Three-year nursing degree to fast-track students into healthcare
QMU has announced the launch of a new three-year full-time BSc Nursing programme, offering students a faster route into the nursing workforce at a time of growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.
For several years, QMU has offered courses which are studied over 4 years – a BSc Honours and a Master of Nursing – but this new 3 year degree expands QMU’s current provision, providing students aspiring to become qualified nurses with more routes to registration.
QMU’s new BSc Nursing provides an accelerated pathway to registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), enabling graduates to enter the workforce a year earlier, while still benefiting from the University’s renowned high-quality teaching and person-centred approach to nurse education. Eligible students will also benefit from the £10,000 annual bursary for the full three-year duration of the course, alongside tuition fees covered by the Scottish Government.
Fast‑track into nursing
The new BSc Nursing (three-year fulltime) offers:
- Accelerated registration with the NMC, allowing graduates to join the workforce sooner.
- Shared learning opportunities with students across QMU’s Division of Nursing and Paramedic Science, including those on the BSc Nursing (Hons), Master of Nursing, and BSc Nursing (Earn as you Learn) programmes.
- Financial support, with eligible students receiving the £10,000 annual bursary for each of the three years, alongside tuition fees covered by the Scottish Government.
- A condensed timetable with shorter summer breaks, ensuring students remain on track to graduate within three years.
Students will benefit from QMU’s strong partnerships with NHS Health Boards and other healthcare providers, gaining hands-on experience in a wide range of clinical settings. The programme emphasises person-centred care, leadership development, and interprofessional learning, preparing graduates to deliver safe, compassionate, and effective healthcare. On successful completion of the degree, graduates will have the option to enter the nursing workforce with the NHS or private sector. Subject to approval, this course will commence on 14th September 2026.
Meeting the needs of healthcare
This new accelerated programme reflects QMU’s commitment to innovation and flexibility in healthcare education. By offering students the chance to qualify in three years instead of four, we are helping to strengthen the nursing workforce while ensuring our graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to deliver excellent person-centred care.
QMU has a long standing reputation for excellence in nursing education, preparing students for rewarding careers in healthcare. With strong links to clinical practice, a focus on person centred care, and a supportive learning environment, QMU graduates are highly sought after across Scotland and beyond. We are delighted to support the Scottish Government’s ambition to bolster the country’s healthcare workforce by playing a pivotal role in strengthening Scotland’s nursing profession.
For further media information contact Lynne Russell, Communications Manager, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: lrussell@qmu.ac.uk (copy to pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk) M: 07711 011239.
