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Language skills
required, minimum level of B2
Programme length
2 years
Study mode
Mostly distance learning
Application status
International students:
Students with Icelandic or Nordic citizenship:
Overview

  • Are you interested in furthering your education?
  • Do you want to develop your knowledge and skills to meet societal demand?
  • Do you want a programme that you can complete alongside work?

This is a 30 ECTS micro-credential programme in specialised nursing open to students who have completed a BS in nursing.

Specialisations vary from year to year, since they are organised to align with current societal demand for nurses in specific areas.

Programme structure

The programme is 30 ECTS and is organised as a part-time study for one or two years.

Specialisations are two:

  • Primary care nursing with a focus on breastfeeding
  • Nursing management and leadership

Main objectives

The micro-credential is designed to give students opportunities to develop their knowledge and skills in line with societal impact demand for nursing specialists.

Organisation of teaching

This programme is taught in Icelandic and most textbooks are in English.

Attendance is compulsory for most mandatory courses.

Other

Further information about the programme

Credits from this programme may be transferred to a Master's programme, subject to certain conditions.

Bachelor's degree in nursing or a similar program with a minimum grade point average of 6.5 and an Icelandic nursing license. At the same time, the student must have good Icelandic and English skills. Teaching takes place in Icelandic.

Courses in micro-credential studies must be at master's level and meet the requirements for that. A part-time study does not end with a recognized university degree, but a student who completes such a program receives a certified certificate to that effect and can apply to have it evaluated as a shortening of a graduate study. The minimum grade in micro-credential courses must be 6.0. The length of a micro-credential study is usually one to two years, but the study as a whole must be completed within three years. The students' learning speed must be in accordance with the advertised curriculum and course availability.

In the micro-credential program with an emphasis on nursing management and leadership, the emphasis is on deepening students' knowledge, understanding, and skills in the field of management and leadership in nursing and health services, thereby preparing them for work as managers and leaders in nursing.

The aim of the micro-credential program in primary care nursing with an emphasis on breastfeeding is to increase the knowledge and skills of nurses and midwives who apply for the study program about breastfeeding. Students gain evidence-based knowledge of topics related to breastfeeding, ranging from the anatomy and physiology of breastfeeding to more specialized knowledge of the various challenges and tasks that can arise during breastfeeding. In addition, special emphasis will be placed on the holistic health assessment of the mother, child and family, the impact on breastfeeding success, communication skills, counseling training and leadership roles.

The following documents must accompany an application for this programme:
  • CV
  • Reference 1, Name and email
  • Reference 2, Name and email
  • Certified copies of diplomas and transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency

Further information on supporting documents can be found here

Programme structure

Check below to see how the programme is structured.

First year | Fall
Skills for theoretical work (HJÚ140F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of this course is to enhance the students‘ skills in applying knowledge to their nursing practice. The spotlights is obtaining literature from databases and literature assessment. Evidence-based practice is introduced such as use of clinical guidelines and best practice guidelines. The main focus is on practicing methods for searching for and assessing scientific material as well as developing good text.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Attendance required in class
First year | Fall
Health assessment of a mother and a child (HJÚ166F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The main focus will be on mothers and children´s health assessments especially in relation to issues that might affect breastfeeding. This will include a holistic assessment of their physical, physiological and psychosocial adjustment. Emphasis will also be placed on students acquiring knowledge and skills in recognizing and evaluating child's behavior and signals and the effect of  child's development and health on breastfeeding and nutrition. Special emphasis will be placed on children's developmental assessment.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
First year | Fall
Breastfeeding basics for successful breastfeeding (HJÚ165F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basic knowledge regarding breastfeeding will be covered, such as breast anatomy and physiology of lactation. Emphasis will be placed on knowledge and skills on various stimulating and inhibiting factors affecting milk production and the general success of breastfeeding. The course will also cover the evidence on other issues like on the composition of human breast milk in comparison with, for example, formula milk and the health benefits of breastfeeding for mother, babies and the community.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
First year | Spring 1
Breastfeeding support and councelling (HJÚ275F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Special emphasis will be placed on the analysis of risk factors, assessment and treatment of the main challenges and problems that may arise in relation to child's nutrition, especially related to breastfeeding. Also, in collaboration with breastfeeding counselors and clinical institutions, clinical training in providing support to breastfeeding mothers will be arranged.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Advanced Family Nursing Practice (HJÚ0ADF)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course aims to give nurses and other health care professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills in evaluating and implementing the philosophy that family care-based as well as focus on developing clinical skills of nurses in their persons and their families who are dealing with various diseases, disorders and or shocks.

