TEF Gold Undergraduate course

FdSc

Nursing Associate

Nursing Associates bridge the gap between healthcare assistants and registered nurses, supporting healthcare teams. You'll build clinical skills to deliver safe, holistic care across nursing fields, helping patients and families during times of need.

Our typical offer

64 UCAS points

Develop clinical and professional expertise

Build the clinical expertise and professional capability to make a real impact in patient care from day one. 

Provide high-quality care 

Learn to apply evidence-based practice to support registered nurses in all areas of nursing, helping deliver safe, high-quality care to patients and their families when they need it most.

Degree on your doorstep

You can study with us at one of our three campuses in 50¶È»Ò, Exeter or Truro, where you'll find expert staff and modern facilities to study where it suits you.
FdSc Nursing Associate

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About

Become a registered Nursing Associate in just two years with our FdSc Nursing Associate

This course prepares you to join the Nursing and Midwifery Council register and take on a vital role bridging the gap between healthcare support workers and registered nurses. Mapped against the Care Certificate Standards, it ensures you build the essential foundations for safe, compassionate care from day one. 
Nursing associates work across all fields of practice – adult, child, mental health and learning disabilities – often in specialist settings, delivering high-quality care. You’ll develop a broad range of clinical skills and collaborate with nurses, multidisciplinary teams, patients and families to improve health outcomes. Graduates can progress into specialist, inpatient or community roles, and many choose to advance onto our BSc (Hons) Nursing degree, completing it in just 18 months via direct entry into year two.
FdSc Nursing Associate students taking part in a clinical skills practical

This course is for you if...

you're compassionate and dedicated to caring for people who need your help
Stethoscope over heart
you want to develop workplace skills alongside academic knowledge
Two healthcare professionals, one with stethoscope
you want to deliver person-centred care throughout the nursing process
Clipboard with heart showing heart beat
you want to make a difference to society through healthcare
Badge with cross on, depicting health profession

Details

Year 1

In your first year, you'll build a strong foundation in the core principles of Nursing Associate practice. You'll explore the role of the Nursing Associate within contemporary healthcare, developing the skills to become an independent, reflective practitioner. You'll study anatomy and physiology to support holistic care, learn to build therapeutic relationships, and understand the ethical and legal responsibilities of the role. You'll also begin applying the Nursing Process to deliver safe, evidence-based care across diverse settings.
FdSc Nursing Associate students taking part in a clinical skills practical

Core modules

FDNA407
Evidence Based Practice in Nursing 20 credits

This module will introduce students to the role of the Nursing Associate in society and in contemporary healthcare, and equip them with the tools to gather and use appropriate information to become independent learners and reflective practitioners.

100% Coursework

FDNA408
Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Nursing Associates 20 credits

This module will develop student's knowledge, understanding and application of anatomy and physiology in terms of human development, key body systems and their relevance to holistic assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of nursing care.

100% Examinations

FDNA411
Therapeutic Relationships through Effective Communication 20 credits

This module supports students to develop basic, person-centred communication skills enabling them to engage effectively with individuals and their families, utilising a range of collaborative interpersonal skills and adopting therapeutic and ethical frameworks that can be applied in health and social care.

100% Coursework

FDNA414
Being an Accountable Professional 20 credits

This module explores and develops participants' understanding of the role and parameters of practice for Nursing Associates. It will support students to develop resilience and provide an understanding of the ethical, legal and policy requirements of the role as well as the individual accountability which Nursing Associates have, to provide high quality person centred, safe and ethical care.

100% Examinations

FDNA415
Delivering Patient Centred Care Throughout the Nursing Process

This module will develop the student's knowledge and understanding of person-centred, evidence-based care throughout the Nursing Process. Within the scope of Nursing Associate Practice the students will utilise appropriate tools and models to effectively and robustly assess, plan, implement and evaluate safe nursing care across the lifespan, with a focus on maintaining patient safety and promoting health, wellbeing and working in partnership.

Final year

In your final year, you'll deepen your expertise across key areas of Nursing Associate practice. You'll explore public health priorities and learn to apply health promotion strategies using real-world data. You'll build confidence in medicines management and safe administration, while developing leadership skills to support teams and drive quality improvement. Through research and audit, you'll learn to enhance patient safety and deliver evidence-based care. You'll also prepare for professional registration by gaining skills in teaching, supervision, and reflective practice – ready to lead, support, and educate others in clinical settings.
FdSc Nursing Associate students taking part in a clinical skills practical

Core modules

FDNA507
Promoting Public Health and Preventing Ill Health 20 credits

This module aims to develop the student's knowledge and skills in relation to assessing and prioritising public health needs across the lifespan, using global, national and local epidemiological data, to define contemporary health challenges and appropriate health education and health promotion models used to address these.

70% Practicals

30% Coursework

FDNA508
Medicines Management 20 credits

This module will develop apprentices' knowledge and understanding of medications and relevant pharmacology, working to support medication adherence and safe administration.

100% Examinations

FDNA509
Team Working and Leadership 20 credits

This module will develop participants' understanding of leadership and team working in healthcare practice. It will explore self-leadership and the role of the Nursing Associate in role modelling and providing leadership and supervision for others. It will develop participants' knowledge and understanding of quality and service improvement, clinical governance and health and social care leadership frameworks.

