Postgraduate Diploma In Nursing (Gerontology)

Course details

The programme is delivered over is comprised of seven theory/practice modules. The student will continue to work in their own practice area caring for older people while undertaking the course. There are three core modules, three specialist modules, and one module will be chosen from a range of elective module options. The programme is dynamic and flexible and it is expected that the elective module range will increase over time and students will be offered more choice in which elective options they can take. In addition students will complete three clinical competency assessments, one in each trimester. The overall course is viewed as interconnected and interdependent. In all modules there is an emphasis on exploring the relevance of module content to practice. All assessments are structured to allow students to explore "new" knowledge in the reality of their practice, thus providing them with an opportunity to integrate theory and practice.

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. 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;
2. Have a minimum of one year post-registration experience (exclusive of post-registration courses); be currently working in a setting which requires him/her to care for older people, and have a minimum of six months clinical experience in caring for older people within the previous year;
3. Satisfy the selection panel that they have the ability to complete the programme;
4. Have an honours degree or equivalent.

Applicants who hold neither an honours degree nor higher diploma (Level 8) may apply but must clearly demonstrated their capacity to undertake a programme at this level. In addition to the requirements outlined above these applicants are expected to submit a 1,000-word literature-based essay on a topic relevant to the specialist area. To be considered for admission this essay must be judged equivalent to an honours degree (Level 8).

Course Outline

Programme content

Modules

• Clinical Governance: Supporting Safe Practice – core module
• Using Research in Practice – core module
• Ageing and Older People: Biopsychosocial Perspectives - specialist module
• Promoting Health and Wellbeing – specialist module
• Contemporary Issues in Gerontological Nursing - specialist module

Option Module

• Service Improvement – core module
• Clinical Competence I
• Clinical Competence II
• Clinical Competence III