For every doctor in the NHS, there are 10 nurses; nurses are hugely important in the general running of the NHS. The demands for a nursing course are as heavy as for doctors but it can be an extremely rewarding career. Changes in the structure of the NHS has placed greater responsibility on ward nurses, so they are now able to diagnose patients, prescribe and dispense some medicines, refer patients to other specialists and carry out nearly all the duties of a doctor. This has been reflected in improved pay scales and conditions for nurses.

Entry Requirements

Nursing does not require such high academic grades as medicine at A-level; 2 A-levels and an AS level will generally suffice. Biology and one other science, preferably Chemistry, are needed; the most important requirement is a high level of commitment.

There are two routes into nursing:
1. The degree programme through university study is more academic than the alternative:
2. Nursing school in an NHS hospital. Basic nurse training takes 2-3 years after which there are numerous specializations on offer.