Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This honours-level programme combines academic modules with supervised clinical practice to develop knowledge, skills and professional behaviours required for safe, compassionate children’s nursing. Core topics include child development, family-centred care, clinical assessment and decision-making, pharmacology for paediatrics, safeguarding, long-term and complex conditions in childhood, mental health and wellbeing, neonatal care, and public health and health promotion for children and young people.

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, simulation and skills labs, case-based learning, and reflective practice. A substantial proportion of the course is spent on assessed clinical placements across a range of settings such as paediatric wards, neonatal units, outpatient clinics, community nursing teams, schools and specialist services. You will also complete modules in research methods and public health to underpin evidence-based practice and professional accountability.

The programme is designed to meet professional standards for entry to the nursing register and includes preparation for professional responsibilities such as record keeping, interprofessional working and working with families. Assessment typically combines written assignments, practical assessments (OSCEs), placement proficiencies and reflective portfolios.

Typical modules and subjects

• Child and Adolescent Development
• Foundations of Children's Nursing Practice
• Clinical Assessment and Skills for Paediatrics
• Pharmacology and Medicines Management for Children
• Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Families
• Neonatal and Complex Care
• Mental Health and Wellbeing in Young People
• Research for Nursing Practice and Evidence-Based Care
• Public Health, Health Promotion and Transition to Adult Services

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold a recognised level of academic qualification such as A-levels, BTEC, Scottish Highers, an Access to HE certificate or an international equivalent, alongside GCSEs or equivalent in English and mathematics. Evidence of experience working with or supporting children and young people is expected and strengthens applications.

All applicants are required to pass occupational health checks, a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, and to demonstrate fitness to practise. Selection includes an interview and may include values-based assessment activities. Mature and non-standard applicants with relevant life and work experience are considered.

International applicants will need to meet English language requirements and provide documentation of equivalent academic achievement. Applicants should consult the university for guidance on acceptable qualifications and how prior learning or experience may be recognised.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for registration as a children’s nurse and typically take posts in paediatric wards, neonatal units, community children's nursing teams, outpatient and day-case services, and specialist services such as oncology, cystic fibrosis or palliative care. With experience, nurses progress to senior clinical roles, specialist practitioner positions, clinical nurse specialist posts, or leadership and management roles.

Further career pathways include school nursing, public health roles, education and preceptorship, research and doctoral study, and advanced practice. Some nurses choose to specialise further (for example neonatal or paediatric critical care) or retrain in related fields such as midwifery or adult nursing. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study, including master's programmes and professional qualifications such as non-medical prescribing where available and appropriate.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has strong partnerships with local NHS trusts and community providers across Oxfordshire and the surrounding region, giving students access to a wide variety of clinical placements and learning environments. The university invests in simulation facilities and clinical skills laboratories to support safe, hands-on practice before students enter placement settings.

Teaching is delivered by staff with clinical and academic expertise in child health and nursing, and the curriculum emphasises family-centred care, safeguarding and interprofessional working. Students benefit from personalised academic support, a structured practice learning framework, and placement support teams who help coordinate and mentor students during clinical experiences.

The university also offers student support services covering wellbeing, academic skills and careers guidance, helping graduates transition into practice and plan ongoing professional development. Studying in the Oxfordshire area provides access to a range of healthcare organisations, research activity and professional networks relevant to children's nursing.