Nurses are the heart of the healthcare system. Their job is as important as that of surgeons and doctors. In the event of an emergency, they are usually the first ones coming in contact with the patient, providing them comfort and care. Therefore, it goes without saying that nurses rightly build the backbone of the medical sector. Nursing is one of the most desired career choices, especially for people who wish to work in the healthcare industry and serve those in need. An Undergraduate program in Nursing can train you and help you prepare for the job. This article gives you an insight into the eligibility criteria, core subjects, career prospects, and the top benefits of pursuing a BSc in Nursing in India.
All You Need to Know About BSc Nursing in India
A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing is much in demand among students seeking admission to the top medical institutes and colleges across India. Recognized by the Indian Nursing Council, BSc Nursing is a 4-year undergraduate program focused on developing adequate knowledge and skills required in the medical field, and training aspirants in different practical methods and procedures.
Types of BSc in Nursing Programs & Fee Structure
There are two types of BSc in nursing courses are offered in the colleges in India:
BSc Nursing (Basic)
Post Basic BSc Nursing
The Post Basic BSc Nursing program is a 2-year course aimed at imparting an understanding of advanced nursing. This allows students to hone skills previously learnt during a diploma course.
The annual fees for BSc Nursing programs vary depending on the type of college/institute i.e. Private or Government. However, government colleges are more affordable with an average fee ranging up to 40,000 INR per annum.
Examinations for Admission to BSc in Nursing in India
The top universities in India offer admission to eligible students to UG Nursing courses based on performance in the entrance examination. Here is a look at the competitive exams conducted annually across the country:
CET – In many states, the government conducts a Common Entrance Test (CET) for admission of students
SAAT – SAAT or Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University Admission Test is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University (SOA) for admission to BSc Nursing and other courses.
ITM NEST – ITM National Entrance and Scholarship Test (NEST) offers Undergraduate Nursing courses among others to aspiring candidates
AIIMS – The entrance examination is conducted by the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for the selection of students for the BSc Nursing
The entrance examinations play a crucial role in BSc Nursing admission to the best institutes since many of the colleges take into account the marks secured by candidates in these exams. Some colleges grant admission to students based on performance in the entrance exam along with the marks obtained in 12th Grade (10+2).
Eligibility Criteria for BSc Nursing Admission in India
The basic criteria to be eligible for enrolment in a BSc Nursing course in most colleges are listed below:
The candidate must be between 17 years and 35 years of age
The candidate must be a citizen of India
The applicants must have completed the 10th & 12th from a recognized Board/Council
The applicant must have secured at least 50% aggregate in 10+2 level (45% for SC/ST/OBC candidates) from a recognized Board/Council
The candidate must have studied Science with Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics (English mandatory) as core subjects
Required Skill Set for Nursing Career
Besides an undergraduate degree, candidates also need to possess a set of soft skills to be able to make an excellent career in Nursing. In the outside world, hiring institutions demand the following skills from a suitable candidate:
Communication
Confidence
A positive attitude
Teamwork and networking
Critical thinking
Problem-solving ability
Adaptability
Empathy
A strong work ethic
Career Prospects After BSc in Nursing in India & Abroad
With the rapidly growing healthcare sector, the demand for highly trained and professional nurses is on the increase everywhere. Following the completion of the Bachelor’s program, there are innumerable opportunities for nursing students across various sectors. The most popular ones are listed below:
Staff Nurse – A registered nurse licensed to practice and provide healthcare services
Home Nurse – A registered nurse specializing in providing multidimensional home care to patients of all ages
Paediatric Nurse – A Paediatric Nurse is a person who specializes in the medical care of children
Critical Care Nurse – Critical Care Nurses are professionals who specialize in the utmost care of critically ill patients following severe injuries
OT Nurse – An OT Nurse is responsible for the safety and utmost care of patients under surgery in the operation theatre
Nursing Supervisor – The role of a Nursing Supervisor involves managing and supervising a team of nurses with the aim of creating and maintaining superior patient care
Nursing Manager – A Nurse Manager is responsible for being in charge of the nursing staff in a clinical setting. Their duties include supervising patient care, setting work schedules, making budgetary decisions and coordinating meetings among others.
Nursing Director – A Nursing Director is responsible for hiring, training, carrying out evaluation programs, and overseeing the Nursing Unit.
Even in countries, like the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Singapore and others, nurses are employed at the primary level to attend to patients. This further widens the scope of employment opportunities abroad.
