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MSc - Practice Development: Physiotherapy

The MSc Practice Development: Physiotherapy programme was developed, informed and has evolved on the basis of collaboration with employers, stakeholders and students to meet the educational needs of registered midwives. It will see you gain the qualities and knowledge needed to become a high-calibre midwifery professional, able to confidently deal with the changing dynamics of the healthcare economy.

Our aim is to help you enhance your professional prospects and enable you to play an active role in developing your own midwifery practice. The facility to study modules online from your own home, at a time that will fit around your shift pattern and day-to-day commitments, further supports access to this advanced learning. We have extensive experience as CPD distance learning providers. All tutors are experienced in both clinical and academic practice.

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Course Overview

As well as the core modules, you'll be able to take your pick from our list of optional midwifery-specific modules, or from the standalone modules belonging to the department. The core modules make up 100 credits of the course, and include a 20-credit research methods module, a 60-credit dissertation module, and a 20-credit module in either leadership or evidence-based practice. This leaves you with 80 credits to study optional modules.

You will need to complete an induction prior to starting your first module. We have a comprehensive online induction package to welcome you to both the university and your programme of study.

On this course you will...

  • Tailor your learning experience by choosing from a range of modules to suit your interests and career aspirations.
  • Enjoy the flexibility of modular learning, allowing you to study at your own comfortable pace, without committing to the full course.
  • Benefit from the expertise of experienced practitioners and academics with strong experience of working in the NHS.
  • Receive dedicated support and guidance from a personal tutor throughout your studies.
  • Take advantage of our extensive experience as CPD distance learning providers, with a comprehensive and well-established online study skills package available for you to use.
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Course Structure

What you will learn

You will be required to have undertaken the following core modules:
Leadership Through Transformational Learning (20 credits)
Research Methods (20 credits)
Dissertation (60 credits or 40 credits). The 40 credit dissertation is only available for those students who, following APL of 120 credits into this programme are required to study one or both of the core modules, as well as the dissertation.

The remaining credits may be selected from the list of optional modules. Several of the listed optional modules are directly related to Physiotherapy practice, with content and learning outcomes directly related to contemporary Physiotherapy practice, whilst the remainder are specifically offered to reflect the diverse settings within which Physiotherapists work, facilitating consideration of the role of the Physiotherapist from alternative perspectives, however choices must be relevant to your area of professional practice and target award and agreed in your personal and professional development plan with your personal tutor.

Compulsory modules
  • Research Methods
    This module will enable you to select, devise, analyse and synthesise research and evidence- based practice findings. You will develop an advanced understanding of selected research methods and will have opportunities for acquiring appropriate research skills through study and practical experience.
  • Leadership Through Transformational Learning
    The aim of this module is to enable you to understand the concepts of contemporary leadership, transformative learning and reflection as it relates to your personal leadership style, including links to developing and understanding professional identity.
Year two

There are both compulsory and core modules which must be taken in either year one, two or three which are outlined above. There are a number of optional modules which can be taken in any year of study.

  • Please refer to the programme specification (linked within the 'Key Details' box above) to see specific modules.
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  • Location

    Distance Learning

    We are Cumbria’s University – enriching people and place. A place of and for our community. A place of possibility. A place where amazing journeys happen. With guidance and support. Where it’s safe to be brave, to be boldly you.

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  • Location

    Online Learning

    Online learning at the University of Cumbria is an interactive experience that makes use of a range of technologies and media types to provide a rich learning environment.

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Find out more about studying with us

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An Open Day is your opportunity to explore one of 5 campuses, meet your lecturers, and find out how the University of Cumbria could become your new home.

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