Nursing - Perioperative

It is offered full-time over two calendar years. Taught components of the programme are delivered in a blended learning format, an innovative teaching strategy which involves a combination of face-to-face and online learning. This means that most learning/teaching will be delivered online through Blackboard, an interactive learning system which connects directly to the university from your own home computer. Students are required to attend face-to-face workshops, which are arranged across the programme.

The programme is comprised of six theory/practice modules. In all modules there is an emphasis on exploring the relevance of module content to practice; similarly, practice placements allow students to explore 'new' knowledge in practice, giving them an opportunity to integrate theory and practice. Students are required to undertake their clinical practice in an approved clinical practice setting in Ireland, normally within the students' own work setting. Where the environment does not provide sufficient opportunities to meet the learning outcomes of the programme, additional placements will be required of the student in sites which will provide the experience needed. A minimum of 1,000 clinical hours need to be completed in the specialist area while undertaking the programme.

3 GOOD REASONS TO STUDY THIS COURSE
1. The course is approved by the NMBI and has a clinical focus, offering opportunities to develop specialist skills.

2. The programme is offered through a blended learning format—a combination of online and face-to-face learning and teaching.

3. Blended learning is an innovative and flexible approach to learning, making it possible to combine working full-time with studying.

Minimum Entry Requirements
All applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
1. Be a registered nurse on the General division of the register maintained by Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI);

2. Have a minimum of six months' post-registration experience (exclusive of post-registration courses);

3. Be currently working in the required specialist area, i.e., theatre (perioperative setting) and have as a minimum six months' clinical experience in this specialist area;

4. Provide written evidence of support from their Director of Nursing for the duration of the programme;

5. Have an honours bachelor's degree at NFQ Level 8 in nursing or a comparable qualification. Applicants who do not hold an honours degree or Higher Diploma (Level 8) must demonstrate that they have successfully completed (in the previous two years) a module at Level 9. If you wish to appy for a Level 9 module, please consult the professional credit awards at: www.nuigalway.ie/pca/pca.html.

WHEN TO APPLY: University of Galway does not set a deadline for receipt of applications (with some exceptions). Offers will be issued on a continuous basis. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible. See page 312 for full details of when and how to apply.

2 years full-time (option to leave with PDip after 1 year).

Career Opportunities
This programme offers the opportunity for students to maintain and advance their clinical competencies, and to continue with their professional development. The vision is based on clinical expertise, quality, and evidence-based practice. It provides students with the academic qualifications to be considered for advanced practice nursing posts. Graduates have found employment and promotion opportunities nationally and internationally.