Nursing (Blended Learning) Mental Health BSc(Hons)

Start date

16 September 2024

Duration

3 years full-time

About the course

Reasons to study

Regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), this course could open doors to a potentially life-enriching career.
To prepare you to pursue a mental health nursing career, you’ll practice and develop your skills through clinical placements in a range of statutory, private, and voluntary services.
Digital technologies offer the opportunity to study to become a nurse in a way that offers some flexibility to fit around life commitments, while gaining practical, hands-on experience.

Mental Health nursing involves working with people, their families, carers, and communities – all of whom may experience the impact of mental illness. This includes people with formal diagnoses, such as psychosis, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, as well as those who do not accept or recognise these diagnostic labels.

If you would like to become a Mental Health nurse and are in the North East, Yorkshire and the Humber, Cheshire and Merseyside, North West, Cumbria or North Lincolnshire, this course is for you. If you are outside these areas, please visit Health Education England for more information.

Our Nursing (Blended Learning) Mental Health BSc(Hons) course has been designed to help you become a confident, competent, and compassionate nurse, with our team supporting you to develop the intellectual, personal, and professional skills you need.

Why study Nursing (Blended Learning) Mental Health BSc(Hons)

This blended learning mental health degree allows you to learn using mainly digital technologies, offering a flexible way to study. You’ll benefit from hands-on experience, and you’ll attend campus for a maximum total of 20 days per year of the course. This gives you the chance to develop and practise skills in a safe and controlled environment and attend occupational health sessions and mandatory training.

You’ll also undertake practice placements across the NHS and healthcare organisations in a setting close to home. You’ll be supported in your practice placement through the allocation of practice supervisors, practice assessors and academic assessors.

You'll be taught by a team who understand what it is like be a Mental Health nurse, and learning and teaching will be delivered online through synchronous and asynchronous seminars, and via group work, simulation, and practical skills experience.

You can also borrow a clinical skills kit to familiarise yourself with fundamental equipment you may use in practice, and become part of an online community, to showcase your work and interact with peers and tutors. You’ll also learn through independent, self-directed study, developing confidence in your self-discipline and organisational skills.

In 2024, the University’s new Daphne Steele Building will open on the site of the National Health Innovation campus, too, allowing you to learn from specialist clinical teaching facilities and world-leading research facilities.

After successfully graduating, you’ll be eligible to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and work as a Registered Nurse in Mental Health.

Students studying this course may be eligible to receive a non-repayable grant of at least £5,000 each year. Further information is available on the NHS Learning Support Fund Website.

Not quite ready to start Nursing (Blended Learning) Mental Health BSc(Hons)? Successful completion of our Health Foundation Pathway leading to a BSc(Hons) Degree will equip you with the foundation knowledge to study Mental Health Nursing.

Course detail

Year 1

Core modules:

Becoming a Professional - Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

This module involves exploring your development as a professional, examining your personal and professional attitudes and beliefs, as well as relating these to your future professional role as a mental health nurse. You’ll gain an understanding about how you can develop as a learner and maintain your physical and mental health, so you are able to promote and support people who have mental health care needs with their health. You’ll also learn how to manage the transition to university and explore ethical and professional codes underpinning mental health nursing.

Introduction to Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

This module provides the opportunity for you to develop the fundamental knowledge and skills to care specifically for people with mental health care needs, as well as people of all ages from conception to end of life, with a range of physical, mental health and cognitive care needs. You’ll learn the principles of holistic assessment and management of well and sick people of all ages. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain an understanding of development through the lifespan by exploring the principles of anatomy and physiology, as well as be introduced to pharmacology and medicines administration.

Nursing Practice 1 (Blended Learning)

This module provides the opportunity for you to develop the fundamental skills of nursing practice including personal hygiene, infection control, undertaking observations and basic life support. You’ll complete a practice learning experience where you'll put the theory you have learnt into practice.

Nursing Practice 2 (Blended Learning)

This module provides you with an opportunity to further develop the fundamental skills of nursing practice including personal hygiene, infection control, undertaking observations and basic life support. You’ll complete a practice learning experience, where you’ll put the theory you’ve learnt into practice.

Understanding Knowledge and Evidence for Nursing (Blended Learning)

This module introduces you to the nature of knowledge and how it supports evidenced-based nursing practice. You’ll learn about how to search for and read evidence to identify its value and relevance to nursing practice. You’ll explore how to evaluate published research and will be introduced to the concept of ethics within healthcare research. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop and use a variety of transferable skills including literature searching, critical appraisal of evidence and application of evidence to your own and the nursing practice of others.

Year 2

Core modules:

Developing as a Professional (Blended Learning)

This module builds on the Becoming a Professional module in Year 1 and provides the opportunity for you to develop the professional and transferable knowledge and skills required to become a Registered Nurse. You’ll gain an understanding of professional, legal, and ethical knowledge and frameworks, and their role in your clinical decision-making. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your understanding and skills for effective team working, leadership and management to enable you to positively influence care delivery, decisions and management for people in your care.

