Master Of Health Sciences (Nursing)

Course details

The complex and changing nature of health care today requires nurses prepared to a minimum of a bachelors degree. In order to progress in a career as a nurse it is now recognised that a postgraduate qualification is a necessity. The Master of Health Sciences (Nursing) is designed for the nurse to address in detail matters relating to the care of patients/clients in their area of specialism. The clinical experience the nurse brings to the theoretical knowledge gained through the programme promotes the development of expert practice. The award can also be used as a stepping stone to advanced practice and teaching qualifications.

The programme is delivered in a blended format. Blended learning is an innovative teaching strategy which involves a combination of face-to-face and on-line learning. This means that learning/teaching is delivered on-line through Blackboard, an interactive learning system which connects directly to the University from your home computer. Face-to-face learning/teaching takes the form of 2 or 3 workshops (depending on the module) each semester. Students will therefore attend a semester, plus and orientation day prior to the commencement.

Special Features

The course is approved by An Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na hÉireann and has a clinical focus, offering opportunities to develop specialist skills. The programme is offered through a blended learning format - a combination of online and face-to-face learning and teaching. Blended learning is an innovative and flexible approach to learning, making it possible to combine working full-time with studying.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

All applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

1. Have attained at least an upper Second Class Honours degree in Nursing or Nursing Studies at H2.1 or at H2.2 with appropriate experience or a Higher Diploma in Nursing Studies with appropriate experience or meet the required standard in the MHSc Nursing Qualifying Examination;
2. Be a registered nurse on the General, Mental Health or Learning Disability Nurse pisions of the Register maintained by An Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na hÉireann;
3. Have practised as a nurse for a minimum of two years post-registration (exclusive of post-registration/educational programmes).

Course Outline

Theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of nursing practice; research methodology and evidence based practice; practice development and conduct of research form the framework for reflection on practice and exploration of aspects of practice. Options are available in Education and specific clinical areas.

Modules/course-work includes core modules addressing nursing theory and research. Students also choose from a range of optional modules and undertake a research dissertation.

Requirements And Assessment

Modules are assessed using coursework.