facu ltyof healt h and medicin e - lancaster university · and improving treatment for corneal...

Faculty of Health and MedicineFor more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk 120/121

We provide a unique blend ofbiomedical, medical, and socialscience expertise, which underpins a portfolio of high quality, innovativeand flexible postgraduate programmes.Our programmes provide opportunitiesfor life scientists, social scientists,medically qualified graduates andprofessionals working in health andmedicine to undertake postgraduatestudy at all stages of their careerdevelopment.

During the last three years, the Faculty has attracted over £9m inresearch funding and benefitted from continued investment, includingrecently refurbished laboratories and equipment in Biomedical and LifeSciences and the Clinical AnatomyLearning Centre (Lancaster MedicalSchool). The Faculty moved into its new location in the refurbishedFurness Building in autumn 2012.

Facultyof Health and Medicine The Faculty of Health and Medicine comprises Biomedical and Life Sciences, CETAD, Health Research, and LancasterMedical School.

Dean of FacultyProfessor Tony Gatrell

Associate Dean for Postgraduate StudiesProfessor Christine Milligan

Associate Dean for ResearchProfessor Paul Bates

Number of postgraduatestudents248 Research218 Taught

Research within the Facultyaddresses fundamental issues inhealth and medicine from curiosity-led investigations generating newknowledge and tools through todeveloping applied interventions ofpractical use in everyday life. Majorresearch topics include: end of life care,disability, health inequalities, healtheconomics, mental health, ageing,neurodegenerative diseases, cancerbiology, microbiology, parasitology,biostatistics and epidemiology.

Members of the Faculty workcollaboratively with colleaguescarrying out related research acrossthe University and also have strongexternal links with NHS partners,health-related industries, government,and the voluntary sector, as well as many multidisciplinary researchcollaborations worldwide.

The Faculty is undergoing rapidgrowth and continues to expand its research portfolio. Potentialapplicants for postgraduate study aretherefore strongly advised to consultour website for current information:www.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm

Divisions122 Biomedical and Life Sciences

128 CETAD

136 Health Research

144 Lancaster Medical School

Key factIn the most recent ResearchAssessment Exercise (2008), the research of ourbiomedical scientists wasranked joint first and ourhealth researchers, 13th in the UK.

For more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk 122/123Faculty of Health and Medicine – Biomedical and Life Sciences

Research degreesMPhil/PhD

MSc (Research) in Biomedical Science

MD Biomedicine

Taught programmesMSc in Biomedicine

MSc in Medical Biotechnologyand Leadership

Number of postgraduatestudents50

Head of DivisionDr Jane Owen-Lynch

Postgraduate enquiriesPostgraduate Director:Dr Paul McKeanTel: +44 (0)1524 593 936Email: [email protected]/fhm/bls

Postgraduate students benefit from links with many NHS trusts and the division receives financialsupport from a broad range of grant-awarding bodies including UKResearch Councils, the EuropeanCommission, charities, and industry.

Research within Biomedical and Life Sciences focuses on the study of molecular and cellular aspects of human health and disease, using a range of biochemical and cellularapproaches to complement studiesin model organisms.

Key areas of research include:

Neurodegenerative Disease and AgeingProgressive degeneration of the nervous system features in many human diseases and can be characterised by impairedmovement or cognition. Our research into the underlyingprocesses of healthy ageing iscomplemented by studying thosethat lead to brain dysfunction anddegeneration in conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’sdisease and hydrocephalus.

Cancer BiologyOur research investigates aspects of the molecular and cellular biologyof cancer including: cellular effects of exposure to carcinogens andultraviolet light, DNA repairmechanisms, cell cycle control, and the molecular events behindleukaemia and colorectal cancer.

Microbiology and ParasitologyOur research seeks to develop a better understanding of the cellbiology of protozoan parasites and yeast, applicable not only to medical parasitology, but alsoexploiting micro-organisms asmodels for understanding humancellular function. We also undertakeresearch into prokaryotic and othereukaryotic micro-organisms.

