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How to become a Registered Nurse in South Africa

Delivers patient care in hospitals, clinics and private practice.

Step-by-step path

  1. STEP 1
    Education
    Bachelor of Nursing (4 years)
    1–6 yrs
  2. STEP 2
    Entry job
    First role: Staff Nurse
    0–2 yrs
  3. STEP 3
    Mid-level growth
    Move into: Registered Nurse
    3–6 yrs
  4. STEP 4
    Senior transition
    Reach: Specialist Nurse (ICU)
    7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level
~ 7–10 years
Education bachelor of nursing (4 years), then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1
R22 000
/month
Year 5
R35 000
/month
Year 10
R50 000
/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL
  • ICU / Theatre specialisationHigh
  • TraumaHigh
MID-CAREER
  • TraumaHigh
  • Patient careMedium
SENIOR
  • Patient careMedium

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