On this occasion, the focus will be on working with the support of individuals and families, a family activity and attitude of family members to diseases/trauma. Communication Theories and ideas Wright and Bell (2009) and Wright and Leahey (2019) changed the relationship of family members to chronic or acute disease or trauma and ideology of cooperation with the families of the clinical arena is among the materials that will be considered.

The main focus of the course is on evidence-based practice in family care and the development of therapeutic dialogue with individuals and families, with the views of family members, health workers attitude and attitude to disease and the interaction between them include examined.

Full coverage will be the preparation and implementation of family interviews coercion and development styrkleikamiðaðra treatments for individuals and families.

The course is also designed to give students the opportunity to develop their skills in assisting families with adjustment/experience of serious illness and trauma such as loss and thus enable families in their own health.

Special emphasis will be placed on individual training where students receive personal guidance on the implementation of treatment discussion with family members. Assessment is in the form of individual projects and group projects, but as the test release phase of the case requires 80% attendance in the course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Leadership in health care (HJÚ258F)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.

The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
First year | Fall
Skills for theoretical work (HJÚ140F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of this course is to enhance the students‘ skills in applying knowledge to their nursing practice. The spotlights is obtaining literature from databases and literature assessment. Evidence-based practice is introduced such as use of clinical guidelines and best practice guidelines. The main focus is on practicing methods for searching for and assessing scientific material as well as developing good text.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Attendance required in class
First year | Fall
Managerial economics and health services (HJÚ142F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course aims at introducing students to economical issues as well as managerial accounting affecting health services. The same issues affect all factors whether the institutions in question are large or small and no matter if publicly or privately held. The appearance of these factors will be studied and how to affect them in a positive way. Concepts addressed:

  • Supply, demand, factors of production, elasticity.
  • Variable-, fixed-, direct- and indirect costs
  • Taxation and externalities. Private- and public goods.
  • Trade and comparative advantage. Circular flow of the economy.
  • Cost of living, indexes and national accounts.
  • Financial accounting, income statement and balance sheet.
  • Cost accounting, managerial benchmarks.
Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Not taught this semester
First year | Spring 1
Management in health care (HJÚ259F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical and practical knowledge on the administrative matters and prepare them for administrative roles in health care. The role of managers is emphasized including human resource management, teamwork, work environment, patient services, quality and safety. Students projects are derived from real practice locally as well as globally in present times as well as in the future, strenthening the theoretical as well as practical competence of students.

The course is taught in collaboration with the University of Minnesota and is a COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) course that includes joint teaching material and projects with teachers and students in the DNP program in nursing leadership. The main cooperating teacher at the University of Minnesota is dr. Stephanie Gingerich, assistant professor at the University of Minnesota.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
First year | Spring 1
Leadership in health care (HJÚ258F)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.

The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Attendance required in class
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Well-being and health-promoting servant leadership (VIÐ175F)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
7,5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Wellbeing at work gains increasing attetion and discussion about prevention og job burnout has incresed. Leaders of organizations are becoming increasingly aware of the value of a healthy work environment and staff wellbeing being linked to better performance. The purpose of this interdisciplinary course is to introduce students to the emerging field of healthy work environment models that impact the wellbeing and health of people and how this links to leadership philosophy and behavior. The course is designed to discuss the context of determinants of wellbeing at work and different types of healthy work environment models in relation to wellbeing at work. Also to examine health promoting and servant leadership approaches and successful strategies to prevent burnout. Students visit successful organizations in this regard and get insight into managers' experience. Course materials and activities will challenge students to connect theory to practice. Students will be required to analyze current research on the topic and to identify an issue of unhealthy work environment and to develop an implementation of successful work environment model.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Course taught in period I
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Public Human Resource Management (OSS102F)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course will examine human resource management (HRM) in the public sector. Civil service systems will be discussed in a historical context. Employment-related laws, regulations and procedures are reviewed. The students will be exposed to job functions of HRM professionals, including staffing, recruiting, performance appraisal and compensation. The strategic HRM approach is introduced and the procedure of formulating an HRM policy.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Distance learning
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Administrative Law for Public Executives (OSS204F)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course deals with describtion of Icelandic authoroties (the executive), the basic structure of the Icelandic administrative system, main tasks of public authotiries, the scope, relevance and rules of the Administrative Act. no 37/1993 and the relevance and rules of the Information Act. no 140/2012. The main emphasis is on the Administrative Act. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Online learning
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Change Management (VIÐ190F)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
7,5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course will cover the key areas of change management, such as the implementation of change, employee reactions, key barriers to change, and the positive and negative forces that affect the change process. The theories and concepts that change management is based on will be discussed in detail as well as the key approaches and methods for managing change. The role of the leader, manager, and the middle manager in managing change as well as crises will be discussed. Organizational culture will be discussed and why it is an important element of the change process.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Course taught in period II
Year unspecified | Year unspecified
Adult Learners and human resource development (NAF003F)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course is a general introduction to Adult and Continuing education. Through the course participants will familiarize themselves with research on the charcteristics of adult learners, theories on adult learning, the societal place of adult education, participation in adult learning activities and the effects of adult development on their learning endevours.