Medical Cell BiologyOur research focuses on applying biochemical and structuraltechniques to understanding cellular function at its fundamentallevel, particularly: cornealtransparency and dysfunction,proteoglycan structure and function,the developmental genetics ofDrosophila, and ex vivo human gut tissue modelling.

Biomedical and Life SciencesResearch carried out by Biomedical and Life Sciences is of aworld class standard and was ranked in the top five per cent ofits discipline in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE).

Research degreesMPhil/PhDDirector of StudiesDr Paul McKean.

Entry requirementsAn upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in anappropriate subject.

IELTSAt least 6.5 overall (minimum element scores apply).

AssessmentOriginal research and thesis.

FundingResearch Councils, LancasterUniversity and Charities.

Further information:www.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/bls

Applications are welcomed for PhD and MPhil degrees in any of our main areas of research.

Postgraduate research students aredirectly involved in the mainstreamresearch of the Faculty. In addition to receiving specialised trainingrelevant to your research topic andmethodology you’ll be encouraged to take part in the graduate trainingprogramme. This programme offers a range of more generic coursessuch as teaching skills, statisticalmethods, computing and languages.You will also be encouraged to attendand present lectures and posters at conferences overseas and withinthe UK.

MSc (Research) inBiomedical Science Director of StudiesDr Paul McKean.

Duration12 months full-time, 24 months part-time.

Entry requirementsAn upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in Biology,Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or a related subject. UndergraduateMBChB students intercalatingbetween 4th and 5th years of studyrequire a top quartile outcome inMBChB finals.



Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/bls

This degree enables you to gain in-depth knowledge of a particulararea of biomedical research whilebecoming familiar with general and specific research methods and laboratory practice.

The degree format includes ninemonths of full-time laboratory workas part of an established researchgroup, direct learning of researchmethods through the graduatetraining programme, and a three month writing up period, in which you will produce a dissertation. Yourdissertation (which is also examinedby a viva voce) is the means by whichthe degree is assessed.

MD BiomedicineDirector of StudiesDr Paul McKean.

Duration24 months full-time.

Entry requirementsApplicants must (i) hold a medical or dental qualification recognised by the UK General Medical/DentalCouncil, (ii) must have held thisqualification for at least three years by the date of submission, and (iii) must be employed during theirperiod of registration in appropriateclinical or scientific work in hospitalsor institutions (associated with the University) within the local NHS region.


AssessmentOriginal research and thesis, viva voce.

Further informationwww.lancs.ac.uk/fhm/study/doctoral_study/md

The Doctor of Medicine degreescheme provides opportunities for clinically qualified candidates to undertake a two year Doctoral level research project at Lancaster.

Our links with the Lancaster MedicalSchool and many NHS trusts providea wide range of opportunities formedically related research. You will be supervised by a clinical supervisorand a member of academic staff inBiomedical and Life Sciences or theMedical School.

124/125Faculty of Health and Medicine – Biomedical and Life SciencesFor more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk

Neurodegenerative Disease and Ageing: our research aims to understand the probable linkbetween protein accumulationand nerve cell damage. We are also working to develop improvedmethods for the early diagnosis and treatment of these diseases,including the development ofbiomarkers and protein aggregationinhibitors.

Specific research inNeurodegenerative Disease and Ageing includes: unusual protein deposits that accumulate in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease,Parkinson’s disease, and otherneurodegenerative conditions; therole of copper and the proteolyticprocessing of certain key proteinsinvolved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease;disorders of brain development, forexample hydrocephalus, and the roleof cerebrospinal fluid in normal andabnormal development of the braincortex; the basic mechanisms thatcause ageing and the genetic andenvironmental factors determininglifespan; developing biologicalmarkers to monitor healthy ageingand age related diseases; the role of insulin/IGF-like signalling in central nervous system ageing, with particular emphasis on agerelated cognitive health and lifespan;and, the manipulation of candidategenes to extend healthy lifespan.

Our research interestsCancer Biology: a particular focus of our research is carcinogenesisinduced by UV, ionising radiation and chemicals, and the molecularmechanisms of leukaemogenesis.

