Nursing Studies (Registered Nurse Children's Nursing) BSc (Hons) – 2022 entry
Key information
Start date: October 2022
Why choose this course
- Study a hands-on, clinical curriculum, where you’ll learn to meet the diverse needs of children and young people, from birth to 16 years of age, on a course ranked top 5 in the UK by the Complete University Guide 2021.
- Access our Clinical Simulation Centre, including our wards and operating theatre, to practise real scenarios on lifelike neonatal mannequins and actors.
- Spend half of your training in clinical placements, to practise your skills in healthcare settings like paediatric accident and emergency departments and the world-renowned Great Ormond Street Hospital, under the supervision of qualified practitioners.
- Learn from a multidisciplinary team of lecturers, who are all healthcare professionals with experience of working in the NHS. Many are also active researchers, investigating topics like cancer, dementia, ethics and compassionate practice.
- Get the academic requirements needed to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to work as a children's nurse once you’ve graduated.
Life as a trainee children’s nurse
Read moreWhat you will study
On this course, you’ll learn to care for infants, children and young people, in a variety of settings. You’ll also see how to support and educate families, so they can be involved in their child’s care.
In your first year, you’ll study topics that are fundamental to children’s nursing, including concepts of caring, physical health sciences, and public health promotion, ensuring you have a solid foundation upon which to build the rest of your degree.
During your second year, you’ll gain an appreciation for safeguarding by exploring an ethical situation that requires you to be an advocate for a child in your care. You’ll also identify a current healthcare issue and develop an innovative solution to this, to enhance the experience of service users.
In your third year, you’ll develop your decision-making and leadership skills and will gain an interesting perspective into how psychosocial, spiritual, ethical and legal influences have an impact on the way patient care is provided. You’ll learn how to effectively assess and manage deteriorating patients, analysing and debating a range of treatment options and evidence, to inform a choice of strategies for managing their holistic delivery of care.
Related courses
Facilities
You’ll benefit from our multi-million pound facilities, home to our Clinical Simulation Centre, that includes two wards, an operating theatre and a community flat. You’ll get to use equipment found in the NHS to learn how to monitor vital signs, perform respiratory assessments, complete neurological observations and much more.
Our virtual environments, lifelike mannequins and actors, will transport you to the centre of children’s wards, so you can practise your skills and get a taste of scenarios you may face during your training and when you’re fully qualified.
You’ll also get exclusive access to our independent clinical learning room, set up each week with the necessary equipment required to practise the techniques you’ll be learning.
Teaching staff
You’ll be taught by a multidisciplinary team of lecturers who are all healthcare professionals with experience of working in the NHS. Many are also active researchers, investigating topics such as cancer, dementia, ethics and compassionate practice. These may include Becci Barnley (a children’s nurse with expertise in emergency care, who’s worked in New Zealand), Sarah Clements (a paediatric respiratory nurse specialist with expertise in cystic fibrosis and complex asthma), Zoe Polly (a children’s nurse and surrey alumnus with over 15 year’s clinical experience).
You’ll also be taught by guest lecturers, made up of local doctors, nurses, midwives and other healthcare workers.
Throughout your placements, you'll have an educational supervisor, who’s a senior clinician. They'll guide you through your experience and feed into your evidence portfolio.
Foundation year
On this course, you can choose to study a foundation year, designed to develop your skills and make it easier for you to get started at university.
As a foundation student, you’ll study full-time for one year at foundation level. During this time, you’ll gain an understanding of the role of a nurse, developing an awareness of the values and beliefs used in modern healthcare. You’ll become familiar with person-centred care and gain insights into interdisciplinary working. You’ll learn basic anatomy and physiology, preparing you for the next step of your nurse training. You’ll also complete experience days in hospital and community care settings.
After successful completion of this year, you’ll move onto your chosen version of this course.
Find out more about our entry requirements, fees and how to apply.
Professional recognition
BSc (Hons) - Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
Recognised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for the purpose of registration as a qualified nurse (child).
Careers and graduate prospects
We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.
This course is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), which means that on successful completion of your studies, you’ll have the academic requirements needed to register to work as a children’s nurse. 100% of our graduates from this course go on to employment or further study.*
Our alumni can be found working for NHS trusts across the UK, with recent graduates working for Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust.
Nursing is the largest healthcare profession in the UK and is home to a diverse range of roles in hospitals, GP surgeries, people’s homes and the wider community. There are also specialist areas that nurses occupy in schools, hospices, mental health agencies and in industry. You may also want to explore alternative paths, including education, management, mentoring and research. Visit the NHS careers website for further information.
You can also use your qualification to work outside the UK.
*Graduate Outcomes survey 2020, HESA.
Staff
This course is taught by academic staff from the School of Health Sciences.
Accreditation
Academic year structure
This three-year course runs over 49 weeks each year, with seven weeks holiday usually over the winter, spring and summer vacations. The length of the course year and the holiday entitlement are requirements of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
The academic year is divided into two semesters of 15 weeks each. Each semester consists of a period of teaching, revision/directed learning and assessment.
Modules
Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Please note that modules may be subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.
Important: In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the University has had to change the delivery (and in some cases the content) of its programmes, together with certain University services and facilities for the 2020/21 academic year. These changes include the implementation of a hybrid teaching approach. View detailed information on the changes.
The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff. Modules can be either 15, 30, 45 or 60, 75 and 120 credits, and additionally for some masters dissertations, 90 credits.
Please note: If there is an optional Professional Training placement as part of your course you can view the full module listing for this on the relevant programme specification.
The structure of our programmes follows clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes:
| Module title | Status | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| FOUNDATION STUDIES FOR NURSING | Core | Year-long |
Optional modules for Foundation - FHEQ Level 3
For further information on FHEQ levels 4, 5 and 6 please view the programme specification for the full-time BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Registered Nurse Children's Nursing)
This structure offers a sequential learning experience that enables students to build and develop knowledge, understanding and skills. Utilising learning and teaching strategies that encompass dynamic learning experiences and reflection.
The programme will consist 1 level 3 120 credit module with 4 summative assessments. This equates to 1200 hrs of study, pass mark for each summative point will be 50%. Students not achieving a passing mark at first attempt will be entitled to re-take the assessment once. In order to progress onto the 3 year Nursing studies programme the overall average mark for the whole year across the assessment points must be 50% or more. Students will be issued a transcript of their marks but the Foundation Year does not lead to an award.
Timetables
Course timetables are normally available one month before the start of the semester. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week (Monday–Friday). Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities. View our Timetabling Policy (PDF).
Teaching
Day-to-day learning
Your teaching will be delivered through a combination of:
- Group work (e.g. discussion groups)
- Lectures
- Online learning
- Practical simulation classes and clinical skills scenarios
- Role plays
- Seminars
- Tutorials.
Outside of these, you’ll be expected to carry out independent study, including coursework, essays and reading.
For some modules, you’ll learn alongside students from other health sciences courses, so you can develop an understanding of inter-professional teamwork.
When you’re on placement
Your teaching will be delivered through a combination of:
- Demonstration
- Discussion groups
- Observation
- Practice under supervision
- Reflective dialogue
- Role modelling
- Shadowing
- Simulation.
There may be occasions when the delivery of your teaching is supported by postgraduate research students. The University has a set of procedures that govern the use of postgraduate research students in this way.
There may be occasions when the delivery of your teaching is supported by graduate teaching assistants. The University has a set of procedures that govern the use of postgraduate research students in this way.
Assessment
We use a variety of methods to assess you, including case studies, examinations, presentations, simulated learning experiences (objective structured clinical examinations – OSCEs) and written work. When you’re out on placement, your knowledge, skills and professional behaviour will be assessed by your mentors.
We assess modules individually and award credits for the successful completion of each one. Assessment takes place through a combination of examination and/or coursework, practical examinations and reports.
Check individual module information to see full details at a module level.
Contact hours
Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.
Entry requirements
Do I meet the requirements for this course?
