Eight things you may not know about OU student nurses

Posted on 9 May 2018 • Health

That’s right – you can train to be a nurse with The Open University! Not many people know that – so we’re trying to spread the word.

Here’s some facts about OU student nurses:

1. They are a hardworking bunch

They all study and work in healthcare jobs at the same time, and some of our students are apprentices on the new Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship programme

2. They train all over the place!

From as far away in Shetland in Scotland to our local hospital trust in Milton Keynes, OU student nurses spread the length and breadth of the country

3. They highly rate our nursing training

91% of our students are satisfied or more than satisfied with their course, and the the OU is ranked eighth in the UK among all universities offering nursing degrees

4. There are probably more than you think

We have over 1100 student nurses studying with us – and all are supported by their employer. Organisations can invest in their workforce and ‘grow their own’ registered nurses

5. Our study is really flexible

Our student nurses complete their degree over four years in a flexible way – it’s work-based, but is supported by open learning – with online and tutor support

6. They work in many places across the UK

OU student nurses work in 169 organisations across England, Ireland and Scotland – from big hospital trusts to nursing homes, GP services and hospices. 102 student nurses from Northern Ireland joined the degree programmes this academic year – the most we’ve ever had in one intake, and our first student nurse in Wales will start their course in autumn 2018

7. We are helping many nurses to qualify

More than 1500 nurses have qualified through an OU nursing degree since it began in 2002

8. Flexible training that meets their needs

Many of our students choose the OU over traditional universities offering nurse training because it better fits their needs. This may be because they need to work while they train, it is better geographically, or perhaps they need to work around their personal circumstances

Find out more:

• Find out how we support nurses at all levels of their career, including our adult nursing degree and mental health degree programmes.
• Read about how Liz is on her way to being a qualified nurse