Learning Disability Nursing

Learning disability nursing is a specialist branch of nursing concerned with supporting people who have a learning disability to live healthy, fulfilling, and self-determined lives, navigating the health and social care system with confidence and having their needs recognised and met with compassion and expertise. People with learning disabilities may experience a wide range of health conditions alongside their disability, and they often face barriers to accessing healthcare that other people take for granted. Learning disability nurses work across clinical, community, and residential settings to provide direct care, to advocate for their clients, and to work alongside families and other professionals to coordinate support.

At the University of Chester, this four-year full-time programme includes a foundation year and a year abroad, providing a supported entry into the professional training alongside an international study experience. The foundation year builds the academic and scientific foundations you need before entering the main nursing programme, and the year abroad gives you the opportunity to experience learning disability support and nursing practice in another country. Practice placements are a central and substantial component of the degree, giving you supervised clinical experience across a range of settings and developing the professional competencies required for nursing registration.

A typical entry tariff of 136 points is required.

On completion of the degree and successful registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council, you are qualified to work as a registered learning disability nurse. Career opportunities span NHS community teams, specialist hospitals, residential services, day services, schools, and the voluntary and independent sectors. Learning disability nurses play an increasingly important role in healthcare liaison, supporting people with learning disabilities to navigate physical health services as well as mental health and social care.

Many graduates go on to develop specialist expertise in areas such as positive behaviour support, autism, or complex needs, or move into education, research, and leadership roles.