Loading...
Entry Requirements for Nursing
If you have landed on nursing as the career path for you, there are some requirements to consider when researching nursing degrees and courses. When thinking about becoming a nurse, you should first consider which pathway you wish to take into the career. You will also need to consider what requirements the university you wish to attend has for their prospective student nurses. You can also check out our article on Becoming a Nurse.
The Undergraduate Route
If you wish to enter nursing through a Bachelors of Science Degree at your chosen university, you will likely start this from your A-levels or a foundation course.
Most universities will be looking for applicants with an A-level in biology. Understanding what grade you require in biology is down to the university’s specific requirements. Universities generally look fondly at applicants with a supporting science-based A-level, such as chemistry. An A-level in social science is also preferred, including subjects such as psychology or sociology. Again understanding what grades you require in these subjects will depend on which university you wish to attend.
Applicants may also be considered if they have five GCSEs 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English, maths, and science, with a level 3 diploma or Access to higher education in health, science or nursing. Acceptance of these qualifications may depend on the university and degree you wish to apply to.
If your A-levels grades are lower than needed or expected, many universities offer a Foundation Year course in nursing. A Foundation Year gives you extra time and support to prepare for an undergraduate degree. The foundation course will help you build your knowledge, skills and confidence before embarking on a full degree. Most foundation year programmes are designed to prepare you for a range of Nursing and Midwifery courses. This means you will likely study a broad range of subjects and skills, helping you to progress successfully to undergraduate degree-level study. Foundation year courses help individuals develop a range of practical and clinical skills to better prepare them for a challenging career in Nursing or Midwifery. Once you have completed a Foundation Year, you will still need to go through the application and selection process for your chosen course and university.
Applicants to undergraduate nursing degrees must also demonstrate a passion and drive for caring and nursing. Some universities may overlook slightly lower grades if an individual demonstrates an aptitude for caring. A drive and passion for nursing may be demonstrated through previous work experience, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities or personal experiences. If you are concerned that your grades do not meet the requirements fully, focus on your passion and drive to become a nurse. Really highlight your experiences and positive feedback in your application. If you are concerned, contact the admissions team of your chosen university and discuss options and ask if your application may be considered.
It is common to complete an interview as part of the selection process, especially with conditional offers. If you progress to getting an interview at your chosen university, you should demonstrate why you have the right character for care and nursing. Ensure you show you have the resilience, attention to detail, timekeeping, communication, empathy, and compassion required. Be sure to highlight your knowledge of nursing values and how you demonstrate them regularly. We have a dedicated article to interview tips if you are looking for further guidance.
The Postgraduate Route
Some nursing degrees in the UK are starting to offer a fast-track postgraduate pathway. Candidates that have already achieved a degree in a related subject, such as:
- A health-related subject
- Psychology
- Life sciences
- Social work
May apply to join a nursing degree in the second year of the course. Meaning those with a related degree will only need to study for a further two years to qualify as a nurse. These postgraduate options are only available at certain universities. To fully understand which degrees are seen as related and what grades you need to have achieved in your previous undergraduate degree, you should research your chosen university’s specifications.
The Apprenticeship Route
Those who already work in healthcare in health and social care settings, such as hospitals, may be able to complete a degree apprenticeship in nursing. Those who undertake this route will receive a combination of hands-on practical training and academic study over around four years. The individual’s employer must support them through this process.
Individuals who wish to enter nursing through this route must apply to the position as they would in any other job role. The main perk of entering nursing this way is that there is nothing you need to pay to study, and you will often receive a salary. The cost of the apprenticeship is paid completely by the employer. Often nursing apprenticeship degree roles require the candidate to have college-level grades such as A-levels. However, this may differ between employers, and to understand the requirements better, you should research specific available positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What finance options are available for those who wish to complete a nursing degree?
A grant is now available for nursing, midwifery, and some allied health professional students offering between £5,000 and £8,000, which doesn’t need to be paid back.
All new and continuing degree-level nursing students enrolled on a course in September 2020 will receive at least £5,000 a year. Some students will be eligible for an additional £3,000, creating a grant of £8,000 annually.
Does a nursing degree guarantee employment post-graduation?
The percentage of those who complete a nursing degree and are employed within six months is 94%. While a nursing degree cannot guarantee a job specifically, nursing is in high demand, and there are many career options for graduates soon after qualifying.
What A-level grades will I require?
This will depend on the university and programme you are applying to. Some universities may have higher grade requirements than others. It is best to know the requirements for your preferred universities and if there are other options if your grades are lower than expected.
Will a Foundation Year only prepare me for an Adult Nursing Degree?
Most foundation year programmes are broad and cover many subjects. Completing a foundation year will put you in good stead to be considered for Adult nursing, Mental health nursing, Learning disability nursing, midwifery or other allied healthcare professions degrees.
Was this article helpful?
Still got a question? Leave a comment
Leave a comment