Your Guide to Nursing Degrees

Nursing ranks amongst the most sought-after healthcare jobs in the UK. As of 2024, the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) register lists more than 841,367 nurses, midwives, and nursing associates. This figure represents a 1.8 percent increase from six years prior and 22 percent more than March 2017 [1]. The UK continues experiencing high rates of growth in the nursing profession, making it an ideal field for those with the passion, skills, and knowledge. Whilst many nurses earn a degree in nursing to become a nurse, you will find more than one path to entering this profession. You can also pursue postgraduate nursing degrees to advance your career once you become a qualified nurse.

Beginning your career journey in this in-demand field might involve earning a traditional university degree in nursing, completing a foundation degree programme, or enrolling in a nursing degree apprenticeship. Take a closer look at the types of nursing degrees you can choose from and why each might be the best for you.

Types of nursing degrees

If you’re interested in starting or advancing your career as a nurse, you have a few options, depending on your qualifications and career goals. All pathways, however, require registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NIMC) as the final step to work as a nurse in the UK. Common routes include a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSc Nursing), nursing degree apprenticeships, a foundation degree in nursing, and postgraduate nursing degrees. Each of these pathways into nursing has its own entry requirements, structure, advantages, and considerations.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) is the most common and traditional route into nursing. Earning a BSc in Nursing typically takes three to four years of full-time study, which is typically divided between general education courses and 2,300 hours of nursing and clinical rotation coursework. 

During the BSc Nursing degree, you will choose one of four fields in which to specialise: adult, mental health, children’s, or learning disabilities nursing. Some degree courses also offer ‘dual field’ degrees, allowing you to study two of these fields simultaneously. 

BSc requirements: Requirements vary by university but generally include A level qualifications (or equivalent qualifications such as a T level or a BTEC) and a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4/C or higher. 

Who’s it for? Choosing a BSc degree opens up a greater number of opportunities in the nursing field because it offers comprehensive training that is useful across various healthcare settings. It’s also an ideal option if you want a seamless and efficient means to work as a nurse right after graduation because earning your degree provides a direct route to eligibility for NMC registration. 

Nursing degree apprenticeships 

The nursing degree apprenticeship offers an alternative route to the traditional university pathway, allowing you to work whilst you earn your degree. Nursing apprenticeships involve a mix of in-class training and work placement. A typical work week has one day in class and the other four days working with an approved employer. 

You can choose from different levels of nursing apprenticeships based on your qualifications and career goals. You can start with a Level 5 assistant practitioner apprenticeship, earning a foundation degree and later progressing to a registered nurse degree apprenticeship. Another option is the nursing associate apprenticeship (Level 5), which acts as a sort of middle step between healthcare assistants and fully registered nurses. This is a flexible programme that allows you to either pursue a nursing career or stay in a support role. Finally, the registered nurse degree apprenticeship (Level 6) lets you earn a full honours degree and qualify as a registered nurse in areas such as adult, child, or mental health nursing.

Apprenticeship requirements: To qualify for an apprenticeship, you must gain employment with an organisation that allows for work-based supervision from a qualified supervisor. You will also need a work schedule of a minimum of 30 hours per week. Additionally, you will need at least two A-levels (one in health-related subjects such as science), English and mathematics GCSEs or equivalent at grades 4/C or higher, and a clear Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. As part of the application process, prepare to submit a CV with a cover letter, complete an application, and attend an interview. 

Who’s it for: Apprenticeships might be a great option for someone wanting to get into the profession quicker than traditional degree routes allow. It’s also ideal if you are a working professional who wishes to earn a degree or work towards a degree in nursing whilst also earning an income. 

Foundation degree in nursing 

A foundation degree is a programme ideal for learners who don’t meet traditional entry qualifications. You can still enter a university degree programme and gain academic skills and experience to gain eligibility for a degree programme or satisfy the educational qualifications necessary to enter your chosen profession. In nursing, a foundation degree can help you get into university to earn a BSc or gain eligibility to register as a nurse associate. 

The foundation degree in nursing associate practice is a two-year programme you can use as a stepping stone into nursing. It combines academic study with practical work experience. This qualification often suits healthcare assistants or support workers looking to advance their careers. 

You can complete a foundation year as part of a four-year BSc degree in Adult Nursing or a two-year foundation degree as a Nursing Associate to gain eligibility to register with the NMC and work as a nursing associate. 

Foundation degree requirements: Prerequisites for entry into this programme vary. In general, you will likely have two potential entry options: direct through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) or an apprenticeship. Additionally, you will likely need English and mathematics GCSEs at grades 4/C or higher and have the ability to demonstrate the necessary skills to study at academic levels 4 and 5. Many programmes also require you to attend an entrance interview or selection meeting. 

For the nursing degree with the healthcare foundation year programme, you’ll likely need to have GCSE English Language and mathematics at grade C/4 or above, or an equivalent qualification such as key or functional skills at Level 2. Like the nursing associate foundation degree, an interview is usually part of the application process. 

Who’s it for: The foundation year pathway to becoming a nurse is intended for individuals who lack the standard entry requirements to enter university at degree level. Through this programme, you can gain admittance to a bachelor’s degree programme to go on to graduate and register as a nurse. 

Postgraduate nursing degrees 

Postgraduate nursing degrees provide advanced education for certified nurses who want to deepen their expertise and expand their career options. These programs cover specialised areas like advanced practice, leadership, and research, equipping nurses with the skills needed for higher-level roles in clinical and academic settings. You can pursue options like master’s degrees or doctoral degrees in nursing, each designed to enhance clinical skills and open opportunities in specialised fields such as mental health, midwifery, or nursing management.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSc)

Earning a master’s degree in nursing opens up numerous career options in the nursing field in the UK, and beyond. Upon graduation and registration with the NMC, you will be internationally recognised as a qualified nurse. MSc graduates may pursue advanced roles in nursing that include clinical management, advanced nurse practitioner, community nursing, clinical specialisms, and more. 

