Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing – Complete Guide for 2-Year Program

The Post Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (P.B. B.Sc. Nursing) is a bridge course designed for diploma (GNM) holders to advance their qualifications to a bachelor’s level. It is a vital stepping stone for registered nurses who wish to enhance their knowledge, clinical competencies, and career prospects. Recognized by the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and State Nursing Councils, this 2-year undergraduate program integrates scientific principles with clinical and community health practices, offering a strong foundation for nursing leadership, teaching, and further specialization.

This detailed guide by Nursing Experts covers everything you need to know about the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing 2-Year Program – from eligibility and curriculum to career scope and frequently asked questions.

 

Introduction to Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing

The Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing course is not just an academic upgrade—it is a transformation in the professional life of a nurse. Designed primarily for General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) graduates, this course prepares registered nurses for higher responsibilities in hospitals, community settings, and academic institutions.

Key Highlights:

  • Course Duration: 2 Years
  • Eligibility: GNM-qualified registered nurses
  • Affiliation: Indian Nursing Council (INC)
  • Scope: Staff Nurse, Clinical Instructor, Nurse Educator, Public Health Nurse, Research Assistant, M.Sc. Nursing eligibility

 

Who Should Enroll in Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing?

This course is ideal for:

  • GNM Nurses who are already registered with a State Nursing Council.
  • Nurses who want to pursue M.Sc. Nursing or other postgraduate programs.
  • Nurses aiming for government jobs, promotions, or teaching positions.
  • Nurses who are planning to appear in international licensing exams such as NCLEX-RN, HAAD, MOH, or DHA.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing, candidates must satisfy the following conditions:

Academic Qualification:

  • Completed GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) from a recognized nursing institute approved by INC.
  • Must have passed 10+2 (any stream) from a recognized board. Some institutions accept GNM alone without 10+2, but this varies.

Registration:

  • Must be a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife (RNRM) with a valid registration certificate from the respective State Nursing Council.

Health Requirements:

  • The candidate must be medically fit to pursue the course.

Additional Criteria (Institution-Specific):

  • Some universities may conduct entrance exams or personal interviews.
  • Service experience may be required in certain government colleges.

 

Admission Process

Step-by-Step Admission Procedure:

  1. Notification & Application:
    • Check official websites of universities or colleges for application notifications (e.g., IGNOU, AIIMS, RAKCON, PGIMER, State Universities).
  2. Filling the Application Form:
    • Apply online or offline with relevant academic documents and registration certificates.
  3. Entrance Test/Selection:
    • Some institutions conduct entrance tests; others may offer direct admission based on merit.
  4. Document Verification:
    • Submit original documents such as GNM marksheets, RNRM certificate, 10+2 certificate, migration certificate, medical certificate.
  5. Payment of Fees:
    • Once selected, pay the admission fees to confirm your seat.

 

Top Colleges Offering Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing in India

Some prestigious institutions offering this course include:

Institute Name

Location

Admission Mode

AIIMS

New Delhi

Entrance-Based

PGIMER

Chandigarh

Entrance-Based

RAK College of Nursing

New Delhi

Entrance-Based

IGNOU

All India

Merit-Based

CMC

Vellore

Entrance-Based

State Government Nursing Colleges

Various States

Merit/Entrance

Private institutions and deemed universities also offer the program.

 

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum is designed to bridge the knowledge gap between diploma and degree levels and enhance the professional competencies of a practicing nurse.

Year 1 Subjects:

  • Nursing Foundation
  • Nutrition & Dietetics
  • Biochemistry & Biophysics
  • Psychology
  • Microbiology
  • Maternal Nursing
  • Medical-Surgical Nursing
  • English (Communication Skills)

Year 2 Subjects:

  • Sociology
  • Community Health Nursing
  • Pediatric Nursing
  • Mental Health Nursing
  • Introduction to Nursing Education
  • Introduction to Nursing Administration
  • Introduction to Research and Statistics
  • Project Work

Clinical hours and practical rotations are an essential part of the curriculum and are completed under the guidance of experienced nursing faculty.

 

Examination and Evaluation

  • Internal Assessments: Periodic tests, assignments, case presentations
  • University Exams: Conducted at the end of each academic year
  • Practical Examinations: Viva, bedside clinical evaluation
  • Project Work: Based on fieldwork or community health project

Passing criteria usually require a minimum of 50% marks in theory and practical examinations.

