University of Southampton

MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice (Advanced Allied Health Practitioner)

This Master's course runs from 2 to 5 years part-time, allowing you the flexibility to continue working alongside your degree.

You'll study six taught modules and then the dissertation. Most students study either two or three modules per year, then the dissertation the following year. There is no fee for enrolment in the programme; rather, the modules are paid for as you study them.

Your pathway leader will guide you regarding your module choices and sequencing. A good starting point is either History Taking and Physical Assessment or Research Methods. Following on from History Taking and Physical Assessment is the Diagnostic Assessment and Decision Making module, both of which must be passed before commencing Pharmacology and Prescribing (or Applied Pharmacology for those in professions without prescribing authority). You then also have a choice of one option module – see here. Then the Transition to Advanced Practice module is normally studied in your last taught year before the dissertation – this is where the learning from other modules is brought together, and where you achieve sign off against the capabilities required of an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our courses to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

You must study the following modules:

• Diagnostic Assessment and Decision Making
• History Taking and Physical Assessment across the Lifespan
• MSc Dissertation 18 months
• Transition to Advanced Practice (Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Advanced Allied Health Practitioner)

You must also choose from the following modules:

• Applied pharmacology for clinical practice
• Pharmacology and prescribing in clinical practice
• Research methods (online)

Dissertation

You’ll plan, carry out and report on an independent, original project that’s relevant to your current or future area of practice.

You can submit your final dissertation in one of the following formats:

• a literature review
• a service improvement project (including audit)
• an evidence-based project

Flexible Study

If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:

• a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) - you'll usually study for about 2 years and will not need to write a dissertation

You can also take a single module as part of continuing professional development (CPD).

Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.

Learning

We promote a student-centred approach to guide your learning and encourage you to master your planning skills. Your personal academic tutor, module leaders and mentor in practice will support you throughout the programme.

The learning activities for this course include the following:

• lectures and seminars groups
• action learning groups
• workplace-based training
• practical clinical skills sessions
• supervised and self-directed study

These methods are designed to integrate theory and practice, and to foster a spirit of enquiry. We use these methods to mix theory and practice, and to inspire curiosity in our students. We emphasise group discussion and learning to encourage collaborative working.

Assessment

We’ll assess your work according to the assessment guidelines within the module profile. Our assessment methods are designed to maximise your critical thinking and analysis skills and develop your understanding of advanced clinical practice.

We’ll assess you through a combination of:

• written and oral exams
• practical assessments
• case studies
• a portfolio
• presentations
• your final dissertation

We may also ask you to attend a viva voce exam.