MSc Advanced Practice

Summary 2011/12

This programme is designed to enable health and social care professionals to extend their knowledge to an advanced level within their specialist field of practice. It consists of a wide range of highly flexible taught and work-based learning modules that will enable busy practitioners to access patient-care enhancing education.

You can choose to study the generic pathway or MSc Advanced Practice (Mental Health).

2011 Entry Requirements

The normal minimum requirement is a lower second-class honours degree in a health or social care related subject. Applicants without an honours degree must demonstrate the following knowledge and skills at a level equivalent to that of degree study, prior to commencing the programme: a comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and an in-depth awareness of current issues relating to either a health or social care setting; critical analysis skills and an ability to evaluate evidence drawn from the area of work or from previous academic study; ability to learn in a flexible manner, utilising autonomy and self direction.

You must have a minimum of three years post registration experience, and a reference from your clinical line manager.

It is anticipated you will have extensive subject knowledge / work experience in your chosen field as all of the assessments expect you to be able to relate theory to your practice.

Summary 2012/13

This programme is designed to enable health and social care professionals to extend their knowledge to an advanced level within their specialist field of practice. It consists of a wide range of highly flexible taught and work-based learning modules that will enable busy practitioners to access patient-care enhancing education.

You can choose to study the generic pathway or MSc Advanced Practice (Mental Health).

2012 Entry Requirements

The normal minimum requirement is a lower second-class honours degree in a health or social care related subject. Applicants without an honours degree must demonstrate the following knowledge and skills at a level equivalent to that of degree study, prior to commencing the programme: a comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and an in-depth awareness of current issues relating to either a health or social care setting; critical analysis skills and an ability to evaluate evidence drawn from the area of work or from previous academic study; ability to learn in a flexible manner, utilising autonomy and self direction.

You must have a minimum of three years post registration experience, and a reference from your clinical line manager.

It is anticipated you will have extensive subject knowledge / work experience in your chosen field as all of the assessments expect you to be able to relate theory to your practice.

Details

Who is this course for?

The programme is suitable both for individuals who wish to become advanced practitioners, or for those individuals who wish to promote the advance of practice within their field of work.

How we will support you

You will receive teaching and learning support throughout the programme with access to individual tutorials, online support and learning services.

The programme leader will support your progression throughout your studies, providing academic and professional development advice to support your personal development plan. In addition, each module leader will provide specific tutorial support regarding their module and there is a dedicated Pathway Administrator to assist any individual needs.

What will I study?

The course will allow you to develop a systematic and critical understanding of the breadth and depth of knowledge within your specialist area of practice whilst also learning:

• How to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively and make sound judgements in the absence of complete data;
• How to operate ethically in complex and unpredictable specialist situations with a critical understanding of the issues governing effective practice;
• High levels of autonomy and advanced decision making skills that can be applied to your specialist area of practice;
• A critical understanding of research methodologies and the ability to evaluate, synthesise, generate and disseminate the findings of research.

The programme comprises two named pathways: Generic and Mental Health.

In addition to the taught course, past and present students of the programme are invited to join the informal Edge Hill Advanced Practice Forum which typically meets twice a year.

How will I study?

Diverse teaching and learning strategies will be used, ranging from individual personal teacher contact to supported online learning, small group work to teacher-led lectures.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment methods vary according to the demands of the module but can be through assignments, Objective Structured Clinical Examinations, portfolios, seminar presentations and work-based learning projects.

Related Programmes

PGCert Clinical Practice

How do I apply?

Apply directly to Edge Hill University. Download the Health Professional Development pathway application form and notes for guidance (pdf).

Fees and Finance

Tuition fees for this programme are £560 per 20 credit module and £900 for the 60 credit dissertation for academic years 2011/12 and 2012/13.

Edge Hill graduates joining an eligible postgraduate programme at the University in academic years 2011/12 or 2012/13 could benefit from a 20% reduction in tuition fees. If you're a UK or EU student and will be paying the fees yourself, you might be eligible to receive this discount. See www.edgehill.ac.uk/reducedfees for more information.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask the programme leader about the course, please contact:

• Dave Owens, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 4QP
• Tel: 01695 657077
• Email: owensd@edgehill.ac.uk

Modules

The generic pathway has three core modules:

• HEA 9055 Context of Advanced Practice (20 credits)
• HEA 4045 Research: Development of a Research Proposal (20 credits)
• HEA 4002 Advanced Practice Project (60 credits)

Students on the generic pathway, in discussion with the programme leader, are required to choose other additional modules worth a total 80 credits, from the range of modules offered through the Faculty of Health and Social Care's flexible postgraduate portfolio. Additionally, subject to approval by Edge Hill University, it may be possible to transfer postgraduate credits from other academic institutions to this programme.

The Mental Health Pathway has four core modules:

• HEA 9055 Context of Advanced Practice (20 credits)
• HEA 9085 Mental Health Law and Defensible Practice (20 credits)
• HEA 4045 Research: Developing a Research Proposal (20 credits)
• HEA 4002 Advanced Practice Project (60 credits)

Students on the Mental Health pathway, in discussion with the programme leader, are required to choose other additional modules worth a total 60 credits, from the range of modules offered through the Faculty of Health and Social Care's flexible postgraduate portfolio. Additionally, subject to approval by Edge Hill University, it may be possible to transfer postgraduate credits from other academic institutions to this programme.