Specific staff research projectsinclude: the fundamentalmechanisms of homologousrecombination and base excisionrepair employed by human cells to repair DNA damage; how DNA is replicated in mammalian cells –since failure to regulate this processleads to mutation and chromosomeabnormalities associated withcancer; the identification ofdifferences between mechanismsregulating DNA replication incancerous cells and normal tissues,leading to new therapeutic targets;cell cycle control and protein functionin model organisms such as yeastand Xenopus cell free egg extract.

Other projects include cellular and molecular mechanisms of the cannabinoid system ingastrointestinal epithelium and thetranslational aspects of realising the therapeutic potential ofcannabinoids in diseases such asCrohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer; understandingthe mechanisms of intestinalepithelial cell (IEC) renewal and repair,focusing on the role of suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS-3) in controlling IEC homeostasis; how bacterial signals may be linked to the dysregulation of IEC repairseen in inflammatory bowel disease and cancer; models of IEC barrierregulation in Drosophila in order tostudy age related changes in IECfunction in vivo; and the role of adistintegrin and metalloproteinases(ADAMs) proteases in relation to cell proliferation and differentiation.

Microbiology and Parasitology: we host an expanding molecularparasitology group within Biomedicaland Life Sciences.

Particular staff interests include: the haemoflagellate parasitesresponsible for the neglected tropical disease leishmaniasis, theirinsect vectors and the developmentof tools to control this spectrum ofdiseases; the interaction betweenPhlebotomine sand fly vectors andLeishmania parasites; the Africantrypanosome T. brucei, which is apathogen of major veterinary andmedical importance in Sub-SaharanAfrica – and cell division processes in this flagellated protozoan parasitewith the aim of identifying newchemotherapeutic approaches for controlling sleeping sickness.

Other projects include the interfacebetween biology and chemistry and how to translate advances inbasic biological knowledge into the development of novel drugs against these major pathogens;trypanosomatid parasites and how these organisms modulatemetabolic activities in order tocomplete their complex life cyclewithin the nutritionally differentenvironments encountered in themammalian host and the insectvector; the role of non-tubercularmycobacteria in human disease and environmental routes throughwhich humans are exposed to thesebacterial pathogens – and the role of Mycobacterium avium subspeciesparatuberculosis in Crohn’s disease,and possibly in irritable bowelsyndrome; interactions betweenbacteria and protozoa (particularlyamoebae); and the roles of iontransport proteins in fungal cellbiology in order to further understandthe contribution of plasma membraneion channel proteins to cell growthand development.

Medical Cell Biology: our research interests include: the eyeand improving treatment for cornealdiseases and projects involving theex vivo expansion and transplantationof corneal stem cells for clinical use; and, the structure and functionof glycoproteins and proteoglycans in order to acquire a greaterunderstanding of proteoglycaninvolvement in a variety of diseaseprocesses including the developmentof osteoarthritis, neurodegenerativedisease and vision impairment.

The Drosophila group studies thedevelopmental genetics of Drosophilamelanogaster, with a particularinterest in peptide hormone andneuropeptide metabolism; and, therole of angiotensin-converting enzymehomologues in spermatogenesisand in sleep regulation.

Other projects include: the dynamicsof ageing in the cardiovascularsystem; non-invasive monitoring of blood flow and a detailedunderstanding of some of thecomponents that contribute to this dynamic process; and, thephysiology of the gastrointestinalepithelium, including experimentalmodels of how the gut functions inhealth and disease and how drugsmight impact on these functions.

Professor David AllsopBiomedical and Life Sciences

My research is concernedwith the mechanism

of formation and deposition of protein aggregates inneurodegenerative diseases, and on the potential relationshipbetween protein aggregation,neurodegeneration and cell loss. I am very interested in novelapproaches to improveddiagnosis and therapy of thesediseases, and have been able to establish links with industrialcollaborators in these areas.

In Biomedical and Life Scienceswe are responsible for the co-ordination of biomedicalresearch activities and strategy at Lancaster University andresearch into a diverse range of topics such as cancer biology, neurodegenerativedisease, microbiology, cell biology and biochemistry andreproductive immunology.

