Structure of Programme:
The programme is made up of six interrelated modules, supported by simulation workshops and supervised clinical placements. Each module combines theoretical understanding with practical application to ensure that nurses gain the skills and confidence required to meet Maltese and EU standards of nursing care.
The programme will span over 8 months. In the first 10 weeks, students will cover the contact hours of modules 1, ,3, and 4. In the following 10 weeks, the students will cover the contact hours of modules 2, 5, and 6. The clinical placement will start upon completion of the theoretical component and take approximately 13 weeks to complete. The supervised placement and practice hours will be held in various elderly care homes in Malta and Gozo.
Module 1 – English Language (10 ECTS)
This module strengthens students’ written and spoken English for academic, clinical, and professional contexts. Learners develop the ability to interact confidently with patients, colleagues, and supervisors while mastering medical terminology and report writing.
Topics include:
• Advanced grammar and sentence structures
• Healthcare communication and documentation
• Listening and comprehension for medical settings
• Academic and reflective writing
• Patient interaction and professional register
Module 2 – Leadership, Decision Making & Multi-Disciplinary Work (10 ECTS)
Focuses on leadership theories, decision-making models, and effective team collaboration within healthcare settings. Learners explore ethical leadership, patient advocacy, and how to build interprofessional trust and communication.
Topics include:
• Leadership styles and models in healthcare
• Ethical and evidence-based decision-making
• Managing team dynamics and conflict
• Interprofessional collaboration
• Reflective practice and supervision
Module 3 – Gerontology & Elderly Care (5 ECTS)
Explores the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of ageing and prepares nurses to provide compassionate, person-centred care to elderly patients in hospitals and long-term care settings.
Topics include:
• Theories of ageing and demographic trends
• Active ageing and wellness
• Community care services for older persons
• Chronic illness management
• Standards of elderly care (SCSA guidelines)
Module 4 – Mental Health Nursing (5 ECTS)
Provides a comprehensive understanding of mental health nursing, in alignment with the latest EU Mental Health and Well-Being directives. Learners study patient assessment, crisis intervention, and therapeutic communication.
Topics include:
• Foundations of mental health and well-being
• Common mental health conditions
• Crisis management and de-escalation
• Therapeutic communication and empathy
• Stigma reduction and patient advocacy
Module 5 – Ethics (5 ECTS)
Examines professional and ethical principles guiding nursing practice, promoting integrity, accountability, and respect for human dignity in every aspect of care.
Topics include:
• Ethical principles: autonomy, beneficence, justice, non-maleficence
• Professional codes of conduct (CNM Malta)
• Confidentiality and informed consent
• Equality and human rights in healthcare
• Ethical dilemmas in modern practice (e.g. IVF, euthanasia, surrogacy)
Module 6 – Infection Control (5 ECTS)
Develops competence in infection-prevention practices and enhances nurses’ awareness of Maltese and EU healthcare safety protocols.
Topics include:
• Standard and transmission-based precautions
• Hand hygiene and PPE standards
• Environmental cleaning and sterilisation
• Outbreak management
• Surveillance and reporting of healthcare-associated infections
• Simulation Workshops
Approximately 50 hours of hands-on practical training using simulation equipment to replicate real clinical environments. Learners practise essential nursing procedures before placement.
Topics include:
• Vital signs monitoring
• Patient safety and mobility
• Basic life support and emergency response
• Documentation and patient handover
Clinical Placement
Learners complete around 600 hours of supervised practice across healthcare facilities in Malta and Gozo, shadowing registered nurses and applying theoretical knowledge to real patient care.
Topics include:
• Clinical observation and reporting
• Communication in multidisciplinary teams
• Patient-centred care and dignity
• Application of infection control and ethical principles
Teaching, Learning and Assessment Procedures
The programme includes a balanced combination of formative and summative assessment, designed to support learners’ professional growth and ensure competence in both theoretical and practical areas.
Teaching strategies integrate lectures, simulation, and clinical practice, underpinned by reflective and collaborative learning.
The programme will include a mix of formative self-assessment, peer-assessment, and trainer assessment techniques, including:
• Continuous tutor-led guidance, mentoring and feedback
• Case study analysis and evidence-based discussion
• Reflective journals and professional logs
• Group projects and peer review sessions
• Simulated practical demonstrations and scenario-based evaluation
• Written assignments (1,800–3,000 words) and oral presentations
• Clinical evaluation during supervised placements
• Portfolio of evidence including performance feedback from placement mentors
Each assessment aligns with the intended learning outcomes, ensuring that learners demonstrate knowledge, professional competence, ethical awareness, and applied clinical skills to the standards required by the Maltese Council of Nurses and Midwives (CNM).
