This study was aimed at surveying the quantity of dissertations and theses written by nurses on health education, identifying and analyzing their methodological steps. 17 Catalogs of Information about Research and Researchers from CEPEn/ABEn - published from 1979 to 1999 - have been examined. The sample comprises 105 dissertations and 15 theses about the theme. Chronic diseases, pregnancy-puerperal cycle, health education, management and perisurgery situation have stood out as objects of study. The populations were adults, nursing professionals, women, children and adolescents. Interviewing was the most used technique. Authors indicated the need to improve educative practices and considered that health education motivates changes in lifestyle. It was concluded that there is a need to strengthen research into the everyday of Nursing in a historical and social context.
health education; postgraduate studies; nursing