What does Advanced Nursing Practice mean?

Advanced Nursing Practice (ANP) is a concept for extended and in-depth nursing activities in direct patient care. According to the definition of the International Council of Nurses (ICN), advanced practice nurses (APNs) are nursing professionals who have acquired expert knowledge, decision-making skills in complex situations and clinical competences for advanced nursing practice. The characteristics of the competences are shaped by the context and/or conditions of the country in which they are admitted to practice. A Master's degree in Nursing Science is a prerequisite.

How and in which areas do APNs work?

"APN nurses" can care for a specific patient population with complex care needs and have clinical expertise in this area. They work within a healthcare organisation (acute, long-term inpatient, outpatient or home care) with other professionals and interdisciplinary teams. They involve family carers and the wider support system. They play an important role in promoting health literacy and can also be used in highly technical settings or in health promotion and prevention. (DBfK, ÖGKV and SBK position paper on ANP, 2013)

How much can I work alongside my part-time studies?

The Master's degree programme in Nursing - ANP qualifies students for extended activities in direct care. In order to ensure a direct transfer between study and care practice, the degree programme is offered as a part-time study. We recommend an academic appointment that does not exceed 50% during the lecture period.

When do courses take place?

Courses take place on Mondays and Tuesdays in the 1st and 2nd semesters and on Wednesdays and Thursdays in the 3rd semester. In the 4th and 5th semesters, teaching takes place exclusively online. A work placement must also be completed in the 4th semester. There are no regular courses during the semester break. You can find the semester dates here.

Is there a fee for the planned Master's programme?

The consecutive degree programme is only subject to semester fees.