As a non-school leaver, pursuing a career in the healthcare field can be a fulfilling and rewarding journey. Divine Word University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences offers an array of programs tailored specifically for individuals like you.
Whether you aspire to be a healthcare manager, a rural health practitioner, a physiotherapist, or an eye care professional, DWU provides the platform to turn your dreams into reality.
Applying to DWU Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences as a Non-School Leaver
With a strong emphasis on practical experience, academic excellence, and community impact, DWU equips non-school leavers with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a significant contribution to the health sector.
Divine Word University (DWU) offers a range of programs under the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. This information will help you understand the eligibility criteria and application process for the various programs offered by the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Eligibility Criteria for Non-School Leavers
1. Bachelor of Health Management:
- Requires a "B" grade average in all subjects taken at Grade 12.
- This program is non-clinical, and students with a background in Social Science subjects are encouraged to apply.
2. Bachelor of Health Sciences (Rural Health):
- Requires a minimum of "B" grade average in Language and Literature, Advanced Mathematics or General Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Applied Science at Grade 12 level or equivalent.
- Applicants who upgraded their marks must score a "B" average in the required Science subjects taken and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and above.
- Nurses and Community Health Workers (CHWs) below the age of 30 years who have upgraded their Grade 12 grades to a "B" average are given preference.
- All applicants must provide a current character reference from a recognized community leader and an academic reference from the school they last attended.
- Nurses and CHWs currently employed must provide a support or endorsement letter from their current employer.
- All applicants must provide a 500-word explanation on how gaining this training will contribute to the development of the country and the health sector.
3. Bachelor of Environmental Health
- Requires a minimum of "B" grade in Language and Literature, "B" grade or better in General Mathematics (Maths B) or "C" grade or better in Advanced Mathematics (Maths A), and "B" grade or better in Chemistry, Physics, and Biology at Grade 12 level or equivalent.
4. Bachelor of Physiotherapy:
- Requires Grade 12 level and a minimum of "B" grades in Language and Literature, Mathematics, and Science.
- Applicants must have at least two (2) years' work experience in rehabilitation and submit a recommendation from their supervising physiotherapist.
- Applicants must also submit a supervised English essay explaining their interest in the Physiotherapy program.
- Preferences are given to Physiotherapy aides, nurses, and Health Extension Officers with experience and exposure in rehabilitation services.
5. Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery:
- Candidates applying for this program will be subject to sit for an entrance exam as part of the selection process.
- The selection is based on the results of the entrance exam, including Language and Literature, Advanced Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Applicants who can provide a valid, signed contract to work in a rural hospital after graduation receive bonus points.
- An exam fee must be paid to sit the exam, and a separate NSL Application Fee must be paid when lodging the Non-School Leaver Application.
6. Advanced Diploma in Eye Care:
- This program is offered to Nurses and Health Extension Officers with a diploma as their minimum qualification.
- Applicants must be currently registered practitioners with the Nursing Council of PNG or the Medical Board of PNG, respectively.
- Candidates preferably must have a minimum of 2 years work experience in any healthcare setting with observation in the eye clinic or attachment to the eye clinic for at least 2 months.
- Applicants must provide a current character reference from a recognized community leader and a professional reference from their immediate supervisor.
- Applicants must also provide a support or endorsement letter from their current employer.
- All applicants must provide a 500-word explanation of how this additional qualification will enhance their current practice.
To find out how to apply for the MBBS medical program, click here
Application Process for Non-School Leavers
To apply for the programs offered by the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at DWU, follow these steps:
1. Download the application form:
- Visit the official website of Divine Word University (dwu.ac.pg).
- Navigate to the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences section.
- Locate the application form for the respective program you wish to apply for and download the PDF file.
For non-school leavers interested in programs other than the MBBS program, the application details will be announced in May 2023.
2. Complete the application form:
- Fill in the required information accurately and thoroughly.
- Ensure that you attach all the necessary documents, including character references, academic references, and explanation essays as specified in the eligibility criteria for your chosen program.
3. Submit the application form:
- Send the completed application form along with the required documents to the designated address mentioned on the application form or the official DWU website.
Contact Details for Nursing Program
For more information and inquiries regarding the Diploma in General Nursing program, you can contact the respective campus.
1. St. Mary's School of Nursing (Rabaul Campus):
- Contact Person: Mrs. Mary Ponahai
- Phone: 9828429
- Email: mponahai@gmail.com
2. St. Benedict's School of Nursing (Wewak Campus):
- Contact Person: Dr. Esther Batia
- Phone: 4562327 (ext 825)
- Email: EBatia@dwu.ac.pg
Contact Details for Midwifery Program:
For more details about the Bachelor of Midwifery program, reach out to the St. Mary's School of Nursing (Rabaul Campus):
- Contact Person: Francisca Bevi (Mrs)
- Phone: 9828429 (landline phone), 70922077
- Email: fbevi@dwu.ac.pg, frankybevi@gmail.com
Study at DWU Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences: Non-School Leavers
Divine Word University offers excellent opportunities for non-school leavers to pursue their passion in the healthcare field.
Make sure to review the eligibility criteria carefully, complete the application process accurately, and submit all required documents within the specified deadlines.
Good luck with your application to the DWU Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences!
