 2025.
Offers sent: December 2025 to January 2026.
Classes start: January to February 2026.
Exact dates vary. Check the college or Gauteng Department of Health website for the official 2026 application schedule.
Apply early. Nursing programmes are highly competitive.
Campus Location
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College is located in Soweto, Johannesburg.
Address:
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College
Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital
Soweto, Johannesburg
Gauteng
Clinical placements take place primarily at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, as well as other healthcare facilities in Gauteng.
Why Choose Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College?
Prestige: One of South Africa’s most respected nursing colleges.
Clinical Experience: Training at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital provides exposure to a vast range of cases.
Subsidised Fees: Public college fees are affordable.
Accredited Qualifications: Programmes are SANC accredited.
Government Employment: Graduates are well-placed for positions in public healthcare.
Legacy: A long history of producing excellent nurses.
Career Opportunities For Graduates
Auxiliary Nurses:
Public and private hospitals.
Clinics and community health centres.
Old age homes.
Home-based care.
Enrolled Nurses:
Hospital wards and departments.
Primary healthcare clinics.
Private practices.
Professional Nurses:
All areas of nursing.
Specialisation opportunities (midwifery, critical care, etc.)
Management and leadership roles.
Education and research.
Demand for nurses is high in South Africa and internationally.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
How do I get an application form for Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College?
Forms are available from the college admissions office and may be downloadable from the Gauteng Department of Health website during the application window.
What are the requirements for nursing at Chris Hani Baragwanath?
A National Senior Certificate with passes in English, Life Sciences, and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. Specific requirements vary by programme.
How much are the fees at Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College?
Fees range from approximately R5,000 to R12,000 per year, depending on the programme. NSFAS funding is available for eligible students.
Does Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College offer NSFAS?
Yes, as a public college, eligible students can apply for NSFAS funding.
What courses are offered at Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College?
Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing, Diploma in Staff Nursing, Diploma in Registered Nursing, and Postgraduate Advanced Diploma in Midwifery.
When do applications open for 2026?
Applications typically open in the second half of 2025. Check official channels for exact dates.
Is Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College accredited?
Yes, it is accredited by the South African Nursing Council.
How long is the nursing course at Chris Hani Baragwanath?
Auxiliary nursing: 1 year.
Staff nurse diploma: 2 years.
Registered nurse diploma: 3 years.
Midwifery: 1 year (postgraduate).
Do I need Life Sciences to study nursing?
Yes, Life Sciences or Biology is required for all nursing programmes.
Can I apply if I have a National Certificate (Vocational)?
Yes, NCV applicants may be considered. Check specific requirements with the college.
Summary: Which Programme Is Right For You?
Choose the Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing if:
You want to start working in healthcare quickly.
You meet the minimum entry requirements.
You plan to study further later.
Choose the Diploma in Nursing (Staff Nurse) if:
You have good matric results with Life Sciences.
You want a mid-level nursing qualification.
You are ready for a two-year programme.
Choose the Diploma in Nursing (Registered Nurse) if:
You have strong matric results, especially in Life Sciences and Mathematics.
You want the full scope of nursing practice.
You aspire to leadership, specialisation, or further study.
Choose the Postgraduate Advanced Diploma in Midwifery if:
You are already a registered nurse.
You want to specialise in maternal and child health.
You are passionate about caring for mothers and babies.
Final Warning: Apply Early
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College is highly competitive. There are far more applicants than places. Apply as early as possible, ensure your application is complete, and meet all requirements.
Do not wait for the closing date. Submit your application as soon as the window opens.
Official Contact:
Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College
Gauteng Department of Health: www.health.gauteng.gov.za
South African Nursing Council: www.sanc.co.za
NSFAS: www.nsfas.org.za
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Fees, application dates, and programme details are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with Chris Hani Baragwanath Nursing College and official government sources before applying.