For more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk 126/127Faculty of Health and Medicine – Biomedical and Life Sciences

MSc in BiomedicineDirector of StudiesDr Nigel Fullwood.


Entry requirementsAt least a second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in an appropriate subject.


AssessmentCombination of coursework,presentations, examinations and dissertation.


The MSc in Biomedicine provides you with the opportunity to acquire a greater understanding of practicaland theoretical biomedical science at a leading university in this field.

The course provides the knowledgeand skills required for subsequentprogression to PhD study, a career inbiomedical/pharmaceutical research(industry or university based) orhospital-based employment. Ourscheme provides focus on, andtraining within, several ‘hot’ topics in biomedicine, while still retainingelements of flexibility and choice.

Compulsory modulesResearch Techniques

Supervised Research Project (six months)

Optional modulesEmerging Therapeutics in Immunology

Drug Discovery and Development

Models of Disease

Immunology

Microbes and Disease

Molecular Basis of Cancer

In addition you can choose from a variety of other biomedical modules offered within Biology,Health, Physics and Maths.

MSc in MedicalBiotechnology and LeadershipDirector of StudiesDr Nigel Fullwood.


Entry requirementsAt least a second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in anappropriate subject.


AssessmentCombination of coursework,presentations, examinations and dissertation.


This innovative and multidisciplinaryMSc programme offers advancedknowledge of the biomedicaltechnologies essential for thediscovery and validation of the next generation of medicines,diagnostics and devices.

It is designed for students wanting to combine research skills andproject management with anunderstanding of the commercialexploitation of research. Casestudies from industrial and clinicalexperts – along with advanced topicsin emerging therapeutics – will beapplied to an extended researchproject. This project will includepractical skills and the developmentof management and leadershipcompetencies, which are importantfor careers in translationalbiomedicine.

The programme is collaborativelydelivered by the Division of Biomedicaland Life Sciences and CETAD.

Compulsory modulesResearch Techniques


Leadership and Team Strategies

Project Management

Supervised Research Project (six months)

Optional modulesOne module from a range ofbiomedical-related options

Taught programmes

Key factSince 2001, members of the Division have publishedover 200 peer-reviewedpapers and won over £4m in competitive researchgrants from agencies such as research councils, The Wellcome Trust andother medical charities,the pharmaceutical industry and various other organisations.

Taught programmesMA in Developing ProfessionalPractice

MA in Developing ProfessionalPractice (Health Care)

MA in Developing ProfessionalPractice in Management

MA in Developing ProfessionalPractice in Management(Health Care)

MSc in Medical Leadership viaNegotiated Work Based Learning

PgCert in Applied Bioscienceand Business Management

PgCert in BusinessManagement with Energy and Fuels from Waste

PgCert in Medical Leadership

PgCert in OrganisationalChange

PgCert in OrganisationalChange (Health Care)

PgCert in Leadership andManagement

PgCert in Leadership andManagement (Health Care)

PgCert in ProfessionalDevelopment

PgCert in Professional Practicevia Negotiated Work BasedLearning

PgDip in Professional Practicevia Negotiated Work BasedLearning

MA/MSc in ProfessionalPractice via Negotiated WorkBased Learning


Head of DivisionJane O’Brien

Postgraduate enquiriesTel: +44 (0)1524 593 318Email: [email protected]

128/129Faculty of Health and Medicine – Centre for Education, Training and Development (CETAD)

We deliver relevant knowledge andskills that can be applied directly tothe workplace and so provide a returnon investment for both individualsand organisations. All of our coursesare designed and delivered to suit our students’ needs and the needs of their organisation.

The focus is on application oflearning at work so our tutors are also practitioners who have workbased experience and can relate‘theory to practice’. Our core valuesare quality and customer service.

We understand the needs of matureexperienced learners, who may nothave studied for a while, so we providehigh levels of individual support and at every stage our ‘students’ are treated as valued customers.

We offer courses in a range of areasincluding: Professional Development,Leadership and ManagementDevelopment, Learning andDevelopment. We also offer theNational Professional Qualification in Integrated Centre Leadership.

