.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-SC-NURSING in Community Health Nursing at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Community Health Nursing at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Chennai?
This Community Health Nursing program at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research focuses on equipping advanced practitioners to deliver comprehensive healthcare services at the community level. Given India''''s diverse demographic and geographical landscape, the program emphasizes preventive, promotive, and rehabilitative health, addressing the unique health challenges faced by rural and urban populations. Its holistic approach integrates advanced nursing skills with public health principles and management for impactful community care.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for registered nurses holding a B.Sc. Nursing or Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing degree with relevant clinical experience, seeking to specialize in public health and community-based interventions. It caters to those passionate about making a broader impact on population health, aspiring to leadership roles in community health programs, public health organizations, NGOs, or seeking to advance their careers in health policy and research within the Indian healthcare system.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become highly skilled Community Health Nursing Specialists, Public Health Nurses, or Program Coordinators in various settings across India. Career paths include roles in government health initiatives (e.g., National Health Mission), rural health centers, urban primary health centers, industrial health services, and international health agencies operating in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA, and opportunities for growth into managerial and policy-making positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Nursing & Research Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently focus on fundamental M.Sc. Nursing subjects like Advanced Nursing Practice, Nursing Education, Research & Statistics. Attend all theory classes, actively participate in discussions, and complete practicals to build a strong theoretical and methodological base. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts and refine your research proposal ideas.
Tools & Resources
University library, Peer study groups, SPSS/R for basic statistics, Academic journals
Career Connection
A solid foundation in research and advanced nursing principles is crucial for evidence-based practice and future leadership roles in community health.
Engage Actively in Community Health Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Even in early semesters, start exploring community health concepts through relevant coursework (e.g., Principles & Practice of Community Health Nursing I & II). Utilize practical sessions and field visits to observe community health challenges and interventions firsthand. Seek opportunities to interact with community health workers and local populations to understand their unique needs.
Tools & Resources
Field visit reports, Case studies of Indian community health programs, WHO/UNICEF health reports
Career Connection
Early exposure familiarizes you with the ground realities of community health in India, making you more effective in future roles.
Develop Scientific Writing & Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving academic writing for assignments, seminar presentations, and initial research proposals. Pay attention to citation styles (e.g., APA), clear communication, and structured arguments. Practice presenting your work to peers and faculty to gain confidence and receive feedback, which is essential for academic and professional communication.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Institutional writing workshops, Academic style guides, Presentation software
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are vital for publishing research, presenting project proposals, and advocating for public health initiatives.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization & Advanced Skills- (Semester 3)
Focus intensively on specialized subjects like Advanced Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Community Mental Health Nursing, and Public Health Administration. Actively participate in advanced practicals and field-based projects to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world community health settings. Seek mentorship from faculty specializing in your areas of interest and current public health challenges.
Tools & Resources
Advanced statistical software (e.g., Epi Info, SPSS), Public health journals, Indian Public Health Association (IPHA) resources
Career Connection
Mastering these advanced topics and practical skills directly prepares you for specialized roles in public health and community program management.
Initiate & Progress on Thesis Research- (Semester 3)
Begin the thesis research process by refining your research question, conducting an in-depth literature review, and finalizing your methodology. Work closely with your assigned research guide, regularly seeking feedback and dedicating consistent time to data collection and preliminary analysis, ensuring ethical research practices.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (PubMed, Google Scholar), EndNote/Mendeley for referencing, Statistical consultants
Career Connection
A well-executed thesis demonstrates your capability for independent research, critical thinking, and problem-solving, enhancing your profile for research-intensive roles or further academic pursuits.
Network & Engage with Public Health Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend relevant workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on public health and community nursing in India. Network with professionals from NGOs, government health bodies, and research institutions. This helps in understanding current industry trends, potential career paths, and identifying mentorship opportunities within the Indian public health ecosystem.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional nursing associations (e.g., TNAI, IPHA), University career fairs
Career Connection
Building a professional network opens doors to internships, collaborations, and job opportunities post-graduation in the Indian healthcare sector.
Advanced Stage
Conclude & Disseminate High-Quality Thesis Work- (Semester 4)
Dedicate the final semester to completing data analysis, writing the thesis manuscript, and preparing for the viva voce. Ensure your findings are robust, well-presented, and contribute meaningfully to the field of community health nursing in India. Plan for potential publication in peer-reviewed journals or presentation at national/international conferences.
Tools & Resources
Academic advisors, Statistical review, Proofreading services, Journal guidelines
Career Connection
A strong thesis enhances your credibility as an expert, crucial for roles in research, policy formulation, or teaching in India.
