Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Course: Eligibility, Duration, Scope & Career Opportunities
Introduction
The healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, and with it, the demand for skilled nursing professionals is at an all-time high. Among various nursing programs available in India, the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing course holds a significant place for registered nurses who wish to upgrade their qualifications. This bridge course not only enhances clinical competencies but also opens the door to advanced nursing roles, teaching positions, and leadership roles.
In this detailed article, we will explore everything about the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing course including eligibility criteria, course duration, curriculum, top colleges, and job opportunities in India and abroad. Whether you are a diploma holder in nursing or a healthcare enthusiast seeking knowledge, this guide will help you understand the importance and benefits of pursuing this career-boosting course.
What is Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing?
Post Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (PB B.Sc. Nursing) is a two-year undergraduate course designed for candidates who have completed General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) and are registered nurses (RNs) with the State Nursing Council.
The program focuses on enhancing professional knowledge and practical skills in clinical and community health settings. It bridges the gap between diploma-level and graduate-level nursing education, allowing nurses to progress in their careers or pursue higher studies like M.Sc. Nursing or MBA in Healthcare Management.
Objectives of the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Course
• To provide advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in nursing.
• To prepare competent nurses who can take up leadership and administrative roles.
• To promote ethical values and professional responsibility.
• To build capabilities for teaching, clinical supervision, and nursing research.
• To empower nurses to work in specialized healthcare fields.
Eligibility Criteria
To gain admission in a Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1. Educational Qualification:
Must have completed General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) diploma from a recognized institution.
Must have passed 10+2 (any stream) or its equivalent examination (preferably with science subjects).
2. Registration:
Must be a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife (RNRM) with the State Nursing Council.
3. Experience:
Some institutions may require 1 year of work experience after GNM, especially for in-service candidates.
4. Age Limit:
No strict age limit in many institutions, though some may set an upper age cap at 35–40 years.
Course Duration
2 Years (Full-Time)
Divided into 4 semesters.
Includes classroom lectures, clinical practicum, seminars, community visits, and project work.
Curriculum and Subject
The Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing curriculum is designed as per the Indian Nursing Council (INC) guidelines. It covers a wide range of theoretical and practical subjects to upgrade a nurse’s competencies.
Year 1 Subjects
• Nursing Foundation
• Nutrition and Dietetics
• Biochemistry and Biophysics
• Psychology
• Maternal Nursing
• Medical-Surgical Nursing
• Microbiology
• English (Communication skills)
Year 2 Subjects
• Sociology
• Community Health Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Introduction to Nursing Education
• Introduction to Nursing Administration
• Introduction to Nursing Research and Statistics
Practical Training
• Hospital-based rotations
• Community health postings
• Project work and case studies
• Clinical teaching sessions
Admission Process
Admission to Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing is generally done through:
1. Merit-Based Admission:
Based on marks obtained in GNM and/or 10+2
2. Entrance Exams (varies by state/university):
• AIIMS Nursing Entrance
• PGIMER
• RUHS Nursing Entrance
• State-level nursing CETs
Documents Required
• GNM certificate and mark sheets
• 10+2 certificate
• State Nursing Council registration
• Identity proof and photographs
• Transfer/Migration certificate
• Experience certificate (if required)
Top Colleges Offering Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing in India
• Here are some reputed colleges where you can pursue Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing:
College Name Location Affiliated University
• AIIMS Nursing College New Delhi AIIMS
• Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore TN Dr. MGR Medical University
• PGIMER Nursing College Chandigarh PGIMER
• Rajkumari Amrit Kaur College of Nursing New Delhi University of Delhi
• Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) Pune MUHS
• Manipal College of Nursing Manipal MAHE
• Apollo College of Nursing Chennai TN Dr. MGR Medical University
Fee Structure
The fees for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing may vary depending on the institution:
Government Colleges: ₹15,000 to ₹50,000 per year
Private Colleges: ₹60,000 to ₹1.5 lakh per year
Additional costs may include hostel fees, books, clinical uniforms, and project work.