Centre for Education, Trainingand Development (CETAD)CETAD is a specialist work based learning centre within the Faculty of Health and Medicine. Since 1990 we’ve beenproviding high quality work based learning programmes for public, private and voluntary sectors.

We also offer Negotiated Work Based Learning. This is an exciting,new and innovative work based routeto postgraduate qualifications forexperienced professionals. It allowsyou to build your own programmebased on your specific needs and the needs of your organisation. You negotiate your own programmewith us and your employer basedaround projects at work. It is highlycustomised, relevant and flexible and enables you to: gain academiccredits for professional experience,learning and achievement(Accreditation of Prior Learning);develop, by building your programmearound specific objectives andprojects at work; negotiatetimescales, target qualifications(Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma,MA/MSc) and ultimately applypostgraduate level learning directly to real work agendas.

For more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk

MA in DevelopingProfessional Practice

MA in DevelopingProfessional Practice(Health Care)Director of StudiesLesley Mayne.

Duration24 months part-time.

Entry requirementsCompleted application form, a 500word statement and recommendationfrom your line manager. We may askyou to undertake a pre-entryassessment. We also offeraccreditation of prior learning (APL)both certificated and experiential.


AssessmentCoursework including learningcontracts, project proposals, reports, reflective commentary and oral presentation.

Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/cetad

The aim of both of theseprogrammes is to enhance yourunderstanding of change theoriesand increase your ability to apply this knowledge to real work issues.The focus in Year 1 is on the drivers for organisational change, strategiesfor implementing change, and theevaluation of change.

The programmes are structuredaround eight taught modules: six in Year 1 and two in Year 2, includingthe written submission of a workbased project.

Online materials are used plus 17 day sessions at LancasterUniversity (or your workplace forcohorts from the same organisation).

Completion of part 1 can lead to a Postgraduate Certificate inOrganisational Change, or can lead onto part 2 (see Work BasedProjects, page 130).

Taught programmes

As the MA was entirely work based it was extremely useful in planninga strategy to drive the firm forward and having an academic background toplanning has made a big difference.Ed Fletcher, Solicitor

130/131

The programme is structured around eight taught modules: six in Year 1 and two in Year 2,including the written submission of a work based project. The courseuses online materials plus 19sessions at Lancaster University (or your workplace for cohorts from the same organisation).Completion of part 1 can lead to a Postgraduate Certificate inManagement, or can lead onto part 2.

Work based projectsPart 2 for all MA variants consists of two modules:

Designing the work based project

Implementing the work basedproject

Your work based project topic isdecided with your employer via alearning contract. Following a moduleon how to design work based projectsyou’ll undertake the project itself.

Because it has been developed in partnership between you, youremployer and the University, yourproject will ensure that your ownprofessional development needs, the organisational needs of youremployer, and the requirements of the University are all met.

Your project is written up in the form of a dissertation.

MSc in Medical Leadershipvia Negotiated Work BasedLearningDirector of StudiesJan Metcalfe.

DurationNegotiable.

Entry requirementsCompleted Postgraduate Certificatein Medical Leadership.


AssessmentCoursework, including learningcontracts, project proposals, reports, reflective commentary, and oral presentation.


This programme comprises four components:

Module (Self Review andProgramme Planning)

Reflect and review your priorlearning

Further develop your work basedlearning and study skills

Plan your future development.Agree your Masters programmetaking account of your personaland professional needs and thoseof your organisation. This includesspecifying any topic modules and outlining your proposed work based project

Module (Work Based Research Methods)Equipping you with the knowledgeand skills needed to design and carry out your work based project.

Module (Work Based Project)You design and implement a workbased investigative project with the aim to deliver improvements to patient services and experiences.This includes a statement of what the project is about, a rationale andcontextualising information, detailsabout the methods used and ananalysis of the findings.

Optional modulesOptional topic modules in line with the GMC’s Leadership andManagement for all Doctors 2012 are available.

PgCert in MedicalLeadership Director of StudiesJan Metcalfe.




MA in DevelopingProfessional Practice in Management

MA in DevelopingProfessional Practice inManagement (Health Care)Director of StudiesLesley Mayne.




