Course summary
Obesity is a global epidemic and a leading cause of several major non-communicable diseases including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers. Prevention and management is critical in reducing the considerable health costs of obesity. This online Obesity and Weight Management course focuses on enabling health care professionals to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to treat patients effectively. The Obesity and Weight Management course creates professionals who can independently access information and use the information to critically assess, evaluate and disseminate the evidence base related to Obesity and Weight Management. It will develop problem solving and clinical skills together with preparing students to take a leadership role. On completion, you will have an applied understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in an appropriate clinical setting; and an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the discipline informed by current scholarship and research.
Modules
MSc: One- year duration Students progressing from the PG Obesity and Weight Management course do the one-year MSc consisting of the following modules: Core •Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal This module will address the terminology and methodologies used in epidemiology and research studies, and you will learn how to interpret graphical and other statistical data such as Kaplan-Meier Curves, Forrest Plots and Meta-analyses. You will develop an understanding of the importance of evidence based practice and how to apply it within a clinical setting. Optional modules •Professional Project •Independent Prescribing Module (taught at University) MSc: Two-year duration Students who decide to enrol directly on to the MSc (rather than the PG Dip) will do the two-year version, which consists of the following modules: Core •The adipocyte, regulation of appetite and nutrition •Obesity: defining obesity, epidemiology and health risks •Causation of obesity and weight gain in relation to disease and genetics •Weight Management, Diet, exercise and changing behaviour •Weight Management – Medical treatments and emerging therapies •Surgical approaches to weight management •Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal Optional modules •Independent Prescribing Module (taught at University) Independent Prescribing Module: This module aims to prepare students, both academically and practically, for the role of independent prescribing. The module also meets the registration criteria for the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). •Professional Project This module aims to develop an ability to critically evaluate areas of professional practice of your choice and develop skills in independent research and study. You will produce a report of 12000 words which will include a project proposal of 1,500 words and the remaining 10,500 words will consist of a literature review and an evidence appraisal, clinical or organisational practice audit. It will also involve the implementation of evidence-based practice and undertaking qualitative or quantitative research. As part of the module you will be in regular contact with your tutor who will offer guidance and supervision either via email, telephone or SKYPE.
Assessment method
Assessment methods will vary for each module and include case-based examinations, discussions and scenarios, reflective portfolio, forum discussions and group activities.
Entry requirements
Entry to the 1 year MSc programme will require the successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Obesity and Weight Management (120 credits) either from the University of South Wales or from another UK University. You may apply for the MSc as a two year course, completing all 8 modules (180 credits). Applicants without recognised qualifications but have relevant work experience, background knowledge and skills will also be considered on an individual basis. English language qualification (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent). Applicants should submit copies of the following with their application: Qualification certificates; One written reference. Please note: entry requirements for the Independent Prescribing module differ from the other modules and require: 3 years post registration experience; 1 year in field of practice; Support of Line manager; Requirement of current role for IP status; Availability of a mentor.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
University of South Wales
Llantwit Road
Treforest
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL