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Mental Health Nursing
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Course Details
CAO Code | AU381 |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 4 Years |
CAO Points | 272 (2024) |
Method of Delivery | On-campus |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Full Time |
Work placement | Yes |
Course Overview
Our Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing is a four year course that will prepare you for a fulfilling career in mental health and associated fields. It’s a fascinating and rewarding career in every regard.
Few careers are more vital in our society than the caring professions. This course will ensure you acquire the specialist skills to work in the mental health sectors.
It will equip you with the capacity to work as part of a team working with patients suffering from mental health issues, with a practical placement in a healthcare environment a key component of your training.
Following qualification you’ll be able to pursue a career in clinical nursing, nurse management or education, and as a specialist, not only in mental health care, but with the foundation to advance and specialise in the field of renal, oncology or orthopaedic nursing.
Practice Placement forms an integral part of the course. Placements are normally 35/39 hours per week and you will be required to work nights, long shifts and weekends. Placement will be in Donegal or in Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Services for the duration of the course. On course commencement students will be asked to complete a Service Preference Form and preference will, in as far as possible, be taken into account but please note ATU Donegal reserves the right to determine placement allocation.
Non-Eu candidates will not be considered for this course unless/until there are still vacant places available after all eligible EU candidates have been considered.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Biological & Related Sciences 1The module will provide the student with a basic introduction and understanding of the anatomy and physiology of body systems along with the principles of nutrition and introductory microbiology. Classes are augmented by tutorials which set content in the context of professional nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the overall organization of the body, structure and function of cells, tissues, and membranes. |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Introduction to Behaviour Sciences & ScholarshipThis module will introduce students to insights offered by the social sciences of psychology and sociology into understanding human behaviour to develop an understanding of holistic factors relevant to health and health care. A key focus of this module is to facilitate the development of students' understanding of the requirements and expectations of academic study in higher education. Classes are supplemented by tutorials to set content in the context of nursing care and practice. A flipped classroom approach may be used to enhance student learning where appropriate. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the historical context from which sociology emerged and differentiate between the three main theoretical paradigms/perspectives and their implications for healthcare |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Professional & Ethical Nursing Studies 1This module will introduce the learner to the core values underpinning the professional practice of nursing and to the different disciplines of nursing. It will also provide the learner with the requisite knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to deliver quality nursing care within Irish legal, regulatory, ethical, professional structures, and to the concept digital health. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the context of nursing to include the history and core values underpinning the professional practice of nursing |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Nursing Skills 1This module will introduce the learner to the theory which underpins core nursing skills. An emphasis is placed in relation to essential clinical skills required prior to commencing practice placement. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the theory underpinning core fundamental nursing skills to enable care delivery in a variety of clinical settings across the lifespan. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Biological & Related Sciences 2The module will provide the student with a basic introduction and understanding of the anatomy and physiology of body systems, along with introductory genetics and applied pharmacology. Classes are augmented by tutorials, which set content in the context of professional nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the basic structure and functions of the nervous, endocrine, reproductive, musculo-skeletal, lymphatic, immune system and the skin |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Psychology & Sociology Across the LifespanThis module builds on learners' understanding of biological, psychological and social factors that influence health through the life course. Application of evidence based psychological and sociological approaches to nursing and health care are embedded in the module with the ethos of person-centred care and inclusivity in services. The module also builds on scholarly skills with a focus on individual and group presentation skills. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe milestones across the life course and outline brain structure and emotional, cognitive and social development according to psychological perspectives. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Professional & Ethical Nursing Studies 2Drawing on the knowledge gained in Professional and Ethical Nursing 1. This module will further develop the learner's understanding of the concepts around professional and personal development. This module will also introduce the student to the Research Process, Health Informatics and the legal and ethical frameworks in nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the fundamental principles of personal and professional development |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Understanding the Nature of Mental IllnessThis module will introduce the learner to the concepts, methods and practices pertaining to contemporary mental health nursing. As a specialised and unique area of nursing, the role of the mental health nurse in supporting recovery will be articulated through the medium of the individual client experience. The learner will engage in communication and Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the core nursing skills necessary for the provision of holistic care to people with mental health across the lifespan. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Mental Health Nursing Practice 1This module will expose the learner to a wide range of practice placement learning opportunities. It aims to provide the learner with the opportunity to participate under direct supervision by a registered nurse in the delivery of safe and holistic practice. It is a specialist module where the learner is engaged with core essential skills as identified by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland Requirements and Standards for Pre-Registration Nursing Education (NMBI 2016). Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate under direct supervision of the registered nurse, the nursing skills fundamental for the delivery of person-centered, safe and effective care, support and interventions. |
10 | Mandatory |
Year 2