The course aims are that participants acquaint themselves with research and theories of adult learning with the aim of informing practice and to rationalize choices and actions when organizing learning events and working with adults.

Coursework: Blended learning with face to face sessions and online collaborations: Discussions, lectures, individual assignments and group projects.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Distance learning
First year
  • Fall
  • HJÚ140F
    Skills for theoretical work
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to enhance the students‘ skills in applying knowledge to their nursing practice. The spotlights is obtaining literature from databases and literature assessment. Evidence-based practice is introduced such as use of clinical guidelines and best practice guidelines. The main focus is on practicing methods for searching for and assessing scientific material as well as developing good text.

    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ166F
    Health assessment of a mother and a child
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The main focus will be on mothers and children´s health assessments especially in relation to issues that might affect breastfeeding. This will include a holistic assessment of their physical, physiological and psychosocial adjustment. Emphasis will also be placed on students acquiring knowledge and skills in recognizing and evaluating child's behavior and signals and the effect of  child's development and health on breastfeeding and nutrition. Special emphasis will be placed on children's developmental assessment.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ165F
    Breastfeeding basics for successful breastfeeding
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic knowledge regarding breastfeeding will be covered, such as breast anatomy and physiology of lactation. Emphasis will be placed on knowledge and skills on various stimulating and inhibiting factors affecting milk production and the general success of breastfeeding. The course will also cover the evidence on other issues like on the composition of human breast milk in comparison with, for example, formula milk and the health benefits of breastfeeding for mother, babies and the community.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • HJÚ275F
    Breastfeeding support and councelling
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Special emphasis will be placed on the analysis of risk factors, assessment and treatment of the main challenges and problems that may arise in relation to child's nutrition, especially related to breastfeeding. Also, in collaboration with breastfeeding counselors and clinical institutions, clinical training in providing support to breastfeeding mothers will be arranged.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Year unspecified
  • Not taught this semester
    HJÚ0ADF
    Advanced Family Nursing Practice
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course aims to give nurses and other health care professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills in evaluating and implementing the philosophy that family care-based as well as focus on developing clinical skills of nurses in their persons and their families who are dealing with various diseases, disorders and or shocks.

    On this occasion, the focus will be on working with the support of individuals and families, a family activity and attitude of family members to diseases/trauma. Communication Theories and ideas Wright and Bell (2009) and Wright and Leahey (2019) changed the relationship of family members to chronic or acute disease or trauma and ideology of cooperation with the families of the clinical arena is among the materials that will be considered.

    The main focus of the course is on evidence-based practice in family care and the development of therapeutic dialogue with individuals and families, with the views of family members, health workers attitude and attitude to disease and the interaction between them include examined.

    Full coverage will be the preparation and implementation of family interviews coercion and development styrkleikamiðaðra treatments for individuals and families.

    The course is also designed to give students the opportunity to develop their skills in assisting families with adjustment/experience of serious illness and trauma such as loss and thus enable families in their own health.

    Special emphasis will be placed on individual training where students receive personal guidance on the implementation of treatment discussion with family members. Assessment is in the form of individual projects and group projects, but as the test release phase of the case requires 80% attendance in the course.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ258F
    Leadership in health care
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.

    The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
Year unspecified
  • Fall
  • HJÚ140F
    Skills for theoretical work
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to enhance the students‘ skills in applying knowledge to their nursing practice. The spotlights is obtaining literature from databases and literature assessment. Evidence-based practice is introduced such as use of clinical guidelines and best practice guidelines. The main focus is on practicing methods for searching for and assessing scientific material as well as developing good text.

    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ166F
    Health assessment of a mother and a child
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The main focus will be on mothers and children´s health assessments especially in relation to issues that might affect breastfeeding. This will include a holistic assessment of their physical, physiological and psychosocial adjustment. Emphasis will also be placed on students acquiring knowledge and skills in recognizing and evaluating child's behavior and signals and the effect of  child's development and health on breastfeeding and nutrition. Special emphasis will be placed on children's developmental assessment.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ165F
    Breastfeeding basics for successful breastfeeding
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic knowledge regarding breastfeeding will be covered, such as breast anatomy and physiology of lactation. Emphasis will be placed on knowledge and skills on various stimulating and inhibiting factors affecting milk production and the general success of breastfeeding. The course will also cover the evidence on other issues like on the composition of human breast milk in comparison with, for example, formula milk and the health benefits of breastfeeding for mother, babies and the community.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • HJÚ275F
    Breastfeeding support and councelling
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Special emphasis will be placed on the analysis of risk factors, assessment and treatment of the main challenges and problems that may arise in relation to child's nutrition, especially related to breastfeeding. Also, in collaboration with breastfeeding counselors and clinical institutions, clinical training in providing support to breastfeeding mothers will be arranged.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Year unspecified
  • Not taught this semester
    HJÚ0ADF
    Advanced Family Nursing Practice
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course aims to give nurses and other health care professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills in evaluating and implementing the philosophy that family care-based as well as focus on developing clinical skills of nurses in their persons and their families who are dealing with various diseases, disorders and or shocks.

    On this occasion, the focus will be on working with the support of individuals and families, a family activity and attitude of family members to diseases/trauma. Communication Theories and ideas Wright and Bell (2009) and Wright and Leahey (2019) changed the relationship of family members to chronic or acute disease or trauma and ideology of cooperation with the families of the clinical arena is among the materials that will be considered.

    The main focus of the course is on evidence-based practice in family care and the development of therapeutic dialogue with individuals and families, with the views of family members, health workers attitude and attitude to disease and the interaction between them include examined.

    Full coverage will be the preparation and implementation of family interviews coercion and development styrkleikamiðaðra treatments for individuals and families.

    The course is also designed to give students the opportunity to develop their skills in assisting families with adjustment/experience of serious illness and trauma such as loss and thus enable families in their own health.

    Special emphasis will be placed on individual training where students receive personal guidance on the implementation of treatment discussion with family members. Assessment is in the form of individual projects and group projects, but as the test release phase of the case requires 80% attendance in the course.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ258F
    Leadership in health care
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.

    The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
First year
  • Fall
  • HJÚ140F
    Skills for theoretical work hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to enhance the students‘ skills in applying knowledge to their nursing practice. The spotlights is obtaining literature from databases and literature assessment. Evidence-based practice is introduced such as use of clinical guidelines and best practice guidelines. The main focus is on practicing methods for searching for and assessing scientific material as well as developing good text.

    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ142F
    Managerial economics and health services hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course aims at introducing students to economical issues as well as managerial accounting affecting health services. The same issues affect all factors whether the institutions in question are large or small and no matter if publicly or privately held. The appearance of these factors will be studied and how to affect them in a positive way. Concepts addressed:

    • Supply, demand, factors of production, elasticity.
    • Variable-, fixed-, direct- and indirect costs
    • Taxation and externalities. Private- and public goods.
    • Trade and comparative advantage. Circular flow of the economy.
    • Cost of living, indexes and national accounts.
    • Financial accounting, income statement and balance sheet.
    • Cost accounting, managerial benchmarks.
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • Not taught this semester
    HJÚ259F
    Management in health care hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical and practical knowledge on the administrative matters and prepare them for administrative roles in health care. The role of managers is emphasized including human resource management, teamwork, work environment, patient services, quality and safety. Students projects are derived from real practice locally as well as globally in present times as well as in the future, strenthening the theoretical as well as practical competence of students.

    The course is taught in collaboration with the University of Minnesota and is a COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) course that includes joint teaching material and projects with teachers and students in the DNP program in nursing leadership. The main cooperating teacher at the University of Minnesota is dr. Stephanie Gingerich, assistant professor at the University of Minnesota.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ258F
    Leadership in health care hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.

