Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme combines academic modules with structured clinical placements to develop the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours required of an adult nurse. Core topics include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, clinical assessment, long-term conditions, acute and emergency care, mental health considerations in adult nursing, and end-of-life care. You will also study evidence-based practice, research methods, leadership and professional issues in nursing.

Teaching approaches include lectures, seminars, skills laboratory sessions and high-fidelity simulation, together with supervised practice in a range of settings. Practice placements take place with NHS trusts and partner care organisations in hospitals, community services, primary care and social care settings, increasing in complexity and responsibility as you progress. Assessments typically use a mix of written assignments, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), reflective portfolios and employer-assessed practice assessments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary-level qualifications that demonstrate ability in science and numeracy. Typical offers include A-levels (or equivalent) with at least one science or health-related subject such as Biology or Human Biology; Access to Higher Education diplomas with relevant units are also considered. Good GCSEs (or equivalent) in English language and mathematics are usually required.

All applicants must pass a compulsory occupational health screening and enhanced disclosure and barring service (DBS) check prior to commencing clinical placements. Mature applicants with relevant work experience or healthcare qualifications are welcome. International applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English language proficiency at a level acceptable to the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

Career prospects

Successful graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council as adult nurses, enabling immediate employment in the NHS, independent sector and international healthcare settings. Common first roles include staff nurse positions in medical, surgical, emergency and community teams. With experience and further training, graduates can move into specialist clinical roles, nurse education, leadership and management, research, advanced practice (such as nurse practitioner roles), or public and global health positions.

The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in specialist areas of nursing, healthcare leadership, public health or clinical practice.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a nursing programme with a strong emphasis on applied learning and close links to regional healthcare providers, giving students diverse placement opportunities across acute and community services. The university provides modern clinical skills suites and simulation facilities to practise procedures and decision-making in realistic scenarios before entering practice.

The course is delivered by staff with clinical and research experience in nursing and allied health disciplines, and students benefit from interprofessional learning with other health and social care programmes. Being located close to Oxford gives access to a wide range of NHS trusts and community providers while studying in a supportive campus environment that focuses on employability and professional development.