We require you to submit a full application so that we can formally assess whether you meet the criteria published. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide an outcome based on an enquiry (via email, webform enquiry, phone or live chat).
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: 7.0 overall with 7.0 in each element.
View the other English language qualifications that we accept.
If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
Selection process
Shortlisting
Admissions staff will review the information provided within your personal statement and reference to assess applications for evidence of academic ability, insight and motivation.
Relevant experience in a care setting and/or evidence of other involvement in the community (for example, school, voluntary or charity responsibilities) is normally required.
Your personal statement should be comprehensive, with correct spelling, grammar and punctuation. If you are shortlisted you will be invited to an interview and selection day.
Interview and selection day
Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) will be conducted by University academics, assisted by staff from clinical practice areas. Numeracy and literacy exercises may also be included as part of the selection process.
If you are selected to attend one of our interview days you will be sent detailed guidance on these selection activities with your invitation.
All of our offers will be made subject to a health screening and DBS checks. Occupational health services are provided by The Robens Centre on behalf of the University of Surrey.
References
Read our guide to references to support your health sciences application.
Declaration of criminal convictions
This is a regulated course that requires declaration of criminal convictions at the application stage, please visit our criminal convictions webpage for more information.
Deferred entry
The course does not accept applications for deferred entry.
Foundation
If you don’t meet our entry requirements, you might still be able to apply for this course with a foundation year. A course with a foundation year includes an extra year of study to prepare you for a full degree course. Find out more about our degrees with foundation year.
Recognition of prior learning
The University of Surrey recognises that many students enter their higher education course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of professional, vocational and community contexts. If this applies to you, a process called recognition of prior learning (RPL) may allow you to enter your course at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience, or to join the start of a course without the formal entry requirements. This means that you may be exempt from certain elements of study in the course for which you have applied and be awarded credit based on your previous qualifications/experience. There are restrictions on RPL for some courses and fees may be payable for certain claims.
Please see the code of practice for recognition of prior learning and prior credit: taught programmes (PDF) for further information. Please contact Admissions on +44 (0)1483 682222 with any queries.
Fees
The annual tuition fees for courses starting in October 2022
BSc (Hons)
UK To be confirmed
BSc (Hons) (with foundation year)
UK To be confirmed
View a complete listing of all ongoing fees for our undergraduate courses.
- Fees for UK students: The University will apply annual regulated increases in the fee rates as set by Government each year, in order to maintain the same value in real terms.
- Fees for EU students: The UK is now no longer part of the EU, we are awaiting further instruction from the UK government and we will publish this as soon as it is provided. Find out more information about Studying in the UK and the Scholarships for EU students.
- Fees for international students: Annual fees will increase by 4% for each subsequent year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100, subject to any overriding applicable legislative requirements.
- Fees for international students with an integrated foundation year: The programme fee for Year 0 will match the lowest Year 1 overseas fee rate from across the substantive programmes for that year of entry. Students subsequently progressing into Year 1 will be liable for the same fee as overseas students joining at Year 1 for the same programme in that year. Annual fees after Year 1 will increase by 4% for each subsequent year of study, rounded up to the nearest £100, subject to any overriding applicable legislative requirements.
The University will assess your fee status. If you are unsure whether you are likely to be considered a home, EU or overseas student for fees purposes, the UKCISA website offers more information.
Payment schedule
- Students in receipt of a Tuition Fee Loan: will have their fees paid by the Student Loans Company in line with their schedule.
- International students, or UK/EU students who have not taken out a Tuition Fee Loan: are required to pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
- 50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be early October of each academic year)
- 50% in January of the same academic year.
The exact date(s) will be detailed on invoices. Students on certain part-time programmes, where fees are paid on a modular or stage basis, are not eligible to pay their fees by instalment.
If you are sponsored: you will provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of your study.
