Frequently asked questions

Do I need nursing experience?

No. Experience in healthcare is obviously advantageous, however it understanding the role of a nurse, that is vital and you will need to ensure that this comes across in your personal statement when completing your UCAS form.

I’ve heard you need the sciences in order to do nursing, is this true?

No, this is not true at Bucks, but it would be desirable. However, you should have grade C, or above, in GCSE Maths and English or equivalent.

Can I switch fields during the course?

Yes, but due to working to NHS commissioned numbers it is highly unlikely you’d be able to switch to a different field at Bucks once you’ve started the course, which is why, at the outset, you should think very carefully about which field to choose. However this is not to say that it isn’t a possibility but it may mean that you have to change Universities.

Is there a high level of employability when I qualify?

Yes. You will be able to apply for positions with Trusts across London and the rest of the country, but there is no guarantee you will gain employment with the Trust you did your placement with.

Current employment levels for nursing graduates is very high, with the latest figures showing 93% of graduates who qualified with Bucks gained employment either within a London NHS Trust, other NHS Trusts, Private sectors or abroad

I don’t meet the entry requirements. Can I still become a nurse?

Yes. It is a good idea to speak with your local Further Education College about courses such as ‘Access to Higher Education or Health and Social Care’ or NVQs in Health and Social Care. We can advise you as to which FE colleges in your area provide these courses, which are usually one year full-time or two years part-time.

I’m squeamish, can I still become a nurse?

Yes. Nursing is tough, and let’s be honest, it does help if you don’t faint at the sight of blood! However, many nurses, once qualified, might never have to dress a wound again. There are some fields of nursing that require skills of a very different nature to those needed in an Accident and Emergency Department.

Academic writing isn’t my strong point, is there any support available to help me?

Yes. The Faculty does offer students the opportunity to undertake extra English and Maths lessons which are in addition to your main course timetable. We have a lot of experience of dealing with people who have developed “maths anxiety” and together we get everyone through with one hundred percent