Nursing (Learning Disability) BSc (Hons) with NMC registration

Program Overview

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The Nursing (Learning Disability) BSc (Hons) program at De Montfort University prepares students for a rewarding career supporting individuals with learning disabilities. The program focuses on specializing in learning disabilities, professional development, strong industry links, and inter-professional learning. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), opening doors to various career opportunities.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The Nursing (Learning Disability) BSc (Hons) with NMC registration program at De Montfort University (DMU) prepares students for a rewarding career supporting individuals with learning disabilities. The program focuses on:

• Specializing in Learning Disabilities: Students learn about the specific care needs of people with learning disabilities, managing their cognitive, psychological, physical, and social needs.
• Professional Development: Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), opening doors to various career opportunities.
• Strong Industry Links: The program boasts a strong reputation and excellent connections with the local NHS trust and other potential employers, aiding graduates in their job search.
• Inter-Professional Learning: Students collaborate with other healthcare students and professionals, gaining a broader understanding of the field and its challenges.
• Practical Application: The program includes integrated work placements across the East Midlands, allowing students to apply their learnings in real-world settings.

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Objective:

The primary objective of the program is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to:

• Support the well-being and social inclusion of people with learning disabilities.

• Improve or maintain their physical and mental health.

• Enable them to live full and rewarding lives within their communities.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Focus on Learning Disabilities: The program delves deep into the specific needs and care of individuals with learning disabilities.
• NMC-accredited: Upon completion, graduates are eligible to register with the NMC, opening doors to various career opportunities.
• Inter-professional Learning: Students collaborate with other healthcare students and professionals, gaining a broader understanding of the field and its challenges.
• Integrated Work Placements: Students gain valuable practical experience through placements across the East Midlands in various healthcare and social care settings.
• Field-specific Learning: Students engage in field-specific learning opportunities throughout the program, developing their identity, skills, and knowledge within the learning disabilities field of nursing practice.

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Structure:

• Regular assessments: Frequent assessments replace end-of-year exams, providing ongoing feedback and opportunities for improvement.
• Simple timetable: Allows for a balanced schedule, incorporating study, social activities, and exploring the city.
• Small learning groups: Fosters a supportive and nurturing community, where students build friendships and a sense of belonging.

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Course Schedule:

• The program is divided into three years, each comprising various modules.
• Each module focuses on a specific aspect of learning disabilities nursing, such as:
• Practice Experience:
Students gain practical experience in real-world settings.
• Transition into Higher Education: Helps students adapt to the university environment.
• Foundations of Nursing Practice: Provides a solid grounding in nursing principles.
• Foundations of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology: Equips students with the necessary scientific knowledge.
• Influences on Wellbeing: Explores the factors that impact the well-being of individuals with learning disabilities.
• Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Introduces students to research methods and their application in the field.
• Primary Care – Patient Journey 1: Focuses on the role of nurses in primary care settings.
• Acute Care – Patient Journey 2: Addresses the specific needs of patients in acute care settings.
• Complex Care – Patient Journey 3: Equips students to manage complex care needs.
• Critical Inquiry and Research Proposal: Develops students' research skills and abilities.
• Leadership and Service Improvement: Focuses on leadership principles and driving positive change in healthcare services.
• Managing Complexities in Nursing Practice: Covers the challenges and complexities of nursing practice.

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Assessment:

• Theory assessments: Assignments, reports, examinations, workbooks, screencast presentations, and case studies.
• Practice assessments: Completion of practice documentation reflecting the NMC's Future Nurse Proficiencies standards.
• Regular feedback: Throughout the program, students receive feedback on their assessments and performance.

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Teaching:

• Variety of teaching methods: Lectures, seminars, webinars, workshops, presentations, tutorials, simulation activities, clinical skills learning, enquiry-based problem solving, independent e-learning, and peer learning sets.
• Experienced faculty: The majority of nursing lecturers are registered nurses or healthcare professionals with active research expertise.
• Small class sizes: Encourage interaction, personalized attention, and a supportive learning environment.

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Careers:

• Registered nurses can start on a salary of £28,407 (NHS pay scales 2023/24).

• Potential career paths:
• Hospitals
• Care homes
• Community settings
• Charities
• Private healthcare sector
• Post Registration Education
• Professional doctorates
• Master's degrees (e.g., Physician Associate Studies MSc)

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Other:

• Clinical skills and simulation facilities: Enhance learning through realistic, immersive environments.
• DMU Global: Offers opportunities for international experiences, including study abroad, internships, and volunteering.
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Provides a variety of support, facilities, and technology to all students, including those with disabilities and specific learning differences.

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2024/25 tuition fees for UK students: £9,250 Additional costs: You may incur additional costs for this programme, including the cost of travelling to and from project/placement locations.