FdSc Nursing Associate at University of Plymouth

Programme overview

FdSc Nursing Associate is a two-year full-time foundation degree preparing students to join the Nursing and Midwifery Council register as nursing associates, bridging healthcare support workers and registered nurses across adult, child, mental health and learning disabilities fields. It can be studied at the Plymouth, Exeter or Truro campuses.

Department: School of Nursing and Midwifery | Duration: 2 years (with placements) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Plymouth, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 covers the role of the nursing associate, applied anatomy and physiology, therapeutic relationships through effective communication, being an accountable professional, and delivering patient-centred care through the nursing process. The final year covers promoting public health, medicines management, team working and leadership, improving patient safety through research and audit, and developing practice through teaching, learning and assessment.

Career pathways

Nursing associates work in acute or community hospitals across clinical areas, community nursing teams and GP practices. Graduates can progress to the BSc (Hons) Nursing degree through direct entry into year two, completed in 18 months.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Typical offer 64 UCAS points (contextual offers typically 8 points lower). GCSE English and Maths grade C/4 (equivalents may be considered). A levels: 64 points including a minimum of 2 A levels. BTEC National Extended Diploma: MPP, science or health subject preferred. Access to HE Diploma: science or health access with 15 Level 3 credits at Merit and 30 at Pass. T level: Pass in a science or health subject. Equivalent qualifications including workplace-delivered NVQs may be considered. Evidence of academic study within the last five years is usually required. Applicants must demonstrate values and behaviours in line with the NMC Code, be 18 or over, and complete DBS Enhanced Disclosure, overseas check, occupational health screening and a self-disclosure document. Applicants who require a Student visa cannot be considered for this course.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). Full-time UK students Source

International applicants: GBP 18,150 a year (2026/27). Full-time international students Source

Duration: 2 years

Health Sciences