Creating and delivering an External Bachelor of Nursing Science course

Abstract

This paper describes the authors' experience in developing and delivering what they believe is a world first: a pre-registration external bachelor degree in nursing. The paper will explain how the authors identified the need for the course, the processes used in its development and some of the issues inherent in delivering it. The paper details the challenges faced, including cost, student recruitment and retention, package development and faculty learning. The authors also discuss the challenge of balancing the need for a comprehensive programme of clinical placement with the needs of the students, many of whom live in geographical isolation. Finally, the triumphs and positive outcomes of the authors' experience in producing this innovative course are outlined.