Popular Job Profiles & Annual Salary Package
Job Profile Annual Package
Staff Nurse 2.16 Lakhs
Home Nurse 2.16 Lakhs
Paediatric Nurse 2.70 Lakhs
Critical Care Nurse 3.00 Lakhs
OT Nurse 3.12 Lakhs
Nursing Supervisor 3.60 Lakhs
Nursing Manager 6 Lakhs
Nursing Director 8.42 Lakhs
Besides, one can also opt for higher studies and pursue a Master’s degree in Nursing, Neuroscience, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or Public Health Management to secure excellent opportunities in Nursing worldwide.
Top Areas of Recruitment
With an undergraduate degree in Nursing and the required skill set, you can get employed in any of the following areas:
Government hospitals and medical colleges
Private hospitals
Nursing homes
Old age homes
State Nursing Council
Orphanages
Non-profit Organizations
Armed Forces
Educational Institutions
Sanatoriums
Top Benefits of Pursuing BSc in Nursing in India
The top reasons that attract thousands and lakhs of students into pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing include the following:
Better Opportunities for Growth
A career in Nursing looks promising with several advancements in job opportunities across different departments. More nurses are being recruited in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities to assist doctors and surgeons.
Scope of Specialization
There are plenty of scopes to specialize in after pursuing a BSc Nursing program. During the final year or semester of the course, students have the opportunity to choose their specialization which will open up endless prospects for them.
Job Security
This is perhaps the biggest reason why students choose Nursing as a profession. Regardless of an economic crisis, the demand for nurses in the healthcare sector is unlikely to go down since it is practically impossible to function without them. Therefore, one always has a secured job.
Lucrative Salary
Over the years, individuals in the Nursing profession have managed to earn a handsome annual package. Although the starting salary varies depending on the job profile, one can enjoy the perks of medical insurance coverage and incentives from time to time.
Incentives & Allowances
The Nursing profession also offers several additional benefits, like Paid leaves and Paid Time Off (PTOs), Sick leaves, accommodation and food facilities etc.
Opting for BSc in Nursing in India is one of the best career choices to make. With the ever-increasing expectations and needs of society at large, the Nursing profession is here to stay. Stay focused on your goals and make the most of the opportunities to build a career in nursing.
For more information and recent updates on BSc Nursing courses, entrance exam dates and more, stay tuned to CollegeDekho. Call us at 1800-572-877 or fill out the QnA form to get all your queries answered.
FAQs
1. What is the duration of the BSc Nursing program in India?
The duration of BSc in Nursing program in India is 4 years. Candidates looking to pursue this course can apply for the various entrance exams held every year.
2. Is there any entrance exam for the UG Nursing course in West Bengal?
Yes, students in West Bengal can apply for admission to undergraduate courses in Nursing (BSc Nursing) through the JENPAS UG entrance exam conducted by the WBJEEB.
3. What can I do after completing BSc Nursing in India?
There are many job profiles that one can pursue after completing a BSc in Nursing. The most prominent ones are that of a Staff Nurse, Home Nurse, Nursing Manager, Nursing Supervisor, Nursing Director, and so on.
4. Can I apply for Physician Assistant after a course in BSc Nursing?
Yes, following a degree in BSc Nursing, one can pursue a 2-year Master’s degree from an accredited university to apply for the position of a Physician Assistant.
5. What is the monthly salary offered to BSc Nursing students after the course?
While the salary offered to BSc Nursing candidates differ based on the hiring organization and job profile, one can expect an average monthly salary ranging between 10,000 INR and 25,000 INR.
6. Can I pursue a career abroad after BSc Nursing in India?
Yes, candidates can pursue a career abroad after getting a Bachelor’s in Nursing. However, he/she will first need to successfully complete the Bridging or Adaptation Program of the country they want to move to.
7. What is the difference between BSc Nursing and Post Basic BSc Nursing Programs?
BSc Nursing is a 4-year UG program that offers basic knowledge of nursing and first-aid etc. A Post Basic BSc Nursing program, on the other hand, is a 2-year course designed to enhance the learning skills of individuals who already have an understanding of advanced nursing.
8. Do I need to study Chemistry in order to pursue BSc in Nursing?
Yes, students looking to pursue BSc Nursing after 12th Grade must have extensive knowledge of science subjects, including Chemistry, Physics, Biology and Mathematics.
9. Is BSc Nursing a good career choice?
Considering the future prospects and handsome pay package, BSc Nursing is a great option for those who intend to opt for higher studies and build a career in the field of healthcare.
10. Can I pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing at the age of 30?
Yes, anyone between the age of 17 years and 35 years can apply for BSc Nursing courses in India.
