GNM Nursing Course: Eligibility, Fees, Subjects, Career & More

GNM Nursing Course: Eligibility, Fees, Subjects, Career & More

Introduction to GNM Nursing Course

The General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) course is a popular diploma program in the field of nursing. It prepares students to become professional nurses who can work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The course focuses on patient care, medical assistance, and midwifery (childbirth-related care). It is an ideal choice for those who are passionate about serving people and want to build a career in the healthcare sector.

What is GNM Nursing?

GNM Nursing is a three-and-a-half-year diploma program that trains students in clinical nursing, midwifery, and community healthcare. The program includes three years of academic learning and six months of internship to provide hands-on experience in hospitals and healthcare centers.

Why Choose GNM Nursing?

• High Demand – Nursing professionals are always in demand in India and abroad.
• Job Security – Healthcare jobs are stable and secure.
• Affordable Course – Compared to MBBS or B.Sc. Nursing, GNM is more affordable.
• Quick Entry into the Workforce – A diploma takes less time than a degree.
• Opportunities Abroad – GNM nurses can work in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Eligibility Criteria for GNM Nursing

To apply for the GNM Nursing course, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Educational Qualification:

• Must have passed 10+2 (Intermediate) with Science, Arts, or Commerce from a recognized board.
• Some institutes prefer students with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).
• Must have scored at least 40-50% marks (varies by college).

Age Limit:

• The minimum age requirement is 17 years.
• The maximum age limit is 35 years.

Other Requirements:

• Candidates should be medically fit.
• Some institutes conduct entrance exams or interviews.

GNM Nursing Course Duration

The total duration of the GNM course is 3.5 years, which includes:

• 3 years of theoretical and practical learning.
• 6 months of internship in hospitals and healthcare centers.

GNM Nursing Course Fees in India

The fees for the GNM Nursing course depend on the type of institute:

• Government Colleges: Approximate fees range from INR 10,000 to INR 50,000 per year.
• Private Colleges: Approximate fees range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,50,000 per year.
• Government colleges offer lower fees with good education.
• Private colleges may have higher fees but provide better infrastructure.
• Scholarships are available for meritorious and economically weak students.

GNM Nursing Subjects & Syllabus

The GNM Nursing syllabus is divided into three years. The subjects include theory, practicals, and clinical training.

Year-wise Subjects

First Year:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Microbiology
• Fundamentals of Nursing
• First Aid
• Psychology
• Sociology

Second Year:

• Medical-Surgical Nursing I
• Medical-Surgical Nursing II
• Pharmacology
• Orthopedic Nursing
• Communicable Diseases
• Nutrition & Dietetics

Third Year:

• Midwifery & Gynecological Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Community Health Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Leadership & Professional Trends

Internship (6 Months):

• Practical training in hospitals
• Maternity and Child Healthcare
• Community Healthcare programs

Career Opportunities After GNM Nursing

After completing the GNM course, students can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and community health centers.

Job Roles After GNM Nursing

1. Staff Nurse – Works in hospitals providing patient care.
2. Home Nurse – Offers medical care at home.
3. Community Health Worker – Works in rural and urban healthcare programs.
4. Midwife – Provides maternal and newborn care.
5. ICU Nurse – Works in critical care units.
6. Operation Theatre (OT) Assistant – Assists in surgeries.
7. Nursing Tutor – Teaches in nursing colleges.

Government Jobs for GNM Nurses

• AIIMS, ESIC, Railways, and State Health Departments regularly recruit GNM nurses.
• Candidates must clear government exams like AIIMS NORCET, State PSC, or NHM recruitment exams.
• Salary for government nurses starts at INR 30,000 – INR 60,000 per month.

Private Sector Jobs for GNM Nurses

• Private hospitals, nursing homes, and healthcare startups hire GNM nurses.
• Private sector salaries range from INR 15,000 – INR 40,000 per month, depending on experience.

Higher Studies After GNM Nursing

After GNM, students can pursue higher education to improve career prospects:

• Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing (P.B. B.Sc.) – A 2-year degree course for GNM graduates.
• B.Sc. Nursing (Lateral Entry) – Allows direct entry into the second year of B.Sc. Nursing.
• M.Sc. Nursing – For those interested in teaching and research.
• Specialization Courses – Critical Care Nursing, Cardiac Nursing, etc.

Salary of GNM Nurses in India & Abroad

• Freshers: Salary in India – INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 | Salary Abroad – $2,000 to $3,500
• 2-5 Years Experience: Salary in India – INR 25,000 to INR 40,000 | Salary Abroad – $3,500 to $5,000
• 5+ Years Experience: Salary in India – INR 40,000+ | Salary Abroad – $5,000 to $7,000

Top Colleges for GNM Nursing in India

Some of the best colleges offering GNM courses in India:

• All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) – Various locations
• Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
• Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune
• Government Medical Colleges in Various States
• Apollo School of Nursing, Hyderabad

FAQs – GNM (General Nursing and Midwifery) Nursing Course in India

1Q: What is the GNM Nursing course?

Ans: GNM stands for General Nursing and Midwifery. It is a diploma course that trains students to take care of sick people and mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. It focuses on practical skills, patient care, and community health.

2Q: How long is the GNM course?

Ans: The GNM course usually takes 3 years, followed by a 6-month internship. So, the total duration is 3.5 years including hospital training.

3Q: Who can apply for the GNM Nursing course?

Ans: You can apply for GNM Nursing if:

1. You have completed 12th standard in any stream (preferably with Science).
2. You scored at least 40-50% marks in your 12th exams.
3. You are at least 17 years old at the time of admission.

4Q: What subjects will I study in GNM Nursing?

Ans: The GNM course includes subjects like:

1. Fundamentals of Nursing
2. First Aid
3. Medical-Surgical Nursing
4. Midwifery and Gynecology
5. Community Health Nursing
6. Child Health Nursing
7. Mental Health Nursing
8. Nutrition
9. Anatomy and Physiology

5Q: How much is the course fee for GNM Nursing?

Ans: The fees depend on whether you study in a government or private college:

1. Government Colleges: ₹15,000 to ₹50,000 per year
2. Private Colleges: ₹80,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year

Some colleges also offer scholarships or fee waivers based on merit or reservation categories.

6Q: What jobs can I get after doing the GNM course?

Ans: After completing the GNM course, you can work as:

1. Staff Nurse
2. Community Health Worker
3. Home Care Nurse
4. Ward Supervisor
5. School Health Nurse
6. Assistant Nurse in government or private hospitals

7Q: What is the starting salary for GNM nurses in India?

Ans: Fresh GNM nurses in India usually earn between ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 per month. With more experience or if you work in private hospitals or abroad, the salary can increase.

8Q: Can I study further after GNM Nursing?

Ans: Yes, after GNM you can go for:

1. Post Basic B.Sc Nursing (2 years)
2. Later, you can even do M.Sc Nursing or courses in Hospital Management or Nursing Education.

9Q: Is the GNM course only for girls?

Ans: No. Both male and female candidates can join the GNM course. Nursing is open to all, and male nurses are also needed in many hospitals and health services.

10Q: Is the GNM course recognised in India?

Ans: Yes. The GNM course is recognised by the Indian Nursing Council (INC) and State Nursing Councils. You must ensure your college is also approved by these councils.

Conclusion

GNM Nursing is an excellent career option for students who want to work in the healthcare industry. With high demand, job security, and opportunities for growth, this course offers a bright future. Whether you choose to work in India or abroad, GNM Nursing can be a stepping stone to a successful career in healthcare.

If you are passionate about helping others and want a rewarding profession, GNM Nursing is the right choice for you!​​​​​​​​​​