An international approach to master's-level preparation for clinical nurse specialists

Nursing is seen as being increasingly a research-based profession with a developing knowledge base that demands a continuing programme of education. This is necessary to enable the practitioner to function with the level of expertise and skill required in today's health care systems. There have been repeated calls for and developments in the establishment of a higher-education approach to nursing, with degree courses for the advanced practitioner. It is also argued that in terms of the European perspective there are many commonalities in nursing and health care in Europe, and although cultural and national differences are important there can be advantages to nurses from different countries studying together. An example of a course which offers this European approach to higher education for nurses is described.