Branches of study 

In addition to the bachelor's programme, at the short-cycle tertiary level a complementary vocational secondary-level programme in nursing sciences is offered until autumn 2026, concluding with a Brevet in Nursing Sciences. This qualification is assigned to level 5 of the National Qualifications Framework. 

The Brevet prepares students to perform nursing tasks in various fields (e.g. surgery, internal medicine, geriatrics, residential and nursing homes for the elderly, and home and outpatient care). 

Note: Closely following developments in the French and Flemish Communities of Belgium, the Brevet in Nursing will be replaced from September 2026 by a new nursing sciences programme (also expected to be at level 5 of the National Qualifications Framework). The new title will be Nursing Assistant; the curriculum is currently under development. Students enrolled in the “old” Brevet in Nursing may complete their studies; transitional arrangements are provided.

Admission requirements 

For admission to the Brevet in Nursing Sciences, the student must fulfil one of the following conditions:

• Completion of the sixth year of vocational secondary education or, alternatively, possession of a journeyman’s certificate.

• Successful completion of the entrance examinations before the examination board of the German-speaking Community for admission to supplementary vocational secondary education.

• Certificate confirming the successful completion of the training organised by the Employment Office of the German-speaking Community in the field of family and senior assistance or care assistance, comprising at least 1,300 hours of training.

In addition, at the time of enrolment the student must provide proof of independent use of the German language (CEFR – level B2).

Curriculum 

The curriculum is developed autonomously by AHS East Belgium in compliance with the study and examination regulations enshrined in the decree of the German-speaking Community.

Teaching methods 

The programme alternates between on-campus instruction and clinical-practical training in various healthcare and nursing institutions both inside and outside the German-speaking Community of Belgium. It is also possible to complete an internship abroad.

Nursing skills are practised on simulation manikins in two on-site laboratories before the start of clinical-practical placements.

The theoretical curriculum combines nursing science, basic medical and biological sciences, human and social sciences, and practice-oriented integration of theory and practice. With this concept, AHS aims to enable students to learn a holistic approach to complex situations and to continuously expand the required competencies.

Progression of students 

The course of study is regulated in accordance with the General Examination Regulations of AHS East Belgium.

Employability 

The programme alternates between on-campus instruction and clinical-practical training in various healthcare and nursing institutions inside and outside the German-speaking Community of Belgium. There is also the option to complete an internship abroad.

Student assessment 

Assessment is carried out through:
• continuous performance checks (tests, project work)
• practical examinations
• final module exams

Practical activities (placements, lab exercises, school internships) are assessed and documented both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Certification 

• Responsible authority for certification: AHS
• Definition of the content: see https://www.ahs-ostbelgien.be/
• Assessment methods: written and oral examinations
• Institution awarding the diploma: AHS
• Title of the qualification: Brevet of the complementary secondary‑level programme
• Official body recognising the qualifications: Ministry of the German‑speaking Community

Organisational variation

None.