Nursing - Chronic Illness Management

The primary aim of this Graduate Diploma will be to expand your knowledge in the area of chronic illness management. You will be equipped with the knowledge and expertise required to care for patients with chronic illness. The programme will give you an understanding of the needs of this group of patients, which are associated with high levels of self-care, and give you the necessary skills to improve the quality of life for people with chronic illness. This programme is delivered by UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems in collaboration with clinical partner sites. The rheumatology components of the programme are delivered in partnership with OLH&CS. The Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Disease Unit (RMDU) at Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services is a specialist service provider and teaching unit with close links to the UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems.

Two Year Programme (Part-Time):



Core Modules:



For the two year part-time programme, you will complete two core modules in year one:

Autumn Trimester NMHS43260 - Nursing Knowledge, Philosophy & Practice

Spring Trimester NMHS43270 - Research Methods Applied to Healthcare



In year two, you will complete two additional core modules:

Autumn NMHS42960 - Advanced Health Assessment

NMHS43600 - Clinical Practicum - Chronic Illness - Across Autumn and Spring Trimester



Optional Modules:

You will also complete two optional modules which must be chosen from the following list: (The modules must be related to your patient population). Optional Modules



Please note: Students working in Rheumatology undertake NMHS33220 in the Autumn Trimester Year One, and undertake NMHS42640 in Spring Trimester Year Two.



This programme is delivered by UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery & Health Systems in collaboration with clinical partner sites. The rheumatology components of the programme are delivered in partnership with OLH&CS. The Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Disease Unit (RMDU) at Our Lady’s Hospice and Care Services is a specialist service provider and teaching unit with close links to the UCD School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems.

Applicants must have a primary degree in Nursing (or equivalent in related discipline). RPL consideration if no degree



Qualified healthcare professionals with proof of registration with appropriate governing body (NMBI)



Have a minimum of one year’s post-registration experience, including at least six months working with chronic illness populations



Candidates must be employed in the care of patients with chronic illness prior to commencing the course and for the duration of the course for a minimum of 75 hours per month



Other criteria to be used in the assessment of the application include number of years of experience, and evidence of ongoing professional development



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL may be granted in respect of individual modules if applicants can demonstrate that the modules' learning outcomes have been achieved through prior credentialled or experiential learning. In some cases, where an applicant does not meet the prerequisites for entry to a programme, an RPL application may be considered. Further information can be found in respect of this here.



Documents required:

The official closing date is July 31st, however, as places on the programme are subject to clinical placements which are limited, you are advised to have all of the required documentation submitted by July 1st.



Original transcript(s) including date and grading of degree award (non UCD Graduates only) & notarised English translations where relevant

A current photocopy of NMBI registration

Copy of Birth Certificate or Personal Page of Passport

Professional Reference Form(original form)

Declaration Form

Clinical Competence Assessor Nomination Form

Evidence of proficiency in English language (applicants whose first language is not English)

The following entry routes are available:



Grad Dip Chronic Illness Management (Nursing) PT (X809)

Duration 18 Months

Attend Part Time

Deadline Rolling*



* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

18 Months part-time.

MODE OF DELIVERY: Face-to-Face

Next Intake 2024/2025 September