Spain has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for health‑science studies, with government-regulated public universities and nursing degrees that combine classroom learning with clinical placements in public hospitals. 

Because nursing is a regulated profession, all graduates from accredited programmes can apply for the Titulo de Grado en Enfermería and register with the Spanish General Nursing Council. 

Spanish nursing programmes generally follow a similar structure: students complete core subjects in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, psychology and nursing science. Clinical training usually begins in the second year and becomes more intensive in later years. Public universities allocate a large proportion of credits to clinical placements (often more than a third of the total credits), while private institutions such as the University of Navarra integrate internships and research from the first yea.

Best Universities for Nursing in Spain (2026)

Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) – Public

As one of Catalonia’s leading public universities, the Autonomous University of Barcelona combines a research‑oriented environment with a vibrant campus near Barcelona. Teaching is bilingual in Catalan and Spanish, and the university maintains strong links with major hospitals in the metropolitan area. Its health‑science programmes attract large numbers of applicants and emphasise evidence‑based practice.

The university offers a four-year Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (240 ECTS credits). More than a third of these credits (around 81 ECTS) are allocated to clinical internships in hospitals and primary‑care centres. The programme prepares generalist nurses capable of evaluating, identifying and addressing patients’ health needs. Graduates can progress to specialised master’s programmes.

University of Valencia (UV) – Public

Located in the heart of the Valencian Community, the University of Valencia is a long‑established public institution known for its strong health‑science faculties and community‑oriented research. Students benefit from a moderate cost of living in Valencia and exposure to both Spanish and Valencian languages, with some modules offered in English. Applicants are encouraged to have a foundation in sciences.

Its Degree in Nursing totals 240 ECTS credits, of which more than 82.5 ECTS are dedicated to practical placements in hospitals, clinics, mental‑health centres and community services. The curriculum integrates laboratory and clinical training from early years, and graduates earn a professional qualification recognised throughout Spain and the EU.

University of Granada (UGR) – Public

Founded in the sixteenth century, the University of Granada is one of Andalusia’s most prestigious public universities. Its historic campuses are located in Granada, a city known for its low cost of living and cultural heritage. The Faculty of Health Sciences attracts thousands of applicants each year, making admission highly competitive.

The university’s nursing programme has a high demand; in the 2023/24 academic year it admitted 200 students out of more than 2,200 applicants. The curriculum combines theoretical courses with clinical rotations across Andalusian hospitals and community centres.

University of Alicante (UA) – Public

Situated on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, the University of Alicante is a public institution celebrated for its modern campus and international outlook. It maintains partnerships with institutions abroad, providing opportunities for student mobility.

UA’s Degree in Nursing totals 240 ECTS credits and admits about 200 students each year.  The programme is taught in Spanish, Valencian and some English, and students may pursue a dual degree with Brazil’s Universidade do Vale do Itaja.

University of Murcia (UMU) – Lorca campus – Public

The University of Murcia serves the south‑eastern region of Spain through several campuses in Murcia, Lorca and Cartagena. 

At Lorca, UMU delivers a four‑year nursing degree worth 240 ECTS. The programme is presencial (face‑to‑face) and admits only 70 new students each year. Courses are taught in Spanish and focus on community health within the Murcia region.

Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC) – Public

Located in the Madrid metropolitan area, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos is a relatively young public university that emphasises social responsibility and humanistic training. It offers a dynamic learning environment and maintains partnerships with major hospitals and clinics throughout the region. Its nursing faculty fosters comprehensive development of students.

URJC’s nursing programme prepares generalist nurses capable of evaluating, identifying and acting on health needs of individuals, families and communities. Clinical practice makes up about 35 % of the curriculum: through three practicum modules, students rotate through medical‑surgical units, maternity wards, paediatrics, emergency rooms, intensive care, dialysis, mental‑health services and palliative‑care centres.

University of Navarra – School of Nursing – Private

The University of Navarra is a private institution based in Pamplona. Its School of Nursing is renowned for person‑centred care and respect for human dignity. Students benefit from small classes, personalised mentorship and a campus culture that integrates ethics and social concerns.

The School of Nursing offers an undergraduate Degree in Nursing with four specialisation paths: Intensive Care, Community and Family Nursing, Paediatrics/Maternity and Mental Health. It also runs a Master’s Degree in Advanced Nursing in Oncology and a Doctoral programme in Nursing Science, allowing students to pursue advanced clinical or academic careers.

CEU Cardenal Herrera University – Private

CEU Cardenal Herrera is part of the Catholic CEU educational foundation and operates campuses in Alfara (near Valencia), Elche and Castellón. The university promotes a strong service vocation, focusing on emotional intelligence, communication skills and humanistic care. Facilities include advanced simulation centres and programmes that foster professional excellence.

The institution’s Degree in Nursing spans four years (240 ECTS) and is taught in Spanish. Beyond the core curriculum, students can pursue specialisation paths, an academic excellence plan and micro‑credentials in 21st‑century skill. CEU also offers a dual degree combining physiotherapy and nursing, preparing graduates for broader career options.

Other notable public universities

Across Spain, many additional public universities maintain competitive nursing programmes, even though detailed information may not be readily available in English. Institutions such as the University of Barcelona, Complutense University of Madrid, University of Santiago de Compostela, University of Seville, University of Zaragoza and University of País Vasco occupy prominent positions in national rankings.