AssessmentCoursework, including learningcontracts, project proposals, reports, reflective commentary and oral presentation.


The aim of this programme is to enhance your understanding of leadership and managementtheories and to increase your ability to apply this knowledge to real work issues.




This programme is designed to develop your knowledge,understanding and skills in line with the Medical LeadershipCompetency Framework. The course is interactive, participatoryand work based requiring just sixdays attendance alongside on-linelearning activities. The programme is structured to encourage personalleadership development and so can benefit doctors at every stage of their career.

The programme is for you if you are interested in improving patientexperience and service delivery,demonstrating caring,compassionate and authenticleadership and developing your own leadership capacity in order to achieve and evidence medical and organisational impact.

Participants accommodate theprogramme alongside their otherprofessional responsibilities.Individual modules are separatelyrecognised and enrolled participantswill be able to complete even if theyrelocate away from the area. Eachmodule requires two separate days’attendance, as well as associatedreading and assignment work.

ModulesIntroduction to Medical Leadership

Collaborative and Team Working

The Role of Doctors in HealthService Change

If you wish to progress with yourstudies by completing a work based leadership project you havethe opportunity to gain an MSc inMedical Leadership.

Taught programmes continued

Faculty of Health and Medicine – Centre for Education, Training and Development (CETAD)

132/133

Modules are offered in three groups: Bioscience, Business andManagement Skills, and GenericSkills. Students must achieve tencredits from Group A and ten creditsfrom Group B. The remaining 40credits can be accumulated by takingmodules from any of the Groups – A, B or C to a total credit value of 60.

Bioscience (Group A)Applied Mathematics andStatistics for the Biomedical Sector

Cell Biology Research Skills

Diseases of the Brain


Ethics Research Skills

Immunology

Laboratory Practice: EssentialPractical Skills and Techniques

Models of Disease

Molecular Basis of Cancer

Molecular Biology Research Skills

The Biomedical Sector: Regulatoryand Ethical Frameworks

Business and Management (Group B)

Analysing Drivers for Change

Entrepreneurial Skills

Leading and Managing People

Leading Others Through Change

Leading Projects

The Biomedical Sector in Context and Emerging Trends

Leadership and Management

The Commercial BusinessEnvironment – StrategicPerspectives

Work Based Project (ActionResearch)

Core Skills (Group C)Communication and Presentation Skills

Creative Thinking and Problem Solving

Developing as an IndependentLearner

Personal Effectiveness and Team Working

PgCert in BusinessManagement with Energyand Fuels from WasteDirector of StudiesLesley Harper.

Duration12 months.

Entry requirementsYou will need work experience in the sector. We do not recognise prior learning and experience; thereare no formal entry requirements.


AssessmentAssessments are based on applyingyour learning to your work basedactivities.


This programme will allow you to gain a thorough understanding of the waste to energy sector and tobecome familiar with all relevant UK and EU regulations underpinningwaste management, renewableenergy generation and biofuels. Youwill also acquire a comprehensiveknowledge of available technologiesfor fuel production and energygeneration from waste and will beequipped to design and implementenvironmental managementsystems and environmentalmonitoring programmes for waste to energy schemes.

You will combine this knowledge andunderstanding with that of businessand people management and will beable to consider how best to developand deploy staff in order to meet thechanging needs of your businessalongside developing the teamworkand communication skills necessaryto enhance your businesscollaborations. You will also have theopportunity to select modules from arange of options related to business,management, leadership and energyand therefore tailor your programmeto suit your needs.


PgCert in AppliedBioscience and Business ManagementDirector of StudiesLesley Harper.


Entry requirementsCompleted application form, a 500word statement and recommendationfrom your line manager. We may ask you to undertake a pre-entryassessment. We also offeraccreditation of prior learning (APL)both certificated and experiential.




This programme offers professionaldevelopment to those in theBiomedical sector.

Newly qualified graduates in their first year of employment, especiallythose from a scientific background,may benefit from the more genericmodules such as Management and Leadership. In addition, some of the modules may act as‘conversion courses’ eg a Chemistrygraduate may undertake a module in Molecular Biology.

