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Add to CartNursing Education Market
By Type;
Associate Degree (AD), Baccalaureate Degree (BS) and DiplomaBy Mode of Education;
On-Campus, Distance and OnlineBy Courses;
Post Graduate and GraduateBy Application;
Conventional Universities and Nursing Programs in CollegesBy End-User;
Hospitals and Home Healthcare ServicesBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Introduction
Global Nursing Education Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Nursing Education Market was valued at USD 10,530.97 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 13,307.97 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.4%.
Nursing Education Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 3.4 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 3.4 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 10,530.97 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 13,307.97 Million |
| Market Concentration | High |
| Report Pages | 328 |
Major Players
- AIIMS
- Duke University
- Jamia Hamdard
- Johns Hopkins University
- Kings College London
- Midamerica Nazarene University School
- NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing
- The University of Tokyo
- The University of Wollongong
- University of California
- University of Manchester
- University of Maryland School of Nursing
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Nursing Education Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The global nursing education market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and the growing recognition of nursing as a vital pillar within healthcare systems. As healthcare systems worldwide become more complex, the need for well-trained and highly skilled nursing professionals has intensified. This has led to greater emphasis on formal nursing education programs, ranging from diploma courses to advanced degrees such as Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and doctoral programs. These educational programs are designed not only to equip nurses with clinical skills but also to develop critical thinking, leadership, and research capabilities.
A key factor propelling the growth of the global nursing education market is the global nursing shortage, which has prompted governments and healthcare institutions to invest in training and upskilling the nursing workforce. Additionally, the expansion of healthcare infrastructure, particularly in developing and emerging economies, has further fueled the demand for qualified nurses. To meet these growing demands, educational institutions are increasing their capacity, enhancing curriculum standards, and incorporating technology-based learning tools such as simulation labs, virtual classrooms, and online modules. These innovations have made nursing education more accessible and effective, especially in remote or underserved areas.
Moreover, the increasing integration of digital technologies and e-learning platforms into nursing curricula has transformed the traditional education model. Online education and hybrid learning models have gained traction, allowing greater flexibility for working professionals and students in geographically distant regions. This shift has also encouraged international collaborations and partnerships between academic institutions, fostering the exchange of knowledge, faculty, and resources across borders. As a result, students are gaining exposure to diverse healthcare practices and global standards, improving the overall quality of nursing education.
Looking ahead, the global nursing education market is poised for continued expansion, supported by ongoing investments in education infrastructure, curriculum modernization, and policy reforms. Challenges such as faculty shortages, high tuition costs, and regional disparities in educational quality still persist, but they also present opportunities for innovation and strategic partnerships. The future of nursing education will likely be shaped by a combination of technological advancements, interdisciplinary learning, and increased focus on specialized areas such as geriatric care, mental health, and community health. As healthcare continues to evolve, nursing education will play a pivotal role in preparing professionals to meet the dynamic needs of global health systems.
Nursing Education Market Key Takeaways
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The global Nursing Education Market was valued at approximately USD 26.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach around USD 49.4 billion by 2034.
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Growth is driven by increasing demand for skilled nursing professionals, rising prevalence of chronic diseases and aging populations, and expansion of online, simulation-based and hybrid learning models.
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The market is segmented by educational offering (such as bachelor’s degree programs, master’s & doctorate programs, certificate & diploma courses), by delivery mode (including on-campus, online, blended/hybrid), and by institution type (such as public colleges/universities and private institutions).
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North America holds a major share of the market thanks to established healthcare systems, strong accreditation frameworks and high online-education penetration, while the Asia-Pacific region presents significant growth opportunities due to expanding healthcare access, rising middle class and government initiatives to increase nursing capacity.
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Key opportunities include deployment of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) simulation labs, growth of international nursing education partnerships and mobility programs, and increasing demand for workforce reskilling and continuing education for nurses.
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Challenges include shortage of qualified faculty and clinical placement sites, stringent regulatory and accreditation requirements, and rising cost of technology-enhanced education infrastructure.
