Postgraduate taught programme

MSc

Pre-registration Nursing (Child Health)

This tailor made programme is open to graduates in any discipline with recent health care experience and provides an entry route to nurse registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council in the child health field.
MSc Pre-registration Nursing (Child Health)
About Details Careers, industry and research Postgraduate student life Fees and funding Apply

About

Step into one of the most dynamic and rewarding professions, where every day brings new opportunities to make a profound difference. Our MSc opens the door to an exciting career as a registered child health nurse, empowering passionate graduates from any discipline with recent healthcare experience to transform their compassion into expert clinical practice.

Accredited and industry-recognised programme

This programme is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), ensuring it meets the highest national standards for nursing education and professional practice.

A safe environment to develop clinical skills 

Develop your skills in a purpose-built facility, including a simulated hospital ward, designed to prepare you for real-world nursing practice. 

Research‑enhanced learning

Engage with evidence‑based approaches and develop the critical thinking skills required for modern child health nursing. The interprofessional learning model used across the programme helps you understand, apply and question research‑informed practice, preparing you to deliver high‑quality, scientifically grounded care.

Details

Year 1

The first three modules will equip you with a range of knowledge and skills designed to settle you into the role of the student nurse. Following these three modules your programme will be integrated with other pre-registration nursing students in their second year of study. 
Nursing interviews

Core modules

NRS703
Assessing Needs and Planning Care

This module introduces students to assessing and planning nursing care. It explores different models of understanding health, ill health and the interconnection between physical and mental health.

NRS706
Developing Nursing Practice

This module develops the students' values, knowledge and skills required for nursing practice in a range of settings.

NRS711
Nursing Care in Context

This module will introduce students to the nursing profession, specifically broad aspects of professionalism, communication, and the development of knowledge and skills in relation to public health and health promotion.

NRS712
Human Biology and Pathophysiology

This module will develop students' understanding of human development, key body systems, pathophysiological processes involved in commonly encountered health conditions and their relationship to nursing care.

NRS713
Pharmacology and medicines optimisation

This module will advance student knowledge of medication, pharmacology and support of complex care medication optimisation

Final year

Explore the modules that will shape your journey to becoming a confident, compassionate child health nurse. Each module is designed to develop your clinical expertise, critical thinking, and leadership skills. 
Students in a hospital setting for BSc (Hons) Nursing (Child Health) placements

Core modules

CHN701
Care of the Highly Dependent Child

This module will refine the knowledge and skills of students in the care of critically ill infants, children and young people and their families.

100% Coursework

CHN702
Care of the Child and Family in the Community

This module will enable students to evaluate the skills and knowledge required to undertake holistic assessment and critically analyse the management and support and care of individuals and families in a variety of community settings. The challenges of multidisciplinary and multiagency agency working in a community environment will be critically examined.

100% Coursework

CHN704
Developing Competence in Child Health Nursing Practice

This module will further develop the student's competence in a range of clinical, professional and transferable skills considered essential for safe practice and ensure that the NMC competencies are achieved.

NRS708
Systematic Review

This module focuses on the appraisal and synthesis of evidence from research literature and documentary sources. Students' develop an understanding of systematic review methodology and will produce a systematic review of studies relating to an area of interest.

NRS710
Nursing Leadership, Management and Team Working

This module critically explores the concepts of management, leadership and working in teams. It examines the role of the nurse to act as a change agent in response to professional practice challenges.

Alternative pathways

As the largest provider of nursing courses in the South West, we pride ourselves on enable access to training whatever stage in your life you decide to pursue a career in nursing. 
Our range of child health nursing courses have been designed with your career and the future needs of the NHS in mind.
Discover our full range of nursing courses including adult health, mental health and midwifery. 

The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:

MSc Pre-registration Nursing (Child Health) programme specification_6645

Careers, industry and research

Careers with this subject

Children’s or paediatric nurses care for new-borns through to adolescents with acute or long-term illnesses. 
You will be an experts in interpreting children’s feelings, thoughts and behaviour to identify when a child’s health takes a turn for the worse. You will also support families and children during periods of great change and stress, by utilising scientific research to inform treatment.
Within the nursing profession there are a multitude of job opportunities across a variety of sectors. 
Children’s nurses work with a wide range of conditions to help to improve a child’s health and their development into adulthood, where possible. These can be grouped into five main categories:
  • Babies
    New-borns that can be very poorly and need urgent medical assistance in a neonatal unit. Some babies may need short-term intervention or long-term care. You’ll also work with bereaved parents.
  • Children with eating disorders
    Children up to the age of 18 that may be suffering from an eating disorder or weight management issues.
  • Minor ailments
    Treat children with a range of minor conditions such as cuts, broken bones, bruises and many more.
  • Serious conditions
    Children who may be suffering from cancer, congenital disorders, burns, infections, inherited diseases, organ failures, rare conditions and more. You may see children that are in hospital for months at a time, or those that are admitted on a frequent basis. You'll work with children in intensive care, who have come out from surgery, and those requiring end of life care.
  • Developmental conditions
    Children that may have mental or physical developmental conditions that may impact their transition into adulthood. You may also work with children with learning difficulties or special needs.

