Professional Nursing

Learning Disabilities Nursing is a field of professional practice dedicated to supporting people with learning disabilities to live as independently and fulfilling a life as possible, in whatever context they find themselves: at home, in residential settings, in healthcare environments, or in the community. Nurses working in this specialism combine detailed knowledge of learning disability conditions with the interpersonal skills, advocacy capabilities, and care coordination expertise needed to respond to individuals whose needs are complex and often lifelong.

At Queen's University Belfast, this three-year, full-time professional degree integrates theory and practice throughout, preparing students to become competent and compassionate practitioners in learning disabilities nursing. Highly trained lecturing staff are actively engaged in specialist practice and bring that experience directly into their teaching. The personal tutor system ensures that students have consistent academic and pastoral support throughout their training.

The programme accepts its first students in September 2027, and is designed to meet the needs of a healthcare system in which person-centred, rights-based approaches to learning disability support are increasingly central.

Graduation leads to eligibility for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council as a learning disability nurse, permitting practice across the full range of settings in which this specialism operates. Graduates work in NHS community teams, residential and supported living services, specialist healthcare settings, schools and education providers, and advocacy organisations. Many also develop their practice through further qualifications in areas such as applied behaviour analysis, mental health nursing, and positive behaviour support, or move into roles in management, education, and policy within the learning disability sector.