Nursing courses are educational programs that train individuals to become nurses. These nurses provide care to patients in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. These programmes are designed to get students ready for the many different jobs and responsibilities that come with being a nurse, including patient care, illness prevention, and health promotion.
There are numerous educational options to fit your interests and career ambitions, regardless of your nursing specialty, advanced practice roles, or registered nurse. Nursing programmes are essential for addressing the changing demands of the healthcare business, as there is an increasing need for qualified healthcare professionals worldwide.
Highlights
| Particulars | Values |
| Branch Name | Nursing |
| Courses | B.Sc Nursing, M.Sc Nursing, ANM, GNM, DNEA |
| Duration | UG: 4 years PG: 2 years |
| Eligibility | UG: 10+2 with Science stream PG: Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or related field |
| Admission Process | Entrance Examination/ Direct Admission |
| Top Entrance Exams | AIIMS B.Sc Nursing Exam, Indian Army B.Sc Nursing, IGIMS Nursing |
| Career Options | Nurse, Nurse Educator, Nurse Supervisor, Lecturer, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Researcher |
| Average Salary | Rs. 4.0 LPA (for a Nurse) |
| Specializations | Pediatric Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Geriatric Nursing, Oncology Nursing, Neonatal Nursing, Cardiovascular Nursing |
| Continuing Education | Opportunities for professional development, specialization, and advancement |
| Job Prospects | High demand in healthcare facilities, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, educational institutions, government organizations, and international healthcare settings |
Types of Nursing Courses
India has a wide range of nursing education options to get people ready for rewarding professions in the medical field. These courses give students the expertise, abilities, and empathy necessary to deliver first-rate patient care. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of nursing courses available:
| Type | Courses | Duration |
| Diploma Nursing Courses | ANM Nursing | 2 Years |
| GNM Nursing | 3 Years | |
| Graduate Nursing Courses | B.Sc Nursing | 4 Years |
| Post Graduate Nursing Courses | M.Sc Nursing | 2 Years |
| Certificate Courses | Certificate Course in Clinical Nutrition | |
| Certificate in Maternal and Child Health Nursing (CMCHN) | 6 Months to 2 Years | |
| Certificate in Health Care Waste Management (CHCWM) | 6 Months to 2 Years | |
| Advanced Certificate in Infection Prevention and Control | 30 days |
- Diploma Programs
- Auxiliary Nursing Midwifery (ANM): This two-year program focuses on training nurses to work in rural and community settings. The curriculum emphasizes maternal and child health, providing basic midwifery care, administering immunizations, and preventative healthcare education.
- General Nursing Midwifery (GNM): This three-year program offers a broader skillset compared to ANM. Graduates qualify as registered nurses (RNs) equipped to work in hospitals, clinics, and various healthcare facilities. The program covers medical-surgical nursing, obstetrics & gynecology, pediatrics, mental health nursing, and community health nursing.
Advantages of Diploma Programs:
- Shorter duration compared to degree programs.
- Ideal for students seeking quicker entry into the nursing workforce.
- Strong focus on practical skills and hands-on training.
- Undergraduate Degree:
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing): This four-year program provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing theory, research, and practice. The curriculum delves deeper into anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, communication skills, critical thinking, and leadership qualities. B.Sc. graduates have a wider range of career options compared to diploma holders and can pursue specialization in areas like critical care, pediatrics, or cardiac care.
Advantages of B.Sc. Nursing:
- In-depth knowledge and a strong theoretical foundation.
- Broader career opportunities and leadership potential.
- Eligibility for higher studies like Master’s degrees.
- Postgraduate Degree:
- Master of Science in Nursing (M.Sc. Nursing): This two-year postgraduate program allows registered nurses to specialize in a specific area of nursing practice. Popular specializations include critical care nursing, mental health nursing, paediatric nursing, and midwifery. M.Sc. graduates can pursue advanced practice nursing roles, education, research, or leadership positions in healthcare administration.
Advantages of M.Sc. Nursing:
- Specialization in a chosen field of nursing practice.
- Eligibility for advanced practice nursing roles.
- Increased earning potential.
- Certificate Programs:
These short-term programs (lasting a few weeks to a year) are designed for registered nurses (RNs) to gain additional skills and knowledge in specific areas.
Examples include:
- Certificate Course in Clinical Nutrition: Focuses on nutritional assessment, meal planning, and managing dietary needs of patients with various health conditions.
- Certificate in Maternal and Child Health Nursing (CMCHN): Equips nurses with advanced skills in caring for mothers, newborns, and children.
- Certificate in Health Care Waste Management (CHCWM): Teaches proper handling, segregation, disposal, and treatment of healthcare waste.
