University route 

Most people qualify by studying a degree in nursing. Nursing degrees aren’t all about having your nose in a book. There is lots of practical hands on experience with patients in hospital and community settings.

The first thing to decide is which field of nursing you want to study in, so use the links below to find more about them. In all of these fields you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of people each and every day.

Entry requirements for nursing degree courses vary because each university sets its own entry criteria, but you are likely to need at least two (usually three) A-levels or equivalent qualifications at level 3, plus supporting GCSEs including English, maths and a science (usually biology or human biology). Contact universities directly to find out whether qualifications equivalent to A-levels or GCSEs are acceptable.

Courses often specify preferred or essential A-level or equivalent subjects, such as one science (for example biology) or social science (for example psychology). Some universities offer courses with a foundation year for those without the necessary entry qualifications.

To look where to study use www.ucas.com or https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/career-planning/course-finder

Apprenticeship route:

Offered as a Level 6 degree apprenticeship, you'll obtain a Bachelors degree and full Registered Nurse status on completion of a nursing apprenticeship.

Which universities offer nursing apprenticeships?

• Anglia Ruskin University

• University of Brighton

• University of Cumbria

• University of Derby

• University of Greenwich

• University of Hertfordshire (nursing associate)

• Keele University (nursing associate)

• Northumbria University

• The Open University

• Southampton Solent University

• University of Suffolk

For more information:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nursing-degree-apprenticeships-factsheet/nursing-degree-apprenticeship-factsheet

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/job-sectors/healthcare/nursing-apprenticeships

https://www.nmc.org.uk/education/becoming-a-nurse-midwife-nursing-associate/becoming-a-nurse/

https://www.nmc.org.uk/education/becoming-a-nurse-midwife-nursing-associate/becoming-an-apprentice/

Armed Forces route:

You can also train to be a nurse in the armed forces such as :

• Army

• Royal Air Force

• Royal Navy

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

• 2 or 3 A levels, including a science, or a level 3 diploma or access to higher education in health, science or nursing

Interview Questions

Some questions could include: 

• Why do you want to be a nurse?

• What do you know of the roles and responsibilities of a nurse? 

• What qualities do you need to be a good nurse? Think about how your talents and skills match the qualities needed. Read  NHS England’s Compassion in Practice for guidance. 

• Also consider what you would want from a nurse.

• Tell us about your work experience. What did you learn from it? Was it a daunting experience? 

• Why have you chosen to apply to this university; what do you know about our course; have you been to an Open Day?

• What do you understand by the term 'professional'? What qualities do you need?

• What current issues in nursing interest/are of concern to you?

• What do you know about the NMC and registration? Read The Code for guidance.

Useful Links 

http://www.applytouni.com/applying/applying-advice/university-interviews/nursing-university-interview-questions/

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/university/apply/nursing-interviews