Top UK Universities For Nursing - Ranking & League Table
Here’s our full guide on the top universities for Nursing in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognized qualifications for Nursing.
Table of Contents
UK University League Table for Nursing (2024)
The University League Table for Nursing below displays the top-ranking universities for studying Nursing in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, based on UK and global rankings, as well as entry requirements.
| University | Course Name | Fees (£) | Duration | Subject Ranking | UK Ranking | TEF Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Edinburgh | Nursing Studies BNurs (Hons) | £32,200 | 4 years | 3 | 12 | N/A |
| University of Glasgow | Nursing BN (Hons) | £27,930 | 4 years | 2 | 26 | Ν/Α |
| University of Manchester | Adult Nursing BNurs (Hons) | £29,000 | 3 years | 4 | 19 | Silver |
| University of Surrey | Nursing Studies (Registered Nurse Adult Nursing) BSc (Hons) | £15,000 | 3 years | 17 | 13 | Gold |
| Cardiff University | Nursing (Adult) BN (Hons) | TBC | 3 years | 14 | 21 | Silver |
| University of Leeds | Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) | £27,500 | 3 years | 7 | 22 | Gold |
| Keele University | Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) | £19,900 | 3 years | 19 | 65 | Gold |
| University of Liverpool | Nursing BN (Hons) | £25,450 | 3 years | 5 | 24 | Silver |
| Queen's University Belfast | Professional Nursing (Adult) (September) BSc (Hons) | £18,800 | 3 years | 6 | 27 | N/A |
| University of Dundee | Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) | £20,900 | 3 years | 60 | 58 | Gold |
| City, University of London | Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) | £27,860 | 3 years | 26 | 42 | Silver |
| Ulster University | Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) | £16,320 | 3 years | 10 | 49 | N/A |
What do you Study in Nursing?
Nurses provide care for people who are ill and they are responsible for a number of tasks including administering medication, checking and treating wounds, monitoring vital signs, and so on. Some nurses may even specialise in a specific area of care, most commonly for children and mental health patients. Nursing programmes will include clinical placement in addition to classes such as public health, anatomy, biosciences, nursing skills, values and ethics, care planning, healthcare management, among other important subjects.
Careers for Nursing Graduates
What can you do with a degree in Nursing? Many graduates find employment taking on various roles in places such as:
- Hospitals
- GP/Private practice
- Residential/Nursing homes
- Hospices
- Rehabilitation centres
- Nursing agencies
- Public health and outreach organisations
- Research
Top Nursing Schools In The UK
Ranking no.1 in the UK in 2024, the University of Sheffield stands out as the premier institution for nursing degrees in the United Kingdom. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare education, the university has consistently topped rankings and set industry standards. With cutting-edge facilities, a distinguished faculty, and a comprehensive curriculum, students at the University of Sheffield receive a world-class education that prepares them for the dynamic field of nursing. Its strong partnerships with leading healthcare providers ensure that students gain practical experience in a variety of clinical settings. Moreover, the university’s research prowess in healthcare further solidifies its status as a trailblazer in nursing education, making it the top choice for aspiring nurses seeking a transformative academic experience in the UK.
In the 2024 rankings, the University of Glasgow holds the prestigious second position for its Bachelor’s programs in Nursing. In addition to its outstanding Nursing program, Glasgow also shines as a leading institution for healthcare and medical studies among UK universities. Established in 1451, the University of Glasgow boasts a rich history as one of the United Kingdom’s oldest academic institutions. Furthermore, its academic prowess is affirmed by its impressive overall ranking, standing as the 19th best university in the UK and securing a coveted place within the top 100 universities globally.
Ranked at the impressive fourth position in the 2024 rankings, the University of Manchester shines as a beacon of academic excellence in the United Kingdom. With a history steeped in tradition and a commitment to cutting-edge research, this esteemed institution stands as a testament to educational innovation and scholarly prowess. Offering a wide array of programs and fostering a diverse and vibrant learning environment, the university provides a fertile ground for nurturing the talents of its students. Its global impact and reach are undeniable, as it consistently attracts top-tier faculty and students from across the globe. Securing the fourth spot in these rankings cements the University of Manchester’s reputation as a top-tier destination for individuals seeking an immersive and transformative educational journey at one of the UK’s most venerable institutions.
