Program Overview

Introduction to the MSc Nursing (Perioperative Care) Program

The University of Limerick offers a Master of Science in Nursing (Perioperative Care) designed to enhance skills and knowledge in perioperative nursing care. This two-year program helps working nurses develop specialist-level knowledge and skills, preparing them for advanced roles.

Program Overview

• The program is taken on a part-time basis over two years.
• It features a blended learning approach with on-campus and online components.
• Modules are taught during the autumn and spring semesters.
• Students undertake six modules in Year 1, including specialist modules in perioperative care and clinical practicum modules.
• A minimum of 500 hours of clinical practice is required across both semesters in Year 1.
• Students can exit with a Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing (Perioperative Care) after Year 1.
• Progression to Year 2 for the MSc award requires a minimum QCA grade of 2.00 at the end of Year 1.
• The final semester involves completing a systematic/integrated review.

Year 1 Modules

Autumn Semester

• Health Research – Methods & Methodology (M): Develops an understanding of the research process.
• Theoretical Principles of Perioperative Nursing (M): Develops knowledge and expertise on the principles underpinning perioperative nursing.
• Clinical Practicum 1: Facilitates the consolidation, integration, and application of theory within practice.

Spring Semester

• Promoting Quality & Safety in Health Care: Explores the concept of quality and safety in healthcare.
• Managing and Co-ordinating Perioperative Nursing: Develops knowledge and expertise in the provision, management, and co-ordination of perioperative nursing.
• Clinical Practicum 2: Further facilitates the consolidation, integration, and application of theory within practice.

Year 2 Modules

Autumn Semester

• Dissertation 1: Initiates work on a systematic/integrated review.

Spring Semester

• Dissertation 2: Completes the systematic/integrated review and prepares the final research dissertation.

Entry Requirements

• A bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant discipline.
• Registration as a nurse on the current register of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland.
• At least one year of experience as a registered nurse.
• Engagement in practice as a registered nurse throughout the program.
• Garda clearance, health screening, CPR certification, and vaccinations are required before placement.

Other Entry Considerations

• Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements may be considered through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
• International students must meet specific requirements, including English language competency.

Fees

• EU students: €7,700 per annum.
• Non-EU students: €7,700 per annum.
• Fees are subject to change, and annual fees are billed by semester.

Graduate Profile

Graduates of the MSc Nursing (Perioperative Care) program are prepared for specialist and advanced practice roles in various health and social care settings, including:

• Clinical nurse specialist
• Advanced practice posts
• Advanced nurse practitioner

Conclusion

The MSc Nursing (Perioperative Care) at the University of Limerick is a comprehensive program designed for working nurses seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in perioperative care. With its blended learning approach, clinical practice requirements, and focus on specialist and advanced practice, this program prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare.