This blended learning apprenticeship course provides the opportunity for those who have studied an undergraduate degree to undertake a two-year full-time Master's. It has been designed to provide a flexible way to study whilst being employed in adult healthcare services. During this apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to learn in a supportive, forward-thinking and well-connected environment, where you will explore all aspects of adult nursing, from the fundamentals of providing care to more advanced topics such as complex needs, and leadership and management.

• Supported by a team who really understand what it is like to be an adult nurse, you will learn through lectures, workshops, seminars, group work, simulation and role play.
• In our fully equipped simulated ward, you will have the opportunity to put what you have learnt into practice in a safe environment using our patient simulators.
• You will undertake clinical placements throughout the course in a variety of settings including hospitals, nursing homes, in the community, as well as voluntary and private sectors.
• You will have the opportunity to hear the experiences and viewpoints from service users and carers, who are part of the Public Partnership Group.
• You will also learn how to respond to the physical, cognitive and mental health care needs of all patients and service users across their lifespan.

The course is mainly delivered through digital technologies and also involves practical, hands-on experience. Although the theoretical component is predominantly delivered online, you will attend the campus in Huddersfield (or similar venue close to your home) for a maximum total of four one-week blocks for simulation and skills training. You will do this in each stage of the course, providing the opportunity for you to practise skills in a safe and controlled environment. You will also undertake practice placements across the NHS and healthcare organisations in a setting close to home.

In line with the apprenticeship model, the course is designed to support a training in practice approach. Whilst undertaking the course you will remain employed by your host organisation and may spend 20% of your time in your current workplace. The remaining 80% will be spent at the University undertaking theory work and clinical placements. The course culminates in an End Point Assessment (EPA) which is independently assessed outside of the Higher Education Institution (Skills Funding Agency, 2018). The course is designed to be progressively demanding and once qualified you’ll be eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and work as a Registered Nurse for Adults.

Placements

Nothing can really replicate working in the real world, that is why the course comprises of 50% practice, which is essential in your development. During the course you will undertake a number of practice learning experiences in a range of healthcare environments, these may include NHS Trusts, charities, hospices, schools and community settings. You will undertake 622.5 hours in stage 1, 647.5 hours in stage 2 and 722.5 hours in stage 3.

Throughout the practical experience you will be supervised and assessed by a qualified nurse or other suitably qualified professional who will provide expert help and advice if required.

To allow you the broadest professional experience possible, practice experiences are generally offered across West Yorkshire and beyond, covering 24 hour care including evening, weekend and occasional night shifts. You will be required to travel to and during your placements. For more information visit our placements page.

You will be assessed in a variety of ways including written coursework, practice, professional simulated exams, case presentations, competency based assessments and examinations, through which you will demonstrate your in-depth knowledge and understanding.

Please note that whilst we are making every effort to ensure that you can complete your programme in the prescribed 2 year period, your completion date may possibility be delayed due to the availability of placements as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Career

Upon successful graduation you could work within the National Health Service, the private or voluntary sectors or you could specialise in an area of acute care requiring intensive support, as well as community care. Alternatively, you may choose to practice abroad or undertake further extensive professional development opportunities. Possible career opportunities may include training as a district nurse, advanced nurse practitioner or specialist in acute care, as well as undertaking management roles, where you may develop and implement policy. There are also many nurse specialist roles including diabetes specialist nurse, respiratory specialists, continence specialists, palliative care specialists and community matrons specialising in managing long term conditions.