Oncological Nursing: Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Best Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Oct 14, 2024 10:26 IST
Parul Thapa

Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content

The Oncology Nursing course is a PG specialization pursued after completing a BSc Nursing or equivalent degree. An Oncology Nursing course is designed to equip nurses with specialized skills to care for cancer patients. The Oncology Nursing course duration is 2 years. Oncology Nursing course students also learn about patient education, emotional support, and the ethical considerations involved in oncology care. In the Oncology Nursing course, practical training is a key component, allowing nurses to gain hands-on experience in clinical settings.

Candidates must pass BSc Nursing or relevant UG courses to be eligible for the Oncology Nursing course. Admission to Oncology Nursing courses is based mainly on the AIIMS Nursing Entrance Exam. Popular colleges offering Oncology Nursing courses are AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, CMC Vellore, etc. The average Oncology Nursing course fees range between INR 350 and INR 2 Lakh.

On graduating with an Oncology Nursing course, candidates can opt for a job profile such as Staff Nurses in Oncology Units, Oncology Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists in Oncology, Nurse Educators, etc. The average salary that an Oncology Nursing course graduate can earn ranges between INR 2.5 LPA and INR 4 LPA.  

Oncology Nursing Course Details

An Oncology Nursing course is a specialised programme in Nursing in which certified nurses learn about various topics. The purpose of oncology nursing is to train a cadre of exceptionally qualified oncology nurses.

Candidates can check the table below to see the Oncology Nursing course details.

Particulars Oncology Nursing Course Details
Oncology Nursing Course Level Postgraduate
Oncology Nursing Course Duration 2 years
Oncology Nursing Course Fee INR 350 - INR 2 Lakh
Oncology Nursing Course Admission Criteria Entrance-Based
Oncology Nursing Course Eligibility Criteria BSc Nursing or relevant UG courses
Oncology Nursing Entrance Exam AIIMS MSc Nursing
Oncology Nursing Popular Colleges  AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, CMC Vellore, etc.
Oncology Nursing Job Profiles Staff Nurses in Oncology Units, Oncology Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Nurse Specialists in Oncology, Nurse Educators, etc.
Oncology Nursing Average Salary INR 2.5 LPA - INR 4 LPA
Oncology Nursing Top recruiters

Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion, Community Hospital, Apollo Hospital, Fortis, Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre, Tata Memorial Centre, LifeStance Health, Cross Country Nurses, Wellpath, etc.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Suggested Links for Oncology Nursing Courses:

GNM Nursing Admission: Application Form Date, Eligibility & Admission Process

AIIMS Nursing: Quick and Easy to Follow Preparation Tips

Why Study Oncology Nursing?

  • Impactful Patient Care: Oncology Nursing provides an opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families. 
  • Specialized Expertise: Oncology Nursing is a specialized field that requires in-depth knowledge of cancer biology, treatment modalities, symptom management, and psychosocial support. 
  • Dynamic Field: The field of Oncology Nursing is constantly evolving with advancements in cancer research, treatment modalities, and supportive care interventions. 
  • Career Opportunities: Oncology Nursing offers a wide range of career opportunities in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, infusion centres, research institutions, and hospitals.

Q:   What is Oncological Nursing course?

A:

Oncology Nursing is a specialized field that focuses on providing care to patients who are diagnosed with cancer. If you're already a registered nurse (RN), you can pursue continuing education courses or workshops in Oncology Nursing. 

Remember that Oncology Nursing requires not only clinical knowledge and technical skills but also compassion, empathy, and strong communication skills to support patients and their families through challenging times.

Continuous learning and professional development are essential for providing high-quality care in Oncology Nursing.

Q:   Which MSc Nursing is best?

A:

Candidates can check the following list to know the MSc Nursing job profiles which get the highest salary in India:

  • Paediatric Nurse

  • Staff Nurse

  • ICU Critical Nurse 

  • OT Nurse

  • Home Nurse

  • Nursing Supervisor

  • Nursing Superintendent

  • Chief Nursing Officer

Oncology Nursing Eligibility Criteria

To pursue Oncology Nursing, no specific qualifications are necessary. However, the colleges that offer Oncology Nursing have state-specific minimum requirements. The following are some of them:

  • Candidates must hold a BSc Nursing or GNM degree.
  • To be eligible for this course, you must be between the ages of 22 and 35.
  • Only registered GNM/BSc Nursing graduates who are members of the State Nursing Council are eligible.
  • Foreign applicants with all of the credentials and experience listed above and a certificate from the Indian Nursing Council confirming their eligibility are also eligible for this position.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Recommended Readings for Oncology Nursing Courses:

Top 30 Nursing Colleges in India

AIIMS Nursing Syllabus: Download the Latest Syllabus PDF

Know all about Nursing & Midwifery

Q:   How a nurse will benefit after doing an MSc Nursing?