This work based scheme is also suitable for experienced mid-career professionals, includingthose without a first degree.

PgCert in Organisational Change

PgCert in OrganisationalChange (Health Care)Director of StudiesJan Metcalfe.






The programme is suitable for mid-career professionals responsiblefor influencing policy and/or practicewithin their own organisation. The aim is to enhance your understandingof change theories and to increaseyour ability to apply this knowledge to real work issues.

Completion of part 1 can: lead to a Postgraduate Certificate in Organisational Change; aPostgraduate Certificate inOrganisational Change (Health Care); year two of the MA inDeveloping Professional Practice; or the MA in Developing ProfessionalPractice (Health Care).

The course is structured around six taught modules


Learning Contract and PersonalDevelopment Planning

Models for Planning and Managing Change

Leading Others through Change

Evaluating Change




Completion of part 1 can: lead to a Postgraduate Certificate inLeadership and Management; a Postgraduate Certificate inLeadership and Management (Health Care); year two of the MA in Developing Professional Practicein Management; or the MA inDeveloping Professional Practice in Management (Health Care).

The course is structured around six taught modules

Understanding Leadership and Management


Action Research

Leading and Managing People

Collaborative and Team Working


PgCert in ProfessionalDevelopmentDirector of StudiesLesley Harper.

DurationPart-time with up to 60 months to complete.

Entry requirementsThere are no formal entryrequirements and we recognise prior learning and experience. We also offer accreditation of priorlearning (APL) both certificated and experiential.


AssessmentAssessments are based on applyingyour learning to work based activitiesso they are highly relevant and useful,and there are no exams.


This programme enables you to choose modules from a choice of options in line with yourprofessional development needs.Modules are in subject areas such as leadership and management,developing and supporting othersand self-development. Modules are ten credits so you will choose six modules in order to achieve the qualification. You can start byundertaking one module and returnlater to build into a qualification, oryou can enrol for the qualification atthe outset. The ‘step-on, step-off’nature of the qualification means thatyou can pace your study to suit yourown work/life balance.

Each module enables you to learn key concepts, ideas, tools andtechniques to apply at work. Themodules minimise time off work and provide a mix of face-to-facesessions and interactive web-basedlearning. Taught by supportiveUniversity staff with work basedexperience, you will also benefit by networking and learning fromother professionals. Assessmentsare work based so are highly relevantand useful.

Progression routes to PostgraduateDiploma and Masters Degree areavailable via Negotiated Work BasedLearning.

PgCert in ProfessionalPractice via NegotiatedWork Based Learning

PgDip in ProfessionalPractice via NegotiatedWork Based Learning

MA/MSc in ProfessionalPractice via NegotiatedWork Based LearningDirector of StudiesLesley Mayne.

DurationNegotiable.





PgCert in Leadership and Management

PgCert in Leadership andManagement (Health Care)Director of StudiesJan Metcalfe.






By enhancing your understanding of leadership and managementtheories and increasing your ability to apply this knowledge to real workissues, the course is suitable forthose in management roles withsufficient autonomy and/or seniormanagement support and access to resources to undertake projectsimpacting on your own and others’professional practice.

This programme comprises four components:

Module (Self Review and Programme Planning)

Reflect and review your prior learning

Further develop your work basedlearning and study skills

Plan your future development.Agree a postgraduate programmetaking account of your personaland professional needs and thoseof your organisation. This includesspecifying any topic modules thatyou wish to undertake and outliningyour work based project

If you wish to claim credit for prior learning and experience thenalongside this module you preparean accreditation of prior learning(APL) claim to be awarded towards a postgraduate qualification

Topic modulesOptional topic modules are availablein a range of subject areas including:

Leadership and Management

Project Management

Organisational Change

Advanced Skills (communication,creative thinking and problemsolving)

As well as modules from Groups A, B and C of the PG Certificate inApplied Bioscience and BusinessManagement.

Module (Work Based Research Methods)Equipping you with the knowledgeand skills needed to design and carry out your work based project.

