Nursing Associate
The nursing associate role sits between healthcare support worker and registered nurse, and was created to expand the nursing workforce and provide a clear career pathway for those working in, or wishing to enter, health and social care. Nursing associates deliver person-centred, fundamental nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses, contributing to the assessment, planning, delivery and evaluation of care for a diverse range of people in hospital and community settings. The role requires both clinical knowledge and the compassionate commitment to care that underpins nursing at every level.
At University College Birmingham this two-year, full-time programme is open to a wide range of students, including school and college leavers, mature students and those already working in healthcare support roles. You will develop knowledge of key concepts in nursing care, anatomy and physiology, medicines management, communication and professional values, alongside the practical skills delivered through workplace learning. The programme is a foundation degree level qualification that prepares you for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council as a nursing associate, a regulated professional role with a distinct scope of practice.
Registered nursing associates work across NHS trusts, community healthcare providers, care homes, GP practices and independent healthcare settings. The role provides a clear route into registered nursing for those who wish to continue their professional development, as nursing associates can progress to full nursing registration through a shortened degree pathway. Others build long-term careers as nursing associates, developing specialist knowledge in areas such as care of older people, learning disabilities, mental health support or primary care.
The qualification opens the door to a meaningful healthcare career with structured progression opportunities for those who want to advance their nursing practice further.