Nursing (Adult) BMedSci

2026-27 entry
School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery

Become an adult nurse and make a difference every day. Equip yourself with the clinical skills, knowledge and confidence you need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and deliver exceptional care to patients.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Why study this course?

    1st in the UK for nursing

    The Complete University Guide has ranked Sheffield the top university in the UK for nursing two years running (2024, 2025) with top scores in student satisfaction and graduate prospects.

    Learn directly from patients

    Experience your career first-hand with practical teaching that puts the patient experience first. You’ll learn directly from patients in a range of settings; whether you’re out on placement or working with volunteer patients from our Patients as Educators programme.

    A nationally recognised, supportive team

    Studying nursing isn’t always easy, which is why we offer students a range of support services. Our weekly wellbeing sessions, inclusive timetabling, and responsive placement support are there to help you succeed, and we’re proud to have been recognised for this commitment as a Student Nursing Times’ Nurse Education Provider of the Year (pre-registration) 2024 finalist.

    £5,000+ annual NHS training grant

    NHS training grants are available for all eligible UK home students to help you with your studies.

    A group of students watch as a nursing student in a blue hijab works on a manikin

    Be at the heart of healthcare, working directly with patients and clinicians to improve and save lives every day.

    Study an adult nursing degree at Sheffield and we’ll show you why this profession is as rewarding as it is challenging, with plenty of opportunities to build a fulfilling, life-long career.

    Throughout the three-year programme you’ll be taught by qualified nurses, healthcare professionals and clinical academics who will support you to become the very best nurse you can be.

    Individualised tutoring, peer-to-peer learning, and hands-on clinical skills sessions will help foster a safe, supportive environment in which you can excel.

    Half of your studies will be spent on placement in a range of hospital, primary care and community settings. It’s here, working directly with clinicians and patients, that you’ll develop skills in leadership, problem-solving, communication and resilience – all crucial to becoming a capable and compassionate nurse.

    Adult nursing with a foundation year

    If you are a mature student without standard entry qualifications, you can study this course with a foundation year, which will prepare you for degree-level study.

    Nursing apprenticeships

    We also offer accredited, degree apprenticeship routes into nursing, with both a Nursing Associate programme and a Registered Nurse programme that recognises prior learning.

    Apprenticeship places are advertised locally in partnership organisations (such as NHS jobs), with teaching split into work-based learning and 'off-the-job' learning.

    This course is approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). It will give you the clinical skills and knowledge you need for entry into the NMC professional register as an adult nurse.

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Nursing (Adult) BMedSci course structure
    UCAS code: B740
    Years: 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
    First year

    Core modules:

    Health and Nursing 1

    This module will lay the foundation level, knowledge, skills and professional attributes and values required for contemporary nursing practice. It offers students a broad and applied introduction to the study of nursing through the lifespan and its practice within contemporary health and social care. Students will explore the wider aspects of health and illness and issues which impact upon them. Students will be encouraged to take the opportunity to work with people from different fields of nursing practice in the context of adult nursing. The content delivered will be underpinned by The Code (NMC, 2018).

    40 credits
    Health and Nursing 2

    This module will continue to lay the foundation level, knowledge, skills and professional attributes and values required for contemporary nursing practice. It continues to offer students a broad and applied introduction to the study of nursing through the lifespan and its practice within contemporary health and social care. Students will explore the wider aspects of health and illness and issues which impact upon them. Students will again be encouraged to take the opportunity to work with people from different fields of nursing practice in the context of adult nursing. The content delivered will be underpinned by The Code (NMC, 2018).

    40 credits
    Academic Skills and Digital Capability for Nursing in Healthcare

    This module will run across two semesters and will facilitate and support student transition into higher education. Students will develop their Sheffield Graduate Attributes that will prepare them for life-long learning and future employability as a nursing registrant.

    20 credits
    Anatomy and Physiology for Nursing

    This module will run over two semesters. Students will explore the main body systems and changes that occur through the ageing process and apply this within an adult nursing environment.

    20 credits
    Professional Practice 1 for Nursing

    This module will consist of four placement blocks in year one in which the foundational skills required by an adult nurse will be developed. You will apply your underpinning knowledge and skills within a planned and supervised practice experience. You will work with and learn from a range of people in a variety of practice placements, preparing you to provide care to people with diverse needs. You will demonstrate your learning by completing essential documentation.

