A person can pursue a variety of educational and career progression options in the highly satisfying and diversified field of nursing. Ambitious nurses across the nation have access to a variety of nursing degree programmes. The conditions needed for these degrees vary, as do the opportunities for specialisation and career routes. In this blog post, we will explore the different types of nursing degrees available in India and discuss the main differences between them, as well as the typical career paths for each type of nurse.

Types of Nursing Programmes in India

1. Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM): 

ANM is a nursing programme at the diploma level that focuses on giving people and communities access to basic healthcare. ANMs possess the necessary abilities to manage routine deliveries, offer emergency support, and provide primary healthcare in remote locations. Generally speaking, ANMs are employed in community settings, non-governmental organisations, and basic health centres.

2. General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM): GNM is another diploma course in nursing that provides comprehensive training in general nursing, midwifery, and community health. GNM nurses can work in hospitals, nursing homes, community health centres, and even go abroad for job opportunities. They often assist doctors, provide patient care, and administer medications.

3. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing): BSc Nursing is an undergraduate degree program that offers a broader scope of nursing education and practice. BSN nurses receive extensive training in nursing theory, research, leadership, and critical thinking. They can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, research organisations, and public health agencies.

4. Post-Basic B.Sc. Nursing (PBBSc): PBBSc is a postgraduate degree programme designed for GNM nurses to advance their nursing education. It provides a deeper understanding of nursing theory and specialisation options, such as critical care, psychiatric nursing, paediatric nursing, or maternity nursing. PBBSc nurses can work as educators, nurse administrators, or pursue higher studies.

5. Master of Science in Nursing (MSc Nursing): MSc Nursing is a postgraduate degree program that allows BSc Nursing graduate nurses to specialise in advanced nursing practices or focus on nursing administration or nursing education. MSc holders can work as nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, nurse educators, or nurse administrators. They may also pursue research or teaching positions in the field.

6. Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.): A Ph.D. in Nursing is a doctoral-level programme that prepares nurses to become researchers, scholars, and experts in their chosen areas of nursing. Ph.D. nurses often work in academia, research institutions, or healthcare organisations, contributing to evidence-based practice and nursing knowledge.

Difference Between the Nursing Degrees

The main differences between these types of nursing degrees lie in their level of education and the scope of practice they offer. The diploma-level programmes, ANM and GNM, provide basic nursing training and focus on primary healthcare. A BSc degree offers a comprehensive undergraduate education, preparing nurses for generalist roles. PBBSc allows GNM nurses to specialise in specific areas. MSc and Ph.D. are advanced degrees that provide in-depth knowledge and specialised skills.

Career Opportunities Provided By Different Nursing Courses

In terms of career paths, ANMs and GNMs generally work as staff nurses in hospitals or primary healthcare centers. Nurses with a BSc can pursue a wide range of opportunities, including staff nursing, research, teaching, or administration roles. PBBSc nurses often work in specialised areas or take up teaching positions. Nurses with MScs have a broader career scope, working as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, clinical nurse specialists, or administrators. Ph.D. nurses typically contribute to nursing research, education, or leadership positions.

It is important to note that nursing career paths are not limited to these degrees alone, as there are various diploma and certificate programs available for specialised skills such as critical care, psychiatric nursing, oncology nursing, and more. Additionally, nurses can also choose to pursue advanced certification programs to further specialise in specific areas of nursing.

In summary, the nursing field in India offers a wide range of degrees and employment prospects. Degrees such as ANM and GNM diplomas, BSc, PBBSc, MSc, and Ph.D. provide varying levels of specialization and education. Your long-term objectives, academic history, and preferences can determine your professional path as a nurse. Opting to become a nurse and obtaining a nursing certificate can help you reach your objectives, whether they involve developing nursing practice, providing primary care in remote locations, or contributing to nursing research and education.


PEWS Group of Institutions has opened applications for UG, and PG Nursing Courses for the current admission season 2024. To get complete details about our courses and admission at cpmsc.com Call - 88110 99994, 98640 91758, 98640 31785, 98640 16245 Or mail us at: pewsghy@gmail.com.