English 
Deutsch Who is the Master’s Programme in Nursing Science at the University of Witten/Herdecke Suitable for?
The Master’s programme in Nursing Science is aimed at nursing professionals, midwives, and graduates from other health-related degree programmes who seek a scientific deepening and specialisation in nursing. It particularly addresses individuals who wish to take responsibility for the further development of nursing practice and nursing research – for example, in leadership positions, as nursing experts, or in the academic field. The programme is recommended for professionals from the fields of health and (paediatric) nursing, elderly care, and midwifery who already hold a relevant university degree and want to purposefully continue their career in nursing or science.
What Formal Requirements Apply for Admission?
To be admitted to the Master’s programme in Nursing Science, you need:
- a professional qualification in nursing (health and nursing care, health and paediatric nursing, elderly care) or as a midwife
- and a completed nursing science degree (e.g. Bachelor’s, university of applied sciences diploma in nursing science, nursing education, nursing management or midwifery science) or a completed degree in a subject relevant to nursing science such as sociology, psychology, social work or public health
The final certificate of the first degree may, in exceptional cases, be submitted after the start of the studies within the first semester.
A personal selection procedure takes place, in which—besides the formal requirements—motivation, attitude and development potential are also assessed.
Which Personal Qualities Make You Well-Suited for the Master’s in Nursing Science?
You should enjoy scientific analysis and questioning existing nursing practice. Independent working, communication skills and the willingness to develop innovative approaches are just as important as the ability to reflect and ethical sensitivity. Interest in interprofessional collaboration, openness to new research perspectives and the ability to engage in collegial discussion are prerequisites for the programme. Initial experience in nursing-related project work and organisational development is also advantageous.
Detailed Course Contents
In the Master’s programme in Nursing Science at the University of Witten/Herdecke, you acquire comprehensive knowledge in key areas of nursing research and nursing practice. The course places an emphasis on the connection between scientific work, evidence-based practice, and personal development.
- Nursing Theory and Nursing Across the Lifespan: You engage intensively with the theoretical foundations of nursing and analyse nursing tasks across different life stages.
- Research Competence: Both qualitative and quantitative research methods are taught. You learn to develop practice-relevant questions, investigate them systematically, and transfer findings into practice.
- Scientific Working: The programme strengthens your ability to write scientific texts, critically evaluate literature, and structure projects.
- Ethics and Science Communication: You reflect on fundamental ethical questions in nursing and improve your skills in science communication and project management.
- Knowledge Circulation and Practice Development: The focus is on the application and dissemination of knowledge within practice teams. You have the opportunity to specialise in either “Practice Development” or “Nursing Research.”
- Interprofessional Learning: Exchange with students from fields such as psychology, medicine, and dentistry fosters interdisciplinary skills.
The programme is designed to prepare you to recognise urgent practical problems, question routines, and actively further develop nursing.
Course Structure
The Master’s degree programme in Nursing Science comprises four semesters full-time (120 ECTS) and combines online study elements with on-site phases.
- Mode of Study: Predominantly online (usually three days per week), supplemented by monthly on-campus weeks at the University of Witten/Herdecke.
- Small Groups: Limiting the cohort to 25 students per year allows intensive exchange, close supervision, and a communal learning environment.
- Practical Modules: In the 3rd semester you complete an orientation internship (60 hours), followed in the 4th semester by a core internship (240 hours), which can also take place abroad.
- Studium fundamentale: Additional seminars on personal development and interdisciplinary skills are a compulsory part of the curriculum.
This structure facilitates a flexible and practice-oriented programme that is compatible with professional commitments.
Career Prospects & Employment Opportunities
With the completion of the Master of Science in Nursing Science, various professional and scientific career paths are open to you:
- Leadership in Nursing Practice and Management: Roles as Advanced Practice Nurse, in nursing management, or as practice developer within healthcare institutions.
- Research: Participation and leadership in research institutes or projects, development of innovative care models, as well as work in research-related institutions.
- Teaching and Academia: Teaching assignments at (technical) universities, especially in dual study programmes; facilitated access to doctoral studies and an academic career.
- Consulting and Associations: Employment in ministries, associations, consulting firms, sponsors, and organisations within the healthcare sector.
- International Perspectives: Work in development cooperation, international organisations or universities abroad.
The degree is particularly in demand as highly qualified nursing scientists are needed in healthcare for innovation, management and academic advancement.
Study Location
The Nursing Science programme is offered at the campus of the University of Witten/Herdecke in Witten (North Rhine-Westphalia). The course combines online teaching with on-site weeks in Witten. The modern campus provides a personal learning atmosphere and enables close contact with lecturers as well as exchange in small groups. Practical modules can be completed at cooperating healthcare institutions both domestically and abroad.
Costs and Financing
The total tuition fee for the Master’s degree programme in Nursing Science at the University of Witten/Herdecke amounts to €19,848. The university offers a special financing option called the Reverse Generation Contract (Umgekehrter Generationenvertrag, UGV): You can study first and repay the tuition fees later, based on your income after graduation. There are no additional costs if the programme exceeds the standard duration (additional semesters up to twice the standard duration are free of charge). Individual scholarships and other financing models are also available. This ensures equal opportunities regardless of your financial starting position.
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