Austria's new training model
The so-called 2 in 1 educational model is an interesting innovation in nurse training; it aims at an efficient synthesis of theory and practice. Following a course of seven semesters, participants achieve the academic baccalaureate qualification, as well as a licence (in the form of a diploma) to practice in general healthcare.
This course was developed in joint cooperation between the Paracelsus Medical Private University Salzburg and the Rudolfinerhaus Vienna, which, with a history stretching back 125 years, is associated with one of the most well regarded schools for nurse training within the German-speaking area.
The curriculum of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing is modular and comprises general and special care (four modules), basic medical knowledge (three modules) sociology and psychology (one module), public health and management (1 module), nursing science and nursing research (five modules) a bachelor thesis as well as four obligatory work placements and three placements, which can be chosen. (The equivalent of) A-levels are a prerequisite for being accepted on the course.
This training model accommodates the requirement that the implementation of new concepts on care, advice and prevention, which are constantly being developed for nurses, is being carried out by adequately scientifically trained and practically experienced, competent staff. ‘Nurses are increasingly taking on tasks for which scientific training is essential, therefore contributing significantly to the relief and improvement of the entire healthcare system,’ said Dr Udo Zifko, Medical Director of the Rudolfinerhaus. The possible employment areas for 2 in 1 graduates are correspondingly diverse and their job prospects are therefore high.
Nurse training in the individual European Union member countries is not regulated in a standardised manner; mostly the prerequisite for admission to study is a general school leaving certificate after 10 or 12 years of school respectively, and in most countries the course ends with an academic qualification, mostly the Bachelor of Nursing.
Further details: http://www.oegkv.at/uploads/media/Pflege_Erstausbildg_EU_Tab.pdf
01.05.2009