- Advanced Certificate in Infection Prevention and Control: Provides specialized training in preventing and controlling the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
Advantages of Certificate Programs:
- Improves existing nursing skills in a specific area.
- Improve job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
- Relatively shorter duration and flexible schedules for working nurses.
Eligibility Criteria for ANM Nursing Courses
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
| Minimum Age | Minimum age of 17 years on or before 31st December of the year in which admission is sought. |
| Maximum Age | Maximum age of 35 years. |
| Entrance Exam | Majority of states administer their own entrance tests. Some states, such as Delhi,consider marks obtained in 10+2. |
| Educational Qualifications | Completion of 10+2 in Arts or Science with subjects including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and more with minimum aggregate score of 45% (40% for SC/ST candidates). |
| English Core/English Elective or Science or Health care Science – Vocational stream ONLY from a recognized Board. | |
| Students qualified in 10+2 Arts or Science examination conducted by the National Institute of Open School are eligible. | |
| Medical Fitness | Students must be medically fit. |
| Admission Frequency | Admission is conducted once a year. |
Eligibility Criteria for GNM Nursing Courses
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
| Education | Completion of 10+2 with English from a recognized board. |
| Minimum of 40% marks in the qualifying examination and English individually. | |
| Science subjects are preferable. | |
| Candidates from State Open School recognized by State Government or National Institute of Open School (NIOS) are eligible. | |
| Alternatively, 10+2 with English and 40% marks in vocational ANM course or Vocational Stream-Healthcare Science are acceptable. | |
| Minimum Marks | Candidates must have obtained at least 50% marks in their qualifying exams. |
| Entrance Exam | Administered by respective states. No centralized Exam. |
| Registered ANM | Registered ANM with pass marks. |
| Age Limit | Minimum age for admission: 17 years (as on 31st December of that year). Upper age limit: 35 years. |
Eligibility Criteria for B.Sc Nursing Courses
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
| Minimum Age | Minimum age of 17 years on 31st December of the year in which admission is sought. |
| Minimum Education | Completion of 10+2 with Science (PCB) & English Core/English Elective. |
| Students appearing in 10+2 examination in Science conducted by the National Institute of Open School with 45% marks are eligible. | |
| Qualifying Exams Marks | Aggregate of 45% marks in the qualifying examination from a recognized board (AISSCE/CBSE/ICSE/SSCE/HSCE or equivalent). |
| Medical Fitness | Students must be medically fit. |
Eligibility Criteria for M.Sc Nursing Courses
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
| Academic Qualification | BSc Nursing/ BSc (Hons) Nursing/ Post Basic BSc Nursing with a minimum of 55% of marks from an institute by the Indian Nursing Council/recognized University or equivalent. |
| 5% relaxation for ST/SC candidates in the minimum pass percentage required for admission. | |
| Registration as a Nurse | Should be a registered nurse. |
| Work Experience | Should have a work experience as a nurse of a minimum 1 year before/after post-basic BSc Nursing. |
| Admission process may require appearing for entrance exams, depending on the university. |
Entrance Exams For Nurisng Courses
| Entrance Exam | Conducting Body |
| AIIMS B.Sc. Entrance Exam | AIIMS |
| AIIMS M.Sc Entrance Exam | AIIMS |
| Army College of Nursing Guwahati Admission | Army College of Nursing Guwahati |
| Army College of Nursing Jalandhar Admission | Army College of Nursing Jalandhar |
| BHU B.Sc Nursing / B.Pharma (Ay) Entrance Exam | Banaras Hindu University (BHU) |
| CG B.Sc Nursing | Chhattisgarh State Government |
| CG Post Basic Nursing | Chhattisgarh State Government |
| CG M.Sc Nursing | Chhattisgarh State Government |
| CMC Ludhiana M.Sc Nursing Admission | Christian Medical College Ludhiana |
| Combined Paramedical & Nursing Entrance Test (CPNET) | Uttar Pradesh Government |
| CON LHMCEE 2021 鈥?B.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam | Lady Hardinge Medical College and other Delhi Hospitals |
| HPU B.Sc. Nursing Entrance Test | Himachal Pradesh University |
| HPU Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Entrance Test | Himachal Pradesh University |
| IGIMS Nursing Admission | Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences |
| Indian Army B.Sc Nursing & GNM | Indian Army |
| ILBS M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam | Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences |
| JIPMER B.Sc Entrance Exam | Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research |
| Jharkhand BSc Nursing Admission | Jharkhand State Government |
| KIMS University Nursing Entrance | Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences |
| LHMC B.Sc Nursing | Lady Hardinge Medical College |
| WBJEE JENPAUH | West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board |
| MCD Nursing Admission | Municipal Corporation of Delhi |
| MMU M.Sc (Nursing) All India Entrance Test | Maharishi Markandeshwar University |
| Maharashtra ANM GNM Admission | Maharashtra State Government |
| MP GNTST and PNST | Madhya Pradesh Government |
| PPBNET | Punjab Government |
| Punjab Para Medical Entrance Test (PPMET) for Nursing | Punjab Government |
