40 fantastic years of nursing at Surrey

Our first nursing students graduated 40 years ago in the summer of 1982. Hear from those graduates to find out what student life at Surrey was like then and discover how nursing has changed over the past four decades.

40 years of nursing | University of Surrey

Looking to the past to inspire the future

From last-minute applications to late-night discos, our 1982 nursing graduates share their favourite memories, songs and life lessons from their time at Surrey.

Marianne Wallis

"Our lecturers instilled in us a sense that we were at the forefront of a new era. They were right, we were."

Helen Glenister

"When I came across the nursing degree at Surrey, I was really excited by it – choosing Surrey is the best thing I've done."

Sue Toner

"I chose the course because I was excited to be one of the first student nurses at the University. There were only 20 of us on the course, and I loved being part of its growth in those first few years."

Alan White

"I’m really proud of my career as I fundamentally believe that my research has made a global difference. Everything I’ve done always comes back to Surrey and I wouldn't change a thing."

Surrey has helped me become someone I’m proud of, and it’s all thanks to the support of the School of Health Sciences and my fellow student nurses. I urge anyone considering a career in nursing to take the leap because I don’t think enough people realise just how much this course can change your life. Joshua Edwards , current Nursing Studies student

Be part of the future of nursing

As University of the Year for Graduate Employment, we're focused on providing you with the best start to your career in nursing.

Adult nursing

Gain experience of caring for people aged 16 years and over and acquire an understanding of health and ill-health within the adult population.

Student nurse checking heartbeat of child mannequin

Child nursing

Learn to care for infants, children and young people, in a variety of settings. Help support and educate families, so they can be involved in their child’s care.