Where to Study Nursing Abroad: Countries, Price, Universities and Colleges

Nursing is one of the most demanded healthcare professions, which requires high qualification and strong knowledge of medicine and patient care. An increasing number of people have recently shown interest in studying nursing abroad.
No wonder, since nursing education abroad offers many advantages – from high-quality education to the opportunity to study the most advanced patient treatment and care methods. 

In this article, we’ll look at the best countries for nursing education, the cost of this education, as well as universities and colleges that offer the best programs in the field.
If you dream of a medical career and want to study nursing abroad – this article is for you!

Study Nursing Undergraduate Programs Abroad: Requirements and Enrollment Process

Undergraduate nursing programs at universities and colleges abroad are a perfect solution for those who want to get a high-quality education and start their medical and healthcare career. Undergraduate programs usually include training in anatomy, physiology, psychology, medical ethics, and professional development. By taking internships at healthcare institutions as part of the training, students gain practical experience as nurses.

To enroll in an undergraduate nursing program at foreign universities and colleges, an enrollee must meet a number of conditions. The common requirements are secondary education and an adequate level of English proficiency to understand lectures, participate in debates and write Scientific papers.

Here is a list of the main requirements in the most foreign universities and colleges:

1. Secondary education.
2. Adequate level of English proficiency (usually it’s B2 and higher according to Common European Framework of Reference).
3. Filled-in online enrollment application on a university or college website.
4. Copies of educational documents (diplomas, certificates).
5. Certificates confirming the test results.
6. Motivation letter (usually in English), in which you need to explain why you want to study at this university or college and why you’ve chosen this major.
7. Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors (usually two or three letters are required).

Some universities and colleges may also require passing extra exams or tests to assess a student’s knowledge level in particular fields. Be sure to thoroughly study all the requirements and prepare all the documents and papers required for submitting the application in due time.

The process of enrollment in a Bachelor’s of Nursing abroad may slightly vary depending on the educational institution. However, students are usually to fill in an online application form, attach copies of their educational documents, test results and certificates of proficiency in English, as well as write a motivational essay and provide letters of recommendation. Having reviewed the application and documents, the university or college sends a letter of acceptance or rejection of the application.

Study Nursing Graduate Programs Abroad: Requirements and Enrollment Process

Foreign universities may impose different requirements, procedures and deadlines for submitting applications to enroll in graduate nursing programs for international students. Contact specific universities and programs to get accurate information.
Generally speaking, the enrollment process may look as follows:

Choose a university and a program: You should analyze information and choose those universities and programs that correspond to your goals and interests.

Collect documents: The following documents are usually required to enroll in most of graduate nursing programs:

• Enrollment application.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or equivalent education.
• CV (Lat. Curriculum vitae – a brief chronological description of your life, education, and work experience).
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or employers.
• English language proficiency tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
• Documents confirming work experience, if required.

 

Submit the application: After collecting all the required documents, you need to fill in and submit the application for enrollment in the university. Applications can be submitted online on the university’s website or by mail. Usually, universities provide precise instructions on the application procedure.

Wait for a decision: After you’ve submitted your application, the university will consider it, as well as your documents. Depending on the educational institution, this process may take a few weeks or months. If a response is positive, you’ll need to confirm your plans to enroll in the university by paying the tuition fees.

Get a visa: If you are accepted into the university, you’ll need to get a student visa to study at a foreign university. Usually, this process takes a few weeks or months and may vary depending on the country where the university is located. You may need additional documents to get the visa, such as confirmation of financial solvency, airplane tickets, and medical insurance.

Prepare for studies: After getting the student visa and paying tuition fees, you must prepare for the academic activities and adaptation in a new country. This may include finding a place to live, studying the curriculum and literature, and buying required textbooks.

To have enough time to collect documents, search for programs and prepare for studies, it’s recommended to start preparing for applying for study nursing abroad in advance.

Majors in Patient Care

Some of the majors you can choose as part of the nursing training include Nursing in General Medicine, Pediatrics, Oncology, and Anesthesiology. There are other majors, such as nursing in maternity wards, in intensive care units, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes.
The educational programs may vary from professional development programs to comprehensive university courses, depending on the country and region. Some countries also require a license or certificate.

