Nursing - Gerontological Nursing

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/M.Sc. [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 M.Sc. 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 M.Sc.



*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.



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 Masters, you will also carry out research and the writing of a dissertation

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.

Admission Requirements



2nd class honours (2:1) degree minimum in nursing or a related discipline. In exceptional circumstances clinical experience and continuing professional development may be taken into consideration.



Registered as a Nurse (RGN/RNID/RCN) on the professional register maintained by the NMBI. An up-to-date NMBI professional registration certificate is required.



2 years (minimum) post-registration clinical experience.



1 year (minimum) experience in OPC (older persons care).



You must be engaged in specific practice settings relevant to gerontological nursing for the duration of the programme of study.



Written commitment from your line manager that they will support you in your application.



1 academic and 1 clinical reference (these should be sought in advance of your application and should be on headed / organisation paper).



Students will be required to undergo Garda Vetting, you can learn more here.



English Language Requirements

All applicants to Trinity are required to provide official evidence of proficiency in the English language. Applicants to this course are required to meet Band B (Standard Entry) English language requirements. For more details of qualifications that meet Band B, see the English Language Requirements page at https://www.tcd.ie/study/english-language-requirements/

Closing Date: 30 June 2026

2 Years Part-Time

Next Intake: September 2026

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.