A career as a nurse or midwife is one of the most rewarding and impactful professions in healthcare. Whether you’re passionate about caring for patients, supporting mothers and babies, or making a difference in people’s lives, nursing and midwifery offer diverse career paths with excellent job security and progression opportunities.
If you’re considering becoming a registered nurse (RN) or midwife in the UK, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the journey.
Step 1: Choose Your Nursing or Midwifery Pathway
Before you start your training, it’s important to understand the different nursing and midwifery specialisms available:
Nursing Specialisms
Adult Nursing – Working in hospitals, care homes, and community settings to care for adults with various health conditions.
Children’s Nursing (Paediatric Nursing) – Providing care to infants, children, and young people.
Mental Health Nursing – Supporting individuals with mental health conditions in hospitals, clinics, or community settings.
Learning Disability Nursing – Helping individuals with learning disabilities lead independent and fulfilling lives.
Midwifery
Midwives specialize in caring for expectant mothers, guiding them through pregnancy, birth, and postnatal care.
Once you decide which field aligns with your interests and career goals, you can move on to qualifying and training.
Step 2: Meet the Entry Requirements
To train as a nurse or midwife, you’ll need:
GCSEs (or equivalent) – Typically, English, Maths, and Science at grade 4 (C) or above.
A-Levels or Level 3 Qualifications – Subjects such as Biology, Health & Social Care, or an Access to HE Diploma in Nursing/Midwifery.
Work Experience – While not always mandatory, experience in a healthcare setting can strengthen your application.
If you don’t meet the academic requirements, some universities and colleges offer foundation courses or Access to HE Diplomas to help you qualify. Checkout our course at AJE Course.
Step 3: Apply for a Nursing or Midwifery Degree
To become a registered nurse or midwife, you must complete a degree in nursing or midwifery approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
Course Duration: Typically, 3 years (or 4 years for dual registration degrees).
University Choices: Applications are made via UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
Funding: You may be eligible for NHS funding, student loans, or bursaries to support your studies.
Many universities offer work placements in hospitals and healthcare settings, giving you hands-on experience during your training.
Step 4: Complete Clinical Placements
During your nursing or midwifery degree, you’ll spend time in clinical placements, working with experienced professionals in real healthcare settings.
Nursing placements may include hospitals, GP surgeries, care homes, or community healthcare.
Midwifery placements will involve maternity wards, birthing centres, and home birth settings.
This practical experience is crucial for building confidence, applying theoretical knowledge, and developing essential skills in patient care.
Step 5: Register with the NMC
Once you successfully complete your degree, you must register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to practice as a qualified nurse or midwife in the UK.
Apply for NMC Registration – Submit your application and pay the registration fee.
Pass the NMC Test of Competence (if applicable) – Required for international applicants who trained outside the UK.
Once registered, you are officially a Registered Nurse (RN) or Registered Midwife (RM) and can start applying for jobs in the NHS or private sector.
Step 6: Begin Your Nursing or Midwifery Career
After gaining NMC registration, you can start working as a nurse or midwife in a variety of healthcare settings:
- NHS hospitals & private healthcare
- Community and home care services
- Maternity wards and birthing centres
- Mental health clinics
- Care homes and hospices
Newly qualified nurses and midwives often complete a preceptorship programme, where they receive additional support and guidance as they transition into professional practice.
Step 7: Continue Learning and Progress Your Career
Nursing and midwifery offer excellent career progression opportunities. You can:
Specialise in areas like neonatal care, emergency nursing, oncology, or intensive care.
Advance into leadership roles such as Senior Nurse, Ward Manager, or Director of Nursing.
Become a Nurse Practitioner, Educator, or Researcher with further qualifications.
Train in advanced midwifery practices, including high-risk maternity care or independent midwifery.
Many professionals also pursue a Master’s degree or additional NMC-approved qualifications to expand their skills and career options.
Start Your Journey with AJE College!
At AJE College, we offer flexible learning opportunities to help aspiring nurses and midwives gain the qualifications and skills needed to succeed.
Looking to start your career in nursing or midwifery? Explore our courses today and take your first step towards a rewarding future in healthcare!