University of Galway

Overview

The MSc Acute Medicine at the University of Galway is tailored for nurses engaged in acute medical services, including Acute Medical Units (AMU), Medical Assessment Units (MAU), and similar clinical environments. This program employs a blended learning approach, integrating online coursework with in-person workshops, and emphasizes substantial supervised clinical practice to ensure comprehensive training.

• Award: MSc Acute Medicine (with an option for Postgraduate Diploma after Year 1)
• Duration: 24 months (full-time)
• Delivery: Blended learning (combination of online and face-to-face workshops)
• Face-to-face attendance: 12 days throughout the program
• Clinical practice: Minimum of 1,000 clinical hours in an approved setting, typically the student's workplace
• Professional approval: Category 2 approval by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI)
• Language of instruction: English

What you'll study

The program is structured over two years, allowing students to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for acute medical nursing.

Year 1 (Postgraduate Diploma pathway)

• Principles & Practice of Acute Medical Nursing
• Recognising & Responding to Client Deterioration
• Essential Physical Assessment Skills
• Clinical Governance: Supporting Safe Practice
• Service Improvement
• Advanced Research Methods

Year 2 (MSc completion)

• Clinical Competence
• Research Dissertation

Assessment: Students will engage in a variety of assessments that reflect both academic understanding and practical competencies linked to clinical learning outcomes.

Clinical hours: A minimum of 1,000 clinical hours must be completed prior to graduation from the program.

Entry requirements

Academic and professional entry

• An honours bachelor's degree at NFQ Level 8 in nursing or an equivalent qualification.
• For those without an honours degree or Higher Diploma (Level 8), evidence of completion of a Level 9 module within the last two years is required.
• Current employment as a nurse in an Acute Medical Unit, Medical Assessment Unit, or similar clinical setting, with direct patient care responsibilities.
• A minimum of six months of relevant experience within the past two years.
• Written endorsement from the Director of Nursing and clinical unit manager is necessary.
• Continuous employment in the clinical area throughout the duration of the program is mandatory.

English language requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (overall)
• TOEFL iBT: 88 (overall)
• PTE Academic: 63 (overall)

Additional information

• GPA / grading: A “Lower Second Class” requirement is indicated, though exact GPA/grade requirements may vary.
• Required documents: Usually include academic transcripts, proof of employment, and support letters from senior clinical staff.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc Acute Medicine program will be well-equipped for advanced roles in acute medical settings, enhancing their career opportunities in nursing leadership, clinical practice, and specialized medical care.