About this course

Make a positive impact on people’s lives as a registered nurse on one of the UK’s top nursing programmes (ranked third in the UK: QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025).

This degree equips you with the skills, knowledge, and experience to provide compassionate care to adults. After graduating, you can register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as an adult nurse.

You’ll learn from experienced registered nurses and train in our modern facilities, as well as through placements in various healthcare settings, such as:

intensive care units
high dependency units
accident and emergency departments
surgery and medical wards
cancer care
community care teams
research nursing

You’ll be supported through every step of your journey, from student to nurse. Our students each benefit from the support of a personal academic tutor, who is a registered nurse, and from our long-standing relationships with the leading practice settings who deliver our placements.

Make a difference as an adult nurse

Our graduates thrive in leadership, specialist, and research roles in global settings, including:

NHS Hospitals
clinics
GP Practices
private hospitals
schools
emergency services
universities

Funding to support your learning

If you're eligible, you can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan to cover the full cost of your tuition fees if you're a UK or Irish student. UK students may also be able to apply for a maintenance loan to help with living costs.

UK students studying this course may also be eligible for financial support through the NHS Learning Support Fund. This may include:

a training grant of £5,000 for each academic year
reimbursement of some practice placement costs
a Parental Support payment of £2,000 per academic year for students with parental responsibility for one or more children

If you normally live in Ireland, you should also apply for financial support through SUSI.

There is also the Global Talent in Adult Nursing Scholarship for international students studying an Adult nursing course at the University of Southampton. You do not need to apply for this scholarship, if you meet the eligibility criteria, we will award you the scholarship and let you know by email.

Find out more about the Global Talent in Adult Nursing Scholarship, including full eligibility criteria.

Take Adult Nursing as an MSc instead

If you already hold a degree qualification, consider applying for the MSc in Adult Nursing. This offers graduates a fast-track, 2-year route to registration as a Nurse.

What's it like to study Nursing at Southampton

Students explain what studying Nursing at the University of Southampton means to them.

Course location

This course is based at Highfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

ODT

Download 2025-26 Course Description Document

Entry requirements

Academic year filter options

A-levels

BBC

A-levels additional information

Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Preferably including a science or social science subject

A-levels contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Pass with 28 points overall with 14 points at Higher Level

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

Preferably a Science or Social Science subject

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.

or

BTEC

RQF BTEC

DDM in the BTEC National Extended Diploma DM in BTEC National Diploma plus B in A-Level subject or D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus BC in two A-level subjects.

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

Additional information

We accept Health Studies or Science

QCF BTEC

DDM in the BTEC Extended Diploma DM in BTEC Diploma plus B in A-Level subject D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus BC in two A-level subjects.

BTEC contextual

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

Entry requirements filter options

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C), Mathematics (minimum grade 4/C) and Science (minimum grade 4/C) if not offered at a level 3 qualification. The GSCE science requirement can be met by achieving the required grade in either combined science or a single science.

We can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Pass in English and Maths, on a case by case basis.

Non-academic entry requirements

You must have completed recent, relevant study within 5 years

Occupational Health and Vaccinations

Completion and confirmation of a satisfactory health screening including confirmation of appropriate vaccinations will be a condition of your offer. All students must comply with the vaccination requirements of the programme which must be met in order to undertake placements. The list of vaccinations required is updated by the NHS and may change over the course of your programme.

Declaration of Good Character and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

You will be required to complete a satisfactory, University of Southampton Self-Declaration of Good Character form. You will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) as this is a legal requirement for those involved in contact with children or vulnerable adults. The DBS certificate will be reviewed by the School of Health Science in conjunction with your Declaration of Good Character, the University’s Fitness to Practice Policy and Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance or Health and Care Professions Council guidance. At the start of each subsequent year of study you will also be asked to complete a Self-Disclosure form.

Applicants who have been resident outside of the UK within the last 5 years will normally be required to provide information of criminal record checks from the appropriate organisation in your country of current/previous residency. All documentation must be officially stamped and translated into English, proving authenticity of the documents. See GOV.UK website

A-levels

BBC

A-levels additional information

Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Preferably including a science or social science subject

A-levels contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Pass with 28 points overall with 14 points at Higher Level

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

Preferably a Science or Social Science subject

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.

or

BTEC

RQF BTEC

DDM in the BTEC National Extended Diploma DM in BTEC National Diploma plus B in A-Level subject or D in the BTEC National Extended Certificate plus BC in two A-level subjects.

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

Additional information

We accept Health Studies or Science

QCF BTEC

DDM in the BTEC Extended Diploma DM in BTEC Diploma plus B in A-Level subject D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus BC in two A-level subjects.

BTEC contextual

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

Entry requirements filter options

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C), Mathematics (minimum grade 4/C) and Science (minimum grade 4/C) if not offered at a level 3 qualification. The GSCE science requirement can be met by achieving the required grade in either combined science or a single science.

We can also consider Functional Skills Level 2 Pass in English and Maths, on a case by case basis.

Non-academic entry requirements

You must have completed recent, relevant study within 5 years

Occupational Health and Vaccinations

Completion and confirmation of a satisfactory health screening including confirmation of appropriate vaccinations will be a condition of your offer. All students must comply with the vaccination requirements of the programme which must be met in order to undertake placements. The list of vaccinations required is updated by the NHS and may change over the course of your programme.

