So you want to be a nurse?

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Whatever your route into nursing, you will need to be aged at least 17 years and 6 months on the day your course starts. You must be at least 16 when you apply. There is no upper age limit.

Male and female candidates are, of course, equally welcome: the number of male nurses is continuing to rise.

There are two basic routes into nursing:

a) Diploma Courses (Diploma of Higher Education - Nursing). These are three-year courses which are half theory and half supervised nursing practice. A shorter two-year course is available in some locations for those with a health-related degree.

To enter a diploma course you will need at least 5 GCSEs, Grade C or better. Vocational qualifications such as NVQ Level 3 in health and social care are also accepted. However, if you don't have formal qualifications and are a mature student, you can attend an Adult Access to Higher Education course at a local college or sit a special written test - the DC test - for potential entrants.

b) Degree Courses (BA Hones, BN Hons or Bsc in Nursing Studies). These are three or four-year courses at universities or colleges of Higher Education. They are also half theory and half practical work.

To enter a degree course you will need at least two 'A' levels or equivalent. Many courses also accept Access to Higher Education courses for mature students.

These are the basic requirements. You should contact your chosen educational institution to check local variations. (see Contacts)