Are you looking for the best way to gain a degree in nursing science that will take you to the next level in providing care to patients?

This course allows you, in just one year of full-time study, to turn your existing nursing diploma into an honours degree. People who join the course are usually already registered as nurses, either in the UK or another country.

Northumbria’s Nursing learning experience

During the course you will develop knowledge for and from practice. Using the state-of-the-art facilities at our Clinical Skills Centre, you will enhance skills and deepen knowledge within authentically replicated clinical environments. In addition, you may have the opportunity to visit a local hospital. Our curriculum is built around the real needs of the nursing profession and is fully aligned with the requirements of the British Quality Assurance Agency’s benchmark statement for nursing.

By the end of the year you will be able to demonstrate an ability to think independently and find answers to complex problems related to nursing. As a graduate and lifelong learner, you’ll be ready to pursue those opportunities and specialisms that inspire you, whether it's in fields like mental health nursing or other areas of interest that align with your educational journey.

Why choose Northumbria to study Nursing Science?

• Nursing, Midwifery and Health department won Outstanding Support for Students in Times Higher Education Awards 2023.

• Nursing at Northumbria is ranked Top 20 in the UK by the Complete University Guide for 2024.

• 99% of our Nursing graduates are in highly skilled employment or further study 15 months after graduation (Guardian University Guide, 2024).

• Northumbria’s research in Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy is ranked 8th in the UK for research power, out of 91 submissions. This is a rise of 13 places from 21st in 2014.

How will I learn during this Nursing Science course?

You will work in small groups with other students from different cultural backgrounds on your course, exploring issues and nursing problems in greater depth, and also providing peer support to each other. You can shape your own learning journey through choosing from a range of assignments, which allows you to follow particular interests and priorities.

In lectures we will present the theoretical content and then in seminars you will explore the practical applications for nursing settings. Complex concepts are revisited in modules throughout the course, enabling a ‘spiral’ approach to gaining knowledge.

The course attracts people from all over the world, which means you will gain a global perspective to nursing and healthcare. It makes for a lively environment in which you will be challenged to formulate and justify alternative viewpoints.

Who teaches the BSc Nursing Science course?

You will have a great opportunity to learn from our knowledgeable and enthusiastic academics from a diverse cultural background and from the staff whose engagement in the nursing profession is helping to increase patient safety and strengthen the quality through clinical practice and research, which will contribute to develop and maximise your potential throughout the course, both personally and professionally.  

Where is Northumbria University’s Nursing course based?

This course is based at our Coach Lane campus, which houses our Clinical Skills Centre – a purpose-built facility that will allow you to develop practical skills and gain valuable experience within a simulated scenario.

Our facilities are some of the most advanced and allow us to ensure your learning evolves in-line with the latest developments in this profession.

What facilities are available to Nursing students?

You will have access to our university library – which has been recognised as third best in the UK – and well-equipped working space, The Hub, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Technology is embedded throughout all aspects of your degree, and you will receive ongoing support through our innovative e-learning platform, Blackboard, where you can access module learning and assessment information, learning materials, and reading lists.

Northumbria’s specialised clinical skills centre

Our innovative Clinical Skills Centre replicates a range of nursing environments and situations. Its virtual reality equipment, high fidelity Simulated Mannequins (SimMan and SimBaby), and immersive technologies will allow you to practise skills, challenge your learning and develop confidence in your clinical ability – all within a safe environment.

Clinical Skills learning is embedded throughout the course, supporting you to develop a range of high-quality nursing skills, as well as skills for working as part of a multidisciplinary health care team.

How is healthcare research applied to teaching throughout my degree?

During the research module you will address research methodology and how to critically evaluate the quality of research. You will then re-visit these topics in each module as you explore the evidence base for subjects and assessments.

The research interests of tutors will inform teaching and help ensure that what you learn is fully relevant and up-to-date. For example, Northumbria researches student nurses’ experiences of studying, which generates insights that help reinforce the quality of our course. The quality of Northumbria’s research is indicated by our top quartile ranking in the UK for research power in Allied Health Sciences and Nursing.

How will my BSc (Hons) Nursing Science degree provide me with the skills needed for my career?

Throughout the course you will develop attributes of critical reflection and self-learning that will prepare you for whatever specialisms, and whatever future, you choose. As the nature of nursing and healthcare continues to evolve, your transferable skills will help you thrive.

A degree qualification is widely seen as an essential passport to more advanced clinical, research, education and management roles. As you progress in your career, you will increasingly take responsibility for the care that is provided to patients.

If you wish, you will be able to continue your studies to Masters level. The content of this BSc (Hons) Nursing supports and underpins what you would experience within MSc Nursing which is a leading course for international students studying at Northumbria University