Developing Critical Knowledge and Skills in Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

This module builds on the knowledge and skills you developed in Year 1. You’ll expand your range of assessment skills and apply them to more complex care encounters with people who have mental healthcare needs. You’ll use your knowledge to recognise deterioration and begin to identify appropriate interventions to meet the care needs for people with a range of complex physical, mental health and cognitive care needs. You’ll also plan care needs and begin to formulate care plans to meet the needs of individuals and groups of people in your care.

Developing Research Knowledge and Evidence for Mental Health Nursing Practice (Blended Learning)

This module builds on the Understanding Knowledge and Evidence for Nursing module in Year 1 and introduces you to the design of research studies, including literature reviews and empirical studies. You’ll have the opportunity to develop research methods and design preparing you to undertake a study relevant to mental health nursing in Year 3. You’ll also learn about research ethics, data collection, analysis and research approaches including qualitative, qualitative and mixed method studies, literature reviews undertaken systematically, systematic reviews and audits. For those apprentices with a Nursing Associate qualification, this module may not be required. If so, you would spend this time back on base with your employer.

Nursing Practice 3 (Blended Learning)

This module provides you with the opportunity to develop a wider range of skills in nursing practice including cannulation and phlebotomy. You’ll complete a practice learning experience, where you’ll put the theory you’ve learnt into practice.

Nursing Practice 4 (Blended Learning)

This module provides you with the opportunity to further develop your skills in nursing practice including cannulation and phlebotomy. You’ll complete a practice learning experience, where you’ll put the theory you’ve learnt into practice.

Year 3

Core modules:

Being a Professional (Blended Learning)

This module builds on professionally themed modules in Year 1 and 2 to consolidate your preparation to become a qualified nurse. You’ll have the opportunity to develop future nurse leader skills to prepare you to positively influence care beyond the organisation to a national and global level. You’ll also have the chance to develop skills in promoting quality care and service improvements across and beyond the organisation. The module prepares you to undertake the role of teacher to individuals and groups, as well as the role of practice supervisor for future nurses.

Enhancing Knowledge and Skills in Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

This module builds on the knowledge and skills developed in Year 1 and 2, enabling you to further develop your critical understanding of assessment skills to recognise and respond appropriately to the deteriorating patient. You’ll have the opportunity to expand your range of assessment skills and apply them under minimum supervision whilst managing and coordinating the care of people with mental health care needs with a range of conditions varying in complexity and in a range of settings. The module also assists you to develop skills in advanced care management and complex discharge or transfer planning.

Nursing Practice 5 (Blended Learning)

This module provides the opportunity for you to gain fundamental skills of nursing practice including intravenous medicine administration. You’ll complete a practice learning experience where you’ll put the theory you’ve learnt into practice.

Nursing Practice 6 (Blended Learning)

This module provides you with the opportunity to further gain fundamental skills of nursing practice including intravenous medicines administration. You’ll complete a practice learning experience where you’ll put the theory you’ve learnt into practice.

Using Evidence and Research to Enhance Mental Health Nursing Practice (Blended Learning)

This module builds on the evidence and research modules in Year 1 and 2, enabling you to systematically undertake a literature review or a small-scale research project based on the research proposal developed in Year 2. You’ll use one of a variety of approaches including qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods, audit or a review of literature undertaken in a systematic way within the mental health nursing field. You’ll also be involved in data collection and analysis.

Teaching and assessment

An average of 8% of the study time on this course is spent with your tutors (either face to face or online) in lectures, seminars, tutorials etc and 51% is spent on placement. You'll be taught by a team who really understand what it is like be an adult nurse and are able to demonstrate the latest techniques and procedures, whilst supporting you to put these skills and qualities into practice.

You'll be taught by a team who really understand what it is like be an mental health nurse and are able to demonstrate the latest techniques and approaches, whilst supporting you to put these skills and qualities into practice.

Learning and teaching on this course is delivered online through synchronous and asynchronous seminars, group work, simulation and practical skills experience. The modules have been designed to embed transferable skills and enable you to progressively increase your knowledge and confidence. You'll have the opportunity to engage in immersive situated activities through simulation-based learning (SBL) supported by facilitation. Each year you'll undertake a maximum of four one-week blocks of simulation, which will be dedicated weeks for simulation-based learning. Your studies will also be supported by the University's virtual learning environment.

The assessment methods on the course are varied and involve a combination of coursework, practice/proficiency-based learning, reports, presentations, and examinations. The nature of assessment varies between modules mirroring the modes of communication expected of graduates in this field, such as the ability to present to a range of audiences and provide reports to enhance the quality of care.

