[Nursing science in German--current status and future prospects]

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Higher Education

Context:

• The development of nursing science in German universities shows a dynamic growth, with over 40 courses established by 1997.
• Despite this expansion, a historical backlog compared to Anglo-American and Scandinavian countries is noted.
• Nursing science in Germany is still solidifying its position within the national university system.

Purpose:

• To analyze the current state and challenges of establishing nursing science as an independent discipline in Germany.
• To explore the diverse profiles of existing nursing science courses and their departmental affiliations.
• To consider the integration of nursing science within the broader academic and university structures.

Summary:

• Over 40 nursing science courses were available in German universities and high schools by 1997.
• Nursing science faces challenges in achieving full establishment and recognition as an independent discipline.
• The diverse nature and departmental placement of courses create unpredictable influences on its academic integration.

Impact:

• Highlights the need for defining an independent nursing science area.
• Underscores the unpredictable influences of different university departments on nursing science's establishment.
• Raises questions about the optimal integration of nursing science within the German higher education system.