Comparison of Master's curriculum of pediatric nursing in Iran and United states

The purpose of most of the nursing programs is to graduate nurses who can make positive changes in the healthcare system. Comparing different educational systems may lead to the improvement in the content and quality of curriculum and considering successful curriculum around the world can establish an efficient system. This study aimed at comparing the MS curriculum in pediatric nursing in Iran and USA resulting in practical suggestions for improving the curriculum. This descriptive, analytical study was carried out in 2015. After searching the network on the master curriculum of pediatric nursing in well-known international universities, we selected John Hopkins University due to relative similarities between two courses. Both curriculums were assessed in terms of their philosophy, goals, content, and their weak, and strong points. Iran Master’s curriculum of pediatric nursing has distinctive philosophy, values, position, and career duties. The required qualification to enter the course is included having a Bachelor’s of Science degree in nursing and passing the test. In the United States interview and presenting the scores, CV, and working licensure were essential as well. Pediatric nursing course is delivered during 4 semesters in Iran. In the curriculum of the USA it is also possible to pass the course as part-time. The content of both curriculums were similar. The new pediatric nursing master’s curriculum in Iran has many strong points regarding its clinical nature. Considering the volunteers’ carrier records, interviewing participants in terms of their psychological qualification before entering the course and also delivering the course as a part-time program could be worthwhile.