Birmingham City University

Overview

The BSc (Hons) Nursing - Mental Health at Birmingham City University is a comprehensive, full-time programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become Registered Nurses specializing in mental health. This practice-based degree combines academic learning with supervised placements across diverse healthcare environments, including simulated practice to enhance hands-on experience.

• Award: BSc (Hons) Nursing – Mental Health
• Duration: 36 months (full-time)
• Credits: 360 credits
• Delivery: Full-time with a blend of academic study, skills development, and practice placements
• Accreditation: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
• Language of instruction: English

What you'll study

The programme is designed with a progressive structure that enhances nursing competencies, particularly in mental health nursing. Students engage in a mix of academic modules, professional practice learning, and extensive placement experiences.

• Year 1: Introduction to nursing foundations, professional values, academic skills, and early decision-making in nursing.
• Year 2: Focus on evidence-based practice, a deeper understanding of health within society, and exploration of nursing policies, politics, and professional roles alongside advanced mental health nursing practices.
• Year 3: Emphasis on advanced mental health nursing, leadership in care coordination, and professional practice learning with increasing clinical complexity.

Indicative module themes include:

• Professional Values and Academic Skills
• Nursing Practice and Decision Making
• Health in Society
• Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing
• Nursing in Society
• Policy, Politics, and Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing Practice
• Mental Health Academic and Practice Inquiry

Placements and practice learning: Throughout the programme, students will undertake supervised practice learning, with assessments comprising both academic and practice-based competency evaluations.

Entry requirements

To apply for this programme, candidates must meet specific academic qualifications. The university requires Level 2 qualifications to be completed prior to application (with exceptions for Access Students).

A minimum of three GCSEs at Grade 4 or above is essential, including:

• English Language
• Mathematics
• One of the following: Health and Social Care, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or a relevant Science qualification (double/triple award) or equivalent

Note: Specific grade requirements may vary based on the applicant's route. It is advisable to check the latest entry criteria according to your qualification type.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Nursing - Mental Health programme are well-prepared for various roles within the healthcare sector. They can pursue careers as Registered Nurses with a focus on mental health, working in diverse settings such as hospitals, community health organizations, and mental health units. The demand for mental health professionals continues to grow, providing ample opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the field.