Nottingham Trent University

What you'll study

The programme blends clinical practice with academic study to develop safe, compassionate and evidence-informed adult nurses. You will study core topics such as anatomy and physiology, clinical assessment and decision-making, pharmacology, long-term and acute condition management, person-centred care, safeguarding and public health.

Learning is organised across integrated modules that progressively build clinical skills, professional judgement and leadership. Early years focus on fundamental nursing practice and communication; middle stages extend to complex care needs, mental health in adults, and medication management; final-year study emphasises clinical leadership, service improvement and independent practice.

• Practical clinical skills and simulation-based learning in on-campus clinical skills suites.
• Supervised practice placements across acute, community and primary care settings with partner NHS and social care providers.
• Evidence-based practice and applied research methods to underpin reflective practice and quality improvement.
• Professional and legal aspects of nursing, including ethics, safeguarding and interprofessional collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a mix of level 3 qualifications such as A-levels, BTEC or Access to Higher Education diplomas accepted by the university, together with GCSEs in English and maths at the commonly required pass level. Mature applicants with relevant healthcare experience and appropriate qualifications are also considered.

All applicants must complete a selection process that typically includes an interview and fitness to practise checks. Successful candidates must meet professional requirements such as an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, occupational health clearance and up-to-date immunisations. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved qualification at the level required for professional registration.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as adult nurses and can take up roles in hospitals, community health services, GP surgeries, social care organisations and specialist clinics. Typical early posts include staff nurse roles on adult wards, community nursing teams or specialist outpatient services.

With experience, nurses often progress to roles such as senior or charge nurse, clinical specialist, district nurse, nurse educator, research nurse, or management positions. Many graduates pursue postgraduate study to become advanced clinical practitioners or nurse practitioners, or to specialise in areas such as palliative care, emergency care, cardiology or gerontology.

Why study at Nottingham Trent University

The programme is delivered on the Mansfield campus and benefits from strong partnerships with local NHS trusts and community providers, ensuring a wide range of placement opportunities. Students learn in purpose-built clinical skills facilities and use simulation and practice-based learning to prepare for real-world clinical environments.

Nottingham Trent University places emphasis on employability and professional readiness, offering dedicated support for placements, mentorship during clinical practice and access to careers and academic support services. The course leads to professional registration and is designed to meet the standards required for safe, effective adult nursing practice.