OU Future Nurse Programmes

Students can study one of four fields of nursing in preparation for entry to the NMC register.

Find the list of courses here

For more than 20 years, we have delivered a work-based Pre-Registration Nursing degree Programme in partnership with employers across Northern Ireland. The programme provides a flexible and accessible route into nursing, enabling staff to earn while they learn and supporting the development of the future nursing workforce. 

Working in collaboration with Health and Social Care Trusts and independent sector partners, we currently have more than 500 students registered on the programme in Northern Ireland. Student numbers commissioned each year vary according to workforce requirements. Alongside meeting the programme entry requirements applicants must have the support of their employer. 

For more information email our Nursing Team

 

Nursing is a career for everyone. Across Northern Ireland, universities, Further Education colleges, employers, professional bodies and healthcare organisations work together to widen access to nursing and support a diverse future workforce. 
At The Open University, we are proud to contribute to this shared ambition through flexible, work-based learning opportunities that enable people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences to pursue a nursing degree and professional registration. Working alongside partners including Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University, and the wider health and social care sector, we are committed to making nursing an inclusive and accessible career choice for all.

Future Nurse Future Midwife Programme Webinar 2026

Looking at pathways into Nursing? We recently held a webinar dedicated to covering the key information you need to know when it comes to our Future Nurse Future Midwife Programme in Northern Ireland. 

Webinar Recording - 12 January 2026

If you missed the live webinar, you can watch the recording at the link above. (Download webinar transcript, Word document)

Webinar Recording - 13 January 2026

If you missed the live webinar, you can watch the recording at the link above. (Download webinar transcript, Word document)

Webinar Presentation

You can view the PowerPoint slides from the live webinar by downloading the PDF. (Download Powerpoint version, 39MB)

FAQ

If you have any questions about the Nursing programme make sure you check out our handy Frequently Asked Questions document.

Meet our student nurses

Working in partnership with

Belfast Health and social care trust logo, northern health and social care trust logo, south eastern health and social care trust logo, southern health and social care trust logo, western health and social care trust logo