Prepare for Career Transition & Placements- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell for job search assistance, resume building, and interview preparation specific to public health and community nursing roles. Research potential employers, practice mock interviews, and tailor your applications to highlight your specialization and practical experience relevant to the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
Placement cell, Career counselors, Professional networking events, Job portals (Naukri.com, Indeed)
Career Connection
Proactive placement preparation ensures a smooth transition into desired roles within the Indian healthcare sector upon graduation.
Pursue Certifications & Continuous Learning- (Semester 4 (and beyond))
Identify and pursue relevant certifications in areas like Public Health Management, Epidemiology, or specific disease control programs that complement your M.Sc. degree. Stay updated with the latest guidelines and advancements in community health through online courses, webinars, and professional development programs offered by Indian and international bodies.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Coursera, WHO online courses, Indian Nursing Council (INC) updates
Career Connection
Continuous learning and certifications enhance your marketability, specialized expertise, and leadership potential in the evolving public health landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidate should be a Registered Nurse and Registered Midwife or equivalent with any State Nursing Registration Council. Minimum education of B.Sc. Nursing / B.Sc. Hons. Nursing / Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing with minimum of 55% aggregate marks from an Indian Nursing Council recognized institution. Minimum one year of experience after Basic B.Sc. Nursing or prior/after Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing. Candidate must be medically fit. Maximum age limit for admission is 45 years.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 116 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Theory: 25%, External: 75% (Refer to regulations for detailed breakdown of practical and thesis assessment), External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMSC 101 | Nursing Education | Core | 6 | Nature & Scope of Education & Nursing Education, Philosophy of Education, Theories of Learning & Teaching, Curriculum Development, Assessment & Evaluation, Trends & Issues in Nursing Education |
| NMSC 102 | Advanced Nursing Practice | Core | 6 | Theories & Models of Nursing, Concepts of Health, Illness & Nursing, Advanced Nursing Assessment, Nursing Process in Advanced Practice, Quality Assurance in Nursing, Ethical & Legal Aspects |
| NMSC 103 | Nursing Research & Statistics | Core | 6 | Introduction to Research, Research Process, Research Designs, Sampling & Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis (Inferential & Descriptive Statistics), Thesis Writing |
| NMSC 104 | Nursing Management | Core | 6 | Principles of Management, Organizational Theories, Leadership & Motivation, Financial Management, Human Resource Management, Legal Aspects in Nursing Administration |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMSC 201 | Principles & Practice of Community Health Nursing I | Core | 10 | Concepts & Theories of Community Health Nursing, Epidemiology, Demography & Health Indicators, Health Planning & Policies in India, Primary Health Care, Reproductive & Child Health, National Health Programs |
| NMSC 202 | Principles & Practice of Community Health Nursing II | Core | 10 | Communicable Diseases, Non-Communicable Diseases, Environmental Health, Occupational Health, School Health, Geriatric Nursing, Mental Health in Community |
| NMSC 203 | Advanced Epidemiology & Biostatistics in Community Health | Core | 8 | Advanced Epidemiological Methods, Disease Surveillance, Screening & Investigation, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Research Ethics, Public Health Informatics, Modeling in Epidemiology |
| NMSC 204 | Health Promotion & Education in Community Health Nursing | Core | 8 | Health Education Principles & Methods, Community Mobilization, Behavior Change Communication, IEC Materials Development, Program Planning & Evaluation, Counseling in Community Health |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMSC 301 | Community Mental Health Nursing | Core | 10 | Concepts of Mental Health, Psychiatric Epidemiology, Mental Health Assessment, Psychosocial Interventions, Crisis Intervention, De-addiction Nursing & Rehabilitation, National Mental Health Program |
| NMSC 302 | Public Health Administration & Policy | Core | 10 | Public Health System in India, Health Legislation & Policies, Health Economics & Financing, Program Management & Evaluation, Quality Assurance in Public Health, International Health Agencies, Decentralization of Health Services |
| NMSC 303 | Community Health Nursing Management | Core | 8 | Management Concepts in CHN, Human Resource Management, Financial Management, Material Management, Program Planning, Implementation & Evaluation, Supervision & Leadership, Conflict Resolution |
| NMSC 304 | Advanced Community Health Nursing Practice | Core | 8 | Advanced Skills in CHN, Home Health Care & Palliative Care, Disaster Management in Community, Health Informatics & Tele-nursing, Intersectoral Coordination, Community Diagnosis & Intervention Planning, Ethical & Legal Issues in Advanced Practice |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NMSC 401 | Thesis | Project | 20 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology Development, Data Collection & Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation & Defense |
