Course summary

This MSc SCPHN (TopUp) course aims to equip to an enhanced level the skills of critical analysis and research in order to advance the application of evidence within the field of Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (SCPHN). The course engenders a critical and informed appreciation of current contemporary policy, evidence based practice and practical wisdom to further enhance the delivery of SCPHN practice developing students to effectively synthesise and apply evidence-based knowledge and research skills building on having met the NMC proficiency standards for SCPHN (2004). This award is designed to reflect the needs of today’s Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (SCPHN) practitioners in which all learning activities must be demonstrated to have relevance in the workplace and be responsive to the needs of service. The overall theme of the award focuses on the application of the learning achieved. Students must hold a Post Graduate Diploma SCPHN and undertake the compulsory principle module OTHM010 Professional Project (60 credits at Level 7) to successfully achieve MSc SCPHN (Top Up) award. Building on the modules completed for the entry requirement award of Post Graduate Diploma SCPHN, you will complete a professional project that allows them to engage with the academic literature and research underpinning contemporary SCPHN practice. This programme offers you the opportunity, through critical reflection, to review your personal learning within the professional context of SCPHN practice and the potential for lifelong learning. You may select a mode of study for the principle module OTHM010 which is most appropriate to your personal circumstances, resource base, and relevance for learning in the workplace. You may choose from one of the following modes of study: ◾Audit and evaluation ◾Primary research ◾Evidence-based practice review (literature based project) The emphasis within the principle module of translating academic learning into the SCPHN workplace, reflects the overarching philosophy of postgraduate provision in the Faculty of Health and Society of ‘making change happen in practice’. The assessment process will enable you to demonstrate the application of theoretical concepts and research methodology to SCPHN practice and critically evaluate the extent to which this practice is underpinned with a sound knowledge base. This philosophy facilitates achievement of the general capabilities and skills expected of a masters graduate. Formal and informal teaching and learning contexts will be employed to deliver the compulsory OTHM010 Professional Project module; these include workshops and seminars (staff and student led). One to one supervisory tutorials (face to face, skype or online) will provide you and your supervisor with a platform to discuss the your project ideas and progress on the module. Independent study is an essential aspect of the module to promote autonomy within the student. Prior to commencing the project, you will have the opportunity to engage in preparatory workshops in order to furnish you with the skills necessary to conduct the project.