By Zayed Alzyoud
The School of Nursing at the University of Jordan (UJ) has begun consultations on establishing a Master’s programme in gerontological nursing, amid growing national and regional demand for specialised care for older adults.
The school recently held a consultative workshop bringing together care providers from hospitals, associations and specialised care homes, as part of efforts to align postgraduate programmes with evolving needs in the health sector.
The workshop was attended by Dean of the School of Nursing Prof. Areej Othman and Head of the Department of Community Health Nursing Dr. Waddah Mohammad D’emeh, alongside stakeholders from the field.
Discussions focused on shaping a practice-oriented curriculum that strengthens advanced competencies, including communication with older adults and their families, psychosocial support, and the management of chronic conditions and long-term care. The aim is to promote holistic, person-centred care that safeguards dignity and quality of life.
The consultations come as demographic indicators point to rising life expectancy. According to the Higher Population Council, life expectancy in Jordan stands at 75.3 years (73.8 for males and 77.0 for females), a trend expected to increase pressure on health systems and expand the need for specialised gerontological nursing skills.
In remarks during the workshop, Othman said the proposed programme is intended to respond to growing national, regional and global needs, adding that UJ aims to prepare specialised nursing leaders capable of advancing models of care and contributing to related health policy.
D’emeh said the department is working to align the proposed study plan with international standards in gerontological nursing education, with stronger integration between academic preparation and clinical application.
The School of Nursing said the stakeholder-driven approach reflects its commitment to developing academic programmes in partnership with the health sector, ensuring curricula remain responsive to service needs and evolving standards of care.