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Industry players are focusing on strategic alliances with healthcare providers, development of modular and flexible learning platforms, and strengthening of global student recruitment and retention networks to capture growth in this evolving market.
Nursing Education Market Recent Developments
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In October 2025, the Pathanamthitta Government Nursing College received recognition from the Indian Nursing Council, leading to the approval of all newly established government and government-affiliated nursing colleges across Kerala. A total of 22 such institutions were created, along with the sanctioning of four new medical colleges, ensuring that each district in the state now hosts a medical or nursing institution. Additionally, the number of BSc Nursing seats in the government sector increased from 478 to 1,130, raising the overall capacity to over 10,000 seats.
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In July 2025, the Indian Nursing Council, supported by the Union government, announced plans to offer simulation-based training for nursing college faculty from Tamil Nadu at SGT University in Delhi. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, as simulation can effectively replace up to 50% of traditional nursing training. The training program will cover all related expenses, including travel, and is part of a broader effort to enhance nursing education quality and address staffing challenges in the healthcare sector.
Nursing Education Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Nursing Education Market has been segmented by Type, Mode of Education, Courses, Application, End-User, and Geography.
Nursing Education Market, Segmentation by Type
The Nursing Education Market by type is segmented into Associate Degree (AD), Baccalaureate Degree (BS), and Diploma programs. These segments cater to varying levels of nursing qualifications and reflect diverse education pathways across healthcare systems worldwide. The growing demand for skilled nurses and the rise in healthcare infrastructure investment are key drivers supporting this segmentation. Educational institutions are increasingly forming partnerships with hospitals to enhance practical exposure and career readiness among graduates.
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Associate Degree (AD)
The Associate Degree segment focuses on foundational nursing skills and clinical training. It remains popular in developed regions due to its shorter duration and cost-effectiveness. This segment serves as a crucial entry point for students seeking registered nurse (RN) licensure, contributing significantly to workforce supply, particularly in North America.
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Baccalaureate Degree (BS)
The Baccalaureate Degree represents the largest share of the market, driven by the growing preference for advanced qualifications. The segment benefits from higher employability and leadership opportunities in healthcare. Increasing adoption of evidence-based nursing curricula and international collaborations between universities are enhancing its global footprint.
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Diploma
The Diploma segment caters to students seeking rapid entry into the nursing profession. Though declining in some regions due to academic reforms, it continues to play a key role in emerging economies where accessibility and cost efficiency are primary concerns. Institutional alliances and vocational reforms are revitalizing this segment’s relevance.
Nursing Education Market, Segmentation by Mode of Education
The market by Mode of Education includes On-Campus, Distance, and Online programs. Each mode addresses different learner needs, balancing flexibility with quality of instruction. The rise of digital transformation and remote learning technologies is reshaping how nursing students acquire skills, especially post-pandemic, where hybrid formats have shown strong adoption rates exceeding 40% globally.
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On-Campus
The On-Campus mode remains vital for hands-on training and simulation-based learning. It ensures structured academic environments and direct mentorship, essential for clinical competencies. Leading universities are integrating smart labs and AI-driven assessment tools to enhance in-person education outcomes.
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Distance
The Distance mode serves working professionals and part-time learners, offering flexibility while maintaining academic rigor. It is particularly prevalent in developing regions where geographical constraints limit campus access. Strategic content delivery through accredited frameworks drives steady growth in this segment.
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Online
The Online mode has emerged as the fastest-growing segment, fueled by e-learning platforms and global accreditation standards. Universities are adopting immersive technologies such as virtual reality (VR) for clinical simulations. With adoption rates surpassing 55% in developed economies, this mode continues to redefine accessibility and inclusivity in nursing education.
Nursing Education Market, Segmentation by Courses
By Courses, the market is categorized into Post Graduate and Graduate programs. The evolution of the healthcare industry and the emphasis on advanced clinical expertise are driving increased enrollments in postgraduate nursing courses. The integration of research-based education and clinical leadership training further enhances market expansion.