A:

Obtaining a Master of Science in Nursing (MSc Nursing) can offer several benefits to a nurse, both in terms of career advancement and personal development. Here are some potential benefits:

  • Advanced Clinical Practice: MSc Nursing programs often provide advanced training and education in clinical practice.

  • Career Advancement: Having an MSc in Nursing can open up opportunities for career advancement.

  • Specialization: MSc Nursing programs may offer specialisation tracks in areas such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, nurse researcher, or nurse administrator. 

  • Teaching Opportunities: With an MSc in Nursing, individuals may have the opportunity to become nurse educators. 

  • Research Opportunities: Nurses with an MSc may engage in nursing research, contributing to evidence-based practice and the advancement of nursing knowledge. 

  • Increased Autonomy: Some roles, such as nurse practitioners, may allow individuals to practice with a higher degree of autonomy. 

  • Higher Earning Potential: Advanced degrees are often associated with higher earning potential. 

Q:   Can I do M.Sc Nursing without completing B.Sc Nursing?

A:

No, candidates cannot pursue an MSc Nursing without first completing a BSc Nursing, as the MSc programme builds on the foundational knowledge and skills acquired during the undergraduate nursing degree. 

The BSc Nursing provides essential clinical experience, theoretical understanding, and a nursing license, all of which are prerequisites for advanced nursing education. 

Oncological Nursing Admission 2024

Candidates can check the points below for the Oncological nursing admission process in India.

  • Complete BSc Nursing: Graduate with a BSc Nursing or equivalent degree from a recognized institution.
  • Obtain Nursing License: Register as a nurse with the State Nursing Council and obtain a valid nursing license.
  • Research Institutions: Identify colleges or universities offering PG courses in Oncology Nursing.
  • Check Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, including health standards and prior nursing experience (if applicable).
  • Entrance Exam: Prepare and appear for the entrance exam conducted by the institution or centralized nursing exams.
  • Submit Application: Fill out the application form for the course, either online or offline, following the institution’s guidelines.
  • Attend Counseling: Participate in counselling sessions or interviews for final selection (conducted by some institutes).
  • Submit Documents: Provide necessary academic and professional documents during the admission process.
  • Pay Fees: Once selected, pay the course fees to secure admission.

Q:   Is NEET required for MSc Nursing?

A:

No, NEET is not a mandatory requirement for admission to MSc Nursing programs.

NEET is typically associated with undergraduate medical and dental admissions in India. For postgraduate nursing programs like MSc Nursing, admission requirements often include a BSc Nursing course or an equivalent degree from a recognised institution, along with meeting specific eligibility criteria set by the respective universities or institutions offering the MSc Nursing program.

Oncology Nursing Entrance Exam

Several colleges offer Oncology Nursing courses majorly based on the AIIMS MSc Nursing entrance exam.   

The AIIMS MSc Nursing exam is a nationwide Nursing Entrance Test organized by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for admission to the Postgraduate level Nursing program, MSc Nursing, spanning two years. Administered online, the exam allocates seats across all seven AIIMS institutes throughout India.

Candidates can check the table below to see more details about the AIIMS MSc Nursing exam.

Entrance Exams Exam Schedule
AIIMS MSc Nursing AIIMS MSc Nursing Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Helpful Links for Oncology Nursing Courses:

What are the highest-paying nursing professions in India?

26 Nov ' 24 - 29 Nov ' 24

RUHS BSc Nursing Round-2 Counselling: Printing of...

25 Nov ' 24

RUHS BSc Nursing Round-2 Counselling: Seat Allotm...

26 Oct ' 24 - 30 Oct ' 24

JCECE Counselling Downloading of Seat Allotment L...

25 Oct ' 24

JCECE Counselling Seat Allotment

Sep '24

Indian Army BSc Nursing Exam 2024

TENTATIVE

29 Jul ' 24 - 9 Aug ' 24

Indian Army BSc Nursing Application Forms (Extend...

Mar '25 - Apr '25

AIIMS BSc (Hons.) Nursing Basic registration

TENTATIVE

Mar '25

AIIMS BSc Nursing Final Registration

TENTATIVE

Q:   Is there any entrance examination for Oncology Nursing?