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Physical Health & Wellbeing 1The aim of this module is to integrate theoretical knowledge of the relevant pathophysiological mind – body interactions along with the natural healing and holistic approaches to care. This further aims to allow the student to understand the basis for the person experiencing mental health difficulties and the need for a restoration of health and wellbeing where possible, including psychopharmacological approaches to care. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the aetiology and epidemiology related to mental health difficulties |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Research in Practice 1The module considers the role and application of EBP and introduces the learner to skills in critical appraisal of nursing and health related research literature. The aim of this module is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and evidence literacy to question the knowledge that informs practice and undertake a critique of the literature. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss different types of research approaches and paradigms appropriate for healthcare research |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Professional and Ethical Nursing Studies 3The aim of this module is to advance the learners personal, professional and ethical values of nursing. It will also introduce the learner to the concepts of clinical governance, quality improvement frameworks, information communication technology, quality and safety management and leadership and management styles. Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the principles of Clinical Governance, nature of leadership and how it contributes to patient safety |
05 | Mandatory |
1 |
Promoting RecoveryThis module aims to introduce the learner to the principles of recovery and psychotherapeutic interventions for clients with mental health issues and empower them to achieve and maintain recovery or improved quality of life. It aims to promote a sense of connection, shared meaning and development for both client and nurse within transient and challenging human experiences and understanding of the uniqueness of mental health. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the principles and challenges of recovery in mental health nursing. |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Complex needs in Mental Health NursingThis module aims to encourage the Learner to build upon achieved knowledge, skills, attitudeS and values of working with clients across diverse healthcare setting. It aims to introduce the learner to the interpersonal dynamics and challenges in working therapeutically with people who have complex needs while ensuring that all interventions are evidenced based and client centred. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the challenges of therapeutic engagement with individuals experiencing a complex mental health problem |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Promoting Health & WellbeingThe aim of this module is to develop learners’ knowledge of the processes of health promotion relevant to nursing practice as well as psychological, social and cultural factors influencing health behaviours and the communication of health-related messages. The module is underpinned by a life-course perspective and the principles of supporting informed choice and autonomy as well as an inclusive, culture-aware approach. Issues relating to health and digital health will also be explored. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the aims and approaches to health promotion and national and international policy and frameworks |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Research in Practice 2The learner will be introduced to various sources of evidence and the relationship between clinical questions, research designs, methods and ethical integrity. Furthermore, the importance and role of clinical guidelines and clinical audit in evidence-based practice will be illustrated. The learner will incrementally build their knowledge of and reflect on the research evidence which underpins clinical decision making in areas related to their clinical practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Distinguish the philosophical underpinnings and theoretical frameworks/perspectives of healthcare enquiry and analyse how these influence the subsequent conduct of research and enquiry |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Physical Health & Wellbeing 2The aim of this module is to integrate theoretical knowledge of the relevant pathophysiological processes of the Cardio-vascular system and Respiratory system (Co-morbidity) into psychiatric nursing practice. It aims to build on the knowledge gained in the module ‘understanding the nature of mental illness’ to enhance the learners physical care knowledge in caring for a client with a physical condition within a specific mental health context. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the impact of homeostatic disruption (pathology and pathophysiology) of the cardio-vascular system on physical and mental health |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Mental Health Nursing Practice IIThis module will further develop the learner's journey towards safe professional nursing practice within a variety of practice settings. It will facilitate the learner under close supervision to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes that are required to deliver safe, person-centered care in an evolving health and social care environment. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate at advanced beginner level the fundamental nursing skills essential for the delivery of safe, holisticcompassionate care to people. |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 3
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Mental Health Nursing Practice IIIThis module provides the learner with the skills, competency, knowledge and attitudes for the provision of safe and effective care through a diversity of placement experiences in an ever-changing and complex health and social care environment. The learner will subsequently demonstrate competence and confidence in achieving the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Irelands Requirements and Standards (2016) to care and support people with a human rights-based approach. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate the safe and effective performance of a broad range of nursing skills essential to the provision of competent, professional and accountable, holistic person-centred nursing care. |
30 | Mandatory |
2 |