The World’s Best Nursing Universities

Training in nursing is an important medical field, and many universities all over the globe offer relevant programs. The following is a table that contains a detailed description of the best educational institutions in different countries that offer training in nursing according QS Ranking:

 

These universities offer a wide range of educational programs that provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully work as a nurse. Many of them are leading research centers, thus providing students a unique experience with advanced methods and technologies in the field.

Best Countries to Study Nursing

A traditionally high level of medical education is available in the USA, Canada, the UK and Australia. Leading universities offer the most advanced medical equipment, as well as the opportunity to gain practical experience taking internships at the best medical facilities. After graduation, alumni have better employment and career opportunities.

Study nursing abroad in the United Kingdom

Nursing education in the UK includes undergraduate and graduate programs. The educational programs include both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, including internships at hospitals and medical centers.
|Students are also trained in professional ethics, communication with patients, and solving medical issues. Nursing education in the UK is available for both local and international students but requires an adequate level of language proficiency, as well as a study and employment visa.

London South Bank University

Undergraduate programs

London South Bank University offers a range of programs to obtain the Bachelor in Nursing degree, including:

• B.Sc. (Hons.) Children's Nursing: The program is aimed at training medical personnel to work with children. The program includes both theoretical and practical components, with students spending time in clinical environments to gain real-life experience.
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Adult Nursing: The program trains nurses to work with adults. The course covers a range of subjects, including physiology, pharmacology, and public healthcare. Students will also gain real-life experience of working in clinical environments.
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Mental Health Nursing: The course covers a range of subjects related to mental health, including mental health legislation and policy, therapeutic interventions, and promotion of mental well-being. 
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Midwifery: The course covers a range of subjects related to midwifery, including maternal and fetal health, childbirth and postpartum care. 
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing (Apprenticeship): The program is designed for those working in the healthcare sector and planning to become certified nurses. The course is a combination of theoretical and practical training.
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Learning Disability Nursing: The course prepares nurses to work with disabled people. It covers a range of subjects related to learning disabilities, including a social model of disability and communication. 

At London South Bank University, all the undergraduate nursing programs are accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This means that graduates are eligible to apply for registration at the NMC and work as registered nurses.

Master’s Degree

London South Bank University offers a few graduate nursing programs:

• PGDip Children's Nursing (Pre-registration) – this is for students who plan to be qualified as professional children’s nurses. The course covers a wide range of subjects related to taking care of children and young people, including Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology and Psychology.
• PGDip Mental Health Nursing (Pre-registration) – nursing with a major in mental health. The course covers a wide range of subjects related to mental health, including mental conditions, therapeutic interventions and drug addiction treatment. Students also gain real-life experience in clinical environments.
• PGDip Adult Nursing (Pre-registration) - The course covers a wide range of subjects related to adult healthcare, including physiology, pharmacology and public healthcare. 
• MSc Nursing (Neuroscience Care) - The program is for those students who want to major in neuroscience care. The course covers a wide range of subjects related to neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Epilepsy, as well as to rehabilitation and care for patients suffering from these diseases.
• PGDip Learning Disability Nursing - The course is for students who want to get qualifications as professional nurses with a major in working with mentally disabled people. 

 

All the graduate nursing programs at London South Bank University have professional accreditation from the Nursing and Midwifery Council, NMC (an independent body responsible for regulating and ensuring high quality of nursing and midwifery practice in Britain).

Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University offers a few undergraduate and graduate nursing programs.

Undergraduate programs: 

• B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing – Adult: The program is to prepare students to work as registered nurses in adult healthcare. 
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing – Children's: The course covers a wide range of subjects related to children’s Physiology, Pathology and treatment, as well as ethical and legal issues related to Pediatric Practice.
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing – Mental Health: The course covers a wide range of subjects related to psychiatric practice, including diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of patients with mental health issues.
• B.Sc. (Hons.) Midwifery: The course covers a wide range of midwifery-related subjects, including pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum period.

Graduate programs:

• M.Sc. Advanced Clinical Practice: The program is for nurses who want to develop their clinical practice skills and competencies. The course covers a wide range of subjects related to diagnosis, treatment and care for patients in various clinical environments.
• M.Sc. Nursing: This program is for nurses who are already registered as nurses and want to gain additional qualification in clinical practice, research and health management. 
• M.Sc. Advanced Leadership for Professional Practice: This program is designed for those nurses who are currently working at managerial positions or who want to develop their leadership and management skills in nursing. The course covers a wide range of subjects related to management, leadership, healthcare development, as well as professional practice development.