100% Coursework

FDNA510
Improving Patient Safety and Quality of Care through Research 20 credits

The module introduces students to research methodology and methods, including audit, in order to apply research-based evidence to professional practice, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, safe, effective, timely, efficient and equitable person-centred care, making adjustments and improving where necessary through responsive innovation.

100% Coursework

FDNA513
Developing Nursing Associate Practice and Skills Through Teaching, Learning and Assessment

This module will prepare students for the transition to registrants. It will introduce theories of teaching and learning in practice to underpin the role of Nursing Associate as a learner, teacher and supervisor, including the theory of reflective practice; coaching; a range of methods for giving and receiving feedback as well as applying knowledge of teaching, learning and assessment in peer learning or core skills and proficiencies.

 
 
 

Alternative pathways

As the largest provider of nursing courses in the South West, we pride ourselves on enable access to training whatever stage in your life you decide to pursue a career in nursing. 
Our range of adult health nursing courses have been designed with your career and the future needs of the NHS in mind.
Discover our full range of nursing courses including child health, mental health and midwifery.

Course-specific academic regulations

This course has unique rules relating to:

  • Passing a module
View the full regulations for this course

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

FdSc Nursing Associate programme specification_7427

Experience

Jenita Loheswaran

The best thing about my training is seeing the positive impact I can have on people’s lives every day – whether they’re patients, families, or fellow students.

I feel empowered to continue with my work and hopefully inspire future generations of nursing students in the South West and the rest of the country.

Jenita Loheswaran - Nursing Associate
Jenita Loheswaran in a nursing training ward
 
 
 

Hands-on learning

We’re committed to helping you become the best health professional you can be. To ensure patient safety and well-being, future nurses need to grasp the 'why', 'when', and 'how' behind their actions – this course blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills, developed through placement experience and simulated practice.
Our Clinical Skills Simulation Ward offers a safe, supportive space to learn and practice new skills at your own pace, guided by experienced staff and peers. 
 
Explore our clinical facilities
Nursing students in clinical setting
 
 
 

Study closer to home

Our range of study locations means that if you're based beyond commuting distance to our 50¶È»Ò, Truro, or Exeter campuses, you can still join our nursing course without the need for long travel times.
BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult) - clinical skills lab
 
 
 

Learn from experienced healthcare professionals

Mrs Lisa-Marie Rowe Lecturer in Adult Nursing (Education)


Lecturer in Adult Nursing (Education)

Programme Lead
Mr Mano Keshishian Lecturer in Adult Nursing


Lecturer in Adult Nursing

Deputy Programme Lead 50¶È»Ò
Mrs Emma Watson Lecturer in Adult Nursing


Lecturer in Adult Nursing

Deputy Programme Lead Exeter
Show all
 
 
 

Join our nursing society 'NurSoc'

We understand that nursing is a demanding course that makes it difficult to find time to have a life outside of it, especially whilst on placement. NurSoc is there to build a community for student nurses and provide opportunities to socialise and unwind outside of the course. We have a calendar of social events that’s scheduled around commitments to the course, and wellbeing activities designed to give you the break you need.
Nursing students
 
 
 

Life in 50¶È»Ò

50¶È»Ò's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city

Discover what 50¶È»Ò and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options

Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls

Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Studying nursing at the University of 50¶È»Ò will enable you to commence a rewarding career within the health sector. With an ongoing demand for nurses across the UK, employment prospects for nursing graduates remain very good.
A Nursing Associate bridges the gap between healthcare assistants and registered nurses and is an integral part of the nursing family, supporting healthcare teams with their clinical and administrative duties. Once qualified as a Nursing Associate you may work across a wide range of healthcare settings, including:
  • acute or community hospitals (across a range of clinical areas)
  • community nursing teams
  • GP practices.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
N/A per credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at 50¶È»Ò, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
64 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
GCSE English and Maths at a Grade C/4. Equivalents may be considered.

A levels
64 points to include a minimum of 2 A levels.

BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
MPP to MMM – Science or health related subject preferred.

Access to HE Diploma
Pass a Science or health related access with 15 Level 3 credits at Merit and 30 at Pass.

T level
Pass – Science or health related subject.

Extended entry requirements

Equivalent qualifications may be considered, including workplace delivered NVQs, please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
In addition to the above, evidence of academic study within the last five years is usually required. Ideally this should be one of the qualifications listed here, but the admissions team will assess on a case-by-case basis.
Additional requirements:
  • Able to demonstrate values and behaviours in accordance with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC, 2018) .
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old on commencement of the programme.
You must also complete:
  • DBS Enhanced Disclosure
  • Overseas Check
  • Occupational Health Screening
  • Self-disclosure document.
We are unable to consider applicants who will require a Student visa to study on this course.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
B791
Institution code
P60
Duration

2 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
50¶È»Ò, Exeter and Truro
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    64 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
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    • UCAS course code
    B791
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    2 years
    (with placements)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    50¶È»Ò, Exeter and Truro
     
     
     

    Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

    Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of 50¶È»Ò.
     
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    Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
     
     
     
    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.