Most MSc programmes take around two years of full-time study to complete. This might be longer for part-time programmes or shorter for accelerated programmes. 

MSc requirements: Most programmes prefer candidates with an upper second-class honours degree, but some programmes will consider lower second-class degrees based on experience and prior academic performance. Additionally, you must have GCSE mathematics (grade C/4), English language (grade B/6), and a science subject (grade C/4). In most cases, you need to have occupational health and enhanced disclosure barring service clearance as well. As part of the application process, you may attend an interview, and may also provide a list of academic and personal references.

Who’s it for? If you want to advance your career in nursing or work internationally in a qualified nursing profession, earning a MSc in Nursing is for you. 

Doctoral degrees in nursing

At the doctoral level, nursing students can pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in nursing or a Professional Doctorate in Nursing (DNurs). A PhD in Nursing is a research doctorate, a DNurs is considered a taught degree in nursing. 

As a research doctoral degree, PhD programmes in nursing prepare you for science-related careers in nursing education, healthcare policy, and scientific research. A DNurs programme prepares you for jobs where you will take theory to practise in more clinical settings in management, education, or practise roles. 

A PhD typically takes three years to complete, though some programmes offer a four-year programme with a foundation year. Depending on whether you’re full-time or part-time, it can take five to years to complete a DNurs programme. 

DNurs and PhD requirements: Depending on the university, DNurs programmes in nursing often require a first or upper-second-class honour degree from a recognised institution. You must be registered with the NMC. You must also have a minimum of three years of post-qualification experience. Those with an MPhil or MRes degree may enter at a higher level in the programme.. PhD programmes typically require an honours degree with a minimum of upper second (2:1) or an overseas equivalent in a relevant subject and a strong MSc, MPhil, or MRes degree from a recognised institution. Alternatively, you may qualify for postgraduate work, including at least one year of research training, undertaken full-time or equivalent.

Who’s it for? Earning a doctoral nursing degree means that you have earned the highest credential in the field of nursing and can now pursue executive-level leadership roles. Nurses with a DNP degree are on the same educational level as other doctorate-level health professionals, such as doctors and dentists. It enhances their ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and opens up advanced career opportunities.

Additionally, earning your doctorate degree in nursing allows you to specialise in niche areas of nursing and make a tangible impact on the field of nursing as a whole. For example, you may work in health care policy and advocacy, quality improvement, or IT and patient care technology. 

Online vs. on-campus nursing degrees

Many universities offer online nursing degree programmes if an on-campus programme doesn’t suit your needs. Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks. 

Accredited online programmes are becoming increasingly popular for their value and flexibility. Many programmes let you study at your own pace so you can continue gaining valuable nursing experience, earning an income, and managing other obligations. You can choose from programmes around the UK instead of being limited to those in your area. Online classes may also take less time to complete. 

On-campus programmes offer a structured schedule and in-person interaction that can help keep nursing students on track. Earning your degree in an on-campus setting also gives you access to university amenities and facilities that might not be available online.

Since nursing is a hands-on profession, most apprenticeship and degree programmes require some amount of supervised clinical experience. If you’re enrolled in an online nursing programme, you can often complete your clinical hours at an approved location in your area.

Is a nursing degree worth it?

Working toward a degree in nursing requires time and money. You should consider your personal career goals and lifestyle as you decide what degree or qualification pathway is right for you. Whilst you have various ways to enter the nursing profession, earning a degree and advancing in your training can unlock more advanced skills, new career opportunities, and higher earning potential.

Nurses employed by the NHS progress through bands based on experience, qualifications, and responsibilities. The higher the band, the more you earn. In some cases, earning degrees and additional qualifications can help you move to other bands and increase your earnings. For example, nurses can move to Band 6 by taking on more specialised roles after completing postgraduate qualifications or training in a specific area. 

For nurses working outside the NHS, the role progression is similar regarding levels of responsibilities, experience, and earnings, but pay structures typically vary. Some common nursing roles that require apprenticeships, degrees, or other qualifying nursing courses and programmes include [2,3,4,5,6,7]:

Remember that many nursing degrees offer bridge programmes. Start with a more basic degree or qualification, and work your way to a higher degree once you’re ready.

Other careers in healthcare

Nursing may be the most popular field in healthcare, but it’s only one available option. If you’re interested in helping others live healthier lives, consider some alternative career paths.

• Emergency medical technicians provide lifesaving treatment, working in a support role to paramedics. 

• Clinical managers lead teams of people, or departments, within healthcare to ensure optimal patient care and treatment. 

• Public health practitioners work toward making communities as healthy as possible.

• Pharmacists dispense medication and offer advice on the safe use of prescriptions.

• Physician associates support doctors in the management of patients. 

• Speech and language therapists provide treatment and support for individuals experiencing difficulties with communicating, eating, swallowing, speaking, or drinking. 

Continue exploring nursing degrees and learning opportunities on Coursera

Becoming a nurse is a rewarding experience, and there’s more than one way to gain entry into this fast-growing profession. Consider alternative routes to university degrees, such as online degree programmes and courses. Learn more about the topics you will likely study whilst training as a nurse. 

You don’t have to enrol in a nursing programme to get a feel for whether nursing fits your career goals. Experience what earning an online nursing degree is like by taking a course such as Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us or Clinical Terminology for International and US Students. If you want to learn more about a specialised topic in healthcare, consider enrolling in Infection Prevention in Nursing Homes, offered by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. You’ll find these and other healthcare degree programmes available on Coursera.