University of Basel

The MSc in Nursing Science at the University of Basel prepares nurses for advanced clinical roles and for research careers. You choose one of two specialisations—Advanced Nursing Practice or Research—and develop advanced skills to improve patient care, quality, and safety. Duration: 2 years (typical full-time study) Credits: 120 ECTS (postgraduate course) + 60 ECTS (basic course) Programme level: Master of Science (MSc) Delivery format: On-campus (Switzerland) Specialisations: Advanced Nursing Practice OR Research Language of instruction: English (confirm with the university for your intake) Application: Submit via the University of Basel application portal Start dates: Typically once per year (confirm for your intake) Tuition fees: Fees vary by student status—check the University of Basel fee information for your cohort

Programme Structure

The MSc in Nursing Science is organised in two parts: a Basic Course (60 CP) and a Postgraduate Course (120 CP). After completing the Basic Course, you choose one of two specialisations.

Basic Course (60 CP)

• Foundations in quantitative and qualitative research
• Foundations in Advanced Nursing Practice
• Academic and professional development for evidence-based nursing

Postgraduate Course (120 CP)

• Advanced Nursing Practice specialisation: advanced modules focused on complex patient and family situations in your clinical context, including clinical assessment and professional communication
• Research specialisation: advanced modules focused on research methods and application, including the use of routinely collected data and large datasets for care quality and patient safety
• Leadership / collaboration: teamwork, coordination, and leadership competencies for nursing practice and research environments

Capstone / final work

Students complete a final academic component aligned with their chosen specialisation (e.g., a research-oriented thesis or an advanced practice project). The exact format and assessment requirements are set by the programme regulations for your intake.

Learning approach

The programme combines academic teaching with application in real healthcare contexts, supporting students to translate evidence into practice and to conduct or evaluate complex interventions.

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

80

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6

Other requirements

General requirements

• Persons who meet the following three requirements are admitted to the master’s degree in nursing science:

  • Swiss or foreign educational qualification recognised according to the University of Basel admission guidelines.

  • Recognised training in nursing or as a midwife (diploma or bachelor’s degree from a recognised (technical) university) to the extent of 180 ECTS.

  • At least two years of professional experience with a degree of employment of 100% (clinical practice) according to professional qualification. For part-time employment, the required time is extended proportionally.

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"Highlights"

Post-study work permit (Switzerland): After completing your MSc at a Swiss university, you may be eligible to apply for a residence permit for the purpose of employment. Eligibility depends on your job offer, qualifications, and the Swiss authorities’ assessment of labour market needs.

• Typical pathway: Apply for a residence permit tied to employment after graduation (often referred to as a post-study work or job-seeking/employment permit, depending on your situation).
• Job requirement: You generally need a concrete employment offer in Switzerland that matches your qualification level.
• Timing: Applications must be submitted within the required timeframe after graduation; you should check the deadlines with the cantonal migration office responsible for your place of residence.
• Documentation: You will typically need your degree certificate (or confirmation of completion), employment contract/job offer, proof of identity, and other standard residence documentation.
• Country-specific rules: Switzerland’s rules can vary by canton and by your nationality. Always verify the latest requirements with the relevant cantonal authority and your university’s international office.

Note: This information is general guidance and not legal advice. For the most accurate eligibility assessment, consult the University of Basel international office and the Swiss migration authority.