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Nursing Associate Degree Apprenticeship

1 Study option · Undergraduate3 Campuses

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2026-2027
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Course summary

This popular University of Plymouth Pre-registration FdSc Nursing Associate apprenticeship is approved by the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) and leads to eligibility for entry to the NMC professional register upon successful completion of the programme.

The programme is delivered as an apprenticeship and also meets the requirements of the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education for the Nursing Associate (NMC, 2018) Standard (2019).

Our programme gives both new and existing healthcare staff the opportunity to study for a fully-funded FdSc, and obtain a professional qualification and registration with the Nursing & Midwifery Council (provided all requirements are met).

The programme also helps employers with workforce planning to meet current and future healthcare needs. Through the Nursing Associate higher apprenticeship, new and existing staff substantially increase their clinical knowledge, skills and professional attributes by meeting the NMC (2018) Standards of proficiency for nursing associates and practising within The Code (NMC, 2018). Through their increased capability and capacity, they positively contribute to nursing teams and patient care.

Delivered by experienced Registered Nurses, the flexible, work-based programme provides apprentices with the clinical knowledge and skills to support the provision of safe, quality care across a range of healthcare settings.

Apprentices will become an important part of the nursing family, supporting registered nurses and helping to make a difference to individuals, their families and communities.

Taught over two-years (2,300 hours), with attendance at university one day a week. Apprentices gain experience in a variety of placements, including hospital, community, at home and others. Apprentices must also gain some experience across the four branches of nursing, including child health, mental health, learning disability and adult nursing.

This apprenticeship is delivered at the following University of Plymouth campuses:
Plymouth Campus
Truro Campus - Knowledge Spa
Exeter Campus

Once qualified, Nursing Associates may work across a wide range of healthcare settings and clinical areas, including acute or community hospitals, community nursing teams and GP Practices.

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Plymouth Site
  • Exeter
  • Truro, Cornwall

Study options

  • FdSc • Work-based learning • 2 Years

Start dates

  • 09/2026
  • 03/2027

Application codes

Institution code:
P60

University of Plymouth has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.

Application codes

Institution code:
P60

This course may be available at alternative locations, please check if other course options are available.

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Discover what it's like to study Nursing Associate Degree Apprenticeship at University of Plymouth: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

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Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

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All apprentices must be employed 30 hours or more in a job role suitable for the apprenticeship standard. There is government funding for employers to support apprenticeships, you should discuss opportunities with your employer.

To view available apprenticeship roles you can visit www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship.

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