An accelerated nursing degree program will be launched by The University of Queensland next year to help address the nationwide nursing shortage.
The program, to be offered through the University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, will give graduates the option of entering the workforce after two and a half years education (six semesters) – six months earlier than most undergraduate courses. They will also gain more practical experience by working in hospitals for a major part of their degree.
Faculty of Health Sciences Executive Dean Professor Peter Brooks said the clinical component of the program would benefit the nursing profession.
“In a first for Queensland, students in the new program will receive the majority of their teaching in hospitals where they will be educated by practising professionals and gain the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively in a healthcare environment,” said Professor Brooks.
To complement the clinical approach, students will also attend lectures at UQ Ipswich to take advantage of the University’s highly experienced teachers and extensive resources.
“An accelerated studies program option, involving attendance at a Summer School, will enable students to graduate mid-year when there is strong demand for graduate nurses,” Professor Brooks said.
Students will be taught through the Faculty’s Clinical Divisions, which already manage the clinical education of doctors. They will benefit from the University’s close partnerships with teaching hospitals and its long-term relationships with a myriad of healthcare professionals.
“Changes in healthcare mean practitioners now routinely work closely with a range of healthcare providers. Students will be given the opportunity to develop the skills and working relationships needed to build a rewarding and productive healthcare career while being educated alongside their future colleagues,” Professor Brooks said.
Through the program, students will learn how to apply theoretical and clinical knowledge using case-based examples. They will also learn about specialist areas.
“Nurses today need to do more than apply general nursing knowledge. There is an ever-increasing need for nurses with specialist knowledge in the areas of acute care, aged care, mental health, Indigenous health, rural health, population health and community health. Our nursing students will be able to focus on one or more of these areas as part of their undergraduate education,” he said.
NOTE: The program is subject to accreditation from the Queensland Nursing Council and Senate approval.
For further information, contact Joanne Smith from the Faculty of Health Sciences (telephone 07 3346 4731, email nursing@uq.edu.au).
MEDIA: For more information, please contact Faculty Communications Officer Marlene McKendry on 0401 996847.
