Applications are now open for a new four-year BSc course in mental health nursing, following the success of a flexible part-time Adult Nursing degree introduced last year. This program offers more flexibility than traditional nursing degrees, aligning with Welsh Government-approved school term times and accommodating personal commitments through shorter study weeks and coordinated placements.
Mental health nurses are essential in supporting individuals during challenging times. Swansea University believes that many carers possess real-life experiences that could contribute to their effectiveness as nurses.
Catherine Norris, head of nursing at Swansea University, stated: “Our flexible adult nursing degree has been a real success, so we are delighted to now be introducing this programme as a mental health field of practice. The variety of learning options it offers means it could prove attractive to those currently working as carers or in other careers who want to change their occupation but still need to work while learning.”
The course is approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council and developed by the University in collaboration with NHS Wales. It is fully funded through an NHS bursary, with the first cohort starting training in September 2025.
Ms. Norris further noted: “We welcomed our first students onto our flexible adult nursing course in April 2024 and it has proved to be incredibly popular with people who may not otherwise have the opportunity the chance to study for a degree in nursing."
“We are confident that the mental health course will prove to be just as well-received,” she added. She also acknowledged the support from health boards partnering with the university on these courses.
Megan Price, a student on the flexible adult nursing course, shared her experience: “I would have personally struggled to study on the full-time course due to home-life commitments, such as children and a mortgage. The flexible course gives me the opportunity to see my children for the whole summer holidays, and work part-time alongside the course.”
For more information about nursing at Swansea or inquiries, email study@swansea.ac.uk