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BSc Single Honours Mental Health Nursing

Undergraduate

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BSc Single Honours Mental Health Nursing

Discover how person-centred care, clinical knowledge and compassionate practice come together to prepare you for a meaningful career in mental health nursing. The BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing at Birmingham Newman University is a full-time, three-year undergraduate degree designed for students who want to work alongside people, not just treat symptoms. Whether you are new to healthcare or retraining, this course offers a clear and supportive route into a profession that makes a lasting difference. On successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as a Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN).

Why Study This Course?

Studying the BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing at Birmingham Newman University offers more than a route into professional registration. It provides a values-led, inclusive and practice-informed approach to nursing education, grounded in current research and shaped by the realities of mental health care. The course is ideal for students who want to make a lasting impact and are seeking a career with purpose. With small cohort sizes, personalised support and access to state-of-the-art simulation facilities, you will be part of a learning community that empowers you to grow in confidence and develop your identity as a mental health nurse.

Explore Mental Health Through Clinical Insight and Reflection

You will follow a curriculum designed to help you become a reflective, skilled and adaptable practitioner. Through academic study and clinical experience, you will explore the social, cultural and economic factors that influence mental health, and how to respond with empathy, professionalism and clarity. You will also examine how mental health services can be shaped to meet the needs of diverse populations, and how to advocate for individuals and communities. All assessments are coursework-based, allowing you to build your confidence and apply your learning in meaningful ways.

Supportive and Personalised Learning

At Birmingham Newman University, you will be part of a close-knit academic and clinical community that places your development at the centre. The course is delivered by experienced lecturers, practitioners and service users who are passionate about mental health and committed to your success. You will receive regular feedback, take part in reflective practice and benefit from one-to-one academic support. Whether you are preparing for your first role or aspiring to lead in mental health care, you will be supported every step of the way.

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UK home students Entry requirements, for UK home students, for September 2026 entry: Standard 3-year entry requirements A-Level: 112 UCAS tariff points, with a grade profile of BBC BTEC: Grade profile of DMM. This can be achieved from either an Extended Diploma or a combination of smaller BTEC qualifications, Other Level 3 qualifications are accepted including Access qualifications. T-Level: A T-Level with an overall Merit grade. Plus: GCSE/IGCSE English language and maths grades 9-4/A*-C or equivalent Candidates must have achieved these before commencing on the three year programme. Candidates must also complete an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check which must be satisfactory prior to commencing the course. The Admissions team will use the entrance criteria, as well as the personal statement, reference and work experience information, to shortlist candidates for interview. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview– Candidates will be assessed on their motivation and understanding of the role of a nurse and familiarity with the NHS Constitution and Values and the requirements of an NMC registered nurse. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) can be applied for providing this does not exceed 50% of the programme. The only exception to this is if you are an existing registered nurse and you wish to gain an alternative qualification in a different field of practice. In this instance more than 50% RPL/RPEL can be applied for. All RPL claims for NMC programmes are scrutinised on an individual basis and are also assessed by an external examiner as part of the School of Nursing and Allied RPL/RPEL process. Health checks As part of the health clearance checks you will be required to provide information about your immunity and vaccination status. Candidates must prove they have been immunised against Rubella, Measles, Tuberculosis and Hepatitis B. We strongly recommend that all successful applicants (unless exempt on medical grounds) receive a full course of Covid-19 and Influenza vaccinations prior to commencing the course. Candidates must receive a satisfactory occupational health clearance prior to commencing the course.

The full-time course fee, for UK home students, for September 2025 is: £9,535

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Introduction to pharmacology and numeracy for nursing practice
0 Credits (Compulsory)

In this module you will develop your knowledge and skills in relation to pharmacology, health numeracy and medicines calculations. You will be introduced to two e-learning platforms SCRIPT and safemedicate. There will be opportunities to explore the types of drug calculations commonly used in practice and engage with them to find areas of challenge. You will examine the base constituents of common drugs and administration routes, to understand how interactions occur. The module will also explore methods to minimise the risk of drug calculation and administration errors. You will have unlimited access to the two virtual platforms to practice calculations formatively.

Introduction to professional healthcare practice
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This interprofessional module will provide you with the opportunity to learn from, about and with students from other professional programmes. As an interprofessional group of learners you will explore what it means to be a professional within the context of ethical, legal and regulatory frameworks as applied to your professional healthcare discipline. You will be given the opportunity to reflect and develop self-awareness to foster an understanding of your own beliefs, attitudes, values, knowledge, attributes and skills and explore how others may see the world differently to build and develop your professional identity. This module aims to aid your transition to university as a professional healthcare student, introducing you to the concept of evidence-based practice and some of the study skills you will need to develop as an experiential and lifelong learner.

Nursing people and families
40 Credits (Compulsory)

This module will introduce you to the concept of compassionate, person-centred, evidence-based nursing care. You will learn how to holistically assess, plan, implement and evaluate evidence-based care for individuals, their families and carers across all stages of the lifespan. You will develop knowledge of body systems, human development, human anatomy and physiology and pharmacology. You will recognise commonly encountered mental, physical, behavioural and cognitive conditions and explore a range of evidence-based interventions including commonly occurring medicines and therapeutic approaches. Case studies will be used to develop the focus on assessment and care planning across the lifespan.

