Nursing - Palliative Care

Key programme benefits to future students
Successful completion of year 1 (Graduate Diploma) will provide students with the academic qualifications necessary to be considered for Clinical Nurse Specialist posts. Successful completion of year 2 (MSc) will provide students with the academic qualifications to be considered for Advanced Nursing Practice posts.

The programme provides opportunities to explore research as evidence for enhancing and changing practice.

The programme also provides opportunities for nurses to develop critical thinking and reflective skills at specialist and advanced practice levels. The programme will develop professional qualities and a high level of competence in the promotion of excellence and current best practice in the delivery and appraisal of advancing practice.

Key Fact: A key goal of this programme is to prepare nurses for the challenges of caring, leading and delivering person-centred specialist/advanced palliative care across a variety of care settings

Subjects taught

Year 1
Autumn Modules
• Health Research Methods - Methodology
• Principles of Palliative Care in Practice
• Clinical Practicum 1

Spring Modules
• Promoting Quality and Safety in Healthcare
• Therapeutic interventions in Palliative Care
• Clinical Practicum 2

Year 2
Autumn Modules
• Dissertation 1

Spring Modules
• Dissertation 2

Entry requirements

A registered nurse on the current register of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland
Be engaged in practice as a registered nurse for at least one year
Students would normally possess a primary degree (Minimum 2.2) or show evidence of recognized prior learning (RPL) as outlined in the (RPL) policy of the university
Students are required to be working in a practice setting where there are patients with palliative care needs, for the duration of the programme

Garda Clearance is also required for this programme.

Results in examinations other than those listed above may also be accepted as meeting our English language requirements. Contact the International Education Division for advice.

The MSc in Nursing (Palliative Care) will be offered as a full-time programme but taken on a part-time basis over two years with the option of an exit award on completion of year 1 (Graduate Diploma). Students can also opt to progress to year two for the MSc award having attained a minimum QCA of 2.00 at the end of year one.

Standard Degree Applicants/ Include with your application:
Full degree transcript and certificates/awards
Copy of current Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland registration certificate
Clinical Practice Environment Self-Assessment Audit Declaration
A copy of the birth certificate (Long Document)
If your qualifications have been obtained in a country where English is an official language this will suffice
If this is not available, the following additional documents must be provided:
English translation of your qualification(s)/transcripts
English language competency certificate

Recognized Prior Learning Applicants /who do not meet standard entry requirements / Include with your application copy of birth certificate (Long Document)
Copy of current Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland registration certificate
1000 word typed Recognized Prior Learning Statement
Copies of all certificates or diploma’s as part of prior learning to date
RPL Form

Guidelines on Completing your Application
To ensure a speedy assessment of your application, please upload the above documents with your application form.
Please title appropriately any documents you are uploading with the application form, for example "Supporting Statement", "Undergraduate Transcript", "Postgraduate Transcript", "English Language Certificate" etc.

Application dates

Preparing your Application:
1. Research your programme: Each postgraduate programme at University of Limerick is unique. Explore your course content, duration, fees, and entry requirements on ul.ie.

2. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the course you are interested in. This usually includes your undergraduate degree award, subject specialities, English language proficiency (for non-native speakers), and any specific requirements for the course.

3. Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents. This typically includes your academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, and references. If English is not your first language, you’ll also need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency.

4. Online Application: Once you are ready to apply, visit your postgraduate programme page on ul.ie/gps and use the Apply Now button to access UL’s online application system. You will need to create an account if you are a new user.

5. Complete the Application: Fill in the application form with all the required details. This will include personal information and academic history.

6. Upload Documents: Upload all the necessary documents that you prepared earlier. Make sure they are clear and legible.

7. Submit Application: Review your application thoroughly to ensure all information is correct and then submit your application. The application fee for your postgraduate application is €50. This includes an option to choose a second choice.

8. Track Your Application: After submission, you can track the status of your application through the online application system.

9. Interview: Depending on the programme, you may be invited for an interview. This could be in person or online.

10. Acceptance: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer email from the university. You will need to accept this offer to secure your place.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and places offered to successful candidates. This means that it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible to increase your chances of securing a place.

Please note that these steps are a general guide and the exact process may vary depending on the specific programme and your individual circumstances. Always check the University of Limerick website or contact the postgraduate admissions department for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Credits

Postgraduate Diploma 60 ECTS credits

Duration

2 years full-time*, blended.

* This masters programme has been developed for working practitioners and is delivered on a part-time timetable.

Enrolment dates

Autumn

Post Course Info

Graduate careers
Clinical Nurse Specialist (on completion of year 1) and Advanced Nursing Practice (on completion of year 2)

More details
  • Qualification letters

    MSc

  • Qualifications

    Degree - Masters (Level 9 NFQ)

  • Attendance type

    Blended,Full time

  • Apply to

    Course provider