An intensive 18-month advanced specialisation programme for practising Registered Nurses — deepening clinical expertise, leadership capacity, and evidence-based practice in preparation for senior healthcare roles.
The Post-Basic Nursing programme is designed exclusively for Registered Nurses (RNs) who wish to expand their clinical knowledge and advance their professional standing. Over 18 intensive months, participants build deep expertise in a specialisation area, develop leadership and management skills, and engage with current evidence-based practice research.
This programme bridges the gap between entry-level nursing practice and senior clinical leadership. Graduates emerge equipped for charge nurse, unit manager, clinical educator, and supervisory roles in Nigeria's public and private healthcare sectors. No JAMB or UTME is required — entry is based on your existing RN qualification and O'Level credentials.
Holders of an NMCN-recognised RN certificate currently practising or seeking to return to active clinical practice.
Nurses who have been in practice for 1–2 years and want to move into supervisory, charge nurse, or specialist clinical roles.
Practising nurses who need a flexible, structured programme that accommodates their existing clinical commitments.
Nigerian nurses seeking to strengthen their credentials for international employment, postgraduate study, or professional migration.
Post-Basic Nursing entry is for qualified Registered Nurses — no JAMB required
18 months of intensive, clinically-grounded advanced nursing education
| Grade | Score Range | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Pass | 50 – 100% | Pass |
| Fail | 0 – 49% | Fail — Resit Required |
Students who fail a unit may be permitted to resit once before the end of the programme. Repeated failure may result in programme termination.
Upon completion of the Post-Basic Nursing programme, graduates receive a Post-Basic Nursing Certificate issued by SCNS and recognised by the NMCN, enabling progression into senior clinical and administrative roles.
Post-Basic certificates from accredited institutions are recognised by NMCN and count toward continuing professional development (CPD) requirements for licence renewal.
Attend all modules, complete assignments, and pass continuous assessments with the required minimum scores.
Present and defend your applied nursing research project before the departmental panel for final assessment.
Successfully complete the supervised final clinical practicum hours in an affiliated hospital setting.
Pass all final written and practical professional examinations administered by SCNS and overseen by NMCN.
Receive your SCNS-issued Post-Basic Nursing Certificate, recognised by NMCN for professional advancement and CPD.
Post-Basic Nursing opens doors to senior roles across every healthcare sector
ICU, HDU, and critical care nursing requiring advanced monitoring, ventilator management, and emergency intervention skills.
Ward leadership, staff rostering, quality monitoring, and management of nursing teams in hospital settings.
Teaching, mentoring, and supervising student nurses and junior staff in hospital and academic settings.
Advanced roles in A&E, operating theatres, and peri-operative care requiring specialist post-basic training.
Whether you are starting out in nursing or building on an existing career, SCNS has a programme for every stage of your journey.
"The nurses who go furthest are those who never stop learning — Post-Basic is where your career takes its next leap."
Post-Basic Nursing at SCNS is open to all qualified Registered Nurses. No JAMB required. Apply through our portal today and begin your advanced nursing journey.