How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a conversion course from another branch of nursing
University
You can do a learning disability nursing degree approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
You might be able to get extra student financial support through the NHS Learning Support Fund.
You may be able to do an extended degree that combines learning disability nursing with another nursing branch. You'll need to check that this type of course is recognised by the NMC.
You might be able to join the second year of a nursing degree if you already have a degree in:
- a health-related subject
- psychology
- life sciences
- social work
Full-time courses usually take 3 years.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, including a science, or a level 3 diploma or access to higher education in health, science or nursing
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Apprenticeship
You could apply for a Registered Nurse Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship if you work in a healthcare setting, like a hospital or specialist unit.
The degree apprenticeship takes around 4 years and is a mix of academic study and on-the-job training.
You'll need the support of your employer to do a degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could work as an assistant practitioner or nursing associate and study for a shortened nursing degree to qualify as a registered learning disability nurse.
Volunteering
You'll find it useful to get some practical experience before you apply for nurse training.
You could:
- get work experience in healthcare or special needs education
- volunteer with charities that support people with learning disabilities
- search for opportunities with NHS Volunteering
- find openings through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT
Other Routes
If you're already a registered nurse, for example in adult nursing, you may be able to complete a conversion course to become a learning disability nurse. Courses normally take between 1 and 2 years.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council
Career tips
You'll be expected to show how you would use NHS values in your work, when applying for a course or apprenticeship.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a learning disability nurse from the Nursing & Midwifery Council and Health Careers.