Comparison of Master's Curriculum of Pediatric Nursing in Iran and Dublin, Ireland: A Comparative Study

Medical science education is part of the higher education system that overshadows the quality of life and health of society. The quality of pediatric nursing education programs in the health system is very important, so the purpose of this study is a comparative comparison of the Iranian Master of Pediatric Nursing curriculum with the University of Dublin, Ireland.

This comparative descriptive study was performed in 2022. Data were analyzed using Bereday model in four stages of description, interpretation, proximity and comparison. The Master of Pediatric Nursing Education Program of the University of Dublin, Ireland and Iran was evaluated in terms of admission, philosophy, mission, graduates' job positions, course content and evaluation, analysis, and strengths and weaknesses.

Results:

The Iranian Master of Child Nursing curriculum differs from Dublin in Ireland, despite its similarities in philosophy and mission. In Ireland, pediatric nursing includes three majors: intensive care nursing, emergency and heart, while in Iran, pediatric nursing has no major. Also in Ireland in addition to the test interviewing and reviewing years and work history is of particular importance while in Iran only the test is emphasized.

In Iranian child nursing curriculum, haven’t been considered the work experience of the volunteers, selective interviews and specialized major of children. Considering the importance of having healthy children and nursing and clinical care in sick children, it is suggested that officials and pediatric nursing curricula in this field consider specialized trends and reconsider the method of admission in this field.