BSc (Hons) Nursing (Intellectual Disability)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The BSc (Hons) Nursing (Intellectual Disability) at University College Cork is designed for aspiring nurses who are passionate about making a significant difference in the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. You will develop essential knowledge and skills in professional practice, focusing on independent and critical thinking, and effective problem-solving. This undergraduate degree will equip you to provide contemporary, evidence-based nursing care, ensuring you are prepared to meet the complex needs of this diverse population with confidence and expertise.

This full-time, on-campus programme spans four years, integrating theoretical learning with extensive practical experience. You will engage with core modules covering fundamental nursing skills, pharmacology, research methodologies, and specialised areas such as supporting individuals with challenging behaviours and understanding their health needs across the lifespan. Throughout your studies, you will undertake crucial intellectual disability nursing practice placements, culminating in a final year project. You will graduate ready to pursue rewarding careers as a registered intellectual disability nurse, contributing to improved health and well-being outcomes.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Nursing program focuses on intellectual disability nursing, equipping students with foundational nursing knowledge and specialized skills. The curriculum progresses from core academic and practical nursing competencies to in-depth study of the health needs and support strategies for individuals with intellectual disabilities across the lifespan. Students will explore ethical considerations, research methodologies, and professional development essential for contemporary intellectual disability nursing practice.

1 Year 1 - Part A

Academic writing, information technology and evidence-based nursing practice
Fundamental knowledge and skills for nursing practice
Infection prevention and control for nursing and midwifery practice
Sociological concepts for nursing
Interpersonal skills for nursing practice and psychology for healthcare
The foundations of contemporary intellectual disability nursing
Supporting individuals with a specific intellectual disability I

2 Year 1 - Part B

Intellectual disability nursing practice

3 Year 2 - Part A

Pharmacology and medication management for nurses and midwives
Research for evidence based nursing and midwifery care
Health, life-cycle - perspectives on maternity care and child health nursing
Health care needs of people with intellectual disabilities across the lifespan I
Healthcare needs of people with intellectual disabilities across the lifespan II
Assessment of and communication with people with intellectual disability
Supporting people with behaviours that challenge

4 Year 2 - Part B

Intellectual disability nursing practice

5 Year 3 - Part A

Professional and disciplinary learning for nursing practice
Research for evidence-based nursing and midwifery care
Supporting individuals with a specific intellectual disability II
Health needs of people with an intellectual disability across the lifespan III
Supporting people with a mental health diagnosis and an intellectual disability
Adolescence to young adulthood in ID nursing
Growing older with an intellectual disability in the 21st century

6 Year 3 - Part B

Intellectual disability nursing practice

7 Year 4 - Part A

Research for evidence based nursing and midwifery care
The profession and discipline of nursing: ethics, law, and safety in healthcare
Therapeutic interpersonal skills for intellectual disability nursing practice
Valuing people with intellectual disabilities and their families
Leadership and team working for intellectual disability nursing practice

8 Year 4 - Elective Modules

Palliative care: an interdisciplinary approach
Health care informatics for nursing and midwifery
Complementary therapies in healthcare
Wound management
Ethical and legal decision making at the end of life
Healthcare and the UN sustainable development goals
LGBTQI+ inclusion in nursing & midwifery
Mental health in film: critical approaches
Pastoral education for healthcare

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

8% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,353.00 USD 28,703.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,703.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,703.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,703.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 112,464.00 USD 114,813.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 777.00 - USD 1,595.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,807.00 - USD 4,491.00
Transport USD 702.00 - USD 1,684.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 4,913.00 - USD 8,280.00

Living cost estimates are based on Cork Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Biotechnology & GenomicsCorporate & Commercial LawCurriculum & Instructional DesignDrug Discovery & ResearchEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationEmployment & Labor LawIntellectual Property LawInternational & Human Rights LawMedical Research & Clinical Trials

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Cork University Hospital

Department of Education and Youth

Eli Lilly and Company

Health Service Executive

Mercy University Hospital

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

Why Study BSc (Hons) Nursing (Intellectual Disability) at University College Cork

What makes this program stand out

Moderate Application response time

University College Cork typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University College Cork in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BSc (Hons) Nursing (Intellectual Disability) at University College Cork

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed, but students must be enrolled full-time in a program lasting at least one year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need to meet specific English language requirements such as a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall, or equivalent scores from tests like TOEFL or Duolingo. Ensure you check the exact scores needed for each section.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Intellectual Disability Nurse, Community Nurse, Care Coordinator, and Health Service Manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course focuses on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for Intellectual Disability Nursing. You'll learn how to provide evidence-based nursing care that meets current standards.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BSc (Hons) Nursing (Intellectual Disability) course has an intake in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to secure a spot.
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