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BSc (Hons) Pre-registration Nursing (Adult)

If you have a passion for working with people and enjoy helping improve and manage people's health, then you could start your journey to nursing with this Nursing and Midwifery Council-accredited degree.

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Personalised pathways to proficiency: tailored training for exceptional adult nursing

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Three A-Levels: BCC-BBB

BTEC: DMM-DDM

Or T levels at grade M

GCSE Maths Grade 4/C or above, or L2 Functional Skills GCSE English Grade 4/C or above, or L2 Functional Skills

An Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 104 tariff points, of which at least 30 credits at Merit

Nursing Associates and Assistant Practitioners must have completed a recognised Level 5 programme of study and submit a Portfolio of Evidence for recognition of prior learning (RPL).

If English is not the applicant’s first language and they do not have GCSE English Grade 4/C or above, or L2 Functional Skills, then IELTS (or equivalent qualification) will be required with an overall score of at least 7.0 (at least 6.5 in all elements sections) following NMC Guidance. 

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UCAS points 104 -120 UCAS Tariff points to include 64 UCAS Tariff points from 2 ‘A’ Levels, BTEC or equivalent

UCAS code NUR1

UCAS institution code P63

Duration 3 years

Course Summary

We prioritise hands-on learning in a safe and supportive environment. Our curriculum is designed to provide students with extensive exposure and tailored experiences to prepare them for a successful career in adult nursing. Our first-class simulation suites are at the heart of our programme. Here, students engage with scenarios that mirror actual clinical situations. This innovative approach allows for repeated practice and gradual skill mastery in a controlled setting. By the time students transition to clinical placements, they are confident and well-prepared to handle diverse patient cases.

We believe that exposure to a variety of clinical settings is key to discovering a passion and final destination specialising in adult nursing. That's why our programme incorporates two placements per year. These placements are carefully selected to offer a wide spectrum of experiences, from acute care settings to community health which means that students can explore different facets of adult nursing and make informed decisions about their future career paths.

Our dedicated faculty comprised of seasoned nursing professionals are committed to providing mentorship and guidance throughout your academic journey. They bring a wealth of experience to the classroom and are passionate about nurturing the next generation of leaders. Students have access to personalised feedback, ensuring their growth and development as competent and compassionate nurses.

We foster a close-knit community where open communication and collaboration are encouraged. Students have the opportunity to learn from their peers and build supportive relationships that extend beyond the classroom. This sense of community strengthens their overall learning experience. By the end of our programme, graduates will possess the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in the dynamic field of adult nursing. They will be equipped to provide high-quality, patient-centred care in a variety of clinical settings.

Why study nursing at Marjon?

Learn from seasoned experts in adult nursing, ensuring a top-tier education.

Build your experience in our first-class simulation suites so you feel confident in real-world practice.

Get prepared for a diverse array of clinical settings with two placements each year so you discover what your passions are and select the right career path.

In a close-knit community like Marjon, you'll find a support network and strong friendships with other student nurses.

This programme is designed to accommodate you and your life commitments, so being a single parent or a mid-life career changer shouldn't stop you from applying!

With a distinctive blend of expert-guided education, top-class facilities, and diverse clinical exposures, you will graduate with a solid foundation to take on to your professional career.

Modules for this course

1st Year

Essentials of nursing practice
Delve into essential knowledge, skills, and values for contemporary practice. Explore professionalism, accountability, and your own nursing philosophy while honing communication through high-fidelity simulation.
Placement 1 - Integrated care for nursing students
Immerse yourself in dynamic nursing practice across modern healthcare settings. Guided by dedicated supervisors and assessors, you will refine your practical skills, embrace reflective practice, and explore evidence-based approaches.
Social determinants of health
From poverty to poor health literacy, this module delves into social determinants shaping wellbeing. Learn to promote health, empower people's choices, and champion positive change for individuals facing diverse challenges
Biological and pharmacological aspects of health and wellbeing
Dive into anatomy, physiology, and health influences. Master pharmacology basics and learn to promote effective medication management while elevating your nursing expertise.
Placement 2 - Integrated care for nursing students
This module immerses students in real-world nursing practice. From community care to hospital-based placements, you're guided by dedicated assessors on a journey of honing practical skills, reflecting on decisions, and embracing evidence-based care.

