DPSN-BSc Nursing: Adult (Diploma in Professional Studies) (2-3 years)
Entry requirementsThe aim of the course is to enable students to develop the knowledge, skills, understanding and attitudes to be competent to nurse adults in a range of institutional and community settings. This is achieved through providing excellent learning opportunities and support with an emphasis on using evidence based practice and involving users and their carers in the planning, implementation and review of agreed care. On completion of the programme students will be able to contribute immediately to working life through their application of the understanding, skills, efficacy beliefs and strategic thinking, acquired on the programme.
Academic titleDPSN/BSc Nursing: Adult (Diploma in Professional Studies)
Course descriptionCourse description
This three-year programme aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge to meet the healthcare needs of clients, and to provide opportunities for personal and professional development. A two-year branch programme is also offered for applicants who have successfully completed their Foundation Year in Nursing at another University with 120 level 1 cats points or have completed the Foundation Degree (FDA) Health and Social Care.
The course is divided equally between theory and practical experience, which is obtained through placements in a wide variety of clinical areas throughout Manchester.
Special features
This programme gives students the opportunity to study at level 3 based on their academic achievements in the foundation year.
Module details
The full programme combines an initial foundation year with two subsequent branch-specific years. As well as an academic qualification successful students also receive a Registered Nurse qualification that allows them to practice in a wide variety of settings in Adult Nursing.
The desired branch (Adult or Mental Health) should be chosen prior to starting the course. Students who achieve set academic criteria within the foundation year are offered the opportunity to proceed to Level 3 credits (Diploma in Professional Studies in Nursing with level 3 credits) or Honours degree-level study (BSc Nursing Practice).
Clinical practice placements
Students are required to follow shift patterns in clinical placement areas where they are working. This includes working at least 2 weekends each month. Shift patterns may require students to work early shifts starting from 7.00am and late shifts, sometimes finishing at 9.30pm. Students may also be required to work some bank holidays.
All students are also required to undertake between 2 and 6 weeks night duty during the 3 years. Annual leave entitlement is 7 weeks and this is set in advance by the University and is non-negotiable. However, it does include time off over Christmas, New Year and Easter.
The School maintains close relationships with local NHS Trusts in Greater Manchester, and students undertake a range of placements in both community and hospital settings. Clinical staff based within the Trusts and academic staff from the School are available to support students with their studies whilst on placement and to assist and guide should any difficulties arise. The development and assessment of nursing competencies in the clinical area are key features of the programme. Throughout the three-year programme students learn what it is like to work within the modern NHS. Students develop their clinical knowledge and skills and confidence as a member of the healthcare team.
Course content for year 1
Foundation year
The foundation year is designed with clinical practice experience at the centre. Students undertake an intensive introduction and preparation for clinical practice and academic study at the beginning of the programme. The year is divided into seven units of study, including knowledge and skills for nursing, sciences applied to nursing, professional and ethical practice and communication skills and psychology.
This foundation year equips all students with the necessary basic skills and essential knowledge to make the most of their clinical placements. Theoretical components are integrated with practice with weekly lectures and seminars. All clinical practice placement areas are carefully selected, prepared and monitored to ensure that students receive the level of support required to be successful in developing their knowledge, skills and confidence. Foundation year clinical placements are based on a Hub and Spoke rotational programme. This enables students to experience the full patient care pathway, maximise their exposure to other members of the multidisciplinary team, meet the European Union Directives and broaden their experience.
Course content for year 2
Branch Studies Year 2
The second year of the programme enables students to build on the knowledge and skills gained during the foundation year. Year 2 comprises three modules which focus on Primary and Continuing Care, Nursing Care of the Older Person and Palliative Care.
Course content for year 3
Branch Studies Year 3
In the third year of the programme students learn how to care for the Acutely Ill Adult during the first module. This is followed by a period of consolidation that allows each student to reflect on their experience and prepare themselves for their new role as qualified nurses. There are three modules in this final year: Preparation for Practice, Evidence Based Practice and Elective Specialist Practice. The Elective module, with a focus on specialist practice can include a six week placement of the student's choice from a range of placements available within local healthcare services.
Career opportunities
Graduates from nursing programmes within the School have taken up a wide variety of positions in nursing in the UK and overseas. Career prospects are excellent, with significant opportunities for further professional development and specialisation.
There are numerous employment opportunities available within local Trusts, or elsewhere in the country for newly qualified staff. A UK registered nursing qualification is recognised in most countries around the world and therefore provides many opportunities for travel and work abroad.