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Post Graduate
Post Graduate nursing programs are gaining traction as they prepare professionals for specialized fields such as pediatrics, critical care, and mental health. The segment is expanding with growing demand for nurse practitioners and advanced research positions, supported by university collaborations and government-funded fellowships.
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Graduate
Graduate courses remain the backbone of the nursing education system. They focus on core nursing competencies and foundational healthcare knowledge. The segment is supported by strong curriculum standardization and institutional accreditation, ensuring consistent quality across global programs.
Nursing Education Market, Segmentation by Application
The Application segmentation includes Conventional Universities and Nursing Programs in Colleges. Both play distinct roles in shaping the nursing workforce, with universities emphasizing academic research and colleges focusing on applied training. Increasing partnerships with healthcare providers and simulation centers drive curriculum relevance and practical skill development.
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Conventional Universities
Conventional Universities lead in producing qualified nurses with advanced academic credentials. They contribute significantly to global nursing research and leadership development. Continuous curriculum modernization and integration of technology-enabled classrooms enhance their competitive edge.
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Nursing Programs in Colleges
Nursing Programs in Colleges cater to regional and community-level demand for nursing education. These programs emphasize clinical exposure and local healthcare needs. Strategic collaborations with hospitals for internships and training placements are strengthening their industry alignment.
Nursing Education Market, Segmentation by End-User
Based on End-User, the market is divided into Hospitals and Home Healthcare Services. These segments reflect the practical application of nursing education in real-world environments. The increasing shift toward patient-centered care and chronic disease management underpins this segmentation’s importance in ensuring clinical readiness.
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Hospitals
Hospitals remain the primary employers of nursing graduates, emphasizing continuous professional education and certification. The segment benefits from training collaborations with universities, which ensure skill standardization and workforce competency. Rising hospital-academic linkages continue to reinforce this end-user category.
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Home Healthcare Services
Home Healthcare Services represent a growing end-user segment as aging populations and chronic care demand rise globally. Nurses trained under specialized community-based programs play critical roles in this domain. Increasing digital support tools and telehealth integration are driving advanced learning needs for this workforce.
Nursing Education Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Nursing Education Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America leads the global Nursing Education Market due to robust healthcare infrastructure, strong university networks, and continuous investment in educational technology. The U.S. accounts for a dominant market share, driven by policy support for nurse training and increasing digital course adoption.
Europe
Europe demonstrates mature nursing education systems with standardized accreditation and high student mobility across countries. The market benefits from government initiatives promoting advanced practice nursing and cross-border research programs.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is projected to exhibit the fastest growth, supported by rising healthcare expenditure, expanding private universities, and increased recognition of nursing as a professional discipline. Countries like India and China are witnessing strong enrollment growth exceeding 8% annually.
Middle East and Africa
Middle East and Africa are emerging markets where government funding and international university collaborations are accelerating nursing education reforms. The rising demand for skilled healthcare workers is driving institutional capacity building and cross-border training initiatives.
Latin America
Latin America shows steady progress in developing standardized nursing curricula and improving faculty training programs. Brazil and Mexico are leading this regional transformation through public-private partnerships focused on healthcare workforce development.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Nursing Education Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis
Drivers:
- Technological Advancements
- Growing Healthcare Needs
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Increasing Demand for Skilled Nurses - The increasing demand for skilled nurses is a significant driver in the global nursing education market. This rise is largely driven by an aging global population that requires more healthcare services, particularly in developed countries. As the elderly population continues to grow, there is an increased need for healthcare professionals, especially nurses, to manage chronic conditions, provide palliative care, and support the healthcare system in managing the complexity of older patient care. This demographic shift is creating a higher demand for skilled nurses capable of handling diverse and complex healthcare needs, pushing healthcare systems to invest in education and training programs.
Another key driver is the expansion of healthcare access globally, particularly in emerging markets. Many countries are striving to strengthen their healthcare infrastructure, which includes increasing the number of trained nursing professionals. As healthcare systems modernize and expand, there is a strong push for more skilled nurses to provide quality care in hospitals, clinics, and rural areas. This trend is further supported by governments and international organizations focusing on improving healthcare access in underserved regions, creating a surge in demand for nursing education and training opportunities.