Assisting nursing care
40 Credits (Compulsory)

This module aims to develop your knowledge, experience and skills in relation to person centred nursing care, in a clinical practice setting relating to your field of nursing, with a specific focus upon practical skills, medicines management, fundamentals of nursing practice, communication and reflective practice. You will undertake study related to the underpinning theory around common practical skills related to nursing care alongside having the opportunity to develop those practical skills by undertaking simulated practice within the University Skills and Simulation suites. You will begin to develop an understanding of evidence-based practice and practical skills that are required to fulfil the role of the nurse. This module will prepare you for future Nursing Care modules, to enable you to progress to Part 2 of the nursing programme.

Healthy individuals and communities
20 Credits (Compulsory)

This module will introduce you to the concept of health and the importance of the nurse’s role when promoting, protecting and improving health and preventing ill health across the lifespan. It will enable you to identify key factors that can impact upon health and wellbeing outcomes for individuals, families and communities, locally, nationally and globally. You will understand the potential impact that early years and childhood experiences can have on later life and the impact of individual behaviours such as smoking, diet and exercise and substance and alcohol use on health and wellbeing. You will examine models of health promotion that support health interventions, taking into consideration health literacy and reasonable adjustments. You will consider the role of the nurse in supporting individuals to stay well and understand the relevance of maintaining your own personal health and wellbeing as a healthcare professional. Health protection measures including screening programmes and immunisation and notifiable diseases and infection prevention will be explored within the local health system.

Placement Information

Throughout your BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing course, you will complete a series of clinical placements across the West Midlands and surrounding areas. These include hospital wards, community mental health teams, crisis services and home-based care. Placements begin in your first year and are carefully integrated with your academic modules. You will be supported by practice supervisors, assessors and academic staff, with progress tracked using the Electronic Practice Assessment Document (ePAD). You will also learn from those with lived experience of mental health services, helping you to develop empathy, insight and a deeper understanding of the realities of care. These placements are designed to help you apply theory to practice, build clinical confidence and grow into a capable and compassionate nurse.

Live, Learn & Belong at Birmingham Newman??

At Birmingham Newman University, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: a peaceful, green campus that creates the ideal setting for focused study and personal reflection, yet remains just eight miles from the vibrant city centre. As the UK’s second-largest city, Birmingham is also one of the youngest and most diverse in Europe, offering a dynamic blend of culture, innovation and opportunity. From world-renowned museums and music venues to a thriving food scene alongside a growing business and tech sector, it’s a place where creativity and ambition naturally thrive.?

Experience Birmingham: A City Full of Possibilities?

Whether you're discovering the Midlands for the first time or already know the area well, Birmingham provides a lively and inclusive environment for students. As one of the most energetic and multicultural cities in the UK, it’s a place where you can grow academically while developing personally. Its rich cultural heritage, creative energy and broad range of opportunities make it an inspiring backdrop for your university journey.?

A City That Loves Great Food?

Birmingham is a brilliant place to explore diverse culinary experiences. You might wander through the famous Balti Triangle, sample global street food at Digbeth Dining Club or enjoy a relaxed meal by the canals in Brindleyplace. The city is also home to independent cafés, vegan-friendly eateries and countless hidden gems. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between lectures or planning an evening out, there’s always something new to discover.?

Arts, Culture and Entertainment?

The city pulses with creativity. You could catch live music at the O2 Academy, experience a world-class performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome or browse exhibitions at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Creative spaces like the Custard Factory showcase local talent while hosting events that celebrate innovation. With festivals, sporting fixtures and cultural celebrations taking place year-round, there’s never a shortage of things to enjoy.?

Simple & Convenient Travel?

Getting around Birmingham is straightforward thanks to its well-connected public transport system. Buses, trams and trains make it easy to reach campus, explore the city or travel further afield. Whether you're commuting daily or heading off for a weekend adventure, transport is both accessible and affordable.?

Life Beyond the Lecture Hall?

Your time at Birmingham Newman University extends far beyond academic study. You’ll have the chance to join student societies, contribute to community projects or try something entirely new. The university’s supportive atmosphere encourages you to build confidence, develop practical skills and feel genuinely at home throughout your studies.?

Where this course can take you. You will graduate with a professionally accredited degree and be eligible to apply for registration with the NMC as a Registered Mental Health Nurse. Birmingham Newman-trained nurses are known for their compassion, professionalism and ability to lead inclusive, recovery-focused care. Whether you choose to work in the NHS, independent services, education or the voluntary sector, you will be equipped to make a meaningful impact in a wide range of settings. The course also provides a strong foundation for future study, including postgraduate qualifications in advanced practice, leadership or specialist mental health pathways.

Accreditations and Exemptions

This course is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and meets national standards for pre-registration nursing education. Developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals and people with lived experience, the programme is grounded in inclusive and person-centred values. On successful completion, you will be eligible to apply for registration as a Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN), prepared to deliver safe, ethical and compassionate care across a range of settings including the NHS, the voluntary sector and independent services.

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