Diploma in General Nursing
Program Overview
The Diploma in General Nursing is a three-year professional nursing program totalling 76 credit points, preparing registered nurses for practice across hospital, community, and primary health care settings in Papua New Guinea. The curriculum is organised around eight professional domains: Professional & Ethical Practice; Critical Analysis & Applied Research; Communication in Nursing; Community Nursing Management & Leadership Skills; Management of Care in the Community; Public Health & Community Services; Educational Principles & Practice in the Community; and Quality of Performance Management & Care Effectiveness.
Year 1 delivers 25 credits across all eight domains, Year 2 builds on these with 24 credits, and Year 3 advances with 27 credits including a Professional Practicum — Rural/Remote placement of eight weeks that must be completed prior to graduation. This practicum experience ensures graduates are equipped to practise nursing in PNG's diverse and challenging health environments.
Entry Requirements
Applicants for the Diploma in General Nursing must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Grade 12 certificate with passes in English, Biology, and at least one other science subject.
- Achieve the University's minimum matriculation GPA.
- Applicants must satisfy health screening and fitness requirements for clinical nursing practice.
- Non-school leavers with relevant health care or community health experience are encouraged to apply.