2nd Year

The role of evidence-based practice in clinical decision-making
This module explores evolving policies, guiding students in evidence-based clinical decisions. Discover the power of information sources and ethical research practices for a global perspective on nursing care. Adapt and excel in this ever-changing field.
Placement 1 - Enhancing care and clinical decision making
Dive deep into clinical practice, guided by seasoned professionals. Master safe care delivery, refine decision-making, and align it all with patient needs and ethical guidelines. Get ready to excel in your nursing journey!
Developing knowledge and skills in complex care
Master the skill of providing safe, evidence-based care for patients with complex needs. Develop an understanding of local and national policies, reflecting on real-world challenges. Experience high-fidelity simulation and scenario-based learning.
Placement 2 - Improving safety & quality of care for those with complex needs in practice
Experience hands-on learning under professional supervision to enhance your knowledge, assessment skills, and safe nursing care for complex health needs. Develop expertise in clinical care, decision-making, and interprofessional teamwork, aligned with NMC standards. Elevate healthcare delivery and promote patient wellbeing.

3rd Year

Healthcare management
Analyse contemporary themes, empowering you to challenge norms and solve real-world problems. From leadership theory to hands-on simulations, gain the skills to lead with confidence and innovation.
Placement 1 - Healthcare management in practice
Your first Year 3 placement is your gateway to honing leadership and management skills in delivering inclusive, person-centred care. Learn to navigate diverse backgrounds and cultures, while understanding group dynamics. Discover how to drive organisational change and shape public policy!
Quality improvement
Delve into quality improvement, using research and clinical audits to drive change and elevate care delivery. From honing communication skills to exploring quality improvement frameworks, we equip you with the tools for transformative healthcare practice.
Placement 2 - Improving quality of care
Your final Year 3 placement sharpens leadership skills, driving quality, safety, and person-centred care in healthcare. Students dive into dynamics, culture, and organisational change, becoming change catalysts armed with top-notch communication and management prowess.

What might I become?

On successful completion of the programme, you'll be eligible to apply to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as an Adult Nurse. As an Adult Nurse, you may work in various settings including hospitals, community health centres, residential care facilities, and schools.

Your responsibilities could include assessing and planning care, administering medications, providing emotional support, and advocating for the rights of individuals with physical illness.

This programme could open doors to advanced roles such as clinical nurse specialist, nurse manager or supervisor, or even positions in research or policy development related to learning disabilities nursing.

You may have opportunities for further education and specialisation or advanced nursing practice. This programme prepares you for a fulfilling career dedicated to making a positive impact in the field of adult nursing.


How you’ll be taught and assessed?

How will you be taught?

The teaching approach for this programme is diverse and dynamic. It includes conventional methods like lectures, seminars, and tutorials, complemented by e-learning to give you flexibility around life commitments.

Personal and professional development planning empowers students, while workshops, peer learning, and guest speakers enhance practical skills. Practice-based, problem-based, and interprofessional learning stimulate critical thinking. Coaching and mentoring offer you personalised support and clinical simulation provides hands-on experience.

Blended learning combines various resources and perspectives from service users and carers to add real-world insights. Directed study encourages your independent learning, supported by a wealth of online resources. Masterclasses bring specialised expertise to enrich the learning experience. This multifaceted approach prepares you to excel as a specialised nurse in adult nursing.

How will you be assessed?

The assessment process for this programme is designed to comprehensively evaluate students' knowledge, skills, and application of nursing principles. It encompasses a balanced mix of formal and summative assessments, ensuring ongoing feedback and a final measure of proficiency in practice.

Assessments may include written assignments, reflective portfolios, practical assessments, and a project. This diverse range of evaluation methods aims to accommodate various learning styles and effectively gauge students' readiness to practice as competent and compassionate Adult Nurses.

Additionally, our team is committed to providing constructive feedback, guiding students towards continuous improvement and excellence in their nursing practice.