| PMNET | Punjab Government |
| NEIGRIHMS B.Sc. Nursing | North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences |
| PGIMER B.Sc Nursing | Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research |
| PGIMER M.Sc Nursing | Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research |
| RUHS Nursing Entrance Exam | Rajasthan University of Health Sciences |
| Regional Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) Imphal M.Sc Nursing | Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal |
| Tripura Medical College (TNC) B.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam | Tripura Medical College |
| Uttarakhand Nursing Admission | Uttarakhand State Government |
| VBCH Nursing Entrance Exam | Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University |
Nursing Admission
Nursing admission processes vary depending on the type of nursing program and the institution offering it. Here’s an overview of nursing admissions, along with a table detailing admission criteria for ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery), GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery), B.Sc Nursing (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), and M.Sc Nursing (Master of Science in Nursing) programs:
| Nursing Program | Eligibility Criteria | Admission Process |
| ANM Nursing Admission | Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with specified percentage. | Entrance Exam or Merit-based admission. |
| GNM Nursing Admission | Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with specified percentage. | Entrance Exam or Merit-based admission. |
| B.Sc Nursing Admission | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English. | Entrance Exam (AIIMS, NEET) or University-specific exams. |
| M.Sc Nursing Admission | Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (B.Sc Nursing) from a recognized institution. | Entrance Exam (University-specific) or Institution-specific exams. |
Nursing Colleges in India
In India, there are numerous nursing colleges offering a variety of nursing programs to cater to the increasing demand for trained healthcare professionals. Here’s an overview of nursing colleges in India along with a table categorizing them based on the nursing programs they offer:
Government Nursing Colleges:
- These colleges are run and managed by government bodies at the central or state level.
- Government nursing colleges often offer quality education at subsidized tuition fees.
- They may have affiliations with government hospitals, providing students with ample clinical exposure.
Private Nursing Colleges:
- Private nursing colleges are established and managed by private organizations or trusts.
- They often offer a range of nursing programs and may provide state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure.
- Tuition fees in private nursing colleges are generally higher compared to government institutions.
Autonomous Nursing Colleges:
- Some nursing colleges operate autonomously and are not directly affiliated with universities.
- These colleges have the flexibility to design their own curriculum and academic policies.
- Autonomous nursing colleges often focus on innovation and research in nursing education.
Affiliated Nursing Colleges:
- Many nursing colleges are affiliated with universities or nursing councils.
- These colleges follow the curriculum prescribed by the affiliating university or regulatory body.
- Affiliated nursing colleges award degrees or diplomas recognized by the respective university or council.
When considering nursing colleges, prospective students should research factors such as accreditation, faculty qualifications, infrastructure, clinical exposure, placement opportunities, and alumni feedback to make informed decisions about their education and career goals.
List of Nursing Colleges in India
| Nursing Colleges | Link |
| ANM Nursing Colleges | Click Here |
| GNM Nursing Colleges | Click Here |
| B.Sc Nursing Colleges | Click Here |
| M.Sc Nursing Colleges | Click Here |
Nursing Syllabus
The nursing syllabus covers a wide range of topics and disciplines aimed to provide students with the information, skills, and competencies required for a successful career in nursing. Students pursuing a diploma in nursing (such as ANM or GNM) or a bachelor’s degree (such as B.Sc Nursing) receive extensive training in various aspects of healthcare, patient care, and medical science.
ANM Nursing Course Syllabus
The ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery) course curriculum is designed to provide students with essential skills and knowledge in nursing and midwifery. In the first year, students focus on community health nursing, health promotion, child health nursing, and primary healthcare nursing. The second year of the program emphasizes midwifery, child health, community health, and health center management.
| First Year Syllabus | Second Year Syllabus |
| Community Health Nursing | Midwifery |
| Health Promotion | Child Health |
| Child Health Nursing | Community Health and Health center management |
| Primary Health Care Nursing – I | – |
GNM Syllabus
GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) program includes various subjects aimed at providing a complete understanding of nursing practices. In the first year, students study anatomy, physiology, psychology, sociology, fundamentals of nursing, and community health nursing, among others. The second and third years delve into medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, midwifery, gynecological nursing, and community health nursing.