 

Career Opportunities After Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing

Once you complete the Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing, a wide range of career avenues open up:

Government Sector:

  • Staff Nurse (through NORCET, DSSSB, ESIC, RRB, and state-level exams)
  • Public Health Nurse (PHN)
  • Nursing Officer
  • Health Educator

Teaching Sector:

  • Clinical Instructor in Nursing Colleges
  • Nursing Tutor
  • Skills Lab Coordinator

Higher Studies:

  • Eligible for M.Sc. Nursing in various specialties like:
    • Medical-Surgical Nursing
    • Psychiatric Nursing
    • Obstetrics and Gynaecology Nursing
    • Pediatric Nursing
    • Community Health Nursing

Abroad Opportunities:

  • Eligible for international exams like:
    • NCLEX-RN (USA)
    • HAAD, MOH, DHA (UAE)
    • CRNE (Canada)
  • Opportunities in NHS (UK), Ireland, Germany, New Zealand

Private Sector:

  • ICU Nurse, OT Nurse, Dialysis Nurse
  • Nursing Coordinator
  • Quality Control Nurse
  • Home Healthcare Nurse

 

Salary Expectations

The salary after Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing varies based on location, experience, and workplace:

Sector

Salary Range (Monthly)

Government Hospitals

₹44,900 – ₹1,42,400 (as per 7th CPC)

Private Hospitals

₹25,000 – ₹60,000

Teaching Institutions

₹35,000 – ₹80,000

Abroad (UAE, UK, Canada)

₹1,50,000 – ₹3,50,000 approx.

 

Advantages of Pursuing Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing

  • Academic Upgradation from diploma to degree level
  • Eligibility for M.Sc. Nursing
  • Increases promotional prospects
  • Opens up academic and research careers
  • Required for teaching positions
  • Makes you more competitive in government job exams
  • Adds to professional credibility

 

Challenges Faced by Nurses During the Course

While this course brings immense benefits, students may face certain hurdles:

  • Balancing work and study (for in-service candidates)
  • Adapting to new academic demands
  • Limited seats in government colleges
  • Financial burden (in case of private colleges)
  • Rigid institutional timings for practicals

However, with discipline, proper guidance, and mentorship, these challenges can be easily overcome.

 

Tips for Success in Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing

  • Stay consistent with your theoretical and clinical studies.
  • Prepare notes and refer to standard books.
  • Participate actively in clinical rotations and case studies.
  • Join nursing discussion forums and follow NURSING EXPERTS for academic support.
  • Attend online coaching or recorded lectures if self-study becomes difficult.

 

FAQs on Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing

Q1. Is Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing equivalent to B.Sc. Nursing (Basic)?

Answer: Yes, in terms of qualification and career scope. However, B.Sc. Nursing (Basic) is a 4-year direct entry course, while Post Basic is for GNM diploma holders.

Q2. Can I pursue M.Sc. Nursing after Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing?

Answer: Yes, after Post Basic B.Sc., you are fully eligible to apply for M.Sc. Nursing in any specialization.

Q3. Is NEET required for Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing?

Answer: No, NEET is not required. Admissions are usually based on merit or entrance exams conducted by respective universities.

Q4. What are the job prospects after completing the course?

Answer: You can apply for jobs in both government and private hospitals, educational institutions, and appear for competitive nursing exams.

Q5. Can I pursue this course via distance learning?

Answer: Yes, IGNOU offers Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing via distance mode for in-service nurses, but it is a 3-year program.

Q6. What is the difference between the 1-year and 2-year Post Basic programs?

Answer: The standard INC-approved Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing course is of 2 years. Any 1-year variation might not be recognized for M.Sc. Nursing or government employment unless specified by the university.

 

Conclusion

The Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing 2-Year Program is not just a course—it is a strategic career move that opens new doors of academic and professional advancement. Whether you aim to become a nurse educator, clinical specialist, or pursue opportunities abroad, this program equips you with the required competencies.

With increasing demand for qualified nurses globally, upgrading your qualification through Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing is both timely and wise. At Nursing Experts, we encourage and support every GNM nurse to take this step forward toward excellence in nursing practice and education.