Gerontological Nursing (M.Sc. / P.Grad.Dip.)

Overview

Course Overview

Build your nursing expertise in Gerontological Nursing (care of the older person). This course will provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to provide evidence-based care to the older adult in the practice setting, while acknowledging the individuality of the ageing experience.

The course consists of six modules: three specialist, one clinical practicum and two core modules in the areas of research and management and a dissertation and is delivered part time over two years.

Postgraduate Diploma/MSc [Traditional] – two years, part-time. In year one you will complete six modules including the clinical practicum and if successful progress to year two to complete the MSc. You can choose to exit the course at the end of year one with a postgraduate diploma and return within five years to complete the MSc.
*For further information on the Postgraduate Diploma exit point, email pgt.nursing.midw@tcd.ie .

Is This Course For Me?

This course is designed for nurses working in clinical practice who wish to develop their knowledge and competency in gerontological nursing. The blended approach to course delivery is designed for busy professionals to learn, with carefully planned assessment schedules, and supportive academic and clinical facilitators to guide you in your learning.

Career Opportunities

Designed to enable registered nurses to increase their knowledge, experience and clinical skills within this chosen specialty, this course prepares the gerontological nurse to function as a competent, effective and caring nurse.

Course Structure

Year One: Commences with a full week of classes in September and thereafter one or two days per week for the remainder of the academic year. 

Year Two: Attendance at classes throughout the academic year. If completing the Master’s, you will also carry out research and the writing of a dissertation.

Course Content

This course includes clinical and practice based teaching, learning and assessment and students may be required to attend additional sessions at associated service provider sites as well as at the student’s practice base during year one of the course.

Clinical Placements and Student Support

You will be engaged in specific practice settings in Ireland relevant to Gerontological Nursing for the duration of this course. You will receive a planned clinical placement timetable and during the course, educational and clinical facilitators will offer personal and professional support.

Course Assessments

Each module will be assessed by the successful completion of an academic assignment. The assessment of clinical competence will focus on the acquisition of specialist competencies and the clinical assessments will be carried out throughout the clinical placements / completion of a competence based portfolio.