BSc (Hons) Nursing (Child)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Hertfordshire

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Nursing (Child) at the University of Hertfordshire is perfect for caring, compassionate individuals who want to make a real difference in children’s lives. The program blends classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, giving you the skills and confidence to become a registered children’s nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Foundations of Nursing Practice
In your first year, you’ll get a strong grounding in the essentials of nursing, from understanding child development to learning the basics of anatomy and physiology. Modules like Introduction to Nursing Practice and Health and Wellbeing in Children will equip you with the key skills needed to care for young patients, while building a solid foundation for your clinical placements.

Year 2: Intermediate Nursing Skills and Clinical Application
Your second year focuses on deepening your practical skills and knowledge in children’s nursing. You’ll study modules such as Pediatric Nursing Care and Clinical Skills for Children’s Nursing, and spend more time in real clinical settings, giving you the chance to apply what you’ve learned and gain confidence under the guidance of experienced practitioners.

Year 3: Advanced Practice and Professional Development
In your final year, the emphasis is on advanced nursing skills, leadership, and preparing for professional life. Modules like Advanced Pediatric Nursing and Leadership in Nursing will help you take on complex cases and understand how to lead in healthcare settings. Extensive clinical placements ensure you’re ready to step into your career as a competent, independent children’s nurse.

Focus Areas: Pediatric Nursing, Child Development, Clinical Practice, Health Promotion, Child Protection

Learning Outcomes: Clinical Competence, Professionalism, Leadership Skills, Evidence-Based Practice, Communication in Healthcare

Professional Alignment: Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) – Registered Nurse (Child)

Reputation: Ranked among the top 50 UK universities (Guardian University Guide 2026), awarded 5 Stars by QS Stars, and Silver in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Hertfordshire, learning goes far beyond the classroom. As a children’s nursing student, you’ll gain hands-on experience from day one, building practical skills in real healthcare settings and through realistic simulations. You’ll have the chance to practice procedures safely in dedicated labs, work alongside experienced nurses during clinical placements, and gradually build the confidence and competence needed to care for young patients with compassion and professionalism. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:

Children’s Nursing Lab: A dedicated space where you can practice pediatric nursing skills such as administering medications, taking vital signs, and performing child assessments.
Simulation Centre: Equipped with lifelike mannequins and medical equipment, allowing you to rehearse real-life clinical scenarios in a safe, supportive environment.
Clinical Placements: Opportunities to work in NHS hospitals, community clinics, and other healthcare settings, giving you first-hand experience of day-to-day nursing practice.
Meridian House: The university’s state-of-the-art facility housing the Simulation Centre and other specialized nursing labs.
Collaborations with NHS and Healthcare Providers: Strong partnerships that ensure access to a wide range of clinical experiences and professional mentoring.

These experiences are carefully designed to help you develop practical skills, work confidently in team settings, and graduate ready to deliver high-quality care for children and families.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Nursing (Child) program are fully prepared to start meaningful careers caring for children and families. With strong clinical training and hands-on experience, alumni often move into roles such as:

Registered Children’s Nurse
Pediatric Nurse Specialist
Community Children’s Nurse
Clinical Educator in Pediatric Nursing

These opportunities are supported by the university’s robust career services and strong healthcare partnerships:

Career Services: Personalized guidance, CV workshops, and interview preparation are available to help you launch your nursing career successfully, even up to two years after graduation.
Industry Partnerships: Close links with NHS Trusts and local healthcare providers ensure access to diverse clinical placements and real-world experience.
Graduate Outcomes: Around 96% of Hertfordshire graduates are employed or in further study within six months of finishing, many securing roles in pediatric and community healthcare.
Accreditation: The program is fully approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), guaranteeing that you meet professional standards for practice.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies to deepen their expertise and open new career paths. Options include pursuing an MSc Nursing (Child), specialized postgraduate certificates in areas such as pediatric intensive care or child protection, or even a PhD in pediatric nursing for those interested in research and academic careers. These pathways help you grow as a professional and make a greater impact in children’s healthcare.