A:

There is no such thing as an entrance test for oncology nursing. Candidates interested in enrolling in this programme must attend a personal interview at the right institute. Candidates for Oncology nursing in any institute are selected solely based on their performance in the personal interview. If a student is sponsored by a cancer care hospital or facility that provides treatment to cancer patients, they will be given first attention.

Oncology Nursing Syllabus

Creating a comprehensive Oncology Nursing syllabus involves covering various aspects of cancer care, including the biology of cancer, treatment modalities, symptom management, psychosocial support, and survivorship care.

Here's a general outline for an Oncology Nursing syllabus:

Oncology Nursing Semester 1
Introduction to Nursing and Oncology Nursing Basic Concepts in Cancer Biology
Cancer Epidemiology and Statistics Principles of Cancer Screening and Early Detection
Oncology Nursing Semester 2
Pathophysiology of Cancer Cancer Prevention and Health Promotion
Diagnostic Procedures in Oncology Surgical Management of Cancer
Oncology Nursing Semester 3
Principles of Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy Nursing Management of Chemotherapy Side Effects
Management of Radiation Therapy Side Effects Pain Management in Oncology
Oncology Nursing Semester 4
Nausea and Vomiting Management Fatigue Management
Management of Neuropathy and Dermatological Side Effects Palliative Care Principles
Oncology Nursing Semester 5
Advances in Cancer Research and Treatment Immunotherapy and Nursing Implications
Precision Medicine in Oncology Nursing Integrative Oncology Approaches
Oncology Nursing Semester 6
Clinical Practicum in Oncology Settings Case Studies in Oncology Nursing
Role of the Oncology Nurse in Multidisciplinary Teams Patient Education and Health Promotion in Oncology

Useful Links for Oncology Nursing Courses:

Nursing Courses After 12th for Arts and Commerce Aspirants

ANM Vs GNM Vs BSc Nursing: Which Course is the Best after Class 12?

Q:   Is NEET required for MSc Nursing?

A:

No, NEET is not a mandatory requirement for admission to MSc Nursing programs.

NEET is typically associated with undergraduate medical and dental admissions in India. For postgraduate nursing programs like MSc Nursing, admission requirements often include a BSc Nursing course or an equivalent degree from a recognised institution, along with meeting specific eligibility criteria set by the respective universities or institutions offering the MSc Nursing program.

Q:   Is MSc Nursing easy or difficult?

A:

A career as an MSc in Nursing graduate is difficult and full of hurdles. They must have the necessary abilities and aptitude to succeed in this capacity. For instance, assisting doctors in difficult situations necessitates that nurses be similarly skilled. Their career is more than merely acquiring a job after finishing a two-year degree programme.

Moreover, the adjective 'hard' is a subjective one. There are numerous nursing specialities for which you can consider obtaining a master's degree. Why not become a nurse if you are clinically focused and have a strong desire to help people?

Q:   Is MSc Nursing better than BSc Nursing?

A:

If MSc Nursing is better than a BSc Nursing depends on one's career aspirations. If candidates want to work as a registered nurse and enter the workforce relatively quickly, a BSc may be sufficient.

However, if one have ambitions for advanced practice, leadership, or specialised roles within Nursing, or if one has a strong interest in Nursing research and education, then pursuing an MSc Nursing can be a valuable investment in one's long-term career. Ultimately, people's choice should align with their personal and professional goals.

Best Colleges for Oncology Nursing

Several prestigious institutions offer Oncology Nursing courses. These institutions provide rigorous training and exposure to clinical settings in Oncology, preparing nurses to deliver specialized care to cancer patients.

It's advisable to research each institution's curriculum, faculty expertise, and clinical facilities to determine which one aligns best with your career goals in Oncology Nursing.

Here are some of the top colleges in India known for their quality education and clinical exposure, which can be beneficial for those interested in Oncology Nursing.

Best Government Colleges for Oncology Nursing 

These government colleges are known for their rigorous academic programs, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, providing students with comprehensive training in Oncology Nursing.

Here are some top government colleges for Oncology Nursing in India:

Oncology Nursing Colleges Oncology Nursing Course Fees
AIIMS Delhi 1,400 
AIIMS Jodhpur 2,930
MUHS 1 Lakh
Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences 2 Lakh

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Recommended Oncology Nursing Courses topics:

What qualifications are required to become a Nurse?

