Program Overview

Program Overview

The Gerontological Nursing program is designed for nurses working in clinical practice who wish to develop their knowledge and competency in gerontological nursing. This course provides 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.

Course Details

• Awards: NFQ Level 9
• Number of Places: 40 Places
• Next Intake: September 2025
• Course Coordinator: Eleanor Hollywood
• Closing Date: 30th June

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must:

• Hold a 2nd class honours (2:1) degree minimum in nursing or a related discipline.
• Be registered as a Nurse (RGN/RNID/RCN) on the professional register maintained by the NMBI.
• Have a minimum of 2 years post-registration clinical experience.
• Have a minimum of 1 year experience in OPC (older persons care).
• Be engaged in specific practice settings relevant to gerontological nursing for the duration of the programme of study.
• Provide a written commitment from their line manager that they will support them in their application.
• Provide 1 academic and 1 clinical reference.

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.

Course Fees

• Year 1 EU: €7250
• Year 1 NEU: €17050
• Year 2 EU: €6230
• Year 2 NEU: €17050

Course Structure

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. The course is delivered part-time over two years.

Career Opportunities

The program prepares the gerontological nurse to function as a competent, effective, and caring nurse, enabling registered nurses to increase their knowledge, experience, and clinical skills within this chosen specialty.

Course Content

The course includes clinical and practice-based teaching, learning, and assessment. 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

Students will be engaged in specific practice settings in Ireland relevant to Gerontological Nursing for the duration of this course. They will receive a planned clinical placement timetable, and educational and clinical facilitators will offer personal and professional support.

Course Assessments

Each module will be assessed by the successful completion of an academic assignment. The assessment of clinical competence will focus on the acquisition of specialist competencies, and the clinical assessments will be carried out throughout the clinical placements/completion of a competence-based portfolio.