Nursing Studies (Learning Disabilities)

Course overview: As a learning disabilities nurse you can make a real difference to the lives of patients and their families. It’s a challenging and rewarding career. You play a central role in understanding the health needs of people with learning disabilities supporting them in issues which affect their lives, their individual needs, rights and opportunities in society. You empower the person with a learning disability to have a fulfilling life, to live as independently as possible, and support their family.

You gain specialist knowledge and skills, effective communication and creative, solution-focused problem-solving experience, key in conditions such as autism, fragile X and Down’s syndrome. You mainly visit people in their own homes, supported living and community-focused environments. You also work in specialist hospitals, respite services, inpatient settings, clinics and forensic hospitals, supporting people who are detained under the Mental Health Act. You may assist people with a variety of learning disabilities, autism spectrum conditions, complex physical health and mental health needs. Your work also involves managing medicine, undertaking advanced clinical tasks, leading the multidisciplinary team and coordinating care.

On successful completion of the course you will be eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) on the nurses' part of the Professional Register (Learning Disabilities Nursing).

100% attendance is expected during this course.

Top reasons to study this course


1. Grow your professional network: we have strong links to local and regional NHS trusts, charitable organisations and the private sector, helping to expand your network of contacts. You also get the opportunity to showcase your talent to industry professionals by presenting your work at external events.
2. Travel the world: join an internationally recognised profession offering global career opportunities. Our students have recently carried out placements in Tanzania, Ghana, the Philippines and Sri Lanka.
3. Gain practical experience: learn in our industry-standard facilities including a sensory room, mock psychiatric ward, independent living space and hydrotherapy pool, giving you experience and confidence before entering practice.
4. Financial support: study this course and you may be eligible for a £5,000 maintenance grant each year from the NHS Business Service Authority. Visit our course page to find out more.


After the course: This course provides a stepping stone for you to develop your expertise in nursing practice, leadership, research, education and consultancy. You could go on to work in community nursing, health facilitation, GP practice nursing, forensics, respite services, profound and multiple learning disability nursing, school nursing, sexual health or liaison nursing. Our graduates are working in the NHS, private organisations, charities, government organisations and schools.

Choosing Teesside University means joining a modern, ambitious university that puts students first. Named Modern University of the Year 2026 (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) and recognised for its outstanding student experience, Teesside combines award-winning teaching with the support you need to succeed.

Based in Middlesbrough, the university has invested millions into creating a vibrant campus packed with industry-standard facilities, study spaces and social hubs. You'll also have access to Adobe Creative Campus tools, helping you build valuable digital skills alongside your degree.

From day one, you'll be part of a welcoming student community with excellent support services, societies, sports clubs and opportunities to boost your career prospects. If you're looking for a university that helps you achieve more and make the most of student life, Teesside could be the perfect fit.