Skills Acquired During the Course
• Students completing the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing program develop various professional skills, including:
• Advanced patient care and bedside management
• Clinical decision-making and problem-solving
• Health education and community awareness
• Teaching and supervision of junior nurses
• Leadership and nursing administration
• Research skills in nursing practice
Career and Job Opportunities After Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing
Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing graduates can find employment in a wide range of healthcare settings. They are qualified for roles with more responsibilities and better pay than GNM nurses.
Top Career Options
1. Staff Nurse (Senior Level)
2. Clinical Instructor in Nursing Colleges
3. Nursing Supervisor/Matron
4. Public Health Nurse
5. Nursing Tutor/Educator
6. Industrial Nurse
7. School Health Nurse
8. ICU/CCU/OT In-Charge
9. Research Assistant in Medical Studies
10. Military Nursing Services (MNS)
Work Settings
Government and private hospitals
• Nursing homes and rehabilitation centers
• NGOs and community health programs
• Schools and colleges
• Corporate sector/industries
• Military and defense forces
Higher Education Options After Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing
Graduates can also pursue postgraduate and doctoral programs to further boost their careers:
• M.Sc. Nursing (in various specialties)
• MBA in Hospital and Healthcare Management
• PG Diploma in Critical Care Nursing
• Ph.D. in Nursing
Salary After Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing
The salary varies based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare institution:
Job Role Average Monthly Salary (INR)
Staff Nurse ₹25,000 – ₹45,000
Clinical Instructor ₹30,000 – ₹60,000
Nursing Supervisor ₹40,000 – ₹70,000
Public Health Nurse ₹30,000 – ₹50,000
Military Nurse ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 (plus benefits)
In Gulf countries, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc., Indian nurses with Post Basic B.Sc. degrees can earn INR 1.5 lakh to 4 lakh per month after passing licensing exams like NCLEX, HAAD, MOH, or IELTS.
Scope of Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Abroad
• With increasing demand for nurses globally, Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing graduates can:
• Apply for foreign job opportunities in the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the Middle East.
• Prepare for international nursing exams (NCLEX-RN, OET, CGFNS).
• Enroll in Master’s and Ph.D. programs abroad.
• Secure PR (Permanent Residency) through skilled migration programs in countries like Canada and Australia.
Why Choose Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing?
• Career Advancement: Upgrade from diploma to degree qualification.
• Increased Salary: Better pay scales in India and overseas.
• leadership roles: Eligible for supervisory and teaching positions.
• Higher Education: Open path to postgraduation and research.
• Global Mobility: Easier to work and settle abroad.
Challenges in the Field
• Workload and long shifts in hospitals.
• Emotional and physical stress.
• Need for continuous education and skill upgrades.
• Licensing and language barriers for overseas work.
Conclusion
The Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing course is a golden opportunity for GNM-qualified nurses to enhance their skills and climb the career ladder. With vast job opportunities, competitive salaries, and international mobility, it’s one of the most rewarding programs in the healthcare sector. As healthcare systems evolve, qualified nurses with leadership and advanced clinical skills will continue to be in high demand.
If you are a GNM nurse with a passion for growth, the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing program is the right step toward a brighter future.
FAQs on Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing
Q1. Can I do Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing without 10+2 in science?
Yes. Many institutions accept candidates with 10+2 in any stream along with a GNM diploma.
Q2. Is Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing equivalent to a regular B.Sc. Nursing?
Yes, both are considered undergraduate degrees and provide similar job opportunities.
Q3. What is the scope after Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing in government jobs?
Graduates can appear for state and central government recruitment exams for staff nurse, PHN, and educator roles.
Q4. Can I do M.Sc. Nursing after Post Basic B.Sc.?
Absolutely. It qualifies you for postgraduate studies in nursing.
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)