Parkinson’s Ireland is delighted to launch a new initiative to encourage and fund candidates to study specialist courses to become Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists. This new scholarship programme will provide funding for a registered nurse with the NMBI to undertake a course in Parkinson’s Disease at Swansea University.
A career as a Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist is a rewarding one. Parkinson’s Disease is the fastest growing neurological condition, and the second most common after Alzheimer’s. The number of people with Parkinson’s is due to double by 2050, which will put a significant strain on our health system. Therefore, it is vital that there are enough qualified nurse specialists in Ireland.
There should be 1 Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist for every 300 patients in Ireland. The estimated number of people living with Parkinson’s in 2025 is 18,000, meaning there should be 60 Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists. Currently, there are only 19, and Parkinson’s Ireland provide 3 of these. The HSE have recently advertised Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist roles and have been unable to fill some positions.
Speaking about the new initiative, the CEO of Parkinson’s Ireland Shane O’Brien commented: “We are delighted to be able to launch this exciting new scholarship to raise awareness of the career as a Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist, and to ensure that there are more qualified nurse specialists in Ireland by sponsoring the course fees of successful candidates. Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists play a crucial role in the care of people with Parkinson’s Disease, and we know that we need to significantly increase the number of nurse specialists in Ireland over the coming years.”
Kathy Foley, a Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist working with Parkinson’s Ireland is a graduate of one of the modules and said:
“The module is thoughtfully designed for healthcare professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in Parkinson’s care. With its blend of theoretical knowledge, real-world perspectives (including expert patient involvement), and emphasis on practical leadership and evidence-based practice, it offers a well-rounded learning experience. I found it deeply rewarding to have the knowledge base to advocate, help, and educate people living with PD, their care partners and their families from diagnosis and right throughout their Parkinson’s journey.”
The Course
Swansea University run two modules aimed at registered health professionals to upskill and provide training on dealing with people living with Parkinson’s and their care partners. The courses are designed to equip healthcare practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to competently support people with Parkinson’s and their care partners as part of a multidisciplinary team. The courses include 53 hours of theory and are assessed through a practical assignment. Teaching is delivered at Swansea University’s Singleton Campus in Wales, with guidance provided by Anthony Duffy.
There are two study weeks for the course (Monday – Friday), with the first week being the week commencing 2nd March 2026, and the second week commencing 11th May 2026. Applicants must be a nurse with the NMBI and have 6 months experience of working with people with Parkinson’s.
Choosing the course that is right for you
Swansea University offers two courses that are similar in content but different in their assessment levels. Both courses run concurrently to each other and are aimed at individuals with different backgrounds. We accept applications for both courses.
If you are a Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse who has been working directly with people living with Parkinson’s for at least six months and would like to learn more about the specifics of Parkinson’s, we invite you to apply for the Level 7 course The Management of Parkinson’s Disease-Related Conditions (SHGM101).
If you are a neurology or geriatric nurse with at least six months experience working with people living with Parkinson’s and would like to learn more about the management and basics of the condition, we invite you to apply for the Level 6 course Meeting the Specific Needs of People with Parkinson’s Disease and their Carers (SHG311).
The timeline
Please be advised that successful completion of this course does not guarantee employment as a Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist with Parkinson’s Ireland, the HSE, or any private healthcare provider.
What will the scholarship cover?
Parkinson Ireland will cover cost of the course fees that Swansea University charge. The successful applicant will initially pay for the course themselves and upon successful completion of the course and receipt of assessment results, Parkinson’s Ireland will reimburse the course fees to the applicant.
How to apply
Interested individuals can apply by filling in the application form below and returning it via email to scholarship@parkinsons.ie no later than 5pm on the 24th of October 2025.