| First Year Syllabus | Second Year Syllabus | Third Year Syllabus |
| Anatomy and Physiology | Medical Surgical Nursing – I | Midwifery |
| Psychology | Mental Health Nursing | Gynecological Nursing |
| Fundamentals of Nursing | Child Health Nursing | Midwifery and Gynaecological Nursing Practical |
| Nursing Foundation-Practical | – | Community Health Nursing – II |
| Environmental Hygiene | – | – |
| Health Education and Communication skills | – | – |
| English | – | – |
B.Sc Nursing Syllabus:
The B.Sc Nursing (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) curriculum is designed to provide students with a complete understanding of nursing theory, practice, and research. The four-year program covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medical-surgical nursing, psychiatric nursing, community health nursing, and maternal and child health nursing.
| 1st Year | 2nd Year | 3rd Year | 4th Year |
| Physiology | Psychiatric Nursing | Public Health Nursing and Health Administration | Midwifery and Obstetrics Nursing |
| Anatomy | Medical-Surgical Nursing | Maternal and Child Health | Anatomy and Physiology |
| Composition and Function of Blood | Principles and Applications of Psychiatric Nursing | History of Community Medicine and Community Nursing | Embryology |
| Skeletal and Joint System | Psychiatric Emergencies | Principles and Concepts of Public Health | Preparation for Delivery |
| Endocrine and Metabolism | Occupational Therapy | Role of Epidemiology in Community Health | Physiology of Labour |
| Respiratory System | Psychotherapy | Organization and Administration of Health Services | Introduction to Research and Statistics |
| Excretory System | Role in Chemotherapy | Sociology and Social Medicine | Types of measures, graphs methods of presentation |
| Cardiovascular System | Nursing approaches as per the behaviors, disorders, aggression | The social structure of society and individual | Introduction to Database |
| Nutrition and Dietetics | Operation Theatre Techniques | Significance of Sociology in Nursing | Microsoft Windows |
| Biochemistry | Sterilization of Instruments | Human Relations | Introduction to Computer Science |
| Different methods of cooking and their effect on the body | Types of Anesthesia | The city and the country: Sociological and Economical contrasts | – |
| Amino Acids | How to care for patients before, after and during the operation | – | – |
| Meaning of Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics | Knowing the instruments | – | – |
| Introduction and Classification of Carbohydrates | Microbiology | – | – |
| Methods of Calculating Calories | Morphology and classification of bacterial Factors and conditions affecting the growth of bacteria Immunity and Immunization | – | – |
| Catabolism of Nucleic Acid | Process Serological tests and their corresponding diseases | – | – |
| Therapeutic adaptations of a normal diet | Blood Examination | – | – |
| Enzymes, Nature, and Functions | Lumbar Air Study | – | – |
| – | Electrocardiography | – | – |
| – | Angio Cardiography | – | – |
ANM Vs GNM Vs B.SC Nursing
| Aspect | ANM | GNM | B.Sc Nursing |
| Level of Education | Diploma | Diploma | Bachelor’s Degree |
| Duration | 2 years (including internship) | 3.5 years (including internship) | 4 years (full-time) |
| Educational Background | 10+2 Pass | 102 Pass (preferably Science) | 12th Pass (Science) |
| Focus | Community healthcare, maternal & child health | Patient care (individuals, families, communities) | Comprehensive nursing theory & practice |
| Career Prospects | Primary healthcare centers, government hospitals, NGOs | Hospitals, clinics, nursing homes | Hospitals, clinics, research, education, leadership roles |
| Salary Range (Starting) | Lower | Moderate | Higher |
| Upskilling Options | GNM, B.Sc Nursing (Post-Basic) | B.Sc Nursing (Post-Basic), M.Sc Nursing | Specialization courses, Masters Degrees |
Nursing Courses Fees in India
Nursing courses are highly sought after in India due to the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. These courses are offered by various government and private institutions across the country. The fees for nursing courses can vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of institution, infrastructure, faculty, facilities provided, and location. Here’s an overview of the fees for different nursing courses in government and private colleges:
| Course | Nursing Course Fees in Government Colleges | Nursing Course Fees in Private Colleges |
| ANM Course Fees | INR 20,000 – 50,000 | INR 20,000 – 1,15,000 |
| GNM Nursing Course Fee | INR 25,000 – 1,50,000 | INR 50,000 – 2,00,000 |
| BSc Nursing Fees | INR 5,000 – 30,000 | INR 50,000 – 1,20,000 |
| MSc Nursing Fees | INR 1,500 – 1,00,000 | INR 90,000 – 2,00,000 |
- The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary based on factors such as institution reputation, infrastructure, location, and additional facilities provided.
