22nd May 25
One of the most rewarding roles in the healthcare sector is nursing. Nurses are at the forefront of patient care, providing expert knowledge as well as support to patients and their families. If you have a compassionate nature and would love to be part of this country’s healthcare industry, then working towards a nursing role could be the perfect fit.
For those of you keen to embark on this path, you are probably wondering what qualifications you need. Ultimately, if you want to become a nurse, you will need to earn a degree. To do that, you are obliged to meet BSc Nursing degree entry requirements. Below, we have outlined what you need to do to study nursing courses at university.
What type of nursing degree can I study?
Nursing covers a broad spectrum throughout the healthcare framework. There are specific roles and levels of nursing, and if you want to study a nursing degree, university hopefuls should consider the sector that they want to work in. The four main fields include:
- Adult Nursing
- Children’s Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Learning Disability Nursing
While the disciplines are different, they are all bound by the desire to make a real difference to the lives of people in need.
These courses cater to various interests and career objectives, allowing you to choose a path that aligns with your aspirations. From BSc Nursing programmes to postgraduate courses like a masters degree in nursing, the options are diverse.
Please note that you may need to study a dual field nursing degree, university hopefuls, should you want to work in two of the nursing fields mentioned above. Once you have earned a degree in your chosen nursing courses, you will be eligible to apply for nursing roles.
How long are nursing courses in university?
Many universities offer Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) programmes, typically spanning three to four years. This comprehensive nursing course provides a solid foundation in nursing theory, practice, and healthcare sciences. A BSc Nursing is often preferred by employers and serves as a stepping stone for career advancement. For those seeking a quicker route, Diploma in Nursing courses focus on practical skills and can be completed in a shorter timeframe.
If you hold a degree in another field, accelerated nursing programmes provide a fast track to becoming a registered nurse. These intensive courses last approximately two years, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience, ideal for those switching careers.
As you progress in your nursing education, you may choose to specialise in areas like paediatrics, mental health, or gerontology. Universities offer various postgraduate courses, such as a masters degree in nursing or advanced practice qualifications like nurse practitioner programmes. Specialisation enhances your career prospects by providing expertise in specific fields.
Consider your career goals and the type of nursing you wish to practice when selecting a nursing course. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy direct patient care, a traditional BSc Nursing might be the best fit. Alternatively, if research or teaching interests you, a masters of nursing could be ideal. Ultimately, the right nursing course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in healthcare.
Essential courses for nursing aspirants
Pursuing a nursing career requires careful consideration of the educational pathways available. Aspiring nurses typically need specific GCSEs to meet university entry requirements. At least five GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English, maths, and science, are generally essential. If you haven't met these requirements, Level 2 options like Functional Skills qualifications can demonstrate proficiency in these core subjects. Recognised by many universities, Functional Skills offer a flexible way to meet necessary standards.
Following the GCSE requirements, the next step involves A-Levels or equivalent qualifications. Most universities expect candidates to have at least two A-Levels, focusing on subjects like biology and psychology, which are relevant to nursing. If traditional A-Levels aren't suitable, Level 3 options like Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas can lead to a nursing degree. Designed for individuals returning to education, these diplomas equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed at university.
Choosing the right courses and qualifications is crucial for your nursing journey, but where you gain these qualifications is equally important. At learndirect, we offer courses to help you secure the necessary GCSEs, A-Levels, or alternatives like Functional Skills and Access to HE Diplomas.
Our flexible learning options allow you to study at your own pace, balancing education with your other commitments. Additionally, our dedicated support team guides you throughout your learning experience, ensuring you're fully prepared to apply for nursing courses in university. By choosing learndirect, you take a significant step towards a fulfilling nursing career, equipped with the qualifications needed for success.
What access course do I need for nursing?
Access to Higher Education Diplomas are widely recognised as the equivalent to 3 A-Levels as they are Level 3 qualifications. If you don’t currently have A-Levels and would like to gain a foundation-level knowledge of nursing before studying a nursing degree, university hopefuls should consider an Access to Higher Education Diploma course.
With learndirect, you can study an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) online. The accredited course covers a range of industry-related knowledge, skills and techniques, including the professional behaviours of nursing and health professionals. You will also be taught a range of academic skills that will prepare you for university.
Regardless of the area of nursing you want to pursue, an Access to HE Diploma course will put you in a strong position when it comes to applying for a nursing degree. University hopefuls must check the nursing degree entry requirements before they apply to make sure that they accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas.
By enrolling on an Access to Higher Education Diploma course with learndirect, you will have the freedom of studying at your own pace and in your own time. This is because the Access to nursing course is taught 100% online, meaning that a computer/laptop and a stable internet connection is all you need! You will also benefit from the following during your Access to nursing course:
- An Individual Learning Plan that details the dates of your article submissions so that you can stay on track
- 24/7 access to all online learning materials
- Study at your own pace – you have two years to finish the Access course, but on average, our students take 9-12 months to complete it
Top universities for nursing degrees
Choosing the right university is crucial when considering a nursing career. In the UK, several universities are renowned for their nursing degrees, offering students the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in this rewarding field. These institutions provide comprehensive nursing programmes and boast strong reputations within the healthcare community.
The University of Southampton consistently ranks highly for its nursing courses, emphasising research and innovation in healthcare. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum and valuable hands-on experience through partnerships with local hospitals and healthcare providers, preparing them for the realities of nursing practice.
King’s College London is known for its exceptional nursing faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. The university offers diverse nursing specialisations, including adult, mental health, and children’s nursing, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. King’s College promotes interprofessional education, encouraging collaboration with students from other healthcare disciplines.
The University of Manchester is a standout option for aspiring nurses, with programmes designed to equip students with critical thinking and clinical skills. Its research-driven approach ensures students learn the latest evidence-based practices, enhancing employability upon graduation.
For those seeking a regional option, the University of Birmingham offers a highly regarded nursing degree combining academic study with practical placements in various healthcare settings. Their commitment to student support and development makes them popular among nursing students.
When exploring options for nursing degrees, and even your masters of nursing, consider the university's reputation, specific course offerings, and student support level. Choosing a university that aligns with your career aspirations and values sets you up for success in the nursing profession. Investing in education at a respected institution paves the way for a fulfilling and impactful healthcare career.
Kick-start your nursing journey today!
If you want to work towards a rewarding career in nursing, then one of the essential things you need to achieve is a BSc Nursing degree. University hopefuls have plenty of avenues that they can go down to secure a spot in higher education, as mentioned throughout this page.
To find out more information about the nursing courses options available to you, speak to one of our course executives by calling 01202 006 464. Alternatively, you can contact us online to find out more details about your academic options.
Want to read more? Click below to explore our online Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) in our FREE course brochure!
