The College of Medicine and Health Sciences at the Arabian Gulf University (AGU) organised personal interviews over two consecutive days for students applying to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme for the 2024-2025 academic year for Bahraini nationals. This is a new four-year academic programme.

The interview committees assessed the applicants’ capabilities and skills, as well as the suitability of their personalities for nursing studies. They also evaluated the candidates’ understanding of the nature of the profession and the challenges faced by nursing students and healthcare professionals, with approximately 360 students competing for admission to the programme.

Dr Abdelhalim Abdelfattah Deifalla, Dean of College of Medicine and Health Sciences, explained that the Bachelor of Science in Nursing programme aims to develop leadership skills and research abilities among accepted students, while also focusing on enhancing their clinical skills. 

“Graduates will be prepared to take on leadership roles in the nursing profession and contribute to the advancement of nursing practice through evidence-based research,” he explained. 

Moreover, he emphasised the shift towards person-centred healthcare, which requires building new competencies for graduates to achieve this in various healthcare settings.

On her part, Dr Hawazen Rawas, Programme Head, noted that this programme is designed to meet the demand for skilled nurses to provide healthcare services at different levels. 

“Its curriculum emphasises both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to tackle the complex healthcare challenges facing the region. The curriculum also considers the unique cultural and health considerations of the GCC region, preparing graduates to provide quality care to patients from diverse cultural backgrounds,” she said.

Dr Rawas pointed out that the launch of the programme is a significant step toward enhancing the quality of health education in the region and producing specialised professionals who will contribute to improving healthcare services.   

She further explained, “Nursing is one of the most critical pillars of the health system, as the success and quality of health services depend on the competence of nurses This programme is part of the university’s vision to support sustainable health development goals and contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals in the GCC.”

Dr Rawas added: “The future of the nursing profession in the GCC is promising, with increasing job opportunities due to the expansion of the health sector and growing demand for specialised care. By investing in nursing education, AGU aims to be part of the solution to health challenges and develop professionals capable of providing humane and high-quality care.”