Learning Disability Nursing. Diploma or Degree??

[vlw1978]

I am in my second year of the learning disability nursing diploma in the UK and im unsure whether to continue with the diploma which I receive a bursary for or to fund myself in the final year and switch to the degree. Im really confused and after receiving lots of opinions and advise seem to have lost my way on what I should do. Anyone out there have any sensible advise?? Most professions say that at present the diploma and degree give the same qualification and that I should concentrate on my registration as a nurse and look into a degree in other areas once I have gained some in post experience. Anyone have any info on becoming dual trained as a Mental health nurse too, do I need a degree to do this, how long does it take? Anyone know if I would be entitled to a means tested bursary if i was to carry on the degree. Any opinion or advise would be gratefully received

[XB9S, BSN, MSN, EdD, RN, APN]

I guess it's up to you as far as your finances go.

If you can afford a degree, then go for it. Although in your early career it won't make too much difference you will come out with UK registration as a nurse as you progress you will be required to have a degree.

If financially it'll leave you short then finish your diploma and enrol on a degree course once you qualify, beware though you are unlikely to get funded and study leave, you may be lucky and get one or the other or unlucky and get nothing towards it.

As far as dual training goes, I have no idea.