Clinical Neurophysiology Practice (Taught)

Course summary

This programme sits within the National Health Service’s vision for the Healthcare Science workforce. It has been designed for individuals already in professional practice who want to advance their skills to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of patients and gain a deeper understanding of their clinical neurophysiology practice area or develop knowledge in new areas. You will receive an MSc degree after completing the three-year program. However, you can also exit the program after finalising any stage (i.e. the first year or the second year). This strategy enables you to be flexible with your level of commitment at the outset. If you withdraw from the program earlier, you can be awarded a postgraduate certification (PgCert) at the successful completion of the first year or a postgraduate diploma (PgDip) in the case you complete the second year. The content of most modules is available by distance / blended learning, allowing you flexibility in how you study. Attending sessions in person is encouraged where possible. There are additional study skills sessions arranged in September/October to help prepare students for the course. Year 1 of this course (PGCert stage) is accredited by the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS), and in combination with The Association of Neurophysiological Scientists (ANS) professional exams, is a route to registration. (Any professional exams would be arranged by and undertaken in your local department, not through Aston University). How you will learn All teaching and learning materials are hosted on Blackboard – a virtual teaching environment - as you will be taught via a blended learning approach combining individual and directed learning with scheduled seminars and workshops to complement your learning. You will be provided with a clear plan per study module with assessments aligned to the module learning outcomes. Some modules will have in-person sessions that you are recommended to join. Please note – there is a two-day in-person attendance requirement as part of the Introduction to Healthcare and Professional Practice module. What you will learn Dedicated support systems are in place from across the University, and this program benefits from a guest lecture series. Your scheduled time on campus provides you with the opportunity to discuss learning, participate in group activities, and meet with your project supervisor. Although this will depend upon the individual, a typical student can expect to spend around 10 hours a week throughout the duration of the course, equivalent to 500 hours of study in total. Modules are primarily assessed via coursework, so you can benchmark your abilities early on and develop your skills in managing your learning.

Assessment method

All teaching and learning materials are hosted on Blackboard as this is a blended learning course. The majority of the teaching and learning material is delivered via the virtual learning environment (Blackboard 9). You will be provided with a study guide for modules which ensures you are aware of what material needs covering when. Mandatory modules are mostly assessed via coursework so you are able to benchmark your abilities early on and to develop your skills in managing your learning. When on campus for short periods each term, you will have the opportunity to participate in group activities, tutorials, skills laboratories and seminars.

How to apply

International applicants

Not suitable for International students who are not employed by the NHS.

Entry requirements

We welcome applications from candidates interested in our course who have the skills and capability to excel. All candidates are considered on an individual basis based on their qualifications, experience, references and motivation. A first or upper second class honours degree in clinical physiology or equivalent in a life sciences based subject e.g. biology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacy, pharmaceutical technology, pharmacology, physiology, psychology, physical science subject is required or, when outside the UK, a degree or qualification deemed to be at least of equivalent standing. UK applications are welcome from in-service neurophysiology staff who do not meet the academic requirements. Applicants must be registered with RCCP and will need a recommendation/supporting letter from their head of department. Candidates should have a minimum of 6-months service within a Neurophysiology department prior to starting the programme with exposure to the investigations within the selected module. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to provide evidence of an English language qualification. English language test requirements may be waived where students’ undergraduate degree was studied in an English speaking country. Find out more about our English language requirements. For more information, please visit our website.