BN Nursing (Learning Disabilities)

Learning disability nurses aim to improve the health and quality of life of people with learning disabilities through evidence-based nursing care and support. This degree course will develop your professional knowledge and understanding in the field of learning disabilities nursing and its application, giving you an academic qualification and the vocational training to become a registered nurse. Taught by experts in a friendly and supportive environment, you'll put theory into practice in our state-of-the art Simulation and Clinical Skills Centre and participate in work placements within Lothian and Borders and across the East of Scotland in a variety of health and social care settings, with both children and adults.

Work placements make up 50% of the course content. Over the three years you will develop your skills, knowledge and confidence and complete the degree programme with a registered nurse qualification. Learning disability nurses are the only professionals educated specifically to work across the lifespan with people with learning disabilities.

Their focus on human rights approaches is vital to reducing health inequalities and addressing unmet health needs. They provide specialist healthcare for people with learning disabilities, as well as their families, carers, and support teams. We are a top 10 UK modern university for Nursing (The Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025).