Technological advancements in healthcare are also contributing to the demand for skilled nurses. The integration of new technologies in healthcare settings, such as electronic health records (EHR), telemedicine, and robotic surgery, requires nurses to develop new technical skills and adapt to changing workflows. Nurses now need to be proficient in using high-tech equipment and managing digital health tools, making specialized education essential. As healthcare continues to become more advanced and digitally integrated, there is an increasing need for nurses who can navigate these technologies efficiently, which drives the demand for specialized nursing education programs.
The growing emphasis on patient safety, quality care, and evidence-based practices in healthcare is leading to a greater demand for skilled nurses. Healthcare institutions and regulatory bodies are prioritizing the education and training of nurses to ensure they meet high standards of care. This shift towards ensuring consistent, quality care across all healthcare settings has heightened the need for nurses who possess advanced clinical knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams. As a result, nursing education programs are evolving to produce highly skilled nurses who can meet the demands of modern healthcare systems.
Restraints:
- Shortage of Educators
- Financial Constraints
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Regulatory Hurdles - In the context of the Global Nursing Education Market, regulatory hurdles represent a significant restraint to its growth. These hurdles stem from the varying healthcare regulations across different countries, regions, and even local jurisdictions, each with its own set of accreditation requirements, standards, and guidelines for nursing programs. For instance, nursing schools must meet specific national and international accreditation standards to ensure their graduates are qualified and capable of meeting healthcare system demands. The process of obtaining such accreditations can be lengthy, expensive, and complex, limiting the ability of nursing institutions, particularly in developing countries, to expand their offerings and reach.
Another key challenge is the mismatch between regulatory standards and the rapidly changing healthcare landscape. As medical technologies, treatment protocols, and patient care practices evolve, nursing education must adapt accordingly. However, the pace at which regulatory bodies update standards often lags behind these advancements. This disconnect can result in nursing programs that are not equipped with the latest knowledge and skills, reducing the overall effectiveness of nursing education. Additionally, discrepancies between local regulatory authorities and international standards can create barriers for nursing institutions aiming to offer globally recognized programs or attract international students.
Regulatory hurdles can increase the cost and complexity of nursing education. Compliance with local laws and international guidelines may require significant investments in infrastructure, staff training, and ongoing curriculum updates. Smaller nursing education providers may struggle with these financial and logistical demands, limiting their ability to compete with larger institutions that have more resources. This also leads to higher tuition fees for students, which could discourage prospective nurses from pursuing education in the field, exacerbating the global shortage of qualified healthcare professionals.
The increasing focus on patient safety and ethical standards has led to stricter regulations regarding the clinical training of nursing students. These regulations often require nursing programs to establish partnerships with accredited healthcare facilities where students can complete clinical placements. In some regions, the shortage of such facilities or the stringent requirements for clinical training can limit the number of students who can be enrolled in nursing programs. This results in a bottleneck effect, preventing the rapid expansion of the nursing workforce needed to meet global healthcare demands.
Opportunities:
- Online Learning Platforms
- Collaboration with Healthcare Institutions
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Tailored Curriculum Development- In the Global Nursing Education Market, tailored curriculum development presents significant opportunities to address the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals worldwide. As healthcare systems evolve, so do the needs for specialized knowledge in various fields of nursing, such as geriatric care, pediatric care, critical care, and public health nursing. A tailored curriculum can be designed to meet the specific educational needs of nursing students based on regional healthcare challenges, emerging diseases, and new technologies. This personalization of the learning experience allows nursing institutions to better equip students with the skills required in their specific practice areas, thus improving the quality of care delivered across healthcare systems.
Another opportunity lies in the integration of technological advancements in nursing education. Tailored curricula can incorporate innovative learning tools such as simulation-based training, virtual reality, and digital learning platforms to enhance practical learning experiences. This approach allows nursing students to acquire hands-on skills in a controlled, virtual environment, making it easier to provide specialized care without compromising patient safety. Additionally, with a focus on online learning modules and hybrid educational formats, nursing institutions can reach a global student base, catering to diverse populations with varying educational needs and career goals.
