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

