Healthcare and nursing: profession, training and career opportunities

Your path to healthcare and nursing - A profession with heart and future

Have you ever imagined yourself in a profession where you can positively impact the lives of others on a daily basis? A profession in which your empathy counts just as much as your specialist knowledge? Then healthcare and nursing might be just the thing for you! Whether in hospitals, nursing homes or in home care - as a qualified healthcare and nursing assistant (DGKP), you are an indispensable support for patients and their families.

A young man holds the hand of an older man and they look at each other in a friendly manner. Both are smiling and appear happy as they spend time together.

 

What does a nurse do?

Healthcare and nursing staff are at the heart of patient care. They are not only responsible for medical measures, but also for the emotional support of people in difficult life situations. Their work goes far beyond simply administering medication - they provide comfort, motivate and are often the first point of contact for patients and relatives.

A caregiver and a senior citizen laugh together while walking in the hallway of a nursing home, sharing a friendly and positive connection.

 

Training to become a qualified health and nursing professional (DGKP)

Imagine starting a journey that will take you step by step towards becoming a professional nurse. This journey begins with sound training. In Austria, there are various ways to learn the profession. Here you can find up-to-date information on the requirements: Arbeiterkammer - Diplomierte Gesundheits- und Krankenpflege

For detailed information on nursing training and certifications, please visit the official website of the Ministry of Social AffairsMinistry of Social Services Nursing Education

 

Prerequisites & training paths

To start training as a DGKP, you need:

  • Minimum age of 17 years
  • Middle or high school diploma
  • Health aptitude and a clean police record

The training takes place in nursing schools and usually lasts three years. Alternatively, there is the option to complete a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare and Nursing.

A medical professional in blue scrubs discusses a brain scan analysis on a laptop with a patient in the waiting area. The patient, who is wearing a denim jacket, listens attentively. In the background, other medical professionals and patients are engrossed in conversation, indicating a busy hospital or clinic environment.

 

Contents of the training

During the training you will learn, among other things:

  • Nursing Science and Management
  • Medical diagnostics and therapy
  • Care history, care planning and documentation
  • Elevated service in nursing
  • Emergency and Intensive Care
  • Rehabilitation and long-term care

 

Career opportunities & training opportunities

The Austrian healthcare sector offers a wide range of career opportunities for DGKP, from working in hospitals and care facilities to home care.

In addition, the demand for freelance nurses is increasing. The platform noracares helps you to find an independent job in nursing. Here you can find suitable assignments - be it for short-term or long-term support.

You can find more information about career opportunities in nursing here: Career Recognition Nursing Professions

A caregiver supports an elderly man at home, showing compassion and ensuring his well-being in a comfortable living environment.

 

Specialization options

After basic training, you can enroll in specialize:

  • Intensive and emergency care
  • Palliative and Pain Care
  • Psychiatric Health and Nursing
  • Child and Adolescent Care
  • Nursing Management and Education

 

Salary and future prospects

Salary table for healthcare and nursing staff in Austria

Skill level & salaries

Skill level Average salary (gross/month) Possible top salaries (gross/month)
Initial salary DGKP €2,900 - €3,300 Up to €3,800
DGKP with 5 years of experience €3,300 - €3,700 Up to €4,200
Specialized DGKP (intensive, emergency, palliative care) €3,800 - €4,200 Up to €4,500
Care management / care management €4,500 - €5,200 Up to €6,000
Free-lance caregiver (via noracares) Variable remuneration Up to €4,500 depending on the job

 

The demand for qualified healthcare and nursing staff in Austria continues to grow. The Ministry of Social Affairs informs about future prospects, salaries and job opportunities: Care with a future
 

💰 According to current data for 2025, the starting salary of a DGKP in Austria €2.900 - €3,300 gross per month. With specializations, the salary can rise to up to €4.500 gross per month rise.

A close-up of a person holding and reviewing a document with financial data and bar charts. The person points to a specific section with a pen, indicating an analysis or comparison. The scene is set at a desk with a keyboard, clipboard and other papers in the background, representing a professional financial planning or budgeting process.

 

Graphic of Nurse Nora with a stethoscope around her neck and the text 'Nora's Conclusion' on a green banner. Closing remark or summary in the health sector.

 

Your future in nursing starts now!

A career in healthcare and nursing is not just a profession, but a vocation. It offers you the opportunity to directly make a difference in people's lives, whether through medical care, emotional support or preventative health measures. The demand for qualified nurses is constantly growing, which means that you are offered long-term career opportunities and job security in this field.

Healthcare and nursing is a professional field that requires constant learning, development and adaptation to new medical knowledge. With further training and specializations, you can shape your career path individually and focus on the areas that interest you the most - be it intensive care, palliative care or nursing management. The platform also offers noracares You have a flexible opportunity to work as a freelance nurse and work independently.

If you are looking for a career that is both fulfilling and future-proof, there are few better choices than healthcare and nursing. Start your journey now, find out about training opportunities and embark on a career that will not only improve your career prospects, but also enrich the lives of many people.
A career as a DGKP not only offers secure career prospects, but also a meaningful job that improves the lives of many people. If you are interested in a profession with empathy, knowledge and practical skills, then healthcare and nursing is just right for you!

 

 

A turquoise banner with white text that reads 'Nora's Frequently Asked Questions'. On the right is an illustrated avatar figure of a nurse with blonde hair wearing a turquoise nurse's cap with a white cross, a white collar and a stethoscope around her neck
Depending on experience and federal state, the salary is between €2,900 and €3,300 gross per month.

 

Graphic logo of Nora's treasure trove of knowledge, a collection of information for caregivers. Ideal for presenting nursing knowledge and advice.
  • Care history: Evaluation of the care needs of a patient:in.
  • Therapeutic measures: Treatments to improve health
  • Sophisticated nursing service: Specialists with higher education and extended skills.