Your career as a healthcare professional starts here

 
 

Intercity Place

Discover the first‑class home for your healthcare education – an inspiring space where you’ll gain the skills, confidence and experience to thrive in 21st‑century healthcare careers. 
Explore the InterCity Place facilities for health professions, nursing and midwifery
Exterior view of Intercity place
 
 
 

Plymouth Integrative Health and Social Care Education Centre (PIHC)

Experience an interprofessional learning environment across our health programmes that will prepare you for life as a healthcare professional.
Discover the benefits of interprofessional learning
Medical students using the Anatomage table clinical
 
 
 

Developing clinical skills

We are committed to shaping you into the best health professional you can be. We understand that future nurses must understand the 'why', 'when', and 'how' behind their actions to ensure patient safety and well-being. This requires blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills, which can be developed during placement practice and simulated practice.
Our Clinical Skills Resource Centre provides a supportive environment for learning new skills without the pressure to get it right first time. You can practice at your own pace with guidance from lecturers, registered nurses, healthcare professionals, and peers. Interprofessional simulation sessions allow collaborative practice with other healthcare students, providing you with the opportunity to experience and learn from situations that may not occur very often, that you will want to become proficient in.
 

Real-world experience

Placement experiences take place throughout your degree with 50% of your course spent in clinical practice. Our strong nursing community has built solid relationships with placement providers across the South West and we're able to allocate placements across a range of specialities in the community as well as hospitals.
Alongside your allocated placements we offer the opportunity to take a three week optional placement of your choice (which still counts towards the required 2,300 required placement hours). You could choose to gain some experience in a specialist area such as emergency care or a forensic setting, you could even choose to travel overseas;  our students have taken placements in locations such as Vietnam and Sri Lanka.
 

The course layout is one of the best that I have come across, due to its 50% placement and 50% theory, which are in separate blocks allowing for three months of placement with limited theory in between.

Elliot, Child Health graduate 
 
 

Taught by expert practitioners

Mrs Lucy Jenner Lecturer in Children's Nursing


Lecturer in Children's Nursing

Dr Matt Carey Associate Professor in Child Health Nursing - Acute Care


Associate Professor in Child Health Nursing - Acute Care

Miss Nicola Fielding Lecturer in Child Health Nursing (Education)


Lecturer in Child Health Nursing (Education)

Show all

Postgraduate student life

Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options – including part-time and January start dates – you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
 
 
 
 
Joyita - student blogs web page

The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.

Joyita
Postgraduate student

 
 
 

Your Plymouth community

At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
 

Join our nursing society 'NurSoc'

We understand that nursing is a demanding course that makes it difficult to find time to have a life outside of it, especially whilst on placement. NurSoc is there to build a community for student nurses and provide opportunities to socialise and unwind outside of the course. We have a calendar of social events that’s scheduled around commitments to the course, and wellbeing activities designed to give you the break you need.
Join NurSoc
nursing students

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
Part-time study
£815 per 10 credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about Fees and costs of studying. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£20,150 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying. 
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

You may be eligible for a £5000 NHS training grant

The NHS Learning Support Fund provides additional funding for eligible healthcare students. It is supplementary financial support to the mainstream student loans system and is intended to support students whilst they train and gain professional registration. The training grant is for at least £5,000.
 

Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)

You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
 

Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates

If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
  • 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students 
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 

Entry interviews

Once your application has been received, we will consider your application to help us reach a decision. If successful at the initial screening stage, you will be invited to an interview. The majority of health courses interview applicants, as this is a requirement of many health regulatory bodies. This applies to all universities and is vital to the progression of applications. Interviews enable: 
  • you to give the best account of your skills, experience and character.
  • us to decide whether you will thrive in the University of Plymouth’s culture.
  • us to explain more about the University, programme and how we work with our students.
Nursing interviews
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Student selection is via UCAS and includes:
  • a personal statement
  • references
  • confirmation of academic attainment.
Applicants are initially screened to ensure you have the required academic qualifications, and given information on how to make a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) claim. The Faculty has well-established mechanisms and procedures for approving RPL. Programme outcomes and requirements are mapped following QAA Guidelines, and NMC requirements prior to acceptance on the programme.
When applying through UCAS you should:
  • Have 5 GCSEs grade C / 4 or above to include Mathematics, English and Science. Consideration will also be given to equivalent qualifications that demonstrate proficiency, for example Functional Skills Level 2 in Mathematics Numeracy and English. If you have passed a degree at a UK University, we will consider this in lieu of an English language GCSE or functional skills.
  • Have taken subjects that include English, Mathematics and a Science.
  • Have a Bachelor (honours) degree from an Institution of Higher Education usually at a 2:2 or above.
  • Usually have an A level or equivalent in a science or social science.
  • Be currently employed in a relevant clinical practice area with achievement of a minimum of 750 verified hours in this role. Individuals with recent healthcare experience will be considered in some circumstances. Relevant experience includes, for example hospitals, GP surgeries, hospices, and other community settings (subject to RPL). Evidence of clinical hours are to be confirmed by a registered nurse and will be mapped against the stage one values and proficiencies for the Nursing programme. If the individual confirming practice hours is not registered as a nurse in the UK, additional evidence of the verifier’s registration credentials will be required.
  • Provide a copy of your job description – this will be obtained to establish the appropriateness of the clinical experience.
  • In addition to the above, evidence of academic study within the last five years is usually required. Ideally this should be one of the qualifications listed here, but the admissions team will assess on a case-by-case basis.

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each element). English language requirements 
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
  • recruitment of international students will comply with UKVI Compliance Tier 4 requirements in line with the University Internationalisation Strategy.

Deferred entry

Unfortunately we cannot permit deferred entry. 
If you have a query please contact the admissions team who will be able to explain the application process in more detail: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Ready to apply?

All applications for this course are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application.
 

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
B735
Duration

2 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

5

Extended entry requirements

  • a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element). English language requirements 
  • evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
  • a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
  • your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
  • proof of sponsorship, if applicable.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course via UCAS or through an agent in your country. 
 

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • Student visa support
  • Travel and arrival information
  • and more
 

After you apply

You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
B735
Duration

2 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
 
 
 

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Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
 
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Student in art classroom in Roland Levinsky Building