STUDENTS aiming to become mental health nurses can now fit their studies around their lives, thanks to a new flexible course at Swansea University.
Applications are open for the four-year BSc course which follows on from the success of the flexible part-time Adult Nursing degree launched last year.
This innovative nursing degree programme offers more flexibility than a traditional nursing degree including a shorter study week, consistency with Welsh Government-approved school term times and co-ordinating placements around personal commitments, to help accommodate not only those with school-age children but also people juggling caring or work commitments to support a much-needed boost to the nursing workforce in Wales.
Mental health nurses play a vital role in supporting people of all ages and backgrounds at some of the most difficult times of their lives. The University believes many carers have real-life experiences of these challenges which could help make them understanding and capable nurses.
Swansea University’s head of nursing Catherine Norris: “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 has been approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council and has been developed by the University in partnership with NHS Wales. Its fees are fully funded through an NHS bursary and the first Mental Health cohort will begin their training in September 2025
Ms Norris added: “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 also praised the health boards who work in partnership with the university for their support with the courses and willingness to negotiate how placements are structured.
One student who can testify just what a difference having a varied approach to learning can make is Megan Price, who is on the flexible adult nursing course.
She said: “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.”
Find out more at about nursing at Swansea or email [email protected]
