Nursing schools in Durban play a significant role in the medical landscape of South Africa – a country that has long recognized the crucial role of nurses in its healthcare system. For aspiring healthcare professionals in Durban, there is a growing number of high-quality nursing schools that offer diverse programs at varying fee structures.
Whether you aim for a diploma, certificate, or full-fledged degree in nursing, Durban provides options suitable for different budgets and goals.
In this comprehensive 1800-word guide, we’ll explore the top nursing institutions in Durban, their program offerings, fees, accreditation status, and what to consider when choosing a nursing school.
List of Nursing Schools in Durban and Their Fees
1. University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN)
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is one of the most prestigious institutions in the region and offers a Bachelor of Nursing (B.Nurs) as its flagship nursing program.
- Program Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 40,260 to ZAR 55,920 annually
- Accreditation: South African Nursing Council (SANC)
- Funding: Eligible for NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
The program emphasizes clinical competence, leadership, and research in nursing. UKZN’s nursing school is highly ranked for academic excellence, robust clinical exposure, and research-driven training.
2. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Durban University of Technology is another leading institution for health sciences. DUT’s Department of Nursing offers a range of qualifications.
- Programs Offered: Diploma in Nursing, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery, Bachelor of Health Sciences in Nursing
- Duration: 3–4 years depending on the program
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 50,000 annually
- Accreditation: SANC and Council on Higher Education (CHE)
- Funding: NSFAS-eligible
DUT is known for its strong balance between theory and clinical practice. Facilities include simulation labs and a broad network of clinical placement sites.
3. KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing (KZNCN)
The KZN College of Nursing is a public, provincially-funded institution that focuses on practical and accessible training for aspiring nurses.
- Programs Offered: Diploma in Nursing, Higher Certificate in Auxiliary Nursing
- Duration: 1–3 years
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 15,000 to ZAR 20,000 annually
- Funding: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health bursaries
KZNCN operates multiple campuses across the province and is often the first choice for students seeking low-cost, accredited training. It also has a high employment rate due to its partnership with public health facilities.
4. Netcare Education – Durban Campus
Netcare is a private healthcare provider that also operates accredited training centers. Its Durban campus is popular for its quality teaching and structured nursing curriculum.
- Programs Offered: Diploma in Nursing, Bridging Course, Auxiliary Nursing
- Duration: 1–3 years
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 50,000 annually
- Other Costs:
- Registration: ZAR 500–1,000
- Uniforms and Materials: ZAR 2,000–5,000
- Clinical Placement Fees: ZAR 3,000–5,000
- Exam Fees: ZAR 500–1,000 per session
- Funding: Limited bursaries, no NSFAS
Netcare provides access to a private hospital environment for clinical placements, offering an edge in private sector employment.
5. Chatsmed Candlelight Nursing School
Chatsmed is a well-known private institution offering low-cost nursing training options in Durban.
- Programs Offered: Enrolled Nursing Auxiliary, Enrolled Nursing, Bridging Courses
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Estimated Fees (2025):
- Enrolled Nursing Auxiliary: ZAR 2,175 per year
- Enrolled Nursing: ZAR 2,175 to ZAR 4,000
- Bridging Programs: ZAR 3,000 to ZAR 4,000
- Accreditation: SANC-approved
- Funding: Payment plans available
Chatsmed is particularly suitable for students seeking an affordable entry into the nursing profession. It also provides a stepping stone to further qualifications.
6. Gandhi Mandela Nursing Academy
This private college focuses on community health and basic nursing training, offering one of the most affordable options in Durban.
- Programs Offered: Auxiliary Nursing, Enrolled Nursing
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 270 to ZAR 640 annually
- Accreditation: SANC-registered
- Funding: Self-funded; very low tuition
Ideal for students looking to gain quick entry into the healthcare sector, Gandhi Mandela Nursing Academy combines low fees with practical skills development.
7. JMM Nursing School
JMM offers basic nursing training focused on hands-on skills for primary health care services.
- Programs Offered: Enrolled Nursing, Auxiliary Nursing
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 300–ZAR 800 annually
- Accreditation: SANC-approved
While small, JMM offers good value for money and access to entry-level health jobs. It’s best suited for students interested in auxiliary roles or pursuing bridging later.
8. Anchorlite College of Nursing
Anchorlite is a private college with a reputation for small class sizes and personal instruction.
- Programs Offered: Auxiliary Nursing, Bridging Program
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Estimated Fees (2025): ZAR 400 to ZAR 1,200 annually
- Accreditation: SANC-registered
While not as widely known, Anchorlite attracts students looking for flexible class schedules and low upfront costs.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Nursing School
Accreditation
Always confirm that the institution is registered with the South African Nursing Council (SANC). Without accreditation, you may be ineligible for national exams or job placement.
Funding and Bursaries
- NSFAS is only available for public institutions (e.g., UKZN, DUT, KZNCN).
- Provincial Health Bursaries are available at institutions like KZNCN.
- Private Institutions typically offer internal payment plans, but most do not qualify for NSFAS.
Additional Costs
Besides tuition, nursing students should prepare for:
- Textbooks and study materials (ZAR 2,000–5,000/year)
- Uniforms and medical kits (ZAR 1,000–3,000)
- Registration and licensing exam fees (ZAR 500–1,000)
- Transport to clinical sites
Employment Opportunities
Graduates of public institutions often secure placements in public hospitals, while private graduates find opportunities in private clinics, old-age homes, or NGO health projects.
Summary Table of Nursing Schools in Durban
| Institution | Type | Programs Offered | Annual Fees (ZAR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UKZN | Public | B.Nurs | 40,260–55,920 |
| DUT | Public | Diplomas & Degrees | 30,000–50,000 |
| KZNCN | Public | Diploma, Certificate | 15,000–20,000 |
| Netcare Education | Private | Diploma, Bridging, Auxiliary | 30,000–50,000 |
| Chatsmed Candlelight | Private | Auxiliary, Enrolled, Bridging | 2,175–4,000 |
| Gandhi Mandela Nursing Academy | Private | Auxiliary, Enrolled | 270–640 |
| JMM Nursing School | Private | Enrolled, Auxiliary | 300–800 |
| Anchorlite College | Private | Auxiliary, Bridging | 400–1,200 |
Related:
- List Of Paramedic Schools In Gauteng And Pretoria
- List Of Boarding Schools In Rustenburg
- Top 10 Best High Schools In Pretoria
- List of Free Boarding Schools in South Africa
Final Thoughts
Durban offers a wide spectrum of nursing education options—from globally respected institutions like UKZN to ultra-affordable training schools like Gandhi Mandela Nursing Academy. The right choice depends on your career goals, budget, and desired level of education. Remember to confirm SANC accreditation, inquire about funding, and consider additional hidden costs before enrolling.
With nursing demand continuing to rise in South Africa and globally, choosing the right nursing school in Durban could be your first step toward a fulfilling, stable, and impactful career in healthcare.