Overview

The Return to Practice (RTP) course at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is designed for nurses and midwives across Scotland seeking to rejoin the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) register after a lapse of three or more years. This course, supported by the Scottish Government, combines theory and practice to comprehensively prepare returners to meet the demands of modern healthcare environments.

This course is designed for the following fields:

  • Return to Practice (Adult)
  • Return to Practice (Mental Health)
  • Return to Practice (learning Disability)
  • Return to Practice (Child)
  • Return to Practice SCPHN (Health Visiting)
  • Return to Practice Midwifery

Key Features

  • Aligns with NMC Standards for Education and Return to Practice.
  • Builds on previous knowledge, enhancing decision-making, problem-solving, and clinical skills.
  • Designed to meet contemporary political, organisational, and clinical demands.
  • Delivered by experienced educators with strong links to policymakers, healthcare providers, and third-sector partners.
  • Reflects GCU’s mission as the University for the Common Good, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health & Wellbeing, Education, and Gender Equality.

Graduate Opportunites

Upon successfully completing the Return to Practice (RTP) course, students regain eligibility to join the NMC Register. Those employed under an NHS contract as RTP students will secure guaranteed employment as Band 5 Staff Nurses or Band 6 Midwives upon completion of the course.

Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) also provides a range of opportunities for further professional development. Students can advance their careers with options such as:

  • Standalone CPD modules and courses: Explore specialised topics such as palliative care and peri-operative practice or choose from a variety of standalone module across various areas of practice.
  • Top-Up Degrees: Complete your nursing or midwifery degree.
  • Advanced Study Options: Pursue Honours degrees or Master’s-level qualifications in fields such as Advanced Practice, District Nursing, or Clinical Specialities.

For more information on future study options, please contact HLSHealthCPD@gcu.ac.uk.

What you
will study

Course
Information