Nursing (Adult), BSc

Course content

This programme meets the NMC (2010) guiding principles underpinning pre-registration education for nurses of 'fitness for purpose' and 'fitness for practice'. It consists of not less than 4,600 hours of study (2,300 hours in the practice setting and 2,300 hours theoretical study), which results in 360 credits across three levels:

Part 1: 120 credits at level 1 leading to progression point one of the programme

Part 2: 120 credits at level 2 leading to progression point two of the programme

Part 3: 120 credits at level 3 enabling registration with the NMC.

Year 1 is the trans-disciplinary first year where shared and inter-professional learning takes place with other nursing and healthcare students. You will explore the core issues required to become a healthcare professional, anatomy and physiology, as well as being introduced to specific aspects of adult nursing.

Year 2 includes the study of the nursing the acutely ill adult, and nursing an adult with a long-term condition. You'll explore health promotion and health education, develop understanding of issues related to safeguarding adults, debate legal and ethical concepts related to nursing and develop the skills for evaluating the research evidence underpinning clinical practice.

In year 3 you'll study the assessment and management of pain. You'll examine critical thinking, decision-making skills and leadership skills and will be supported in making the transition to the role of qualified nurse. A 10,000-word research dissertation develops your ability to use, summarise and communicate research evidence and apply it to your professional practice. There is also an optional module which offers the opportunity to undertake a clinical placement abroad.

Clinical placements are an integral part of your training. Read "Study abroad and work placements" tab.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: BBC preferably including a science subject (biology, human biology, chemistry, maths, physics or social sciences, such as psychology).

  Not general studies or critical thinking.

  GCSE: 5 A*-C, including maths and English and 2 science subjects

  • Career opportunities

    Once qualified as a nurse, you could work in healthcare environments in the NHS or private sector, hospital or community settings.

    From clinical nurse you could progress to become a ward or department manager, a clinical nurse specialist or eventually a consultant nurse. You could move into nursing management or become a registered nurse tutor. You could pursue further academic study in nursing research or by undertaking a PhD

    For advice on nursing as a career choice read NHS careers.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    For some students able to meet specific criteria, there is an opportunity to study on one of 4 optional international modules in the third year of the programme.

    50% of the programme is undertaken in practice and students undertake a range of clinical placements working with adults both in hospital and in community. Your final practice placement will be a long placement (12 weeks minimum) to enable you to consolidate knowledge, clinical skills competence and prepare for transition to a qualified practitioner and 'signed-off' by an appropriately prepared mentor as required by the NMC.

  • Related courses

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    Midwifery BSc
    Nursing (Child) BSc
    Nursing (Mental Health) BSc