COURSE CURRICULUM

The Learning Disabilities Nursing course is structured over three years and is designed to progressively develop students' knowledge, clinical skills, and professional competencies required for specialist learning disabilities nursing practice. In the first year, students build a strong foundation in the fundamentals of nursing practice, evidence-based decision-making, communication, professionalism, and understanding health and illness across a range of healthcare settings. The second year introduces specialist learning disabilities nursing content, focusing on clinical interventions, advanced decision-making, service improvement, and supporting individuals with learning disabilities to achieve better health outcomes and greater independence. During the final year, students further enhance their expertise in learning disabilities nursing interventions and evidence-based practice while developing greater autonomy and professional responsibility within clinical settings. Students also complete a dissertation project to strengthen their research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Throughout the programme, academic learning is integrated with extensive clinical placements, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real healthcare environments and develop the skills required for professional practice. The course prepares graduates to become compassionate, competent, and confident learning disability nurses who can provide person-centred care and advocate for individuals with learning disabilities across a variety of health and social care settings. Module availability may vary depending on the academic year.