All the programs offered by Oxford Brookes University have obtained professional accreditation from the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Besides, to provide students with practical experience in a real clinical environment, the university cooperates with local healthcare organizations.

Study nursing abroad in the United States

Nursing education in the USA consists of the Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at a medical school. The training includes theoretical knowledge and real-life experience obtained at courses, hospitals, and other healthcare institutions. After graduation, alumni are to obtain a license by passing exams and completing an internship. Nurses can work in a variety of medical fields, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Additional training and certification provide career growth opportunities.

Webster University

Webster University offers undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate programs in Nursing and Anesthesiology:

• The undergraduate program includes both theoretical and practical training, including a clinical internship. 
• The graduate program gives students the opportunity to advance their career and develop their nursing skills. The program includes a deeper study of health concepts, medical practice and research. Besides, the graduate program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
• Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice is a program for nurses who want to become certified anesthetists. The program includes comprehensive study of physiology, pharmacology, scientific research, and clinical practice. The program graduates get a Doctorate in nursing and are ready for the certification exam required for anesthesia practice.

All programs of Webster University are accredited by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. The training centers provide students with ample opportunities for gaining knowledge and skills in their field, as well as accessing prestigious clinical practices, lectures, and research.

Berkeley College

Berkeley College offers various levels of nursing programs – from the Practical Nurse Certificate to the Master of Science in Nursing:

• Practical Nurse Certificate: The program includes courses in basic nursing, medical terms, pharmacology, basic anatomy and physiology, as well as practical training at medical facilities. The university offers full-time attendance or in evening programs, which allows students to continue working, studying and taking care of their family.
• LPN to BSN: The program includes courses in nursing, general medical sciences, pharmacology, psychology, ethics, and practical training in a clinical environment. There are also general education and entrepreneurship courses, which will help graduates manage nursing practice effectively.
• Master of Science in Nursing: The program consists of advanced courses in nursing practice, leadership, research, scientific basis of practice, and healthcare policy. The training includes both theoretical lectures and practical work in a clinical environment.

 

All of Berkeley College’s nursing programs provide students with the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills required for effective nursing practice.

Study nursing abroad in Canada

In Canada, training in nursing implies completing an undergraduate or graduate program. Medical schools offer practical and theoretical courses, including clinical practice. After completing the program, students can take an exam to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. The educational programs also include training in ethics, communication, teamwork, and interaction with patients and their families. Studying nursing in Canada is a great choice. 

University of Northern British Columbia

University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs that teach students practical and theoretical knowledge in the field of healthcare and the major they’ve chosen.

• The undergraduate program in nursing at UNBC is a four-year course that provides students with ample knowledge and skills required for working as a healthcare professional. The course covers general Sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Nursing Practice and Social Sciences. 
• The graduate program provides students with a deeper understanding of nursing practice and healthcare. The program implies a three-year training that includes in-depth study of nursing theory and practice, leadership in healthcare, as well as research work. 

By spending time at hospitals, clinics and other healthcare institutions, students also gain hands-on experience.

Humber College

Humber College offers two educational programs in nursing: 

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The course includes theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, as well as training at real medical facilities. 

• Practical Nursing. A two-year program includes the following courses:
• Basic Sciences (anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology).
• Clinical Sciences (women’s health, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, surgery).
• Nursing Practice (patient assessment, care planning, communication).
• Healthcare (healthcare management).

Students will also gain hands-on experience at real medical facilities. The program also includes training in interpersonal communication skills, ethics, as well as medical and legal issues.

Durham College

Durham College offers two programs in nursing:

• Honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.N) at Durham College is a joint program with Ontario Tach University (OTU). It consists of both theoretical and practical components, including courses in health sciences, nursing theory, research, and ethics. 
• Practical Nursing Diploma Program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Canada. This is a two-year full-time attendance program that consists of theoretical and practical components.

Both of Durham College’s programs are designed to prepare students to take the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) certification exam and enter working life.

