Nursing Science: A Good Course to Study?
When you think of a career that blends compassion, medical expertise, and the power to make a real difference in people’s lives, Nursing Science stands out. This field is more than just administering medication or assisting doctors—it’s about saving lives, promoting health, and offering comfort to patients in times of need.
If you’re considering Nursing Science as a course of study, here’s an in-depth look at why it can be one of the best career choices you make.
What is Nursing Science?
Nursing Science is the study of nursing principles, practices, and research that equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to care for individuals, families, and communities. It combines medical sciences, behavioral sciences, and clinical training to prepare professionals who can:
- Assess patients’ health conditions
- Provide treatments and nursing interventions
- Educate patients about health maintenance
- Conduct research to improve healthcare outcomes
In Nigeria and many other countries, Nursing Science is offered as a Bachelor’s degree in universities and colleges of health sciences.
Reasons Why Nursing Science is a Good Course to Study
1. High Demand for Nurses Globally
Healthcare systems around the world face a constant demand for skilled nurses. Countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia regularly seek qualified nurses, offering attractive salaries and benefits. This means studying Nursing Science opens local and international job opportunities.
2. Job Security
Unlike many other professions that can become obsolete due to automation, nursing is indispensable. No matter how advanced technology becomes, the human touch in patient care cannot be replaced.
3. Diverse Career Opportunities
Nursing Science graduates are not limited to hospitals. They can work in:
- Public health agencies
- Military healthcare services
- Schools and universities
- NGOs and humanitarian organizations
- Research institutions
4. Opportunity to Specialize
With further training, nurses can specialize in fields such as:
- Midwifery (care for pregnant women and newborns)
- Paediatrics (children’s health)
- Geriatrics (elderly care)
- Critical care (emergency and ICU)
- Psychiatric nursing (mental health)
5. A Career with Purpose
Nursing is not just a job—it’s a calling. The sense of fulfilment that comes from saving lives, comforting patients, and making a difference is unmatched.
6. Pathway for Career Growth
A degree in Nursing Science can lead to advanced roles such as:
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Administrator
- Nurse Practitioner
- Public Health Officer
Skills You Will Learn in Nursing Science
Studying Nursing Science equips you with both technical and soft skills, including:
- Clinical assessment and diagnosis
- Administering medications safely
- Emergency response and first aid
- Patient communication and counselling
- Research and evidence-based practice
- Leadership and teamwork in healthcare
Challenges of Studying Nursing Science
While Nursing Science is rewarding, it’s also demanding:
- Long hours of study and clinical practice
- Emotional stress from patient care situations
- Physical demands, including standing for long periods
- Exposure to infectious diseases (requires proper safety measures)
However, for passionate and dedicated students, these challenges often strengthen resilience and empathy.
Admission Requirements for Nursing Science in Nigeria
To study Nursing Science in a Nigerian university, you generally need:
- O’Level Requirements: At least 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- JAMB UTME Subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- A competitive UTME score (usually above 220 in top universities).
- Post-UTME screening performance.
Salary Expectations for Nurses
In Nigeria, entry-level nurses earn between ₦80,000 to ₦150,000 per month, depending on the hospital and location. Internationally, salaries are significantly higher:
- USA: $70,000 – $100,000/year
- UK: £25,000 – £40,000/year
- Canada: CAD 60,000 – CAD 90,000/year
Conclusion
Nursing Science is indeed a good course to study if you are passionate about healthcare, committed to lifelong learning, and driven to help others. It offers global job opportunities, job security, and personal fulfilment, making it one of the most respected and rewarding careers worldwide.
If you have the passion, patience, and perseverance, Nursing Science could be the perfect path for you.
FAQs on Nursing Science
1. Is Nursing Science better than Medicine?
They are different paths—Medicine focuses more on diagnosis and treatment, while Nursing focuses on patient care, education, and support.
2. Can I work abroad with a Nursing Science degree from Nigeria?
Yes, but you may need to pass licensing exams like the NCLEX (USA) or CBT/OSCE (UK).
3. How many years does it take to study Nursing Science in Nigeria?
Typically 5 years, including clinical rotations.