As healthcare demands shift due to factors like aging populations and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, the need for continuous professional development in nursing becomes more apparent. Tailored curriculum development can address this by offering specialized certifications and advanced training programs that enable nurses to stay updated with the latest medical practices, technologies, and healthcare policies. By creating a flexible and adaptive learning structure, nursing schools can better prepare their graduates for leadership roles and specialized nursing careers, increasing their employability and advancing the overall nursing profession.
Nursing Education Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Nursing Education Market is experiencing transformative growth fueled by digital innovation, institutional collaboration, and adoption of smart technologies. Education providers are modernizing training methodologies by nearly 47% through virtual simulations and e-learning systems. The shift toward competency-based learning enhances accessibility, ensuring advanced skill development and workforce readiness across evolving healthcare landscapes.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market maintains a moderately concentrated structure, with top institutions and platforms commanding approximately 59% through academic alliances and technology-driven integration. Increased collaboration among universities, online learning providers, and medical organizations drives steady growth. This structured approach ensures consistent curriculum quality, promoting innovation-led progress and alignment with global healthcare standards.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Key institutions are enhancing brand identity and implementing blended channel strategies to expand learner reach by about 36%. Strategic collaboration with digital platforms, accreditation bodies, and clinical partners boosts accessibility. Focused branding initiatives on quality assurance and certification credibility support steady growth, strengthening institutional trust and learner engagement across education channels.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Significant technological advancements such as virtual reality, AI-enabled assessments, and adaptive learning tools have improved educational efficiency by nearly 53%. Continuous innovation in simulation-based training enhances competency and decision-making skills. Integration of digital technologies and analytics supports data-driven curriculum design, fueling sustained growth and professional readiness across healthcare education ecosystems.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Ongoing expansion and academic collaborations have strengthened regional participation by nearly 42%. Institutions are implementing localized strategies to align with regional accreditation and workforce needs. This regional momentum fosters inclusivity and flexible learning pathways, driving continued growth and enabling broader access to quality nursing education across diverse educational frameworks.
Future Outlook
The future outlook for the Nursing Education Market highlights progressive innovation, technology integration, and deepened institutional collaboration. Projected growth beyond 57% reflects expanding investments in virtual training and competency-based curriculums. Organizations leveraging technological advancements and adaptive pedagogy will lead the transformation toward accessible, high-quality, and resilient nursing education systems.
Key players in Nursing Education Market include:
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Duke University
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Peking Union Medical College
- Keio University
- University of California (various campuses)
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
- Peking University
- Jamia Hamdard
- King’s College London
- The University of Tokyo
- University of Manchester
- Karolinska Institute
- MidAmerica Nazarene University School of Nursing
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Mode of Education
- Market Snapshot, By Courses
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End-User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Nursing Education Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Technological Advancements
- Growing Healthcare Needs
- Increasing Demand for Skilled Nurses
- Restraints
- Shortage of Educators
- Financial Constraints
- Regulatory Hurdles
- Opportunities
- Online Learning Platforms
- Collaboration with Healthcare Institutions
- Tailored Curriculum Development
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Compititive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Nursing Education Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Associate Degree (AD)
- Baccalaureate Degree (BS)
- Diploma
- Nursing Education Market, By Mode of Education, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- On-Campus
- Distance
- Online
- Nursing Education Market, By Courses, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Post Graduate
- Graduate
- Nursing Education Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Conventional Universities
- Nursing Programs in Colleges
- Nursing Education Market, By End-User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Hospitals
- Home Healthcare Services
- Nursing Education Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Nursing Education Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Duke University
- National University of Singapore (NUS)
- Peking Union Medical College
- Keio University
- University of California (various campuses)
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
- Peking University
- Jamia Hamdard
- King’s College London
- The University of Tokyo
- University of Manchester
- Karolinska Institute
- MidAmerica Nazarene University School of Nursing
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market