Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing at University College Dublin is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in healthcare. This degree provides students with a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for modern nursing practice. Throughout the course, students engage in a diverse curriculum that combines biomedical sciences, social sciences, and clinical nursing education, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the complex needs of patients across various healthcare settings.

The program curriculum covers core areas such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, sociology, and health sciences, alongside specialized nursing modules. Students gain hands-on experience through multiple clinical placements in hospitals, community settings, and specialized health services, allowing them to develop critical thinking, clinical judgment, and compassionate patient care skills. These placements are integrated into the course in partnership with leading healthcare institutions, providing students with real-world exposure and professional development opportunities.

UCD’s Nursing degree emphasizes person-centered care, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional collaboration, aligning with the latest national and international healthcare standards. The program also encourages research literacy and lifelong learning, preparing graduates to adapt to advancements in health technology and policy changes. Students are guided by a team of experienced academic staff and clinical mentors who support their academic progression and professional growth.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) and pursue employment across diverse healthcare environments, including hospitals, community health services, educational institutions, and specialized clinics. The degree also provides a pathway for further postgraduate study, research, or advanced practice roles. Committed to fostering a caring, competent, and ethical nursing workforce, UCD’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing is dedicated to developing professionals who can make a meaningful difference in people's lives through high-quality care.

You’ll study the theory and practice of nursing in a fully integrated way, establishing a strong foundation for your future career. Your lectures, workshops and tutorials are delivered on our Belfield campus, while practice placements will enhance your learning and develop your nursing skills. Modules include:

First Year

• Transition to University
• Foundations of Nursing
• Biosciences
• Psychology
• Practice experience in a hospital setting for approximately 10 weeks

Second & Third Year

• Medical-Surgical Nursing Care
• Pharmacology
• Biopsychosocial Approaches to Health
• Ethical and legal context for practice
• Specialty clinical placements, such as intensive care and maternity care

Fourth Year

• Promoting Health
• Management and Quality Improvement
• Evidence-Based Practice in Healthcare
• Sociology
• Clinical placement/internship

Academic Entry Requirements

UCD requires Certificate of Secondary (Complete) General Education (grade 11) + 1 or 2 years of a Bachelor Degree (minimum average ≥ 3) at a recognised university.

English Language Requirements

Teaching in Irish Universities is normally through the medium of English, therefore all applicants are required to demonstrate a high level of competence in English language. Applicants must provide evidence of equivalent competence in English language through a recognised English language test, as outlined below.

Please note:

• Your English language certificate must be no more than two years old at the beginning of your degree course.
• Other evidence of proficiency in English may be accepted. 

UCD recognise the appropriate minimum score in the following recognised English Language Examinations:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

• An average score of 6.5 over all components and a minimum of 6.0 in each band on the Academic Version.

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) administered by Princeton University

• A minimum score of 600 in the paper-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL PBT), with Test of Written English at 475 +.
• In the computer based TOEFL, a minimum score of 250 is required.
• A minimum score of 90 is required in the Internet based based TOEFL (iBT).

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) program at University College Dublin offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for Irish and EU students are set annually and are published on the university’s official website, with current figures aligned with the national higher education funding guidelines. For non-EU international students, fees are generally higher and are also detailed on UCD’s official fee schedule. Students are encouraged to explore government-funded financial aid programs, such as the Student Grant Scheme, which provides assistance to eligible students based on financial need, academic performance, and residency status. Additionally, students can access UCD's scholarship programs specifically targeted at nursing students, including merit-based scholarships and diversity awards, which are awarded annually based on academic achievement and other criteria.

The university also supports students in applying for external financial assistance, including private scholarships, sponsorships from healthcare organizations, and international aid programs. Many students fund their education through a combination of personal savings, family support, part-time employment, or student loans. UCD participates in national student loan schemes, allowing eligible students to defer tuition payments or access low-interest loans through the Student Finance Ireland system. Furthermore, there are work placement and internship opportunities integrated into the program that can help students offset costs while gaining practical experience. UCD provides comprehensive advice and resources for financial planning, including workshops, one-on-one counseling sessions, and online guides to assist students in navigating available funding avenues. The program's structure and associated expenses are designed to make nursing education accessible and manageable for students from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering a well-supported learning environment.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing) at University College Dublin (UCD) is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a professional career in nursing. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality patient care across diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum covers core areas such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, and ethics, integrating these scientific foundations with clinical practice. Students have opportunities to engage in placements in hospitals, community health settings, and specialized care environments, which are integral to their training. UCD’s nursing programme emphasizes evidence-based practice, communication skills, and a compassionate approach to patient care, aligning with national and international standards. The program is delivered by experienced academic staff and clinical mentors, who support students through classroom learning and real-world applications. Graduates of the program are eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI), allowing them to practice as professional nurses within Ireland and abroad. UCD also offers research opportunities for students interested in advancing healthcare knowledge. The programme is typically completed over three years (full-time), with flexible options available for mature students or those seeking part-time study. Admission is competitive and based on academic achievement and meeting entry requirements. UCD’s nursing program is recognized for its excellence and commitment to developing skilled, compassionate, and innovative nurses capable of adapting to the rapidly evolving healthcare environment.