Additional costs
There are associated costs with this course:
- Commuting (local travel expenses): Students are required to pay upfront cost of travel and accommodation expenses incurred when on placements, these may vary depending on the location. Students starting their studies in 2019/2020 will be able to apply for reimbursement of travel and dual accommodation expenses through the Learning Support Fund as a result of attending practice placements (this model may not apply for the duration of students' studies). Essential expenses incurred over and above a student’s normal daily travel costs to the University are covered. NHS bursary rules on expenses must be followed and the rates applicable are to be confirmed by the NHS Business Services Authority. Students also have the option to undertake an additional elective placement, however, all costs for this must be met by the student.
- Safety equipment and/or uniform: although a uniform (tunics and trousers) is provided, you are required to supply your own suitable footwear and any additional uniform. You are also responsible for the costs associated with maintaining/washing your uniform.
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check: The University will meet the cost of one DBS check, completed at the start of each new student’s programme or earlier where applicants indicate they have a conviction in their application. The DBS check is a programme requirement: it is mandatory that the DBS process in completed and the student is approved to attend before they can start placement. Applicants offered a place on the programme will be contacted to complete the online process by the deadline specified. The process is not completed until all original documentation has been approved by an appointed DBS approver. This should be completed in advance of applicants starting their programme using main branches of the Post Office, where there will be a £6 administration fee.
These additional costs are accurate as of September 2020 and apply to the 2021 year of entry. Costs for 2022 entry will be published in September 2021.
Clinical placements
You’ll spend half of your training in clinical placements, allowing you to develop your knowledge, skills and practice within healthcare settings, under the supervision of qualified practitioners. You’ll complete 37.5 placement hours a week, for approximately 16 weeks in your first year, 26 weeks in your second year and 25 weeks in your third year.
Previous students have completed their placements in the NHS, with private healthcare organisations and with charities. These have been across several settings, including children’s units in hospitals and out in the wider community.
Your placements may take place across Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and Sussex, and these are divided into localities. For the duration of your course, you’ll typically be allocated one placement locality. The localities for this course are:
Terms and conditions
When you accept an offer of a place at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to comply with our policies and procedures, the student regulations , and our terms and conditions. These terms and conditions are provided in two stages: first when we make an offer and second when students who have accepted their offers register to study at the University. View an example of our offer terms and conditions and our registration terms and conditions (PDF) from the 2020/2021 academic year as a guide as to what to expect.
Please note: our offer terms and conditions will generally be available in the September of the calendar year prior to the year in which you begin your studies. Our registration terms and conditions will vary to take into account specifics of your course and changes for the specific academic year.
Disclaimer
This online prospectus has been prepared and published in advance of the academic year to which it applies. The University of Surrey has used its reasonable efforts to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content or additional costs) may occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us and before you accept an offer. Read more.
In particular we wish to draw your intention to the following matters affecting the academic year 2021/2022:
- Covid-19 - In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the University has had to change the delivery (and in some cases the content) of its programmes, together with certain University services and facilities for the 2020/2021 academic year. These changes include the implementation of a hybrid teaching approach, details of which can be found here [link]. It is anticipated that these programme changes and the hybrid learning approach will be adopted throughout the academic year 2021/2022, however, given the changing nature of the pandemic, this is being kept under continuous review. Detailed information on all changes as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic is available at the coronavirus course changes page. The linked pages set out information relating to general University changes and will also direct you to consider additional information relating to specific programmes.
- Brexit - The UK is now no longer part of the EU. We are awaiting further information and instruction from the UK government and we will publish this as soon as it is provided. EU students applying for programmes in the academic year 2021/2022 and students applying for courses with placements abroad should visit our dedicated webpages for the latest information on how the UK’s departure from the EU will affect their courses.
Course location and contact details
Campus location
Kate Granger BuildingOur health sciences, nursing and midwifery courses are taught at the Kate Granger Building (30 Priestley Road), on the Surrey Research Park.
Placement location
You’ll be expected to attend clinical placements off campus. Please see the placements section for more details.
Additional information
Some modules on this course will be taught on Stag Hill campus.- Phone: +44 (0)1483 682222
- Email: admissions@surrey.ac.uk
University of Surrey
Guildford
Surrey GU2 7XH