Study Guide

Objectives

The Master's degree in Acute Care is a comprehensive higher education degree that equips you with the skills to work as a clinical specialist, in supervisory roles, and in development tasks. The program provides you with the expertise for independent and demanding clinical decision-making in acute nursing care, as well as for planning, implementing, evaluating, and developing evidence-based nursing. Upon completing the program, you will be capable of strong expert communication within your area of specialization.

Degree programme description

The program is designed for professionals working in acute nursing care, including nurses, paramedics, and public health nurses.

Through this education, you will enhance your core competencies in the development of acute nursing care and in the management of acute nursing care. In the development of acute nursing care, you will study topics related to expertise, research methods, and client and patient safety. The curriculum also includes training as a simulation instructor. In the management of acute nursing care, you will study evidence-based practice and knowledge management, strategic management, the implementation and management of multidisciplinary operations, and current themes in the management of acute nursing care.

The structure of the program (90 ECTS credits) is divided into three components: core competencies (40 ECTS), complementary competencies (20 ECTS), and the thesis (30 ECTS).

Core competencies 40 ECTS

Acute care development
- Developing clinical acute care expertise 5 ECTS
- The fundamentals and methods of research process in acute care 5 ECTS
- Developing patient safety and patient safety culture 5 ECTS
- Use of simulation in development of acute care competence 5 ECTS

Acute care management
- Evidence-based practice and health information management 5 ECTS
- Strategic management in acute care 5 ECTS
- Implementation and management of multidisciplinary processes in acute care 5 ECTS
- Current issues in acute care management 5 ECTS

Masters thesis 30 ECTS

Complementary competencies 20ECTS

You can choose complementary competence studies from a wide supply of Xamk Master School’s common studies according to your interests. 
 
These common studies cover courses both in Finnish and English and include the following:  
• Digitality and technology in society
• International operating environments and communication
• Management, leadership and entrepreneurship
• Research and development
• Language studies

You can also choose complementary competence studies from other universities, if they are at the level of master’s degree.  

In case you have previously completed studies at the level of EQF 7, and they match the objectives of the degree, they can be accredited as part of your studies. More information is provided by the Degree Programme Coordinator. 

Implementation of studies

The program is delivered as a blended learning format. This means that contact teaching, lectures by clinical specialists, independent study, group work, online learning, practice in a unique simulation learning environment, practical work, and integrative learning assignments combining theory and practice form an inspiring and high-quality whole.

The duration of the studies is approximately 1.5 to 2 years, and the place of study is Xamk's Kotka campus. On average, there are four days of contact teaching per month. It is possible to complete the studies while working, and you can link your learning assignments and thesis to the development of your workplace.

Students have the opportunity to have personal discussions with the student coordinator throughout their studies. In these discussions, the student's existing skills and personal goals for the studies are examined. Personalized progress plans for the study schedule can be designed during these discussions.

Career opportunities

The degree qualifies you for positions requiring a higher education degree.

Your roles may include:
• Various supervisory positions
• Various specialist roles in acute nursing care
• Project/initiative manager positions

Possible job titles include:
• Advanced Practice Nurse
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Clinical Educator
• Ward Manager, Service Supervisor, Nursing Director
• Planner, Development Manager

RDI and cooperation with world of work

The workplaces of the students in the Master's Degree in Acute Nursing Care are the central connection to working life for the program. Various course assignments and the thesis are closely linked to the student's workplace. This practical relevance is reflected in the active participation of partners at different stages of the education.

The teaching staff of the Master's Degree in Acute Nursing Care is part of a broad national and international expert network. Some of the course implementations in the program are integrated into regional, national, or international development projects. The learning approach is investigative, developmental, and promotes innovation.

Learning environments

The teaching utilizes a diverse range of learning environments both on the Kotka campus and remotely. The program also includes simulation.