Course Overview
Please note: in order to undertake this apprenticeship you must apply for a vacancy on the NHS website via this link. It is not possible to apply directly to UCS.
The Student Nursing Associate Apprenticeship provides a flexible pathway to achieving a nursing qualification without the need for full-time university study. The course is designed for individuals who wish to progress beyond the role of a healthcare support worker. This innovative programme offers opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for a rewarding career in health and social care, whilst being supported within an apprenticeship programme.
To enrol, you must be currently employed or secure a suitable role with an employer who can support your apprenticeship and release you to attend study days. Teaching is delivered face-to-face at the Taunton campus for two days each week.
During the programme, you will learn to work under the leadership and direction of registered nurses across a range of specialities. You will develop the skills to provide, monitor, and evaluate high-quality, holistic, and person-centred care. In addition, you will support registered nurses in assessing needs, planning care, implementing interventions, and evaluating outcomes to ensure the best possible care for individuals.
Topics may include:
- Communication and relationship management
- Working in teams
- Preventing ill health and promoting health
- Pharmacology and medicine management
- Improving safety and quality
- Promoting and monitoring care.
Assessment Methods
You will be assessed continuously throughout the programme and will be required to demonstrate that you meet the professional knowledge, skills, and behaviours expected of a Nursing Associate.
A variety of assessment methods are used to support your learning and development, including: Written assignments, presentations, OSCE’s and exams.
Progression Options
On successful completion of the Nursing Associate programme, you will be eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and practice as a qualified Nursing Associate under your own NMC PIN.
There are also excellent opportunities for further career development. Qualified Nursing Associates can progress onto a BSc (Hons) Nursing degree through an advanced entry route or continue their studies via the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship.
University Centre Somerset offers progression pathways in both Adult Nursing and Mental Health Nursing, enabling you to build on your existing knowledge and skills and work towards becoming a Registered Nurse.
Entry Requirements
You will need a minimum of 48 UCAS Points from a full Level 3 qualification, and GCSEs in maths and English at grade 4 and above, or equivalent.
Frequently Asked Questions
The application route depends on your chosen study mode. For full-time undergraduate degrees, you will need to apply via UCAS. If you are applying for a part-time course, a professional qualification, or a Degree Apprenticeship, you can usually apply directly through our website using the ‘Apply Now’ button on the course page. If you need any guidance, our Admissions team is always on hand to help.
Every programme at University Centre Somerset is designed as a ‘Degree for Real Life.’ We focus heavily on employability, meaning your studies will be directly linked to industry needs. You will benefit from work-based learning, live commercial briefs, and our strong regional employer networks. Additionally, our dedicated Careers team offers 1:1 guidance to help you refine your CV, prepare for interviews, and build your professional network.
Transitioning to higher education is a significant step, and we treat you as an independent adult while providing robust support. You will be assigned a personal academic tutor to guide your academic progress. We also offer dedicated Higher Education study skills sessions, library support, and a comprehensive Student Support team providing confidential advice on mental health, wellbeing, and financial concerns.
Most UK students studying a first degree, Foundation Degree, or HND are eligible for tuition fee and maintenance loans through Student Finance England. If you are studying a Degree Apprenticeship, your tuition fees are fully funded by your employer and the government, and you earn a salary while you learn. We also offer advice on eligible bursaries and financial hardship funds – contact our Student Support team for tailored advice.
Yes. We offer dedicated, independent student accommodation tailored for our higher education learners, primarily based at our Taunton and Cannington campuses. Our HE options provide a safe, comfortable, and mature environment that fosters a strong learning community, with easy access to our state-of-the-art campus facilities.
Absolutely. We welcome applications from mature students and those with non-traditional qualifications. We consider a wide range of experience, including vocational qualifications, Access to HE diplomas, and relevant professional experience. If you are unsure whether your current qualifications meet the entry criteria, please get in touch with our admissions team to discuss your individual pathway.
We understand that many of our HE students balance their studies with employment and family commitments. We strive to condense our full-time degree timetables into a few days a week to allow for part-time work or independent study. Our part-time routes are specifically designed to be flexible for working professionals.
We are here to help. You can submit a direct enquiry using the form our Contact page, or you can contact our Higher Education admissions team via email or phone. We also highly recommend registering for our next Open Event, where you can speak directly with the lecturers and tour our advanced facilities.