BSc Nursing Admission: Application Form, Exam Dates, Eligibility Criteria, Entrance Exams

Best Private Colleges for Oncology Nursing 

These private colleges are known for their quality education, experienced faculty, and modern facilities, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in Oncology Nursing.

Here are some top private colleges for Oncology Nursing in India:

Oncology Nursing Colleges Oncology Nursing Course Fees
CMC Vellore 350

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

9 Courses
1.12 L - 5.84 L
3.6 - 4 LPA
13 Courses
50 K - 4.5 L
4.6
80 K
5.0
1 Course
5.08 L
4.3
1 Course
38.32 K
5.0
35 K - 6 L
2.85 - 5.95 LPA

Q:   Need M.Sc. NURSING at distance in IGNOU.

A:

Unfortunately, MSc Nursing is not offered by IGNOU. However, there are other Health Science courses offered by IGNOU such as:

  • Post-Graduate Diploma in HIV Medicine (PGDHIVM)

  • Post-Graduate Diploma in Hospital and Health Management (PGDHHM)

  • Post-Graduate Diploma in Maternal and Child Health (PGDMCH )

  • Post-Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (PGDGM)

  • BSc Nursing (Post Basic) (BScN (PB)

  • Diploma in Nursing Administration (DNA)

  • Diploma in Critical Care Nursing (DCCN)

  • Certificate in First Aid (CFAID)

  • Certificate in Community Health (BPCCHN/CCH)

  • Certificate in Adolescent Health and Counselling. (CAHC)

  • Certificate in Maternal and Child Health Nursing (CMCHN)

  • Certificate in Newborn & Infant Nursing (CNIN)

  • Certificate in Home-Based Health Care (CHBHC)

  • Certificate in Health Care Waste Management (CHCWM)

  • Certificate in General Duty Assistance (CGDA)

  • Certificate in Phlebotomy Assistance (CPHA)

  • Certificate in Home Health Assistance (CHHA)

  • Certificate in Geriatric Care Assistance (CGCA)

  • Certificate Programme in YOGA (CPY)

  • Post Graduate Certificate in Medical Management of CBRNE Disasters (PGCMDM)

Q:   Is studying Nursing expensive in India?

A:

Given below are the best Nursing colleges in India in different fee ranges:

Fee RangeNo. of CollegesPopular Colleges
Free4LNCT University, AIIMS Rishikesh, Coursera, Alison, etc.
< INR 1 lakh300+JIPMER Pududcherry, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Armed Forces Medical College, etc.
INR 1-2 lakh400+Amity University Gurugram, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Parul University, etc.
INR 2-3 lakh500+Amity University Gurugram, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Parul University, etc.
INR 3-5 lakh300+Galgotias University, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Parul University, etc.
> INR 5 lakh 100+Amity University Gurugram, NIMS Nursing College, Sharda School of Nursing Science & Research, etc.

Hope this solved your query!

Popular Private Oncological Nursing Colleges in India

8 Courses
1.8 L - 5.6 L
4.5
74 K - 2.49 L

Nursing Applications open. Apply Now

9 Courses
1.12 L - 5.84 L
3.6 - 4 LPA
8 Courses
2.2 L - 5.56 L
7.55 LPA
9 Courses

Nursing Applications open. Apply Now

2 Courses
2 L - 6 L

Nursing Applications open. Apply Now

Oncology Nursing Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Oncology Nursing in India offers a promising career path with increasing opportunities and demand. With the increasing incidence of cancer in India, there is a rising demand for skilled Oncology nurses to provide comprehensive care to cancer patients across various healthcare settings.

Further, advancements in cancer treatment modalities and healthcare technology create opportunities for oncology nurses to stay updated with the latest treatments, therapies, and supportive care interventions.

In conclusion, the career scope after Oncology Nursing in India is promising, with abundant opportunities for professional growth, specialization, and making a positive impact on cancer care delivery. As the field continues to evolve, Oncology Nursing graduates play an essential role in addressing the complex needs of cancer patients and improving outcomes across the cancer care continuum.

Suggested Read for Oncology Nursing Courses:

Read about Optometry

List of Nursing Entrance Exams in India

Know more about Psychiatric Nursing

Oncology Nursing Salary in India

The salary of Oncology nurses in India can vary based on several factors, including their qualifications, experience, location, employer, and specific job responsibilities.

