UHS Introduces COMPASS Curriculum for Nursing Colleges

University of Health Sciences UHS has rolled out a transformative curriculum named COMPASS for its four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This new academic structure, to be implemented in all UHS-affiliated nursing colleges throughout Punjab starting this academic session, was officially approved during a meeting of the Board of Studies in Nursing chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr. Ahsan Waheed Rathore. The COMPASS framework shifts from traditional lectures to a more modern, competency-based, block teaching method. The students can get latest updates of UHS Introduces Innovative COMPASS Curriculum for Nursing Colleges in Punjab.

Curriculum Designed Around Clinical Competency and Outcomes

The COMPASS model—an acronym for Competency-based, Outcome-based, Multicultural, Patient-centered, Assessment, Skills, and Safety—prioritizes hands-on training and measurable outcomes. A standout feature is the expansion of clinical credit hours from 35 to 54. From their first year, nursing students will engage in hospital-based rotations three times a week, working alternate shifts to enhance their clinical skills and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Focus on Cultural Awareness and Practical Skills

Vice Chancellor Prof Rathore highlighted the curriculum’s unique integration of cultural competency—a pioneering step in Pakistan’s nursing education. The program comprises 72 meticulously structured courses and equips students with over 200 essential clinical skills. This dual emphasis on practical expertise and cultural sensitivity aims to prepare graduates for both local and global healthcare environments.

Progressive Learning and Simulation Integration

The new curriculum merges theoretical content with real-life clinical practice using simulation-based training and patient-centered approaches. It employs a spiral curriculum model over eight semesters, allowing students to progressively build upon previously learned concepts, gradually increasing academic and practical complexity.

Implementation Strategy and Faculty Training Plans

To ensure successful execution and maintain academic integrity, UHS will conduct surprise monitoring visits every semester at its affiliated institutions. These evaluations will assess compliance with clinical rotations, classroom schedules, student activity logs, and feedback systems. Additionally, faculty development is a key priority, with intensive training workshops scheduled from June 1 to 15 to prepare nursing educators for teaching under the new COMPASS system.