Master of Science - Nursing - Mental Health

Mental health problems affect one in four people in the UK, and those who are caring, compassionate, and possess excellent communication skills can make a significant difference in improving the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. This course is designed for those with a real passion for helping others, providing an opportunity to enter a rewarding and impactful career in mental health nursing.

The programme is approved against the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s (NMC) Future Nurse: Standards of Proficiency for Registered Nurses. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the NMC in their chosen field of practice, preparing them to work with diverse client groups facing acute, long-term, and complex mental health conditions.

The course offers a holistic learning experience aimed at developing emotional resilience and transforming students into compassionate and competent Registered Nurses. It is a two-year, full-time, accelerated programme designed for individuals who already hold a prior degree (2:2 or above) and have relevant work experience in a service-user context. This prior experience contributes to the learning opportunities throughout the course, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional nursing registration with the NMC.

Students gain in-depth knowledge about mental health nursing and the core principles of nursing practice across all fields. The curriculum is delivered through a blend of classroom-based learning, skills laboratories, and online resources, ensuring that students have access to both traditional and technology-enhanced education methods. Throughout the programme, students develop the compassion, professionalism, and critical thinking skills necessary to excel in their roles.

The course includes a compulsory practice learning component, which accounts for 50% of the overall programme, in line with NMC standards. Students undertake a range of placements in healthcare and community settings, gaining essential practical experience and developing their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world clinical environments. Students benefit from the support of Practice Assessors and Supervisors, who provide guidance and mentorship during placements. Additionally, simulated learning activities throughout the course prepare students for the challenges they will face in the field.

Students will also benefit from state-of-the-art facilities at Derby, including clinical skills suites built to professional standards, with replica wards and treatment rooms. Collaborative learning is a key feature of the programme, with opportunities to learn alongside students from other disciplines, reflecting the multi-professional approach to modern healthcare. This approach helps students prepare for flexible, collaborative working after graduation, enhancing the ability to deliver optimal care outcomes for patients and service users.

The programme’s expert academic staff, all of whom are current NMC-registered professionals, are passionate about supporting students throughout their studies. Many of the faculty members continue to work in clinical practice, ensuring that students are taught by professionals with the most up-to-date knowledge and experience. This support, combined with the course's rigorous alignment with NMC standards, ensures that graduates are ready to contribute to the future of mental health nursing.