Exeter launches 15-month nursing degree apprenticeship for nursing associates

The University of Exeter is launching a new degree apprenticeship designed to allow nursing associates to qualify as registered nurses in 15 months – subject to Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) approval.

The programme will offer an ‘earn-while-you-learn’ route that combines work-based practice with online and in-person teaching.

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Apprentices will remain in their existing roles while completing the qualification, with on-campus learning delivered in blocks to reduce travel and make the course more accessible to those with caring responsibilities or who cannot relocate.

Fees will be paid by employers through the apprenticeship levy, and apprentices will remain employed by NHS or independent healthcare providers throughout.

Modules will include:

• Health justice and community care
• Evaluation, improvement and research approaches in nursing
• Nursing practice
• Nursing theory into practice
• Innovation in nursing leadership and management
• Clinical innovation project

Each apprentice will complete a clinical innovation project agreed with their employer, focusing on improving clinical practice or patient experience within their workplace.

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After 15 months, apprentices will be able to graduate with a BSc (Hons) in adult nursing and become eligible for NMC registration at that level.

The course is open to nursing associates who hold an NMC-approved nursing associate qualification. The first intake is expected to begin in April 2026.

Programme developer Anca Ichim said: ‘Our vision is to create a progression route that allows learners to advance their academic and professional development while remaining embedded in practice.

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‘This pathway will strengthen professional identity and cultivate the leadership, accountability, responsibility, and courage needed to deliver safe, efficient, and person-centred care.’

She added that the programme aims to build on the existing experience and skills of nursing associates through a structured, practice-based route.