Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences - Clinical Education University of Galway

The Diploma and Masters in Clinical Education have been designed to equip all health professionals, regardless of disciplinary background, with the knowledge and skills required to be effective clinical educators. When the courses commenced in 2005 they were the first multidisciplinary programmes for clinical education in Ireland, and among the first worldwide. Over the intervening number of years, the programmes have grown, developed and evolved to continue to help participants to become effective clinical supervisors and motivators of student learning in various roles, disciplines and settings, both nationally and internationally. The Diploma and Masters programmes are delivered entirely online, thus making it possible for applicants in full-time work, based in Ireland or abroad, to participate.

The Diploma Course:

The Diploma in Clinical Education is a Level 8 course designed for health professionals who are interested in devoting a dedicating part of their working life to teaching and learning. The diploma qualification requires you to complete six modules comprising four core modules which cover the essence of clinical education and two optional modules that you can select from a suite of seven optional modules. The diploma may be completed over one academic year from September to June, or over two academic years, whereby students take three modules in the first year and three modules in the second year.

The Masters Course:

The Masters in Clinical Education is a one-year Level 9 course designed to support health professionals who are interested in taking on leadership or scholarship roles within health professions education. NB. Applicants need to complete the Diploma in Clinical Education course before being deemed eligible to apply for the Masters course. Alternatively applicants can present evidence or recognition of prior learning of having achieved a graduate diploma level qualification in a programme dedicated to health professions education, taken elsewhere.

The University of Galway, more formally known as the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUI Galway), is one of Ireland's leading institutions for higher education and research. Founded in 1845 as Queen's College, Galway, the university has a long history of academic excellence, community engagement, and social and cultural contribution to the western region of Ireland. Situated along the banks of the River Corrib, the campus offers a scenic environment that fosters a unique blend of academic and creative pursuits.

NUI Galway is home to over 18,000 students, including a substantial international student population, and offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The university is renowned for its research capabilities, particularly in areas like marine science, biomedical science, energy and environmental engineering, and informatics. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally for its impact and quality of research.

The campus itself is a blend of the old and the new, featuring historic limestone buildings as well as state-of-the-art modern facilities. With its commitment to sustainability, NUI Galway has also been a pioneer in implementing green practices across its campus. The university has a strong focus on community engagement, emphasizing service learning and volunteering as a part of its educational ethos. Various student societies, sports clubs, and organizations contribute to a vibrant student life that complements the academic experience.

NUI Galway has established strong links with industry partners, offering students opportunities for internships, work experience, and collaborative research projects. This connection with the industry ensures that the courses are current and relevant, equipping students with the skills needed for the modern workforce. With a legacy of over 175 years, the University of Galway continues to be a hub of innovation and excellence, rooted in tradition but looking towards the future.