Mental Health Nursing

The Mental Health Nursing programme at the University of East Anglia (UEA) is a comprehensive undergraduate course designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in mental health care. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical experience, students gain in-depth knowledge of mental health disorders, their assessment, and evidence-based interventions. The programme emphasizes person-centred care, ensuring that future nurses are equipped to support individuals with diverse mental health needs within a variety of clinical settings such as hospitals, community clinics, and outreach services.

Students will explore a wide range of topics including psychological and physical aspects of mental health, pharmacology, ethics, communication skills, and crisis intervention. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge research and clinical best practices to ensure graduates are competent, compassionate, and confident in delivering high-quality mental health nursing care. Practical placements are a core component of the course, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world environments under the supervision of experienced mentors. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the complex challenges faced in mental health services.

The programme also fosters professional development, critical thinking, and leadership skills, encouraging students to become advocates for mental health awareness and improvement. Students will have access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and learning facilities to enhance their clinical skills in a safe environment. Throughout their studies, learners are supported by expert lecturers, clinical practitioners, and peer networks that promote collaborative learning and personal growth.

On successful completion, graduates are eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as mental health nurses. The course provides a strong foundation for further postgraduate study and career advancement within the mental health sector. UEA’s innovative approach to nursing education aims to produce highly skilled professionals who are committed to improving mental health outcomes and promoting holistic, empathetic care in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10550 Year (EEA)
• EUR 15800 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Students: £9,000. International Students: £13,500

• English

Course Content

Clinical placements will take place across East Anglia and involve a wide range of settings in the delivery of contemporary evidence-based healthcare. There may be occasions when you will be required to stay in accommodation away from your usual base. Placements will use a “Hub and Spoke” approach which allows you to effectively experience the client’s/patient’s journey through the health care services. Due to the nature of the healthcare environment you will experience placements which cover the 24 hour and 7 day a week cycle. Where the practice learning environment operates a shift system, you are required to work the shifts which you are allocated and will have a minimum of 40% access to your placement mentor.

You will experience different assessment methods, which have been carefully considered to reflect the importance of being able to apply the relevant evidence base to practice. You will be expected to compile and maintain a portfolio of evidence throughout the three-year programme. With guidance and support, you will be expected to build a sound evidence base demonstrating progression, reflecting on your learning both theoretical and clinical skills. Other assessment strategies are also utilised, such as written assignments, unseen examinations, case studies, practical examinations, group presentations and a dissertation of 10,000 words in order to illustrate deeper understanding of the relationship between the theory and practice of nursing.

Whilst in clinical placement students will complete various learning outcomes, a nursing attributes assessment as well as writing reflections based on your placement experience. You will also maintain a Skills Development Profile throughout the three year course to demonstrate your learning and competency in clinical skills.

There will also be an opportunity to spend up to 3 weeks on an elective placement either locally, nationally or internationally at the end of the second year.

The programme has a strict attendance policy with a maximum of 16 days permitted absence from the three year programme divided equally between theory and practice. Vacations are fixed for the whole programme with vacations scheduled for two weeks at Christmas and Easter and 3 weeks during August or September.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 7 TOEFL iBT® test : 98

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A Level:BBB

International Baccalaureate:31 points

Scottish Highers:BBBBB

Scottish Advanced Highers:BBB

Irish Leaving Certificate:BBBBBB

September 2013 Entry

Our admissions criteria include: a clear understanding of the profession ideally with relevant voluntary or paid work in health care; an interest in people; a strong academic attainment and a broad academic base at GCSE level.

We do not consider Apprenticeships, NVQs (Any Level) or Level 3 Diplomas (Previously NVQs) as meeting the minimum academic entry requirements, although these can be used as evidence of recent study.

School Leavers

The minimum entry requirements for university matriculation and the requirements of the School are five GCSEs at Grade C or above, including English Language or Literature and Mathematics, and preferably a Science subject. General Studies, Critical Thinking and AS-levels are not considered. Offers are usually made on grades not points.

• 3 A-Levels (no subjects specified) BBB

• Advanced Diploma in Society, Health and Development BBB

• International Baccalaureate 31 points

• Scottish Highers BBBBB

• Scottish Advanced Highers BBB

• Irish Leaving Certificate BBBBBB

Other criteria:

Applicants must demonstrate evidence of recent study (within the last 5 years) and be able to provide their original qualifications should they be invited to attend an interview.

Other Candidates

Applications are encouraged from those with non-traditional qualifications. Applicants with the following qualifications are required to demonstrate GCSEs at Grade C or above in English Language or Literature and Mathematics, except the Access to Higher Education which does not require additional GCSE qualifications unless English and Mathematics are not included.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

The Mental Health Nursing program at the University of East Anglia is a comprehensive undergraduate course designed to prepare students for a career in mental health care. The programme offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that graduates are equipped to provide high-quality care to individuals experiencing mental health issues. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics essential to the field, including mental health assessment, therapeutic communication, medication management, and crisis intervention. Students are also introduced to the psychological and social factors influencing mental health, gaining a holistic understanding of their patients' needs.

The course incorporates significant clinical practice components, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world settings through placements in hospitals, community clinics, and other healthcare environments. These placements are supervised by experienced mental health professionals who mentor students and facilitate skill development. The university emphasizes the importance of compassionate, person-centred care and ethical practice throughout the program.

The program is accredited by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), meaning graduates are eligible to register as mental health nurses upon successful completion. The course duration typically spans three years for full-time students, with opportunities for part-time study or postgraduate specialization for those wishing to advance their careers further. The University of East Anglia offers supportive learning environments, modern facilities, and access to research opportunities, ensuring students are engaged and well-prepared for employment in diverse healthcare settings.

Graduates of the program often pursue careers in hospitals, community mental health teams, crisis intervention services, and specialized clinics. The program also encourages continuous professional development and lifelong learning, vital for keeping pace with advances in mental health care. By fostering a focus on evidence-based practice and cultural competence, the course aims to cultivate competent, caring, and reflective mental health nurses who can make a positive impact on patients and the wider community.