Declaration of Good Character and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

You will be required to complete a satisfactory, University of Southampton Self-Declaration of Good Character form. You will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) as this is a legal requirement for those involved in contact with children or vulnerable adults. The DBS certificate will be reviewed by the School of Health Science in conjunction with your Declaration of Good Character, the University’s Fitness to Practice Policy and Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance or Health and Care Professions Council guidance. At the start of each subsequent year of study you will also be asked to complete a Self-Disclosure form.

Applicants who have been resident outside of the UK within the last 5 years will normally be required to provide information of criminal record checks from the appropriate organisation in your country of current/previous residency. All documentation must be officially stamped and translated into English, proving authenticity of the documents. See GOV.UK website

Got a question?

Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Course structure

You'll study this degree full-time, over 3 years. The course comprises a minimum of 4,600 hours, as specified by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) 2018.

You will study theory-based modules and modules that involve clinical placements.

Year 1 overview

This year provides your foundation, and students from every field of nursing study all the content.

You will study:

an introduction to the nature of the NHS and professional practice – this module is studied jointly with students on other allied health professional programmes
the principles of person-centred nursing and the nurse's role in meeting people's fundamental care needs across all ages
the sciences that underpin nursing care – life sciences, health psychology, pharmacology, genomics
global health issues, including infectious diseases like Ebola and swine flu, and non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cancer

You will undertake 2 practice placements.

Year 2 overview

In the second year, you will develop your skills in meeting the needs of adults.

You will study:

research methods – this module is studied jointly with students on other allied health professional programmes
assessment, consultation and clinical reasoning skills in adult nursing practice
the care needs of adults experiencing acute changes to their health
the nurse's role in coordinating care and supporting adults living with long-term conditions

You will undertake 2 practice placements.

Year 3 overview

In your final year, you will study leadership, and managing innovation and change – this module is studied jointly with students on other allied health professional programmes.

You will also:

undertake an independent research project
study palliative and end of life care

You will undertake 2 practice placements.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2026 to 2027

You must study the following modules in year 1:

Learning and assessment

The learning activities for this course include the following:

lectures
classes and tutorials
coursework
individual and group projects
independent learning (studying on your own)

How you'll spend your course time:

Study time

Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:

10%

Scheduled learning & teaching

40%

Independent learning

50%

Placement

How we'll assess you

essays
written and practical exams

Your assessment breakdown

Year 1:

25%

Written exam

25%

Coursework

50%

Practical exam

Academic support

You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.

Course leader

Gillian Mancz is the course leader.

Careers and employability

The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the Southampton skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.

Download skills overview

Work experience opportunities

Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at Southampton.

Careers services and support

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:

work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.

More about careers support

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

UK students pay £9,790.
EU and international students pay £24,400.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations. Your fee also covers the cost of your uniform for clinical practice.

Find out how to:

There will be extra costs for the following:

suitable shoes for your practice placements
your own fob watch
your enhanced DBS certificate
your professional registration fee (on graduation)

You may be able to claim some travel and accommodation expenses when you're working on placement. Learn more about placement costs and expenses.

Other costs not covered by the tuition fee include:

stationery
personal computer or laptop and data storage devices
printing

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

Bursaries, scholarships and other funding

If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £36,200 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.

If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.

Get in touch for advice about student money matters.

Scholarships and grants

You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.

We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.

Support during your course

The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

When you apply use:

UCAS course code: B745
UCAS institution code: S27

Apply for this course

What happens after you apply?

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

predicted grades
academic achievements
personal statement
academic reference

We will also consider how your personal values align with the nursing profession.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if you're invited to the selection event. This will include information on how to prepare and what to expect during the session.

We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Inclusion and Respectful Behaviour Policy.

Got a question?

Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Related courses

Nursing (Adult) (BSc) is a course in the Nursing, midwifery and healthcare subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area:

BSc

Audiology

MSci

Audiology

BSc

Cardiac Physiology (Healthcare Science)

BSc

Midwifery

MNurs

Nursing (Adult and Child)

MNurs

Nursing (Child and Mental Health)

BSc

Nursing (Child)

MNurs

Nursing (Mental Health and Adult)

BSc

Nursing (Mental Health)

BSc

Occupational Therapy

BSc

Nursing (Adult) (BSc)

About this course

Make a difference as an adult nurse

Funding to support your learning

Take Adult Nursing as an MSc instead

What's it like to study Nursing at Southampton

Learn more about this subject area

Nursing, midwifery and healthcare

Course location

Awarding body

Download the Course Description Document

Entry requirements

For Academic year 202627

A-levels

A-levels additional information

A-levels contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Diploma

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

BTEC

RQF BTEC

Additional information

QCF BTEC

BTEC contextual

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE additional information

Access Offer Contextual

Irish Leaving Certificate

Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)

Irish certificate additional information

Irish Offer Contextual

Scottish Qualification

Cambridge Pre-U

Cambridge Pre-U additional information

Cambridge Pre-U Offer Contextual

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate additional information

Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer

T-Level

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

English language requirements

IELTS score requirements

Mature applicants

Non-academic entry requirements

For Academic year 202728

A-levels

A-levels additional information

A-levels contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Diploma

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

BTEC

RQF BTEC

Additional information

QCF BTEC

BTEC contextual

Access to HE Diploma

Access to HE additional information

Access Offer Contextual

Irish Leaving Certificate

Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)

Irish certificate additional information

Irish Offer Contextual

Scottish Qualification

Cambridge Pre-U

Cambridge Pre-U additional information

Cambridge Pre-U Offer Contextual

Welsh Baccalaureate

Welsh Baccalaureate additional information

Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer

T-Level

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

English language requirements

IELTS score requirements

Mature applicants

Non-academic entry requirements