Comparative Study of Master’s Critical Care Nursing Program in Iran and Melbourne, Australia and Strategies for Promotion in Iran

Introduction: Nowadays, comparative studies are considered by researchers as one of the best research methods in educational affairs and planning, because the differences and similarities of educational systems are studied in order to explore strengths and weaknesses. Objectives: This study aimed to compare master's degree curriculum of the Iranian critical care nursing with the Australian Melbourne School of Nursing. Methods: In this descriptive-comparative study conducted in Semnan University of Medical Sciences in 2019, the required data on the latest master's degree curriculum of critical care nursing was acquired through internet search and a review of the history and details of the curriculum in Iran and faculty of nursing in Australia. The data were analyzed using Bereday’s model in four stages: description, interpretation, juxta position and comparison. Findings: Master's degree curriculum of the critical care nursing in Iran has defined philosophy, values, position. The requirements for entering the course in Iran are having a bachelor's degree, clinical experience and passing the entrance exam. In Australia, in addition to these, it is essential to have a certificate of first-aid training course and language proficiency. In Australia, unlike in Iran, there is also the possibility of part-time courses. On the other hand, although these graduates don’t pass the teaching methods courses, they are employed as faculty members in educational centers and universities. Conclusion: Using a part time methods for admitting student, designing an educational program for training teachers, providing complementary curricula to the needs of the community and common diseases in the service place are offered to improve master of critical care nursing program in Iran.