Feedback (usually written) is normally provided on all coursework submissions within three term time weeks – unless the submission was made towards the end of the session in which case feedback would be available on request after the formal publication of results. Feedback on exam performance/final coursework is available on request after the publication of results.

Laboratory sessions, classroom based learning and the use of simulated patients enable you to practice your skills in a safe and controlled environment. You’ll undertake practice placement experiences, where you’ll learn and be assessed in a real practice setting, under the supervision of appropriately qualified practice supervisors, practice assessors and academic assessors. You’ll be assessed whilst on placement through a Practice Assessment Document (PAD).

Throughout the course you’ll also have access to a Personal Development Plan, where you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, construct a record of achievement documenting the acquisition of knowledge, skills and competencies, as well as reflect and act upon your personal, professional, academic and long-term career goals.

Further information

Once you’ve submitted your application form to UCAS you may be invited to attend an interview.

Your breaks will be interspersed throughout the year depending on what stage you have reached in the three year course. Timetables are normally available one month before registration. This is a full-time online course, so you may have to engage every day of the week.

Your course is made up of modules and each module is worth a number of credits. Each year you study core modules to the value of 120 credits, adding up to 360 credits in total for a bachelor’s qualification.

If you achieve 120 credits for the current stage you are at, you may progress to the next stage of your course, subject to any professional, statutory or regulatory body guidelines.

Teaching excellence

The University of Huddersfield has been rated Gold in all three aspects of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. We were the only university in Yorkshire and the Humber and the North West to achieve Gold ratings in all three aspects of the TEF among those announced in September 2023. In fact only 13 Universities, out of the 96 that were announced in September 2023, were Gold in all three ratings.
Further proof of teaching excellence: our staff rank in the top three in England for the proportion who hold doctorates, who have higher degrees, and hold teaching qualifications (HESA 2024). So, you’ll learn from some of the best, helping you to be the best.
We are joint first in the country for National Teaching Fellowships, which mark the UK’s best lecturers in Higher Education, winning a total of 23 since 2008 (2024 data).
We won the first Global Teaching Excellence Award, recognising the University’s commitment to world-class teaching and its success in developing students as independent learners and critical thinkers (Higher Education Academy, 2017).

Global Professional Award

At Huddersfield, you'll study the Global Professional Award (GPA) alongside your degree* so that you gain valuable qualities and experiences that could help you to get the career you want, no matter what your field of study is. On completion of the Award, you'll receive a GPA certificate from the University of Huddersfield, alongside the specialist subject skills and knowledge you gain as part of your degree, which may help to set you apart from other graduates.

Giving students access to the Global Professional Award is one of the reasons the University won ‘Best University Employability Strategy’ award at the National Graduate Recruitment Awards 2021. Find out more on the Global Professional Award webpage.

*full-time, undergraduate first degrees with a minimum duration of three years. This does not include postgraduate, foundation, top-up, accelerated or apprenticeship degrees.

Entry requirements

To find out if you’re eligible to start this course in September 2024 and get more information on how to apply, please see our Clearing pages or call our Clearing Helpline on 0333 987 9000 01484 472777.

If you’re interested in studying this course in September 2025, please view the 2025-26 course information.

In addition to the academic entry requirements, you will also need:

You must demonstrate that you have a broad understanding of mental health nursing, as well as relevant work experience (employment or voluntary) highlighting your transferable skills.

You must have access to a computer with a reliable internet connection and the ability to access and use online study guidance and support as this course is delivered through distance learning.

Offers will be subject to an interview and references. Please note all the information provided in support of your application may be checked and must be verifiable as a true record.

You’ll need a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and occupational health clearances prior to registration on the course. We arrange these as part of the application process. You'll be required to sign a self-declaration at the start of each year and at the end of the course. All police contact during the course must be reported to the course leader as a matter of urgency and may lead to suspension or termination. We will request an Overseas Police Check if you have lived in a country outside of the UK for 6 months or more (whether continuously or in total) in the last 10 years before applying to us and whilst aged 18 or over.

Placement providers for this course may require you to have received a number of vaccinations, unless medically exempt, and provide evidence of these. As a student on a course with a clinical or healthcare placement, we strongly recommend that you complete any courses of vaccinations required under current guidelines for your future profession. Failure to do so may result in your inability to undertake a placement in certain clinical settings, therefore impacting upon your academic progression, and may result in academic failure of your course.

You must meet the NMC (2018c) entry requirements in respect of literacy and numeracy, good character and good health.

Blended Learning Nursing

Watch this video to find out more about what our Blended Learning Nursing courses entail at the University of Huddersfield.

Daphne Steele Building

The Daphne Steele Building which is due to open in September 2024, will be the new home to our Health Professional degree courses. This will feature state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for our midwifery, nursing, occupational therapy, operating department practice, paramedic science, physiotherapy, podiatry and speech and language therapy courses.

