To be eligible for this programme you must:

Hold an NFQ Level 8 qualification. However, if you do not hold a Level 8 qualification you may still be eligible to join the programme through our supported-entry pathway programme. This is subject to an assessment of prior learning and experience.

Have an active registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland or other registration in a country in which you are practicing if you are an international student.

Be working in the specialist practice of the programme for the duration of the programme.
Please note:

For MSc programmes delivered by the RCSI School of Nursing and Midwifery in partnership with specific partner hospitals, you must also be working in the specific hospital associated with the programme or other site which has been audit approved for the duration of the programme.

For MSc programmes delivered solely by the RCSI School of Nursing and Midwifery, you will be expected to provide a clinical learning agreement signed by a director of nursing or designate.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
Learning occurs in many contexts including work, involvement in social and community activities, and learning through life experience generally.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) does not give credit for experience as such – rather, it considers learning that was acquired as a result of the experience. RPL may be used to gain admission to programmes where an applicant may not have obtained the standard entry requirements.

This is considered on a case-by-case basis. Exemptions from programme modules which duplicate learning already demonstrably acquired through prior learning may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

English language requirement exceptions
English language requirements for postgraduate programmes are published on the RCSI website at https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements

If you have completed undergraduate/postgraduate full-time studies in the medium of the English language (three or more years cumulatively), and if you are registered with the NMBI, you are exempt from these requirements.

How to apply
Applications for the programme are now open.

Please submit an online application by clicking on "Application Weblink" below.

During the application progress you will need to submit the following:

- A non-refundable application fee of €50
- Scanned copies of your transcripts

The closing date for applications is Friday, 30th June 2023.

Next start date September 2025

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Social

The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.

Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.