Most nursing degrees last four years in the UK, and students will cover various aspects of the profession during this time. Compulsory courses in life sciences will take place, whilst placements in various community and medical centres will enable students to gain firsthand experience of the profession.
Learn more about the 10 best nursing universities in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026) below, and if you want to begin your application, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today.
Top 10 UK Universities for Nursing 2026
The University of Edinburgh’s Nursing Studies department is internationally renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education. The department offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) programme is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in nursing practice, and the Master of Nursing programme provides further specialisation and a focus on research. What sets Edinburgh apart is its strong emphasis on research and evidence-based practice. Students can engage in cutting-edge research projects, making it an ideal choice for those who aspire to contribute to the field’s development.
- Suggested course: BN Nursing Studies
- Entry requirements: SQA Highers: ABBB by the end of S5 or AABB/ABBBB by the end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6. A Levels: AAB. IB: 37 points with 666 at HL – 34 points with 665 at HL.
Northumbria University’s BSc (Hons) Nursing Science (Adult) is designed to meet the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s ‘Future Nurse’ standards. Students split their time between the Coach Lane Campus and clinical placements, gaining hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings. The course emphasises compassionate, evidence-based care and critical thinking. 98% of Northumbria graduates are in highly skilled employment or further study within 15 months.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Nursing Science (Adult)
- Entry requirements: 112 UCAS points from Level 3 qualifications. IELTS 7.0 overall with 7.0 in each component for international applicants.
Oxford Brookes offers a BSc (Hons) in Adult Nursing, approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. The course blends immersive simulation training with real-world placements across community and hospital settings. Students benefit from small class sizes, tailored support, and opportunities to study abroad at institutions like the University of Pennsylvania.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- Entry requirements: A-levels: BBB. IB: 31 points. IELTS: 7.0 overall with no component below 7.0.
The University of Liverpool’s School of Health Sciences offers diverse nursing courses, including specialised pathways in Mental Health Nursing, Learning Disabilities Nursing, and Children’s Nursing. What makes Liverpool unique is its global perspective. The university encourages students to engage in healthcare projects internationally, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of different healthcare systems and challenges. This global perspective equips graduates to work in diverse healthcare settings and contribute to healthcare worldwide.
- Suggested course: Nursing BN (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A levels- BBB preferably one subject to be a Biological Science at A2.
The University of York’s Department of Health Sciences offers Bachelor of Science (Hons) programmes in Adult Nursing and Mental Health Nursing. What makes York unique is its strong focus on research-informed practice. Students can engage with cutting-edge research projects, keeping them at the forefront of nursing practice and enabling them to contribute to advancements in healthcare. Students are trained in biosciences, pharmacology, psychological and sociological aspects of health and ill health.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- Entry requirements: A-level: BBB. IB 31 overall
The University of Essex’s BSc Nursing (Adult) offers a contemporary, patient-centred curriculum. Students spend 50% of their time in clinical placements across the NHS, private, and voluntary sectors. The course is shaped by the Service User Reference Group, ensuring real-world relevance and empathy-driven care.
- Suggested course: BSc Nursing (Adult)
- Entry requirements: A-levels: BBB–BBC. IB: 30–31 points. IELTS: 7.0 overall with no component below 7.0.
Portsmouth’s BN (Hons) Nursing (Adult) is NMC-approved and delivered in partnership with NHS organisations. Students train in simulation suites and complete placements in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. The course includes modules in anatomy, care planning, and leadership, preparing graduates for diverse roles in healthcare.
Portsmouth is ranked in the UK top 30 for student satisfaction and offers career support for up to five years post-graduation.
- Suggested course: BN (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- Entry requirements: A-levels: BBB. UCAS points: 104–120. IELTS: 7.0 overall with no component below 7.0.
Cardiff’s BN (Hons) Nursing (Adult) is ranked 1st in Wales, and students train at the University Hospital of Wales and benefit from placements across South East Wales. The course includes lifelike simulations, interprofessional learning, and opportunities for international experience. Graduates are eligible for NMC registration and benefit from Cardiff’s strong research culture and global partnerships.
- Suggested course: BN (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- Entry requirements: A-levels: BBB–BCC. IB: 32 points. IELTS: 7.0 overall with no component below 7.0.
Ulster’s BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult) is delivered at the Derry~Londonderry campus and prepares students for NMC and NMBI registration. The course focuses on person-centred, compassionate care and includes placements in hospitals, community settings, and specialist units. Ulster has over 45 years of nursing education experience and offers strong career prospects in the NHS and independent sectors.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
- Entry requirements: A-levels: BBC. IB: 25 points. IELTS: 7.0 overall with no band less than 7.0.
Coventry’s BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing combines theoretical and practice-based learning. Students study one module at a time and spend 50% of their time in clinical placements. The course is NMC-accredited and includes leadership, digital fluency, and interprofessional collaboration.
Coventry is rated Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework and offers strong support through success coaches and placement supervisors.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
- Entry requirements: A-levels: BBC. UCAS points: 104–120. IELTS: 7.0 overall with no component below 7.0.
Tuition Fees for International Students
Undergraduate nursing degrees (BN/BSc Nursing) range from £15,000 – £25,000 per year, while postgraduate nursing degrees (MSc Nursing, Advanced Practice) begin at £16,000, and can rise as high as £28,000 per year.
International students are not eligible for NHS bursaries or tuition fee loans unless they meet specific residency criteria (e.g. settled status, refugee status, or Irish nationals living in the UK), but some universities offer partial scholarships or fee discounts for international nursing students, especially for postgraduate study.
Study Nursing in the UK
If you wish to study nursing at these top universities in the UK, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn today. Our UK university application experts will ensure your application is ready and submitted without error.
Nursing Course FAQ
Is IELTS required to study nursing in the UK?
In most cases, international students must take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS, to study nursing in the UK. You’ll need to meet a specific score to prove your ability to understand and communicate in English.
Which is the cheapest university in the UK for nursing?
Universities like Teesside University, Glasgow Caledonian University, Middlesex University, London, and Ulster University are considered the cheapest in the UK for studying nursing. Their international fees range from £13,000 to £15,000.
Can you become a nurse without attending university?
Yes, you can become a nurse through different routes. While university education is common, you can also become a nurse through vocational training programmes or apprenticeships. These routes may have different requirements and lead to various nursing roles.
What are the entry requirements to study nursing in the UK?
Requirements can vary, but generally, you’ll need good high school grades, particularly in science and biology. English language proficiency test scores, like IELTS or TOEFL, are necessary for international students. You may also need to provide references, attend interviews, or complete health and background checks.
How can I get a full scholarship to study nursing in the UK?
Full scholarships for nursing in the UK are competitive and not very common. However, you can explore scholarships offered by universities, government programmes, and private organisations. To increase your chances, maintain good academic records and research available scholarship opportunities.
Is it worth studying nursing in the UK?
Studying nursing in the UK is worthwhile. The country offers a high-quality nursing education and a strong healthcare system, which can provide valuable experience. However, it’s essential to consider factors such as tuition costs, visa requirements, and career goals before deciding if it’s the right choice for you.