Seneca College 

Seneca College offers a few nursing programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels for international students. Below are general overviews of each program:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.N) – is a four-year program that prepares students to work as certified nurses. The program combines theoretical knowledge and clinical experience, which provides students with a comprehensive nursing training. 
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing – second degree (B.Sc.N – B). This program is designed for students with a non-relevant previous degree who want to pursue a nursing career. This is a four-year program that includes both theoretical courses and clinical internships. 
• Practical Nursing (PN) is a two-year program that prepares students to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). It consists of theoretical courses and clinical internships at various medical facilities. The PN program teaches anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient care skills, and care for mentally disabled patients. Besides, students perform a Capstone project in the last semester, thus integrating their knowledge and skills.

In general, nursing programs at Seneca College provide students with a comprehensive nursing education, including both theoretical knowledge and real-life experience.

Niagara College International

The nursing educational program at Niagara College International includes training based on modern technologies and hands-on experience. The course is designed to develop nursing and medical leadership skills and knowledge. The Certificate program consists of the following courses:

• Basics of nursing.
• Clinical skills.
• Healthcare ethics.
• Leadership in nursing.

The training is provided by highly qualified teachers who have extensive medical experience. Students also receive support and assistance from career consultants and mentors.

St. Lawrence College

Here’s a brief overview of St. Lawrence College’s nursing programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.N) – is a four-year full-time attendance program. The program curriculum is specially developed to provide students with both theoretical and practical training experience. The program is implemented via classroom lectures, laboratory simulations and clinical internships at various medical facilities.
• Practical Nursing Diploma – is a two-year full-time attendance program. In addition to mandatory patient care courses, the module includes courses in anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology and medical terminology. 

St. Lawrence College’s nursing programs generally offer students a combination of theoretical and practical training, as well as experience at various healthcare institutions.

Thompson River University

Thompson River University (TRU) offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs focused on training all-round and highly qualified nurses capable of working at various medical facilities. Below is an overview of the programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.SN). The program covers a number of subjects including anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology, nursing theory and practice, mental health nursing, public health nursing, and leadership and management. 
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Williams Lake (B.SN-WL). The program includes both classical and clinical training. The curriculum is similar to the undergraduate program and covers a number of subjects and clinical practices at various medical facilities.
• Master of Nursing (MN). TRU also offers a graduate program for students who already have the Bachelor’s in Nursing Degree. The two-year program can be completed online.

In general, TRU’s nursing programs are developed to provide students with a strong theoretical and practical basis in nursing, as well as the skills and experience required to successfully work at various healthcare institutions.

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland offers a few educational programs in nursing for international students.

Undergraduate programs:

1. Four-Year Option: This 4-year program is designed for students who are just taking their first steps in medicine. Under the program, students study nursing theory and practice, as well as gain hands-on experience at a clinic.
2. Accelerated Option: This accelerated undergraduate program is designed for those students who already have the Bachelor’s Degree in another field, but want to retrain. The duration is two years. 

Graduate programs:

• Master of Nursing (MN) – this graduate program is designed to study advanced-level nursing theory and practice. 
• Master of Nursing Nurse Practitioner (MN-NP) is a practice-focused program. 
• Master of Nursing (MN) Nurse Practitioner (NP) Clinical Stream – designed for those who want to become a medical practitioner, work as a nursing consultant and mentor. 

All programs include theoretical courses and practical classes, including clinical internships at various medical facilities.

Cape Breton University

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Cape Breton University includes the following courses:

• Anatomy and Physiology – students study the basics of human anatomy and physiology, as well as basic biochemical processes.
• Foundations of Nursing Practice – students acquire basic skills required for medical work, including patient care procedures, as well as assessing and recording patients’ conditions.
• Medical Pharmacology – students study the basics of pharmacology, including mechanisms of drug action, their side effects, and use for treating various diseases.
• Psychiatry and Psychology – students learn to communicate with patients with mental health issues, as well as study the basics of psychology and interpersonal relations in the medical field.
• Perioperative Nursing – students study the basics of perioperative nursing, including pre-surgical preparatory procedures, anesthesia, post-surgical patient care, and many others.
• Gerontology – students learn to work with elderly patients, including taking care of them, preventing and treating age-related conditions.
• Pediatrics – students study the basics of pediatrics, including childcare procedures, prevention and treatment of common children’s diseases.
• Public Health – students study the basics of public healthcare, including disease prevention, immunization, epidemiology and many other subjects.

Besides, the training program includes practical classes that give students the opportunity to practice in real-life conditions.

Lakehead University

Lakehead University offers a few educational programs in nursing.

