Information for Full Degree North American Students

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Bachelor of Nursing Science (International)

This is a four year modular programme. Programme content is delivered over two semesters each year. A semester is normally of fourteen weeks duration inclusive of a minimum of one week study prior to examinations and an examination week.

The taught component comprises of lectures, seminars, workshops, experiential learning, skills training, reading and preparing assignments. Prior to examinations students have at least one week allocated as study time.

Students undertake practice placements each semester and these are linked to [theoretical input.

Why NUI Galway?

Benefit from over 2,300 practice hours (compared to the usual 1,000 offered in a US Nursing degree)
Achieve an internationally recognised Nursing qualification
Gain international experience, with clinical placements both in Ireland and the USA
Study at one of Ireland's leading Nursing Schools, with world class facilities and qualified staff who are experts in their fields
Experience living in the beautiful west of Ireland, in one of Europe's most culturally vibrant cities.

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Minimum Entry Requirements (USA & Canada)

US Applicants must present six academic subjects, to include Mathematics and English and a laboratory science subject to Grade 11/12, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. In addition, students must present a combined SAT(I) score of 1700, or a composite ACT score of 25. Preference is also given to applicants presenting AP or SAT (II) test scores.

Canadian entry requirements can vary, depending on the province the applicant is applying from.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is also recognised for the purposes of admission. For more information, please contact the International Affairs Office at internationalnuigalway.ie

Programme Duration

This programme has been planned to ensure that the requirements specified by An Bord Altranais (2005) and the European Council Directive (77/453/EEC) are met.

Summary of Programme Hours

Theoretical Instruction:
Number of weeks theory: 63 weeks
Number of Modules: 22 modules

Clinical Instruction:
Number of weeks clinical placement 74 weeks
Number of Modules 14 modules

Programme Content

Students will take 22 theory modules (three of which are double modules) and 14 clinical modules during the four years of the programme. Module content is viewed as interconnected and interdependent. Figure 1 outlines the modules taken each semester for each year of the programme. These are provisional and subject to change. Modules are designated as either theory or clinical proactice:

Theory modules aim to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills on which to base care delivery.

Practice modules are sited in the clinical setting and focus on the integration of theory and practice. Theory and practice is juxtaposed to enable students to assimilate class room learning with experiential learning in the clinical practice area (WHO, 1999). Practice modules are sequenced throughout the programme and commence in Year 1 Semester 1. This is in line with the Requirements and Standards from An Bord Altranais (2005) for an early clinical placement. Careful consideration has been given to the timing of practice placements so as to ensure that students have the opportunity to further enhance their skills with each practice experience, while simultaneously building on the preceding experience.

In all theory modules there is an emphasis on exploring the relevance of module content to practice. Similarly, practice modules allow students to explore “new” knowledge in the reality of the practice setting, thus providing students with an opportunity to integrate theory and practice. A sustained period in practice (Year 4: Semester 2) of 36 weeks provides students with an opportunity to consolidate their clinical skills and become confident in their abilities. Modules in Year 4 Semester 1 concentrate on preparing students for the transition from student to qualified practitioner.

Accreditation

The programme will be accredited by An Bord Altranais (the Irish Nursing Board) and as such is recognised internationally. In addition, students taking this programme will have an opportunity to prepare for State Examinations as part of this programme.

How To Apply

Applications from North American students for this course should be submitted directly to the International Affairs Office at NUI Galway, using the Non-EU (Full Degree) Undergraduate Application Form.

Interested students are invited to apply for this programme from October 2009. The final closing date for applications is 30 June 2010 for entry September 2010.

Further Information

Brian Hussey
International Education Officer
NUI Galway
Tel: + 353 91 495358
E: brian.husseynuigalway.ie

Colm McGarry BA ’87
US Admissions Advisor
NUI Galway
US Tel: 508 320 7127
E: goingtogalwaygmail.com

Julie McCormack BA ’87, LLB ’89
US Admissions Advisor
NUI Galway
US Tel: 508 320 1502
Email: goingtogalwaygmail.com

The contents of this page are for information purposes only and shall not be deemed to constitute a contract between NUI Galway and an applicant or any third party.
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication, the University reserves the right to amend, change or delete any courses, syllabuses, examinations, fees, regulations, rules or orders at any time without notice.
*subject to ratification

International Affairs Office
t: + 353 (0)91 49 5277 e: international

nuigalway.ie
National University of Ireland, Galway, 7 Distillery Road, Galway, Ireland.
This page was last updated Friday, October 30, 2009