Nursing education in Oman has undergone remarkable transformation over the past few decades. What once began with basic nursing training has now developed into internationally recognized Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. This reflects Oman’s vision of strengthening its healthcare system and preparing highly skilled professionals to meet both local and global healthcare demands.
Today, nursing colleges across the country are not just academic institutions—they are hubs of research, innovation, and practical training. They contribute significantly to the nation’s Omanization goals, ensure equitable access to education in multiple regions, and uphold international standards of healthcare training.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 nursing colleges in Oman, with details about their location, year of establishment, and the unique factors that make them stand out. Each institution’s profile includes five key highlights to give you a clearer picture of their strengths, along with direct website links for further exploration.
1. Sultan Qaboos University – College of Nursing
Established: 1986 (University) | 2008 (College of Nursing)
Website: www.squ.edu.om/nursing
This is Oman’s pioneer in nursing education, being the first to launch a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. It remains the benchmark for academic excellence in the country and is known for producing highly qualified graduates.
Why It Stands Out (Highlights):
First institution in Oman to introduce the BSN program.
Offers advanced nursing pathways, including postgraduate studies.
Provides modern simulation labs for clinical skill development.
Accredited with international standards for nursing education.
Strong culture of healthcare research and innovation.
2. Oman College of Health Sciences
Established: 2018 (by Royal Decree, merging Ministry of Health institutes)
Website: www.ochs.edu.om
Formed through the unification of several regional nursing institutes, this college ensures that nursing education is accessible across Oman. With branches in Muscat, Suhar, Sur, and Ibra, it has a strong nationwide presence.
Why It Stands Out (Highlights):
Wide regional network of campuses serving different parts of Oman.
Provides integrated programs from foundation courses to BSN.
Ensures fair access to higher education for aspiring nurses.
Plays a major role in Omanization by preparing local nurses.
Backed and supervised directly by the Ministry of Health.
3. University of Nizwa
Established: 2004
Website: www.unizwa.edu.om
This university is Oman’s first non-profit higher education institution. It offers nursing programs under its College of Health Sciences, blending quality academics with a community-centered mission.
Why It Stands Out (Highlights):
Operates as a non-profit university, prioritizing education over profit.
Nursing is taught as part of a comprehensive health sciences framework.
Known for strong student support and developmental programs.
Holds a solid regional reputation for academic quality.
Promotes community-based healthcare and outreach initiatives.
4. National University of Science & Technology
Established: 2001 (as Oman Medical College) | 2018 (merged into private university)
Website: www.nu.edu.om
Originally founded as a dedicated medical college, this institution later merged into a broader private university. Its medical heritage ensures strong foundations for nursing and health sciences programs.
Why It Stands Out (Highlights):
Originated as a specialized medical institution, giving it credibility.
Nursing programs designed with a modern, globally aligned curriculum.
Maintains partnerships with international universities.
Offers flexibility through private-sector governance and innovation.
Actively contributes to nursing research and academic publications.
5. Sohar University
Established: 2001
Website: www.soharuni.edu.om
Located in Sohar, this university is steadily becoming a regional hub for nursing and health sciences. It provides career-focused programs that meet Oman’s growing demand for healthcare professionals.
Why It Stands Out (Highlights):
Plays a vital role in training nurses for the Sohar and North Batinah region.
Offers accredited programs with increasing international recognition.
Expanding health sciences faculty to meet demand.
Tailors programs toward Oman’s specific workforce needs.
Included in global rankings for its nursing programs.
Comparison Table
Conclusion
Nursing colleges in Oman are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s healthcare future. Each of these top institutions contributes in its own way—through history, accessibility, regional presence, innovation, or global recognition. Collectively, they form a strong ecosystem for nursing education, ensuring that aspiring nurses not only receive quality training but also contribute meaningfully to Oman’s healthcare system.
By offering a mix of academic rigor, practical training, and community service, these colleges are producing professionals who are well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. Together, they reflect Oman’s vision of a stronger, healthier future, powered by a skilled and compassionate nursing workforce.
Manoj Kumar
Digital Marketing Specialist
Kandra Digital
