Master of Science - Nursing - Adult

The Adult Nursing programme at Derby is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to become compassionate and competent nurses. Approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), the course aligns with the NMC’s Future Nurse: Standards of Proficiency for Registered Nurses, ensuring that upon successful completion, students are eligible to apply for registration with the NMC in their chosen field of practice.

This two-year full-time programme is aimed at applicants who already hold a degree (2:2 or above) and have prior work experience in a service user context. The programme provides an accelerated pathway to becoming a registered nurse, incorporating practical experience in a variety of healthcare and community settings. Students will engage in extensive practice placements, which constitute 50% of the course, allowing them to apply theory to practice and gain essential hands-on experience.

The programme offers a holistic learning experience that prepares students to become emotionally resilient and transformational nurses. Students will learn in state-of-the-art facilities, including clinical skills suites, replica wards, and immersive suites, to simulate real-world healthcare settings. The learning experience is further enriched by classroom-based activities, online learning, and web-based training, providing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

The course is supported by highly experienced academic staff who are also NMC-registered professionals, ensuring students receive expert guidance throughout their studies. Many of the staff continue to work in clinical practice, bringing real-world insights into their teaching. Students will develop a deep understanding of nursing across all stages of life, building the knowledge to care for patients with a diverse range of acute and chronic conditions.

The programme also emphasizes multi-professional learning, allowing students to collaborate with peers from other healthcare disciplines, preparing them to work flexibly in team-based environments after graduation. As health care increasingly requires collaboration across professions, this cross-disciplinary approach is vital to achieving the best patient outcomes.

In addition to clinical placements, students will be guided by Practice Assessors and Practice Supervisors, who ensure they get the most from their practical learning experiences. The integration of simulated learning activities prepares students for the challenges of clinical practice, helping them link theory to real-world care.

With a strong track record of providing high-quality nursing education, Derby offers an outstanding foundation for those wishing to pursue a fulfilling career in adult nursing. Graduates will be well-prepared to meet the demands of the profession and help improve the lives of patients through compassionate, evidence-based care.