Program Overview

---

Introduction to the Nursing Associate Program

The FdSc Nursing Associate programme aims to produce compassionate, competent, and confident nursing associates at academic level 5 qualified to deliver a wide range of clinical, care, and inter-personal skills underpinned by a systematic knowledge base.

Overview of the Program

The program is designed to support students in developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required to practice safely and effectively within their parameters of practice. The curriculum is aligned with the NMC Standards of Proficiency for nursing associates and reflects the six platforms:

• Platform 1 – Being an accountable professional
• Platform 2 – Promoting health and preventing ill health
• Platform 3 – Provide and monitor care
• Platform 4 – Working in teams
• Platform 5 – Improving safety and quality of care
• Platform 6 – Contributing to integrated care

What's Covered in the Course

The FdSc Nursing Associate is a full-time course delivered at City South Campus. Students will study six level 4 modules in the first year, covering key theory and practice knowledge and skills, including:

• Person and family-centred care
• Professional values
• The parameters of a RNA's role
• Safe administration of medication The second-year modules build on the theory and practice acquired in year 1 to support the development of knowledge and skills to produce competent and reflective practitioners.

Accreditation

The course is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Why Choose This Program

• Excellent facilities, including state-of-the-art simulation equipment
• Shortlisted for the Student Nursing Times Nursing Associate Training Programme Provider of the Year (pre-registration) 2022
• 92% of students rated the learning resources for this course as good or very good

Entry Requirements

Essential requirements include:

• GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths at grade C/4 or above
• One of the following:
  • One A Level grade D or above
  • Two AS Level grade D or above
  • BTEC National Award grade M
  • BTEC National Certificate grade PP
  • BTEC National Diploma grade PPP
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • NVQ Level 3 Full Diploma Successful candidates will be required to obtain a satisfactory occupational health check and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check prior to enrolling on this course.

Fees and How to Apply

• UK students: £9,790 in 2026/27
• International students: This course is not available to International students Included in the course fees:
• Access to computer equipment
• Printing
• Field trips
• Access to Microsoft Office 365
• Key software
• Key subscriptions
• DBS check
• Uniform
• Occupational health assessment Not included in the course fees:
• Placement expenses (mandatory)
• Excess printing (optional)
• Personal stationery and study materials (optional)
• Memberships (optional)
• Accommodation and living costs (optional)

Applying Through UCAS

UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS. The application process involves:

• Registering with UCAS
• Logging in to UCAS
• Completing personal details
• Selecting the course
• Writing a personal statement
• Getting a reference
• Paying the application fee
• Sending UCAS the application

Personal Statement

The personal statement gives applicants a crucial opportunity to say why they're applying and why the institution should accept them. The statement should address:

• Why the applicant wants to study this course or subject
• How their qualifications and studies have helped them prepare for this course or subject
• What they have done to prepare outside of education, and why these experiences are useful

Course in Depth

The course consists of two levels: Level 4 and Level 5. Each level includes several core modules that students must complete to progress. The modules are designed to align with the NMC standards of proficiency for Nursing Associates and cover topics such as:

• Introduction to Delivery of Safe and Compassionate Care
• Introduction to Professional Accountability and Person-centred Care
• Introduction to Health Inequalities and Promotion of Preventative Health Behaviours
• Introduction to Human Development Across the Lifespan
• Introduction to Maintaining and Improving Safe Work and Care Environments
• Introduction to Developing and Managing Appropriate Relationships

Employability

On completion of the course, students will be eligible to apply to join the Nursing and Midwifery Council Nursing Associate register and practise in the UK. As a qualified Nursing Associate, they could work in a range of roles in the NHS or choose to continue their studies and qualify as a Registered Nurse.

Facilities and Staff

The Nursing and Midwifery courses are based at the City South campus, which features:

• State-of-the-art simulation equipment
• Mock wards
• Operating theatre
• Home environment room
• Simulation manikins
• Computer facilities with open-access IT Suites
• Library and research facilities

Conclusion

The FdSc Nursing Associate program at Birmingham City University is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and behaviors required to practice as competent and compassionate nursing associates. With its strong focus on practice-based learning, excellent facilities, and experienced staff, this program provides students with a comprehensive education and preparation for a successful career in nursing.