- Government colleges generally offer nursing courses at lower fees compared to private colleges, as they receive subsidies and grants from the government.
- Private colleges often charge higher fees due to the costs associated with maintaining infrastructure, faculty salaries, and additional facilities.
- Apart from tuition fees, students may also need to consider expenses such as hostel fees, examination fees, and miscellaneous charges.
FAQs
Q. What are the different types of nursing courses available in India?
In India, there are several types of nursing courses available, including B.Sc Nursing (Bachelor of Science in Nursing), GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery), ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery), M.Sc Nursing (Master of Science in Nursing), and various specialized nursing diploma and certificate courses.
Q. What is the duration of nursing courses?
The duration of nursing courses varies depending on the type of course. B.Sc Nursing programs typically last for 4 years, while GNM and ANM courses usually have a duration of 3 to 3.5 years. M.Sc Nursing programs generally span 2 years. However, the duration may vary slightly depending on the institution and the curriculum.
Q. Are nursing courses available in both government and private colleges?
Yes, nursing courses are offered by both government and private colleges in India. Government colleges often have lower tuition fees compared to private colleges, but admission may be more competitive. Private colleges may offer additional facilities and amenities, but tuition fees are generally higher.
Q. What is the scope of nursing courses in India?
Nursing courses offer a wide range of career opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, community health centers, and research institutions. Graduates can work as staff nurses, nurse educators, nurse administrators, clinical nurse specialists, nurse practitioners, and more. There is also the option to pursue further specialization through postgraduate and doctoral programs.
Q. Are there any entrance exams for nursing courses?
Yes, many nursing courses require candidates to appear for entrance exams conducted by respective institutions or state authorities. Some common entrance exams for nursing courses include AIIMS Nursing Entrance Exam, NEET (UG) for B.Sc Nursing admissions, and various state-level nursing entrance tests.
Q. What is the career growth potential after completing a nursing course?
Nursing is a dynamic field with ample opportunities for career advancement and growth. With experience and further education, nurses can progress to higher positions such as nurse managers, nurse educators, nursing directors, and advanced practice nurses. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as critical care, oncology, pediatrics, gerontology, and psychiatric nursing.
Q. What does ANM stand for?
ANM stands for Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery.
Q. What is ANM Course?
ANM is a diploma course in nursing that focuses on providing basic nursing care to individuals, families, and communities. It also includes training in midwifery to assist in childbirth and provide prenatal and postnatal care to mothers and infants.
Q. What is the duration of the ANM Course?
The duration of the ANM course is generally 2 years. However, it may vary depending on the institute or state nursing council regulations.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for the ANM Course?
The eligibility criteria for ANM course vary, but typically candidates must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum specified percentage. Some institutes may have additional requirements such as a minimum age limit.
Q. What are the subjects covered in the ANM Course?
The ANM course curriculum includes subjects such as Fundamentals of Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Maternal and Child Health Nursing, Nutrition, Midwifery, First Aid, and Medical Ethics.
Q. What does GNM stand for?
GNM stands for General Nursing and Midwifery.
Q. What is GNM Course?
GNM is a diploma course in nursing that prepares students to become registered nurses capable of providing comprehensive nursing care to individuals, families, and communities. It includes training in general nursing, midwifery, and community health nursing.
Q. What is the duration of the GNM Course?
The duration of the GNM course is generally 3 to 3.5 years, including internship or practical training. However, the duration may vary depending on the institute or state nursing council regulations.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for the GNM Course?
The eligibility criteria for the GNM course vary, but typically candidates must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as core subjects. Some institutes may have additional requirements such as a minimum specified percentage or age limit.
Q. What are the subjects covered in the GNM Course?
The GNM course curriculum includes subjects such as Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing, Pediatrics Nursing, Community Health Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, and Nutrition.
Q. What are the career prospects after completing the GNM Course?
After completing the GNM course, graduates can work as registered nurses in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, community health centers, and NGOs. They can also pursue further studies or specialization in areas such as critical care nursing, oncology nursing, or psychiatric nursing.
Q. Is there any entrance exam for admission to the GNM Course?
Some institutes may conduct entrance exams for admission to the GNM course, while others may admit students based on merit in the qualifying examination. The specific admission process varies depending on the institute and state regulations.
Q. What is the difference between GNM and ANM Course?
GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) course is a diploma course that provides comprehensive training in nursing care, midwifery, and community health nursing. ANM (Auxiliary Nurse Midwifery) course, on the other hand, focuses on basic nursing care and midwifery. GNM course is more extensive and prepares nurses for a wider range of healthcare settings and roles compared to ANM course.