Need advice about applying to a UK university? We are here to help. Book a free appointment with us now!
Recommended Nursing Schools In The UK
As the University of Leeds has brilliantly coined, “Go further, come to Leeds” – ranked as the 7th best university in the UK for nursing. Among the largest universities in the country, Leeds has a great reputation for the quality of their programmes as well as an energetic student life on campus. The University of Leeds’s commitment to high education standards, especially in its nursing programmes makes this a great place for those seeking a balance between quality education and a vibrant student life.
Queen’s University Belfast has eight programmes in Nursing and it is among the top 10 universities in the country for the subject. The university is a good choice for international students as it provides extensive support for attaining student visas, as well as a welcome service and orientation programme dedicated to overseas students. Queen’s University Belfast is among the top-rated universities in the UK for research intensity.
Ulster University offers two nursing programmes and it is among the most affordable courses on our list, with tuition fees starting from £16,320 a year for international students. A diverse university, Ulster welcomes students from over 100 countries each year. Ulster ranks among the top 10 universities in the UK for eight subjects, including Optometry and Counselling.
2021 Nursing League Table
Looking for the 2021 League Table of UK Universities offering Nursing? Find it here.
| University | Course name | Fees (Per Annum) | Duration | Subject Ranking | UK Ranking | TEF rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Glasgow | Nursing BN (Hons) | £21,920 | 4 years | 1 | 19 | Ν/Α |
| University of Edinburgh | Nursing Studies BNurs (Hons) | £27,550 | 4 years | 2 | 15 | N/A |
| Cardiff University | Nursing (Adult) BN (Hons) | £21,950 | 3 years | 3 | 30 | Silver |
| University of Manchester | Adult Nursing BNurs (Hons) | £24,000 | 3 years | 4 | 17 | Silver |
| University of Surrey | Nursing Studies (Registered Nurse Adult Nursing) BSc (Hons) | TBC | 3 years | 5 | 34 | Gold |
| Ulster University | Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) | £14,060 | 3 years | 8 | 60 | N/A |
| University of Liverpool | Nursing BN (Hons) | £21,300 | 3 years | 10 | 33 | Silver |
| University of Leeds | Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) | £24,500 | 3 years | 13 | 16 | Gold |
| Queen's University Belfast | Professional Nursing (Adult) (September) BSc (Hons) | £20,100 | 3 years | 17 | 27 | N/A |
| Keele University | Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons) | £20,000 | 3 years | 22 | 56 | Gold |
| Dundee University | Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) | £18,150 | 3 years | 24 | 31 | Gold |
| City, University of London | Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) | £26,010 | 3 years | 25 | 57 | Silver |
| University of Central Lancashire | Nursing with Registered Nurse - Adult (September) BSc (Hons) | £13,700 | 3 years | 31 | 70 | Silver |
How To Apply To Study Nursing In The UK?
Step 1: Choose A University
The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:
- Location
- Employability/Graduate prospects
- Fees
- Entry requirements
- University Ranking
Step 2: Preparations
Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.
Step 3: Submit UCAS Application
The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.
To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here.
More about UCAS
The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your prefered UK universities.
UK Nursing School Entry Requirements
Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Nursing.
- English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
- Health checks.
- Entrance interviews.
- Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nursing programmes will include clinical placement in addition to modules such as public health, anatomy, biosciences, nursing skills, values and ethics, care planning, and healthcare management.
The number one university for Nursing in the UK is the University of Sheffield, according to 2024 rankings.
The common entry requirements for studying Nursing in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.
The tuition fees for Nursing degrees in the UK range between £14,000 to £28,000 per annum for international students, depending on the university. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.
The UCAS deadline for Nursing programmes is 15 January on the year of admission.
Get Free UK Nursing Course Application Assistance
If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!