Nursing is a profession that is in high demand globally. The nursing field has evolved, and as a result, there are different nursing programs to choose from. Two popular nursing programs are B.Sc Nursing and Post Basic B.Sc Nursing. While both programs prepare students to become registered nurses, they have several differences that potential students should be aware of before deciding.

The popularity of nursing courses is increasing continuously, and many students are considering pursuing a career in this field. One of the most common questions students have is whether they should choose a BSc Nursing or Post Basic BSc Nursing degree program. To answer this question, we must compare and contrast all aspects of both programs.

As more students become interested in nursing, it is important to carefully consider the differences between these two-degree programs to decide which one best suits their needs and career goals.

Difference between B.Sc Nursing and Post Basic B.Sc Nursing

Course Overview

B.Sc Nursing

B.Sc Nursing is a four-year undergraduate nursing program that prepares students to become registered nurses. The program combines theoretical and practical training to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality nursing care. Students who enrol in B.Sc Nursing must have completed their 10+2 or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as mandatory subjects.

The B.Sc Nursing curriculum comprises anatomy, physiology, microbiology, psychology, pharmacology, nursing ethics, community health nursing, and medical-surgical nursing. The program also includes clinical rotations in various hospital departments, such as paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, psychiatry, and critical care.

After completing the B.Sc Nursing program, graduates can take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become registered nurses. Registered nurses work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals to provide patient care, administer medication, and monitor patient progress.

Post Basic B.Sc Nursing

Post Basic B.Sc Nursing is a two-year undergraduate nursing program designed for registered nurses who have completed a Diploma in General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) program. A program is an excellent option for registered nurses who wish to advance their education and career prospects.

The Post Basic B.Sc Nursing curriculum builds on the knowledge and skills acquired during the GNM program. The program covers advanced nursing concepts, maternal and child health nursing, psychiatric nursing, and community health nursing. The program also includes clinical rotations to provide students with hands-on experience in different healthcare settings.

After completing the Post Basic B.Sc Nursing program, graduates can take the NCLEX to become registered nurses. Registered nurses with a Post Basic B.Sc Nursing degree have several career options, including working as nurse educators, nurse administrators, or nurse researchers.

Eligibility Criteria

B.Sc Nursing

• Prospective candidates interested in pursuing B.Sc Nursing must have completed their higher secondary education (class 12th) from a recognised board and passed all subjects they were enrolled in. Furthermore, candidates must have taken Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects in class 12th.
• Admissions to various medical colleges offering B.Sc Nursing courses are primarily based on competitive entrance exams held throughout the nation. Several universities conduct their entrance exams besides NEET, AIIMS (B.Sc Nursing Admission Test), Banaras Hindu University (B.Sc Nursing Admission Test), and others.

Post Basic B.Sc Nursing

• To be eligible for the course, the candidate must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognised board or have completed 10+1.
• The candidate must have studied Biology, Physics, and Chemistry as mandatory subjects in the science stream.
• The candidate must be registered with the State Nurses Registration Council as a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife (R.N.R.M.).
• The candidate must have completed a General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) certificate or a three-year diploma.
• The candidate must have received training in specific areas such as O.T. Techniques, Leprosy Nursing, Ophthalmic Nursing, TB Nursing, Neurological and Neurosurgical Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing, Cancer Nursing, Community Health Nursing, and Orthopedic Nursing.
• Male candidates who have not completed midwifery in GNM must have a certificate in any nursing course lasting 6-9 months prescribed by the Indian Nursing Council (INC).
• Admission to Post Basic B.Sc Nursing courses is usually based on an institute or university-level entrance exam, with some institutions admitting students based on merit.

Curriculum

The curriculum of the two programs also differs. While both programs cover essential nursing subjects, Post Basic B.Sc Nursing focuses on advanced nursing concepts, maternal and child health nursing, psychiatric nursing, and community health nursing. 

The Post Basic B.Sc Nursing program also includes clinical rotations to provide students hands-on experience in different healthcare settings.

Tuition Costs

Career Prospects

B.Sc Nursing graduates can work as registered nurses in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Registered nurses can also pursue further education and career opportunities, such as becoming nurse practitioners, nurse anaesthetists, or nurse midwives.

Post Basic B.Sc Nursing graduates have several career options, including working as nurse educators, nurse administrators, or nurse researchers. Nurse educators teach and mentor nursing students, while nurse administrators oversee healthcare facilities' day-to-day operations. Nurse researchers research to improve patient care and nursing practices.

Job Profile

B.Sc Nursing

• Case Manager
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Certified Nurse Midwife
• Nurse Anesthetist
• Manager/Administrator
• Nurse Educator
• Staff Nurse
• Nurse Practitioner

Post Basic B.Sc Nursing

• Chief Nursing Officer
• Critical Care Nurse
• Nurse Instructor
• Nurse Manager
• Paramedic Nurse
• Nurse Assistant
• Community Health Specialist

Which program is right for you?

Deciding between B.Sc Nursing and Post Basic B.Sc Nursing can be challenging. Students who wish to become registered nurses but still need to complete a GNM program should consider enrolling in the B.Sc Nursing program. This program provides students with a comprehensive nursing education and prepares them to work as registered nurses.

On the other hand, registered nurses who wish to advance their education and career prospects should consider enrolling in the Post Basic B.Sc Nursing program. This program builds on the knowledge and skills acquired during the GNM program and provides students with advanced nursing concepts and clinical rotations in different healthcare settings.

Students should also consider their career goals and interests when deciding between the two programs. B.Sc Nursing graduates can pursue a career as a registered nurse or further education and career opportunities, such as becoming a nurse practitioner or nurse anaesthetist. Post Basic B.Sc Nursing graduates can pursue a nurse educator, administrator, or researcher career.