FdSc - Nursing Associate

Year one

The first year of the FdSc Nursing Associate programme is designed to introduce you to the core concepts and foundational knowledge that underpin nursing associate practice. You will complete 4 academic modules, totalling 120 credits, each supporting the development of your professional practice and understanding of holistic care.
Throughout the year, you will also develop clinical skills within a Simulated Practice Environment to prepare you for real-world application. In addition, you will complete two placement allocations, both assessed against the NMC proficiencies. Successful completion of both placements is mandatory.

• Foundations of Nursing Associate Practice
  This module enables you to develop knowledge and understanding of the key principles that underpin the Nursing Associate role, including professional behaviours, communication, and safe, effective care.
• Applied Biological Sciences Across the Lifespan
  You will gain essential knowledge of anatomy and physiology across the lifespan, exploring how human body systems function and how this scientific understanding informs clinical assessment, practice, and decision-making.
• Concepts of Health and Wellbeing
  This module explores the biological, psychological, social, cultural, spiritual, and behavioural factors that influence health. You will consider how these determinants shape wellbeing across the lifespan and how to promote person-centred approaches to care.
• Fundamentals of Decision Making
  You will examine the key factors that inform safe and effective decision-making in health and social care, developing your ability to evaluate information, apply evidence, and exercise sound clinical judgement.

Year two

The second year of the FdSc Nursing Associate programme consists of 2 academic modules, totalling 120 credits, alongside two practice placements. Year two builds on the knowledge and skills developed in your first year, supporting your progression towards greater autonomy, confidence, and readiness for professional practice.
Throughout this year, you will further develop your ability to assess and respond to increasingly complex care needs. You will explore the principles of therapeutic communication, deepen your understanding of care across acute and community settings, and continue to examine the Nursing Associate’s role within the wider healthcare team. Empathy and person-centred practice remain central themes, with opportunities to understand the lived experiences of individuals and families navigating illness and healthcare.
Your learning will be reinforced through two mandatory practice placements, where you will continue to work towards meeting the NMC
proficiencies.

• Therapeutic Interventions
  This module examines the nature, purpose, and application of therapeutic interventions used to support individuals across the lifespan. You will explore evidence-based approaches that enhance wellbeing, promote recovery, and optimise person-centred care.
• Developing Nursing Associate Practice
  You will further develop your Nursing Associate practice within acute care settings, applying your clinical knowledge and skills to more complex scenarios and strengthening your confidence in safe, effective care delivery.
• Advancing Nursing Associate Practice
  In this module, you will analyse the principles, priorities, and challenges of care provision across a range of healthcare contexts. You will develop your ability to evaluate evidence, apply clinical reasoning, and adapt your practice to meet diverse and changing needs.
• Clinical Decision Making and Preparation for Professional Practice
  This module focuses on organisational and teamwork theories that influence healthcare delivery. You will examine how teams function, how decisions are made in clinical environments, and how your personal and professional development prepares you for transition into registered practice.