Swansea University

What you'll study

This three-year honours programme combines classroom-based teaching with substantial supervised practice in health, social care and community settings. Core areas of study include anatomy and physiology, psychology of learning and development, communication and therapeutic relationships, person-centred assessment and care planning, pharmacology relevant to people with learning disabilities, safeguarding and risk management, and the legal and ethical frameworks that govern practice.

Specialist modules cover positive behaviour support, autism and associated conditions, mental health and dual diagnosis, sexuality and relationships, transition from child to adult services and promoting independence and participation. Research methods and evidence-based practice are integrated so students can critically appraise research and apply it to direct care, service development and quality improvement.

Teaching methods include seminars, lectures, simulation and clinical skills sessions, case-based learning and interprofessional education. Assessment is varied and reflects professional practice: clinical skills assessment (including OSCE-style assessments), reflective portfolios, case studies, presentations, essays and research projects. Students complete multiple supervised clinical placements across community, inpatient and supported-living settings, enabling experience of person-centred care across the lifespan.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary qualifications equivalent to standard university entry for healthcare degrees, such as A-levels, a BTEC National Diploma, an Access to Higher Education Diploma or equivalent qualifications. GCSEs in English and Mathematics at a standard equivalent to grade C/4 are typically required as evidence of essential literacy and numeracy skills. Specific offers and acceptable equivalents vary, and mature applicants with relevant experience are welcomed.

All applicants must meet professional requirements for nursing practice: a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check or equivalent, occupational health clearance, and the ability to meet the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s (NMC) fitness to practise standards. Selection normally includes an interview and verification of prior learning and experience. International applicants must meet English language requirements and provide equivalent academic qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council as a Registered Nurse (Learning Disability), opening a range of career opportunities in the NHS, social care and third-sector organisations. Typical early roles include learning disability nurse in community teams, specialist residential and respite services, secure services, supported living and school-based or transition services.

With experience, nurses can progress into clinical specialist roles, team leadership and management, community nursing coordination, advanced practitioner roles, education, advocacy and research. Many graduates also move into service development, commissioning, or policy roles, or pursue postgraduate study such as master's degrees or professional qualifications in advanced clinical practice, psychotherapy, public health or nursing education.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University’s School of Health and Social Care provides multidisciplinary teaching with strong links to NHS Wales and local social care providers, ensuring placement opportunities across a variety of service settings in South Wales. The programme benefits from dedicated clinical skills facilities and simulation resources that allow students to practise procedures and communication skills in a safe environment before going into practice.

The university emphasises close academic support and small-group teaching within professional programmes, and encourages interprofessional learning alongside students from allied health and social care disciplines. Research-informed teaching and opportunities to engage with applied research projects enable students to develop skills in evidence-based practice and service improvement while training to become confident, reflective practitioners.