    The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Year unspecified
  • Not taught this semester
    VIÐ175F
    Well-being and health-promoting servant leadership hide
    Restricted elective course
    7,5
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Wellbeing at work gains increasing attetion and discussion about prevention og job burnout has incresed. Leaders of organizations are becoming increasingly aware of the value of a healthy work environment and staff wellbeing being linked to better performance. The purpose of this interdisciplinary course is to introduce students to the emerging field of healthy work environment models that impact the wellbeing and health of people and how this links to leadership philosophy and behavior. The course is designed to discuss the context of determinants of wellbeing at work and different types of healthy work environment models in relation to wellbeing at work. Also to examine health promoting and servant leadership approaches and successful strategies to prevent burnout. Students visit successful organizations in this regard and get insight into managers' experience. Course materials and activities will challenge students to connect theory to practice. Students will be required to analyze current research on the topic and to identify an issue of unhealthy work environment and to develop an implementation of successful work environment model.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught in period I
  • OSS102F
    Public Human Resource Management hide
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course will examine human resource management (HRM) in the public sector. Civil service systems will be discussed in a historical context. Employment-related laws, regulations and procedures are reviewed. The students will be exposed to job functions of HRM professionals, including staffing, recruiting, performance appraisal and compensation. The strategic HRM approach is introduced and the procedure of formulating an HRM policy.

    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
  • OSS204F
    Administrative Law for Public Executives hide
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course deals with describtion of Icelandic authoroties (the executive), the basic structure of the Icelandic administrative system, main tasks of public authotiries, the scope, relevance and rules of the Administrative Act. no 37/1993 and the relevance and rules of the Information Act. no 140/2012. The main emphasis is on the Administrative Act. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Prerequisites
  • VIÐ190F
    Change Management hide
    Restricted elective course
    7,5
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course will cover the key areas of change management, such as the implementation of change, employee reactions, key barriers to change, and the positive and negative forces that affect the change process. The theories and concepts that change management is based on will be discussed in detail as well as the key approaches and methods for managing change. The role of the leader, manager, and the middle manager in managing change as well as crises will be discussed. Organizational culture will be discussed and why it is an important element of the change process.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught in period II
  • NAF003F
    Adult Learners and human resource development hide
    Restricted elective course
    10
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a general introduction to Adult and Continuing education. Through the course participants will familiarize themselves with research on the charcteristics of adult learners, theories on adult learning, the societal place of adult education, participation in adult learning activities and the effects of adult development on their learning endevours.

    The course aims are that participants acquaint themselves with research and theories of adult learning with the aim of informing practice and to rationalize choices and actions when organizing learning events and working with adults.

    Coursework: Blended learning with face to face sessions and online collaborations: Discussions, lectures, individual assignments and group projects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
Year unspecified
  • Fall
  • HJÚ140F
    Skills for theoretical work hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    2
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to enhance the students‘ skills in applying knowledge to their nursing practice. The spotlights is obtaining literature from databases and literature assessment. Evidence-based practice is introduced such as use of clinical guidelines and best practice guidelines. The main focus is on practicing methods for searching for and assessing scientific material as well as developing good text.

    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ142F
    Managerial economics and health services hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course aims at introducing students to economical issues as well as managerial accounting affecting health services. The same issues affect all factors whether the institutions in question are large or small and no matter if publicly or privately held. The appearance of these factors will be studied and how to affect them in a positive way. Concepts addressed:

    • Supply, demand, factors of production, elasticity.
    • Variable-, fixed-, direct- and indirect costs
    • Taxation and externalities. Private- and public goods.
    • Trade and comparative advantage. Circular flow of the economy.
    • Cost of living, indexes and national accounts.
    • Financial accounting, income statement and balance sheet.
    • Cost accounting, managerial benchmarks.
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • Not taught this semester
    HJÚ259F
    Management in health care hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is for students to gain theoretical and practical knowledge on the administrative matters and prepare them for administrative roles in health care. The role of managers is emphasized including human resource management, teamwork, work environment, patient services, quality and safety. Students projects are derived from real practice locally as well as globally in present times as well as in the future, strenthening the theoretical as well as practical competence of students.

