BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
Train as a registered adult nurse with 50% clinical placement across NHS trusts in the West Midlands and NMC-approved curriculum.
Course overview
Adult Nursing prepares you for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as a registered nurse specialising in adult care. The programme combines academic study with extensive clinical practice across hospital, community, and primary care settings.
You will develop clinical skills in assessment, medication administration, wound care, catheterisation, and patient monitoring. Simulation sessions in our Clinical Skills Centre use high-fidelity manikins before you practise on real patients under supervision.
Academic modules cover anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, evidence-based practice, and leadership in nursing. Person-centred care, dignity, and cultural sensitivity are embedded throughout the curriculum.
Placements rotate through medical wards, surgical wards, A&E, intensive care, community nursing, and specialist areas such as oncology and cardiology. Each placement is supported by a practice assessor and practice supervisor in the clinical setting.
Upon registration, graduates work in NHS hospitals, community services, private healthcare, and international settings. Career progression includes advanced practice, nurse prescribing, and clinical leadership roles.
Entry requirements
- A-levels
- BBB including Biology or Human Biology, or BBB with a science A-level.
- International Baccalaureate
- 30 points including Biology at Higher Level grade 5.
- BTEC
- DDM in Health and Social Care or Applied Science.
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade 4/C; Science at grade 4/C.
- Other routes
- Occupational health clearance and enhanced DBS check required. Values-based recruitment interview.
Modules
Year 1
Foundations of Nursing Practice
30 credits
Core nursing skills, professionalism, and communication.
Anatomy and Physiology
20 credits
Body systems and homeostasis relevant to nursing care.
Year 2
Acute Adult Nursing
30 credits
Care of acutely ill adults in hospital settings.
Pharmacology for Nurses
20 credits
Medication management, calculations, and safe administration.
Year 3
Complex Care and Leadership
30 credits
Managing complex patients and preparing for registered practice.
Career opportunities
Registered adult nurses work across the NHS and private sector in roles from staff nurse to ward manager, clinical nurse specialist, and nurse consultant.
Advanced career pathways include nurse prescribing, non-medical prescribing, and MSc Advanced Clinical Practice leading to advanced nurse practitioner roles.
Placements
Clinical placements account for approximately 50% of programme time, totalling 2,300 hours across diverse settings. Partner trusts include University Hospitals Birmingham, The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, and community providers.
Placement support includes travel expense reimbursement through the NHS Learning Support Fund.
Facilities
The Clinical Skills Centre features simulated hospital wards, community flat, and specialist equipment including ventilators and cardiac monitors.
Anatomy laboratory sessions use cadaveric material and anatomical models for hands-on learning.
Frequently asked questions
- What A-level subjects do I need for Adult Nursing?
- Entry requirements vary by programme, but most undergraduate courses expect relevant subjects at grade B or above. We also welcome applicants with BTEC Extended Diplomas, T Levels, Access to HE Diplomas, and equivalent international qualifications. If your combination differs from the published requirements, contact our admissions team — contextual offers may be available for students from widening participation backgrounds.
- Can I study part-time?
- Many of our postgraduate programmes offer part-time study over two to four years, allowing you to balance work and family commitments. Part-time undergraduate study is available on selected courses; contact [email protected] for current options. Part-time students have the same access to library resources, careers support, and student services as full-time students.
- Are there scholarships available?
- Luma University offers a range of scholarships including academic excellence awards, sports scholarships, and bursaries for students from low-income households. International students may apply for the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship worth up to £3,000 per year. Visit our fees and funding pages or speak to our Student Finance team for personalised advice.
- What support is available for disabled students?
- Our Disability and Inclusion Service provides confidential support including exam adjustments, assistive technology loans, note-taking support, and specialist mentoring. We encourage you to disclose any disability or health condition early so we can arrange reasonable adjustments before you arrive. The campus is largely accessible, with step-free routes and accessible accommodation available.
- Can I transfer from another university?
- Transfer applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. You will need to provide transcripts and module descriptions so we can assess credit for prior learning. Transfers are typically considered for entry into Year 2, subject to space and matching module content. Contact [email protected] with your current programme details.
- Will I be paid during placements?
- Placements are part of your training and unpaid, but eligible students receive the NHS Learning Support Fund of £5,000 per year plus additional support for essential travel and childcare costs.