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    The course is split equally between theory and practice. 

    You will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, online learning, clinical skills sessions and clinical placements, as well as self-directed learning.

    Throughout the course you’ll be taught by knowledgeable and passionate staff - both in the classroom and on placement - who will incorporate the latest research into their teaching, so your learning is evidence-based.

    We are experienced in supporting students from a range of backgrounds, and we’re committed to enriching your learning experience and having a positive influence on your educational and personal journey while at Sheffield.

    Clinical placements

    You will spend a significant part of your studies on placement in a range of hospital, primary care and community settings. You will be based in one locality for all three years of your degree so you can familiarise yourself with the workings of your NHS Trust.

    Placement support is crucial to success, and you’ll get that from Practice Supervisors and assessors, academic staff and our dedicated Clinical Practice Support Educator.

    Clinical skills and simulated teaching

    Our clinical skills teaching acts as the bridge between the classroom and clinical placements. Here you’ll develop your practical skills alongside your peers, in a safe and supportive environment. You will also get the chance to learn directly from real-life patients in our Patients as Educators programme.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    You’ll be assessed through a combination of coursework, exams and practical tasks. This could include

    • essays
    • timed exams
    • group work
    • Observed Structural Clinical Exams (OSCEs)
    • presentations
    • practice assessments

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    You must meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to the course start date, which is September each year.

    This course is not presently open to international applicants.  We are unable to accept international applications, as clinical placement capacity is confined by local staffing requirements.

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    BBB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    BBC + B in a relevant EPQ; BBC + B in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    32
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDM in Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams), Dental Technology or Health and Social Care
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + B at A Level
    T Level
    Distinction in the Health, Healthcare Science or Science T Level, including grade B in the core component
    Scottish Highers
    AABBB
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + BB
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 at Distinction and 21 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C including English, Maths and a science

    • Science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    BBC

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    BBC + B in a relevant EPQ; BBC + B in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    31
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DMM in Applied Science (including Biomedical Science, Analytical & Forensic Science and Physical Science streams), Dental Technology or Health and Social Care
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + C at A Level
    T Level
    Distinction in the Health, Healthcare Science or Science T Level, including grade B in the core component
    Scottish Highers
    ABBBB
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + BC
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 15 at Distinction and 30 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C including English, Maths and a science

    • Science subjects include Biology/Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course, we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 7.0 in Speaking, Reading and Listening, and 6.5 in Writing; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Interview

    Applicants that are successful in our initial shortlisting process will be invited to an interview.

    Health clearance

    If you are infected with hepatitis C or HIV, or if you have a disability, medical condition or learning difficulty, including dyslexia, you must disclose this on your UCAS form. All potential students with significant support needs will be individually assessed to ensure that the University is able to support them on the course.

    All new students will undergo health screenings known as an Occupational Health Check, which may require an individual assessment. This is to ensure that you meet the fitness to practise standards detailed on the Higher Education Occupational Practitioners (HEOPS) guidance and is in accordance with the Department of Health National Guidelines

    Occupational Health Checks

    We offer support to students with additional needs, for example, through the Disability and Dyslexia Support Service or Student and Academic Services. You can find out more about the network of support services we provide. A very small number of conditions might, on health and safety grounds, affect your registration with the appropriate regulatory body and your ability to practise in certain clinical situations.

    Disclosure and Barring Service

    All applicants are required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure check.

    Time commitment

    This is a professional, pre-registration healthcare course. Healthcare programmes can be intensive and as such you should expect to have higher contact hours than other undergraduate degrees. They also may not follow the usual structure of other University programmes when it comes to semester breaks. 

    The NMC states you need to complete 2,300 hours of theory and 2,300 hours of practice to be able to register as an adult nurse. In order to meet these requirements you will spend approximately 37 hours a week studying (the equivalent of a full time job). 

    To help you prepare for this, you’ll receive a training plan that covers all three years of your degree. This includes the schedule of your theory and placement blocks, as well as blocks of annual leave pre-planned throughout the year.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.

    Graduate careers

    After successfully completing your Nursing (Adult) BMedSci, you will be able to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council and start your nursing career straight away.

