UCAS Finds Increase in University Applications for Nursing Courses

Following the January deadline for UCAS applications for higher education, data suggests that there has been a drastic surge in interest and application to nursing courses at University.

An increase was seen across every age group – a record 16,560 school leavers applied (up 27% from 2020), whilst 10,770 mature students sent in applications, a surge of 39%. Total applications rose 32% to 60,130, a truly great number of applicants potentially entering higher education in 2021.

Much interest in nursing could be due to the focus on health workers and the NHS throughout the last year. Clare Marchant, UCAS Chief Executive, says “The amazing work of our NHS continues to inspire people of all ages into fulfilling and rewarding careers, helping those in most need as we emerge from the pandemic.”

Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS England, called the increased interest “incredible”; “We hope that we can inspire even more people to consider a rewarding career in the NHS in the near future.”

The actual figure may increase still, as undergraduate applications can be made until the end of June, provided universities and colleges have indicated there are places available. Additionally, prospective students can apply directly to Clearing over the course of the summer.

It’s been a year full of records across all subjects, despite maintained uncertainty surrounding the global pandemic. 306,200 18-year-old school leavers applied, the first time 2/5 of young people have applied. Also, applicants from disadvantaged areas, and applicants from outside the EU, have risen to record highs. In total, 616,360 applications have been submitted, a record in itself.