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Anne-Marie Lyons

Course leader

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Anne-Marie is an invaluable asset to our programme. With extensive local connections to Livewell Southwest, she brings a wealth of practical expertise to the course. She is dedicated and committed to mental health care by serving across all areas of this critical discipline. This hands-on experience enriches her understanding and translates into invaluable insights for our students.


Fees and funding

Fees UK students: £9,535


Fees for International students: £14,600


This fee covers your tuition and access to course-specific equipment and facilities, as well associated services including access to the library, study skills support, IT support, student support and wellbeing services and membership of the Student Union. There may be additional costs by course.

Additional costs:

Additional costs:

  • Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) enhanced check (Annual Update Service or dated within 6 months of the start of the course)
  • Evidence that an occupational health declaration has been completed prior to starting the programme
  • Evidence of all required vaccinations being up-to-date
  • Travel to and from placement
  • Accommodation and general living costs
  • Textbooks
  • Stationary
  • Printing/Photocopying
  • Membership of a Union (Optional but advised)
  • NMC registration on completion of the programme.
  • There may be some discretionary trips and other activities to support your studies

Funding available for this course

This course may entitle you to access the NHS Learning Support Fund training grant, which will cover £5,000 of your fees for each academic year. You can find out more about the grant, including criteria for eligibility, via this link

Our Student Funding Advisors offer confidential and impartial advice about your funding options.

Student funding advice

Lecturers

Paul Horne

Senior Lecturer

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Rebecca Horne

Pre Qualifying Healthcare Lecturer

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Anne-Marie Lyons

Senior Lecturer

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Saoirse Read

Senior Lecturer

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Frequently asked questions

Q1   What resources and facilities are available to students on-campus to support me in the clinical setting?

You'll have access to a rich array of resources and state-of-the-art facilities both on-campus and in clinical settings. Our campus boasts a cutting-edge simulation suite, which replicates real-world healthcare environments. This suite includes an acute ward, providing students with hands-on experience in acute care scenarios. Additionally, there is a fully equipped GP surgery, allowing students to practice primary care skills. To further enhance practical learning, we have a residential home setup for a realistic understanding of long-term care, as well as a mock flat to simulate home-based care scenarios. These resources provide you with a diverse and immersive learning experience, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in various healthcare settings upon graduation.

Q2   How does the university support students in terms of career guidance and job placement after graduation?

Marjon is dedicated to guiding students towards a successful and fulfilling career path after graduation. Our comprehensive career support includes personalised guidance from experienced advisors who assist in resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies. We also facilitate networking opportunities with healthcare professionals and organisations through career fairs and networking events. Additionally, our strong industry connections and partnerships with healthcare institutions provide direct pathways to job placements. Through workshops, seminars, and masterclass networks, we ensure students have the tools and resources needed to confidently transition into the workforce and embark on a rewarding career in Adult nursing.

Q3   What is the learning environment like at Plymouth Marjon University, and how is diversity and inclusion valued within the programme?

The learning environment at Marjon is characterised by its inclusive, supportive, and nurturing atmosphere. We believe that diversity is not just celebrated, but integral to the fabric of our community. Our commitment to inclusivity aligns closely with the Nursing and Midwifery Council's (NMC) Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, which emphasises the importance of a diverse healthcare workforce in delivering high-quality care. We actively foster an environment where students from all backgrounds feel valued and empowered. This approach extends into the Adult Nursing programme, where we ensure that curriculum, teaching methods, and clinical experiences reflect a range of perspectives and experiences.

Q4   What types of placements can I expect in the first 18 months, and how do they prepare me for my future career?

In the first 18 months of the Adult Nursing programme, students can anticipate a diverse range of placements that provide a holistic foundation for their future career. These placements are carefully curated to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. Students will have the opportunity to engage in clinical settings that encompass learning disabilities, child nursing, and mental health nursing. This exposure is crucial in fostering a well-rounded understanding of healthcare delivery across the lifespan. The programme places a strong emphasis on developing the skills necessary to conduct thorough physical assessments. Students will work under the guidance of experienced assessors and supervisors to refine their assessment abilities, ensuring they meet the requirements for conducting a full physical assessment competently.

Find out more about studying at Marjon

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