    The graduate prospects for a newly qualified nurse are huge, and you could go on to improve people’s lives in a range of settings. You might work in an intensive care unit, GP surgery or hospice, or provide one-to-one care to patients in their homes.

    Later on in your career, you could move into clinical research, management or teaching, or take further training to support in theatre procedures or prescribe medication.

    Wherever you decide to practise, our BMedSci degree will prepare you for the challenges and opportunities that come with a career in nursing. Our alumni continue to connect with us regularly on the programme and work in a wide variety of areas, using the experience they have gained to support current students.

    School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery

    1st in the UK for nursing

    The Complete University Guide 2024

    Top 5 in the UK for nursing

    The Guardian University Guide 2024

    Top 3 in the UK for nursing

    The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025

    Nursing students with patients in clinical setting

    The School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery brings together expertise from across human communication sciences, nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, and orthoptics.

    We aim to train compassionate, resilient and highly skilled healthcare professionals and support them throughout their working lives.

    We work closely with organisations such as the Department of Health and Social Care, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, The General Pharmaceutical Council, and the Health and Care Professions Council. This means we can offer you high-quality, research-informed courses that meet the needs of the NHS.

    Study with us and join a diverse and supportive community, led by passionate teachers, clinicians and researchers who can help you fulfil your ambitions.

    We provide an excellent study environment for health professionals across our main campus and Clinical Skills Centre. If you study a health professions course with us, you’ll be based close to the Royal Hallamshire Hospital. The hospital is home to the Sheffield Medical School, and is where you’ll find our dedicated Health Sciences Library.

    Facilities

    Our Clinical Skills Centre is based at the Northern General Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the country. It’s a safe, simulated environment where you can put your theory into practice.

    The centre contains mock clinical wards, resuscitation suites, simulated theatres and teaching rooms. We are also building a new simulated pharmacy - set to open in 2026 - which will include a dispensary, consultation rooms and dedicated teaching space.

    We’re dedicated to providing the very best facilities for training the next generation of the healthcare workforce. That’s why we’re refurbishing our Clinical Skills Centre from 2025 to 2026 to expand our clinical skills facilities. During this time, our clinical skills teaching will take place on central campus, using the same equipment and expertise you would find at our Clinical Skills Centre.

    School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery

    University rankings

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2024 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      University of the Year and best for Student Life
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for Students' Union
    StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report

      A top-100 university: 12th in the UK and 98th in the world
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025

    Student profiles

    Elliot wearing blue scrubs, Sheffield skyline in background

    After graduating I was surprised by how prepared I felt to begin my qualified nursing journey

    Elliot Stonehouse BMedSci Nursing (Adult)

    Elliot decided to train as a nurse after seeing the compassion shown to his dad as part of his palliative care. He tells us how our course prepared him for life as a community nurse at St Luke’s Hospice.

    A student stood in front of a court yard outside Firth Court

    Sheffield’s placements helped me understand the patient journey

    Eléna Starsong BMedSci Nursing (Adult)

    Eléna decided to return to university during the pandemic and study nursing. Eléna - who is now a PhD student at the University - explains how important the locality-based placements were to their training.

    Student Racquel Ward.

    The course at Sheffield made me an autonomous practitioner

    Racquel Ward BMedSci Nursing (Adult)

    Racquel's childhood ambition was always to work in the NHS. She wanted to do something where she could make a difference to people’s lives. After completing an adult nursing degree, she’s now following her dreams!

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Additional funding

    As a Nursing student, you can apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund to help support your studies, which you won’t need to pay back. This includes a training grant of £5,000 per academic year, money back for clinical placement travel costs, as well as extra funding for students with dependent children or those facing hardship.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've made an application to study with us, we may invite you for an interview. If you are then successful in receiving an offer, we'll invite you to one of our applicant days. These applicant days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply, including reading about the nursing selection process for this course.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:Apply via UCASThis course is not presently open to international applicants.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2026-2027

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply, including reading about the nursing selection process for this course.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:Apply via UCASThis course is not presently open to international applicants.

    Become an adult nurse and make a difference every day. Equip yourself with the clinical skills, knowledge and confidence you need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and deliver exceptional care to patients.

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