Undergraduate programs:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.N). Under this program, students study theoretical and practical aspects of nursing, as well as take clinical internships at healthcare institutions.
• Honors Bachelor of Science in Nursing (HB.Sc.N). The program is aimed at developing academic skills and a deep understanding of nursing. This program includes more advanced healthcare courses and research.

Graduate programs:

• Master of Science in Nursing (M.Sc.N) – a program is designed for students who has already obtained the Bachelor in Nursing Degree and want to increase their insight and skills in this field. 
• Master of Nursing (MN) – the program is aimed at developing practical nursing skills and experience. It includes internships at real medical facilities and provides students with the opportunity to develop their leadership and management skills.

All the nursing programs at Lakehead University provide students with highly qualified training and hands-on experience at various healthcare institutions.

Study nursing abroad in Australia

Australia enjoys a high level of medical education and healthcare system. To get a license, one must obtain a Bachelor’s Degree or diploma at a medical school. The course includes theoretical classes and practical training at medical sites. After graduation, alumni can work at public and private healthcare institutions. 

Torrens University Australia

The undergraduate nursing program at Torrens University Australia offers students solid knowledge and practical skills in nursing. The Bachelor Degree in nursing prepares you for a career as a Registered Nurse, teaching you vital assessment and clinical decision making skills, and developing a person-centered, professional approach to care.
A Bachelor's Degree in nursing allows you to work in healthcare, industry and community settings. Here are some of the courses included in the undergraduate program of nursing:

1. Clinical Placement – a practical training program that provides students with hands-on experience at various medical facilities.
2. Medication Management – teaches safe and effective medication management.
3. Health Assessment – teaches methods of assessing patients’ conditions.
4. Professional Nursing Practice – teaches professional communication skills within nursing practice. 

1. Indigenous Health – teaches the healthcare and nursing principles in relation to the traditional cultures and practices of Australian indigenous peoples.
2. Mental Health – a program that teaches students the principles of mental health-related nursing. 

Keep in mind that Bachelor of Nursing can be studied at Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide. 

Careers for Nurses with University Degrees

Nursing is an internationally demanded profession, with many career opportunities in the sector being available in various countries, including Canada, the USA, the UK, and Australia. A table below contains brief information about nursing career opportunities in different countries:

 

Many universities offer different types of scholarships for students studying nursing, which can range from full coverage of tuition fees to partial support. Scholarships may be based on academic achievements, merits, or other criteria. There are grants available for various purposes, including paying for books and equipment, research and conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Studying Nursing Abroad

What is nursing?

Nursing is a healthcare profession that implies taking care for patients and helping with their treatment and rehabilitation.

How to study nursing abroad?

To study nursing abroad, you need to choose a country, pass exams, apply for enrollment, wait for the results, get a student visa, and start preparing for studies and adaptation in a new country.

Where can I find information about undergraduate nursing programs abroad?

You can find information about undergraduate nursing programs abroad on the websites of universities and colleges specializing in healthcare training.

What skills should I have for a successful nursing career abroad?

A successful nursing career abroad requires communication and leadership skills, technical skills, and proficiency in the scientific basis of patient care.

What job prospects do graduates of nursing programs have?

Graduates of nursing programs have job prospects in a variety of healthcare institutions, such as hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation wards, and nursing homes.

What are the language proficiency requirements to enroll in a nursing program abroad?

The language proficiency requirements to enroll in a nursing program abroad may vary depending on the university and the country. The most popular language tests are TOEFL and IELTS. A certain number of points is usually required to enroll in nursing programs. The required number depends on the university and the educational program.

What is the duration of an undergraduate nursing program abroad?

The duration of an undergraduate nursing program abroad may vary depending on the university and the country. Usually, an undergraduate nursing program takes from three to four years to complete.

What majors do nursing programs abroad offer?

Nursing programs abroad offer many majors, such as anesthesia nurse, pediatric nurse, oncological nurse, operating nurse, surgical nurse, and many others.

What technologies are used in modern nursing?

In modern nursing, a variety of technologies are used, including electronic medical documentation, infection control systems, medication management systems, patients’ vitals monitoring, and many others.

What qualities should a person have for a successful career in nursing?

A successful nurse should have such qualities as empathy, patience, responsibility, teamwork skills, flexibility, decision-making and time management skills.