    The course is taught in collaboration with the University of Minnesota and is a COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) course that includes joint teaching material and projects with teachers and students in the DNP program in nursing leadership. The main cooperating teacher at the University of Minnesota is dr. Stephanie Gingerich, assistant professor at the University of Minnesota.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • HJÚ258F
    Leadership in health care hide
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The work environment of health care services has changed constantly in recent years requiring more than ever leadership skills of nurses as well as other healthcare professionals, whether in clinical roles, teaching or education. The course should prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare.

    The course content includes concepts, models and theories in leadership. The role and characteristics of leaders and the role of leaders as change agents are discussed, within health care organizations and generally in the community, locally and globally, at present and in the future. A global approach and innovation are emphasized.

    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Year unspecified
  • Not taught this semester
    VIÐ175F
    Well-being and health-promoting servant leadership hide
    Restricted elective course
    7,5
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Wellbeing at work gains increasing attetion and discussion about prevention og job burnout has incresed. Leaders of organizations are becoming increasingly aware of the value of a healthy work environment and staff wellbeing being linked to better performance. The purpose of this interdisciplinary course is to introduce students to the emerging field of healthy work environment models that impact the wellbeing and health of people and how this links to leadership philosophy and behavior. The course is designed to discuss the context of determinants of wellbeing at work and different types of healthy work environment models in relation to wellbeing at work. Also to examine health promoting and servant leadership approaches and successful strategies to prevent burnout. Students visit successful organizations in this regard and get insight into managers' experience. Course materials and activities will challenge students to connect theory to practice. Students will be required to analyze current research on the topic and to identify an issue of unhealthy work environment and to develop an implementation of successful work environment model.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught in period I
  • OSS102F
    Public Human Resource Management hide
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course will examine human resource management (HRM) in the public sector. Civil service systems will be discussed in a historical context. Employment-related laws, regulations and procedures are reviewed. The students will be exposed to job functions of HRM professionals, including staffing, recruiting, performance appraisal and compensation. The strategic HRM approach is introduced and the procedure of formulating an HRM policy.

    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
  • OSS204F
    Administrative Law for Public Executives hide
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course deals with describtion of Icelandic authoroties (the executive), the basic structure of the Icelandic administrative system, main tasks of public authotiries, the scope, relevance and rules of the Administrative Act. no 37/1993 and the relevance and rules of the Information Act. no 140/2012. The main emphasis is on the Administrative Act. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Online learning
    Prerequisites
  • VIÐ190F
    Change Management hide
    Restricted elective course
    7,5
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course will cover the key areas of change management, such as the implementation of change, employee reactions, key barriers to change, and the positive and negative forces that affect the change process. The theories and concepts that change management is based on will be discussed in detail as well as the key approaches and methods for managing change. The role of the leader, manager, and the middle manager in managing change as well as crises will be discussed. Organizational culture will be discussed and why it is an important element of the change process.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Course taught in period II
  • NAF003F
    Adult Learners and human resource development hide
    Restricted elective course
    10
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course is a general introduction to Adult and Continuing education. Through the course participants will familiarize themselves with research on the charcteristics of adult learners, theories on adult learning, the societal place of adult education, participation in adult learning activities and the effects of adult development on their learning endevours.

    The course aims are that participants acquaint themselves with research and theories of adult learning with the aim of informing practice and to rationalize choices and actions when organizing learning events and working with adults.

    Coursework: Blended learning with face to face sessions and online collaborations: Discussions, lectures, individual assignments and group projects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
Additional information

The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.

Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.

Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.

Nursing professionals are in high demand all over the world. Nursing is an extremely diverse profession with many areas of specialisation.

Besides nursing, an education in this area can open up opportunities in:

  • Research
  • Innovation in nursing
  • Change management
  • Health and safety in healthcare
  • Project management
  • Data processing and information technology
  • Teaching

This list is not exhaustive.

The student organisation Curator organises a busy social calendar at the Faculty of Nursing. Curator aims to promote fun, community and a positive atmosphere at the Faculty.

Curator organises events such as new student orientations, workplace tours, mystery trips, etc.

Students' comments
Portrait photo of Sólveig Gylfadóttir
Always interested in further education, I found my passion in infection control. The new diploma programme was perfect for me, providing in-depth knowledge and practical skills to improve infection control services.
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Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery
Weekdays 9 am-12 pm and 1-3 pm
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The Service Desk is a point of access for all services. You can drop in at the University Centre or use the WebChat at the bottom right of this page.

University of Iceland, Eirberg

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