While exact figures may fluctuate, here's a general overview of the salary range for oncology nurses in India along with the job profiles offered:

Oncology Nursing Jobs

Description

Oncology Nursing Salary

Staff Nurses in Oncology Units This is the entry-level position where nurses provide direct patient care in oncology units of hospitals or cancer centres.  INR 3.1 LPA
Oncology Nurse Practitioners With additional education and training, oncology nurses can become nurse practitioners specializing in Oncology.  INR 4 LPA
Clinical Nurse Specialists in Oncology Clinical nurse specialists focus on a specific area within Oncology, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or palliative care. INR 4 LPA
Nurse Educators Oncology nurses can work as educators, teaching nursing students or conducting training programs for practising nurses on oncology care, treatment modalities, symptom management, and patient education. INR 4 LPA
Home Health Care Nurses Oncology nurses may work in home health care settings, providing specialized nursing care to cancer patients who receive treatment at home or require post-treatment support and monitoring. INR 2.5 LPA

Note: The average salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

Suggested Oncology Nursing Courses Reading:

Top-Ranked Medical Colleges in India

AIIMS BSc Nursing: Exam Date (Out), Registration Started, Syllabus, Pattern 

Oncology Nursing Top Recruiters

Some prominent hospitals and healthcare organizations known for their oncology departments could be good places to start. Oncology Nursing students can grab massive opportunities in the following areas of recruitment:

Oncology Nursing Top Recruiters
Ocala Regional Medical Center West Marion Community Hospital Apollo Hospital
Fortis Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre
Tata Memorial Centre LifeStance Health
Cross Country Nurses Wellpath

Helpful Links for Oncology Nursing Courses:

Know more about Neurophysiology

Know all about Neuropsychology

Q:   How long does it take to become an Oncology Nurse?

A:

Nurses working in Oncology nursing and affiliated with cancer research centres/medical colleges/cancer centres are expected to put in an average of 8 to 10 hours of labour each week.

However, the amount of time spent working for a given company will vary. According to criteria such as job kind, location, and more, the amount of time spent at the office varies. Overtime work, on the other hand, maybe necessary.

Q:   Is Oncology Nursing career for both males and females?

A:

The majority of roles in nursing are held by women. Fewer male students are taking this subject than female students. However, it may be used by both genders. The number of male Oncology nurses has increased in recent years.

Q:   How to become an Oncology Clinical Nurse?

A:

To become an oncology nurse, students must be prepared to care for cancer patients at a hospital or cancer centre. They used to keep an eye on the patients, check on their health, and document their daily progress in accordance with standard procedures.

Q:   Is the salary package for an Oncology Nurse good?

A:

The salary package for an Oncology nurse in India is generally considered competitive, especially in specialized healthcare settings like cancer hospitals and large medical institutions.

While entry-level salaries may start around INR 3 to INR 5 LPA, experienced oncology nurses or those working in top-tier hospitals can earn higher packages, often ranging from INR 6 to INR 10 LPA or more. The demand for oncology nurses is increasing due to the rise in cancer cases, which further enhances job prospects and potential earnings.

Oncological Nursing FAQs

Candidates can refer below for Oncological Nursing course FAQs.

Q:   What is the scope of Oncology Nursing?

A:

In the field of oncology nursing, there are several chances and possibilities. People living with cancer are on the rise in India and worldwide. As a result, there is a significant need for qualified applicants and nurses in this industry. Oncology nursing graduates have several job prospects in the public and commercial sectors, including national and international cancer research institutions, colleges, cancer centres, and hospitals.

Q:   Is studying Nursing expensive in India?

A:

Given below are the best Nursing colleges in India in different fee ranges:

Fee RangeNo. of CollegesPopular Colleges
Free4LNCT University, AIIMS Rishikesh, Coursera, Alison, etc.
< INR 1 lakh300+JIPMER Pududcherry, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Armed Forces Medical College, etc.
INR 1-2 lakh400+Amity University Gurugram, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Parul University, etc.
INR 2-3 lakh500+Amity University Gurugram, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Parul University, etc.
INR 3-5 lakh300+Galgotias University, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Parul University, etc.
> INR 5 lakh 100+Amity University Gurugram, NIMS Nursing College, Sharda School of Nursing Science & Research, etc.

Hope this solved your query!

Popular Oncological Nursing PG Courses

Following are the most popular Oncological Nursing PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 months ago

Oncology Nursing is a specialized field that focuses on providing care to patients who are diagnosed with cancer. If you're already a registered nurse (RN), you can pursue continuing education courses or workshops in Oncology Nursing. 

Remember that Oncology Nursing requires not only clinical knowled

...more

P

Parul Thapa

Contributor-Level 10