Mental Health Across the LifespanThis module aims to develop the learners’ theoretical and practical ability to care for and communicate with a person with mental health concerns across the lifespan. It aims to foster a more diverse, person-centered approach to mental health care, recovery and promotion. The module aims to introduce the learner to the complexities of mental Learning Outcomes 1. Appraise the role and function of the mental health nurse in promoting positive mental health, resilience and well-being throughout the lifespan |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Ageing & CaringThis module aims to develop the learners holistic understanding of Aging and related nursing skills in the context of increasing demographics and chronic disease. The learner will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to promote active ageing, provide holistic evidence-based person-centred care and support the older person in acute care, long-term care, rehabilitation and/or a return to independent living. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the epidemiological and demographics trends and their implications for health and social care services internationally and nationally. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Individual & Collective WellbeingThis module aims to develop learners' understanding of psychological, social and climate change factors influencing psychological well-being as related to nursing. The module has a foundation in the principles of person-centredness, participation, diversity, and a trauma-informed approach. The module will offer an opportunity to explore aspects of self-care and reflect on the political and power issues underpinning well-being and health care delivery. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate the psychological, social, cultural and political factors contributing to well-being and mental health disorders on individuals and groups. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Research in Practice 3This module will enable the learner to develop skills in knowledge and understanding of the research process. The learner will further develop critical thinking, problem-solving and skills in critical analysis whilst undertaking a literature review in the area of health and nursing practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Understand the purpose and basic elements of an effective literature review and a research proposal |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Physical Health & Wellbeing 3The aim of this module is to integrate theoretical knowledge of the relevant pathophysiological processes of the digestive system and the renal system into psychiatric nursing practice. This aims to integrate pathophysiology with the therapeutic use of pharmacological interventions used in the treatment of mental health difficulties in hospital and community settings. Particular emphasis will be placed on psychopharmacological adverse effects and the mental health nurses role in identifying and monitoring such adverse events in the treatment of co- morbidities. Understanding the importance of empowerment of people with mental health difficulties and choice and informed consent in relation to individual care planning. Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the impact of homeostasis disruption in the digestive system and the renal system |
05 | Mandatory |
Year 4
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Contemporary Approaches in Mental Health NursingThis module aims to facilitate the learner to explore creative and innovative mental health nursing practice across the mental health continuum. It encourages the learner to appreciate and utilise creative approaches in therapeutic settings. The module aims to facilitate the learner to interpret and analyze best practice in relation to current health challenges within the process of mental health nursing and integrate these into own personal and professional philosophy. Through meaningful dialogue, creativity, and engagement the learner will develop competence to apply a systematic and imaginative approach to the provision of person-centered practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically discuss creative and innovative approaches to mental health nursing. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Leadership, Management & Professional ScholarshipThe aim of this module is to provide the learner with the knowledge and skills necessary for the development of Leadership potential, Professional Scholarship, nursing management and team working. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically discuss the dynamic nature of leadership, management and professional scholarship in nursing and apply the skills and knowledge required for healthcare management |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Development of the Skilled PractitionerThis module provides integration of theoretical approaches and the development of advanced skills to enhance the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the client in clinical practice. Particular emphasis will be on personal and professional development, ethical dilemmas and interdisciplinary team working while the contribution of effective communication skills in all client interactions will be articulated. The importance of managing our own mental health will also be addressed as an essential component for lifelong practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Critically reflect on the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills necessary for effective communication with clients and their families/carers aimed at enhancing therapeutic outcomes. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Mental Health Nursing Practice 4This module aims to promote continued development of theoretical knowledge and clinical skills at competent level and facilitate the learner to manage delivery of person-centered care effectively in a safe, caring and competent manner, essential to the art and science of nursing, whilst taking personal and professional accountability for own actions. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate competency in the provision of person-centred nursing care and management of holistic nursing process in partnership with individuals/patients/clients with various health concerns, and their family within a variety of clinical settings. |
05 | Mandatory |
2 |
Mental Health Nursing-InternshipThis module aims to promote consolidation of the learners' theoretical knowledge and clinical competency in preparation for successful transition for eligibility to register as a qualified nurse. The module also aims to facilitate ongoing development of knowledge, values, meaning and experiences at proficient level; to integrate skills of analysis, theoretical knowledge, problem-solving, clinical decision-making, and reflexivity into everyday clinical nursing practice. The module will also enable the learner to manage delivery of person-centered care effectively in a safe, caring and competent manner, essential to the art and science of nursing, whilst taking personal and professional accountability for own actions and/or omissions. Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate proficiency in the provision of person-centred nursing care and management of holistic nursing process in partnership with patients/clients with various health concerns, and their family within a variety of professional practice settings. |
25 | Mandatory |
Progression
Follow up programmes elsewhere include:
Master of Science in Advancing Health & Social Care
Master of Science in Therapeutic Interventions for Alcohol & Other Drugs
Master degrees in institutes and universities at home and abroad
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Entry Requirement | 6 subjects at O6/H7 |
QQI/FET Major Award Required | One of the following awards: |
Additional QQI/FET/ Requirements | 5 Distinctions which must include: |
Garda Vetting | Entrants to this programme will be required to undergo vetting by An Garda Síochána. |
Fees
Total Fees EU: €3000
This annual student contribution charge is subject to change by Government. Additional tuition fees may apply. Click on the link below for more information on fees, grants and scholarships.
Further information on feesProfessional Accreditation
Careers
Career Pathways
The main employers are:
Clinical Nursing
Education Sector
Nurse Management
Graduate Careers
Graduate careers typically include:
Community Nurse
Public Health & Psychiatric Nurse
Further Information
Contact Information
Dr Louise McBride
Head of Department
T: +353 (0)74 9186308
E: louise.mcbride@atu.ie
Nursing & Health Care