About This Course
This innovative Professional Doctorate will provide students with a rigorous framework for the development and synthesis of empirical, professional and organisational knowledge as the basis for the development of health services.
During the course of the programme students will develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of issues at the forefront of theory and practice in students’ own professional field that enables them to critically evaluate research and provide possible alternative hypotheses. Students will acquire a comprehensive understanding of relevant research and scholarly approaches applicable to practice and service improvement, with an informed knowledge of how the results of this application may improve health care practice and develop research ideas/policy.
Students who successfully complete the programme will be able to provide a level of critical thinking that develops and advances new ideas and aids in resolving complex organisational and practice issues, taking into consideration budgetary, political, strategic, ethical and social issues.
Programme Length
5 years full-time, 7 years part-time
Research Opportunities
The academics involved with this Professional Doctorate have extensive links with external bodies, companies and the 3rd Sector which are fully utilised in ensuring that the modules are relevant to the modern work and research environment graduates will enter. This course utilises the health services research expertise embedded in the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÒÅÆ×ÊÁÏ Institute of Health and Medical Research as well as the practical knowledge of experienced nurses and who still have active links to the local Health Board ensuring that modern clinical practice is embedded within the programme.
Course Content
What will you study on this course?
Core Modules (20 credits):
- Research Methods
- Leadership in Context
- Advancing Skills Development
- Advancing knowledge
- Evidence for Improvement
- Approaches in Health Quality
Optional modules (60 credits):
Students can select up to 60 credits of modules at Academic Level 7 from the College of Health and Behavioural Sciences.
Research Thesis
Students will be able to choose a topic that suits their professional or organisational goals
Teaching, Learning and Assessment
The modules under the pathway will use a variety of assessments such as assignments, on line assessments, distance learning, presentations etc.
Entry Requirements
Admission by undergraduate degree
Successful completion of Bachelor degree (minimum 2:ii) with significant experience in health service development. Students will be expected to be working in a role which has the capacity to support achievement of the course aims and objectives, and to be able to demonstrate organisational support.
Admission by Experience: Mature student status
A candidate may be considered for acceptance provided that they have relevant work experience and have strong references and personal statement. Usually, under such circumstances, the candidate would be invited for an interview where circumstances allowed (e.g. face-to-face, Skype, telephone).
Careers
This course is intended to support the academic and career progression of healthcare professionals working in, or aspiring to senior roles within UK and international health care organisations. Graduates will be well placed to take advantage of role developments in health care, such as non-medical consultancy. Where relevant, module and course learning outcomes will be mapped against the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework and the Skills for Health Framework to support career progression. Opportunities for students to develop vocational qualifications (e.g. NVQ management) within the programme will be explored.
