About IGNOU BSCN(PB) – Post Basic Bachelors of Science in Nursing
This programme is built for registered nurses who want to upgrade their skills and earn a degree while continuing their clinical work. It prepares students for higher roles in nursing administration, advanced clinical practice, and specialized patient care across various healthcare settings.
The curriculum is carefully designed to bridge the gap between diploma-level nursing and professional degree standards. It covers a wide range of subjects including maternal health, medical-surgical nursing, and child health, ensuring that students develop a scientific approach to patient care. By studying these subjects, nurses can improve their decision-making skills and learn how to manage complex health situations with confidence. The mix of theory and practical work helps in applying classroom knowledge directly to hospital wards and community health centers.
After completing the Post Basic Bachelors of Science in Nursing, students will be able to take on leadership roles such as Nursing Supervisor, Nurse Educator, or Clinical Specialist. They will gain the ability to conduct basic nursing research, manage nursing departments, and provide high-quality care based on the latest medical evidence. This programme effectively helps in professional career growth, making graduates eligible for higher-grade pay and better positions in both government and private hospitals.
IGNOU BSCN(PB) Syllabus Highlights
The table below provides a quick overview of the programme’s essential details. This summary helps students understand the timeline and the institutional framework governing their studies at IGNOU.
| Academic Attribute | Details |
| Programme Name | Post Basic Bachelors of Science in Nursing |
| Programme Code | BSCN(PB) |
| Minimum Duration | 3 Years |
| Maximum Duration | 6 Years |
| Total Credits | 108 |
| Offering School | School of Health Sciences |
IGNOU BSCN(PB) Course Structure
The academic progression of this degree is spread over three years. Each year consists of various theory and practical courses that students must pass to move to the next level. The structure ensures a steady increase in the complexity of nursing subjects.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses | Credits |
| Yearly 1 | Theory and Practical Core | 38 Credits |
| Yearly 2 | Theory and Practical Core | 34 Credits |
| Yearly 3 | Theory, Practical, and Research | 36 Credits |
IGNOU BSCN(PB) Syllabus: 2026
Detailed below is the year-wise breakdown of subjects. Students should pay close attention to the practical components, as they carry significant weightage in the overall evaluation process.
1st Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| BNS-201 | Nursing Foundation | 4 |
| BNSL-201 | Nursing Foundation (Practical) | 4 |
| BNS-202 | Applied Sciences | 4 |
| BNSL-202 | Applied Sciences (Practical) | 4 |
| BNS-203 | Maternal Nursing | 2 |
| BNSL-203 | Maternal Nursing (Practical) | 8 |
| BNS-204 | Communicative English | 4 |
| BNS-205 | Behavioural Sciences | 4 |
| BNSL-205 | Behavioural Sciences (Practical) | 4 |
2nd Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| BNS-206 | Medical Surgical Nursing | 4 |
| BNSL-206 | Medical Surgical Nursing (Practical) | 10 |
| BNS-207 | Paediatric Nursing | 4 |
| BNSL-207 | Paediatric Nursing (Practical) | 8 |
| BNS-208 | Mental Health Nursing | 4 |
| BNSL-208 | Mental Health Nursing (Practical) | 8 |
3rd Year
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| BNS-209 | Community Health Nursing | 4 |
| BNSL-209 | Community Health Nursing (Practical) | 12 |
| BNS-210 | Nursing Administration | 4 |
| BNSL-210 | Nursing Administration (Practical) | 6 |
| BNS-211 | Nursing Education and Research | 4 |
| BNSL-211 | Nursing Education and Research (Practical) | 8 |
| BNSL-212 | Computer in Nursing (Practical) | 2 |
Total Credits: 108
IGNOU BSCN(PB) Credit System
In this programme, IGNOU uses a credit-based system where 1 credit is equal to 30 hours of study. To earn the degree, a student must successfully complete a total of 108 credits over three years. These credits are divided between theoretical study and intensive practical work in clinical settings. If a student fails to pass a course in the first attempt, they can reappear for the exams in the next session within the maximum duration of six years without needing to re-enroll for the entire programme.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ The syllabus reflects the 2026 academic framework. IGNOU may revise
course contents at its discretion. Always verify the latest syllabus at
ignou.ac.in
before starting your studies.
Also Read
More resources for BSCN(PB) students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU BSCN(PB) Syllabus
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU
(Indira Gandhi National Open University). The syllabus information provided here is
for academic reference only and may be subject to revision by IGNOU. Always verify
the latest course structure at
ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
