About IGNOU DNA – Diploma in Nursing Administration
This course teaches you how to manage a nursing department, handle staff schedules, and oversee hospital resources effectively. It prepares students for leadership roles where they balance patient care quality with the practical daily operations of a healthcare facility.
Who Should Choose This Programme?
If you are a registered nurse working in a hospital or clinic and want to move into a desk role as a supervisor or manager, this course is meant for you. It is perfect for nursing professionals who have a few years of experience and now want to lead a team of nurses rather than only focusing on bedside care. Many students who take this up are looking to qualify for government promotions or senior roles in large private hospital chains.
Why Do Students Choose This Programme?
Most students choose this because it is much more affordable than doing a regular hospital management degree from a private university. Since it is offered via distance learning, you can continue working your shifts at the hospital while studying for your diploma in your free time. IGNOU certificates are also widely accepted for seniority increments in state and central government health departments, making it a safe choice for career growth.
Where Does This Programme Help?
After completing DNA, graduates typically work as a Ward Sister, Nursing Supervisor, or Assistant Nursing Superintendent at organizations like AIIMS, Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, or state-run civil hospitals. It helps you gain the specific skills needed for office-based nursing tasks like inventory control, staff duty roaster preparation, and maintaining nursing ethics. You will be prepared to handle the administrative side of a medical ward or a nursing school.
IGNOU DNA (Diploma in Nursing Administration) Highlights
The following table provides a quick overview of the Diploma in Nursing Administration. It includes the course duration, the language of study, and the school that manages the curriculum for the 2026 session.
| Programme Name | Diploma in Nursing Administration |
| Programme Code | DNA |
| Minimum Duration | 1 Year |
| Maximum Duration | 3 Years |
| Eligibility | RNRM with GNM (2 years exp) or B.Sc. Nursing |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Offering School | School of Health Sciences |
IGNOU DNA Admission – Important Details
The admission process involves registering on the official portal and choosing a Study Centre (LSC) that is convenient for your practical sessions. Unlike theory courses, DNA includes practical counseling where you will learn about nursing service administration in a real hospital setting. You must submit your assignments at your assigned Regional Centre or Study Centre to be eligible for the term-end exams. Regular updates regarding hall tickets and practical schedules are posted on the IGNOU website throughout the year.
IGNOU DNA Admission Last Date 2026
For the January session, the last date for IGNOU DNA Admission is typically February 28. For the July session, the deadline is usually July 31. Please note that these dates are often extended by the university. To ensure your seat, you should visit the Samarth Portal and complete your payment before the official closing date for the 2026 academic cycle.
IGNOU DNA Eligibility Criteria
To apply for this diploma, you must meet the professional requirements set by the School of Health Sciences. Ensure you have your registration certificates ready before starting the application.
- Professionals must be Registered Nurses and Registered Midwives (RNRM).
- Candidates should have a General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) diploma with a minimum of two years of experience in the profession.
- Alternatively, candidates with a B.Sc. Nursing degree are also eligible for the programme.
- The experience is calculated from the date of registration as RNRM until the time of applying for the course.
IGNOU DNA Fees Structure 2026
The total cost of the programme is kept low to support nursing staff. The following fees are applicable for the current admission cycle.
| Fee Category | Amount (INR) |
| Total Programme Fee | Rs. 10,800 (Approx.) |
| Registration Fee | Rs. 300 (Non-refundable) |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for IGNOU DNA Admission
- Visit IGNOU Admission Portal (Samarth) and click New Registration.
- Create your unique username and password by providing your email and mobile number.
- Fill the online application form and carefully select DNA from the programme list.
- Select the Regional Centre and a Study Centre near your workplace for practicals.
- Upload required documents: photo, signature, RNRM certificate, and experience letters.
- Pay fees online via Credit/Debit card or UPI through the secure gateway.
- Save and print your application form and payment receipt for future reference.
IGNOU DNA Curriculum and Course Structure
The course is structured into theory and practical components. You will earn a total of 28 credits by completing four theory papers and two extensive practical modules in nursing administration.
| Year / Semester | Core Subjects |
| Theory Course | BNS-011: Principles and Practice of Nursing Administration |
| Theory Course | BNS-012: Management of Educational Institutions, School of Nursing and Hospital |
| Theory Course | BNS-013: Group Dynamics |
| Theory Course | BNS-014: Resource Management |
| Practical Course | BNSL-011: Nursing Service Administration-I (Practical) |
| Practical Course | BNSL-012: Nursing Service Administration-II (Practical) |
IGNOU DNA Programme Coordinator
Students seeking academic guidance or clarification regarding the course structure can reach out to the following faculty members at School of Health Sciences.
| Coordinator Name | Contact Email | Contact Number |
| Prof. Pity Koul | pkoul@ignou.ac.in | Check official IGNOU website for current details. |
| Dr. Neerja Sood | neerjasood@ignou.ac.in | Check official IGNOU website for current details. |
Career Opportunities After IGNOU DNA
Completing this diploma opens doors to several management roles within the health sector. You can apply for positions like Nursing Superintendent or Ward In-charge in government hospitals and private nursing homes. If you are interested in teaching, this qualification also helps you become a Clinical Instructor or an administrator in a Nursing College. Many NGOs and international health organizations also hire DNA graduates to manage their field health programs and staff.
The degree is recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC)
and is equivalent to any regular university degree of the same level.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ Admission details for the 2026 session will be updated after IGNOU
releases the official notification. Always verify fees, dates, and eligibility at
ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in before applying.
Also Read
More resources for DNA students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU DNA Admission
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU
(Indira Gandhi National Open University). All information is provided for educational
and informational purposes only. Fee amounts, eligibility criteria, and admission
dates are subject to change. Always verify current details at
ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