These universities typically offer four‑year nursing degrees (240 ECTS credits) with rigorous admission standards. Their curricula align with national guidelines, balancing theoretical courses with extensive clinical placements.

Other private options

Beyond the major private universities covered above, Spain hosts numerous smaller institutions that offer modern facilities and personalised learning environments. These include the European University of Madrid, Universidad San Pablo CEU, University of Vic – Central, University of Catalonia, Catholic University of Valencia (UCV) and University of Deusto.

Most of these universities offer four‑year nursing degrees similar in structure to those at larger institutions but with smaller cohorts and enhanced pastoral care. Tuition fees generally range from €4,000 to €12,000 per year, and programmes may include bilingual tracks, international partnerships and specialised pathways.

How Do Public vs Private Nursing Universities Compare?

Public and private nursing schools in Spain both adhere to national accreditation standards, yet they diverge in several key areas.

Funding and fees

• Public universities. These institutions are funded by regional governments. Tuition is regulated and charged per credit; EU students typically pay €800–€1,200 per academic year, with rates increasing upon repeat enrolments. Non‑EU students pay higher fees but still less than private tuition.
• Private universities. Operating independently of government funding, private schools rely on tuition and private capital. Annual fees usually range from €4,000 to €12,000, and some programmes exceed €20,000. Fees are often billed per semester or term rather than per credit.

Admission selectivity

• Public universities. Admission is highly competitive. Applicants must hold a bachillerato (or equivalent high‑school diploma) and sit the EBAU/PAU. Cut‑off marks for nursing programmes frequently exceed 10/14.
• Private universities. Selection processes are more flexible and may include personal interviews, aptitude tests and motivation letters. Academic thresholds tend to be lower, though universities may require proof of Spanish or English proficiency.

Class size and facilities

• Public universities. Cohorts are large (often 200–400 students) resulting in packed lecture halls and busy clinical placements. Practical training is typically arranged through public hospitals, and places for international students can be limited.
• Private universities. Classes are smaller (usually 50–120 students), allowing more personalised attention. Private institutions invest heavily in modern simulation centres and technology.

Curriculum orientation

• Public universities. Programmes focus on evidence‑based practice and public‑sector healthcare. They emphasise primary care, community health and research. Specialisations are often pursued at the master’s level rather than within the bachelor’s degree.
• Private universities. Curricula frequently include specialisations or diplomas embedded within the degree. The University of Navarra, for instance, offers diplomas in Psychology of Care and Leadership, Research and Teaching. Many private schools also integrate leadership, entrepreneurship and global‑health perspectives.

Language and internationalisation

• Public universities. Courses are primarily taught in Spanish or co‑official languages (Catalan, Valencian, Basque or Galician). Some universities, such as the University of Alicante, provide occasional modules in English to attract international students.
• Private universities. Several private schools offer bilingual or English‑medium tracks and actively recruit international students. They often include study‑abroad exchanges or dual‑degree options to encourage global mobility.

Cost of living and scholarships

• Public universities. Students benefit from lower tuition and access to government scholarships (e.g., MEFP grants and regional aid). The cost of living varies greatly by location: Madrid and Barcelona are more expensive, while Valencia, Granada or smaller cities are generally more affordable.
• Private universities. Although tuition is higher, private institutions may offer merit‑based or need‑based scholarships. Some universities include on‑campus accommodation and meal plans, but overall costs remain considerably above public‑sector levels.

Professional recognition

Degrees from both public and private nursing schools are accredited by the Spanish Ministry and recognised by the General Nursing Council and the European Union. Graduates enjoy the same legal rights to practise nursing across Spain and the EU. However, employers may consider the reputation of the university and the extent of clinical experience when evaluating candidates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there nursing programmes taught entirely in English?

Most Spanish nursing degrees are delivered in Spanish or a regional language. A few private universities (e.g., European University of Madrid, University of Vic) offer bilingual tracks, but they still require Spanish for clinical practice. International students should be prepared to achieve a B2–C1 level of Spanish.

Can foreign nurses practice in Spain or convert their qualification?

Registered nurses from non‑EU countries must have their degree recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Universities (homologación) and prove sufficient Spanish competence. EU/EEA nurses benefit from mutual recognition under Directive 2005/36/EC but still need to register with the General Nursing Council.

What career opportunities exist after graduation?

Graduates can work as registered nurses in hospitals, primary‑care centres, public‑health agencies, schools, nursing homes, research institutes or humanitarian organisations. Spain’s national health system (SNS) offers permanent and temporary positions through competitive exams (oposiciones). Many graduates also pursue specialisation via master’s degrees (e.g., advanced nursing in oncology, emergency nursing) or work abroad within the EU.

Are there bridge programmes for nursing assistants or vocational nurses?

Yes. Holders of Técnico Superior en Cuidados Auxiliares de Enfermería (Nursing Assistant) can apply to nursing degrees through the Formación Profesional route. Some universities recognise certain credits from vocational training, shortening the duration of the degree. Bridging programmes from practical nursing diplomas to the bachelor’s degree also exist, though availability varies by region.

Do universities offer scholarships or financial aid?

Public universities participate in national scholarship schemes such as Becas MEFP, which provide fee waivers or monthly stipends based on family income. Private universities often have merit‑based scholarships, sibling discounts and grants for students from partner schools. External bodies (e.g., regional governments, foundations) also sponsor nursing students.

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