Watch the video to tour our new Daphne Steele Building, the first development on our National Health Innovation Campus in Huddersfield.

Placements

Nothing can really replicate working in the real-world, which is why practice placements are essential and a compulsory part of the course. The Nursing and Midwifery Council require you to complete the minimum of 2300 hours over the three years in order to obtain registration. Each year you'll complete two blocks of placement.

You'll have the opportunity to complete your practice learning experiences in a diverse range of health and social care settings. These may be in private, voluntary, charitable or statutory settings and include forensic services, assessment teams, in-patient treatment units, rehabilitation centres, community teams, respite services, crisis and home based treatment, liaison services, child and adolescent mental health services and prisons. You'll be supervised throughout your practical experiences by registered healthcare professionals, who will provide you with any required help and advice.

In order to provide you with the broadest professional experience possible, practice experiences generally cover 24 hour care including evening, weekend and occasional night shifts.

Please note that you will be required to travel to and during your placements. For more information visit our placements page.

“My placements have been in different settings and provided a unique perspective of what it's like working as a nurse. I enjoyed getting first-hand experience from other nurses. Going out on placement enabled me to apply the knowledge and skills I’d learnt, as well as learn new things."

Isma Ahmed, Currently studying Nursing (Blended Learning) Mental Health BSc(Hons)

Facilities

Role play exercise assessing a person at home.

Exploring barriers and enablers to communication.

Simulating the experience of voice hearing.

Exercise in experiencing what it's like to be fed

Helping people to meet their needs.

Your career

A career in mental health nursing can be varied and interesting with a wide range of satisfying career opportunities and could include working in local healthcare trusts, private hospitals and in the community. Other career opportunities could involve working in child and adolescent mental health services, forensic settings, substance misuse, accident and emergency liaison, self harm, criminal justice system, youth offending, management of violence and aggression, as well as specialist roles such as admiral nursing and nurse consultant.

After qualification further professional development opportunities are available in relation to enhancing knowledge relating to psychological therapies and intervention, medicines management and nurse prescribing, and becoming an approved mental health practitioner.

* Percentage of graduates from this subject area who go on to work and/or further study within fifteen months after graduating (HESA Graduate Outcomes 20/21, UK Domiciled).

97% Graduates employed*

Professional links and accreditations

This course is regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Whilst studying this course you're currently not required to register as a member with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), however you must follow their codes of conduct.

Career support

We know you’re coming to university to undertake your course, meet new people and broaden your horizons. However, we also help you to focus on life after you have graduated to ensure that your hard work pays off and you achieve your ambition.

So while you’re here (and even after you graduate) the Careers and Employability Service offer professional help, support and guidance, including industry-supported workshops, careers fairs and one-to-one guidance sessions. Find out more about the Service.

Further study

Progression to one of our Workforce Development courses could include studying a specialist short course, Postgraduate Certificate, Master’s or Master’s by Research. Our courses are designed to assist you in developing your career and skills in specialist areas of clinical practice.

End of Life Care PgCert

Developed in partnership with Kirkwood hospice this course provides an excellent opportunity for you to consolidate and enhance your knowledge and understanding of effective palliative/end of life care.

Start date

Duration

About the course

Reasons to study

Why study Nursing (Blended Learning) Mental Health BSc(Hons)

Course detail

Becoming a Professional - Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

Introduction to Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

Nursing Practice 1 (Blended Learning)

Nursing Practice 2 (Blended Learning)

Understanding Knowledge and Evidence for Nursing (Blended Learning)

Developing as a Professional (Blended Learning)

Developing Critical Knowledge and Skills in Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

Developing Research Knowledge and Evidence for Mental Health Nursing Practice (Blended Learning)

Nursing Practice 3 (Blended Learning)

Nursing Practice 4 (Blended Learning)

Being a Professional (Blended Learning)

Enhancing Knowledge and Skills in Mental Health Nursing (Blended Learning)

Nursing Practice 5 (Blended Learning)

Nursing Practice 6 (Blended Learning)

Using Evidence and Research to Enhance Mental Health Nursing Practice (Blended Learning)

Entry requirements

Blended Learning Nursing

Daphne Steele Building

Placements

Facilities

Your career

End of Life Care PgCert

Health Professional Education PgCert

Health Studies MSc

Independent and Supplementary Prescribing

Long Term Conditions PgCert

Master of Public Health

Nursing and Midwifery (MSc by Research)

Career support

End of Life Care PgCert

Health Professional Education PgCert

Health Studies MSc

Independent and Supplementary Prescribing

Long Term Conditions PgCert

Master of Public Health

Nursing and Midwifery (MSc by Research)

Student support

Fees and Finance

Fees and Finance

Important information

Changes to a course you have applied for but are not yet enrolled on

Changes to your course after you enrol as a student

Changes to option modules:

Major changes:

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