Swansea University is launching a new flexible degree designed to help future nurses balance their studies around their home lives.
The course, which has been developed with NHS Wales, features a shorter study week, runs alongside school term times and will co-ordinate placements around personal commitments. In addition, its fees are fully funded through an NHS bursary.
The new course is being launched to address NHS shortages and encourage people with life experience to join the nursing profession by opening the door to those who may otherwise not be able to commit to studying.
The University recognises the strengths of those who are multi-tasking on a day-to-day basis and the need to provide a more flexible approach to study.
It believes the course will be ideal for anyone with experience in caring roles, for example parents and carers, looking to take the first step towards a highly rewarding career while juggling family commitments.
Nursing student Jessica Bain says her experience of studying in Swansea been very positive: “I love how intimate the nursing course is. I feel like you can really get to know the staff and fellow students on this course.
“The lecturers are always passionate about what they teach, which in turn makes me feel more passionate too. It is also great to be taught by staff who have had a lot of clinical experience, as they share personal anecdotes and experiences as part of their teaching.”
Professor Jayne Cutter, head of the School of Health and Social Care, said: “I can’t wait to welcome our first students on this exciting new programme which will offer people who may not otherwise have the opportunity, the chance to study for a degree in nursing.
“I have been a registered nurse for many years and can honestly say that it has been a privilege to be a member of this most rewarding profession. This programme will allow those who can’t study full time to fulfil their dreams and start working towards a career in which they will make a immense difference to those in their care and from which they will achieve huge satisfaction.”
Swansea University has a proud history of training the nursing workforce and is recognised as a Top 10 University for studying Nursing in the UK by the Times Good University Guide 2024.