Module (Work Based Project)Project modules vary in sizedepending on the target award, i.e. Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma,or Masters Degree. You produce a work based project and a projectreport (includes a statement of whatthe project is about, a rationale andcontextualising information, detailsabout the methods used and ananalysis of the findings).

134/135For more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk


The course directly impacted on my work and as I progressed I could see a difference on a very practical level.Debbie Atkinson, Centre Manager


The Division exists to conduct high quality health-related research at Lancaster. In the most recentResearch Assessment Exercise(2008), 95% of the Division’s researchwas rated as being of internationalstanding. It brings together over 50 academic and research staffwhose research covers one or more of the following broad areas:ageing and palliative and end of life care, mental health andorganisational well-being, publichealth, health equity, disability studies and health economics.

Our staff are committed toundertaking a wide range of scholarly,research and education activitiesthat generate new knowledge,services and products in order to meet society’s current and future needs. Our expertise andcontribution lies specifically aroundimproved health, well-being andsafety for individuals, enhancing the skills of a wide range of people,both lay and professional, in providingservices, and their wider environments.This leads more broadly to enhancedhuman capital either for individualsand/or organisations and services in the public and private sector.

Close links exist with other universitydepartments addressing areas ofhealth research, including: Sociology,Lancaster Environment Centre,Psychology, Linguistics, ManagementScience, Organisation, Work andTechnology and the Centre forGender and Women’s Studies.

Research degreesMPhil/PhD in Health ResearchDirector of PostgraduateResearch StudiesProfessor Carol Thomas.

Entry requirementsApplicants should hold an uppersecond class honours degree, or itsequivalent, in an appropriate subject.


AssessmentModule coursework (if appropriate).Original research and thesis.

Research degreesMPhil/PhD in Health Research

Doctoral degrees(blended learning)

PhD in Mental Health

PhD in Organisational Health and Well-Being

PhD in Palliative Care

PhD in Public Health

Professional doctoratesDoctorate in ClinicalPsychology (DClinPsy)

Integrated degrees (1+3) MRes in Health and Well-Being/PhD in HealthResearch (via NWDTC funded 1+3 option)


Head of DivisionProfessor Susan Cartwright

Postgraduate enquiriesDirector of PostgraduateResearch Studies: Professor Carol ThomasTel: +44 (0)1524 593 936Email: [email protected]/fhm/dhr

DClinPsy enquiriesEmail: [email protected]

136/137Faculty of Health and Medicine – Health Research

Health ResearchThe Division of Health Research (DHR) conducts, representsand promotes health-related research at Lancaster University and works closely with external individuals and organisationsinvolved in health research, development and implementation.


FundingResearch Councils (see NWDTCpage 12), Lancaster University, and Charities.

Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm

Applications are welcomed for PhDand MPhil degrees, traditional orblended learning Doctoral degrees in any of our main research areas.

As a research student, you will bedirectly involved in the mainstreamresearch of the Faculty. You will receivespecialised training relevant to yourresearch topic and methodology. Youwill be encouraged to take part in arange of more generic courses suchas teaching skills, statistical methodsand computing.

You will also be encouraged to attendand present lectures and posters at conferences both within the UKand overseas; recent students haveattended conferences in the USA andAustralia as well as mainland Europe.

For an integrated degree (1+3)MRes/PhD study option, please seeour listing for the NWDTC fundedstudentship in Health and Well-being.

My experience of undertaking a PhD programme in the Division of HealthResearch was a pleasant and enjoyable one – but of course a lot of hard work. The workload was however lightened by the invaluablehelp and support from the staff.Dr Alfred Banya (PhD)

138/139Faculty of Health and Medicine – Health Research


AssessmentCombination of taught models,original research and thesis.


The doctorate in OrganisationalHealth and Well-Being is suited to individuals currently working, or aspiring to work, in the area oforganisational health and well-being,health and safety and occupationalhealth. The programme developsyour knowledge and understandingof the psychological, social andorganisational aspects of thedynamic relationship between work and health.

It is aimed at individuals workingacross public, private and voluntarysectors interested in the promotionand creation of healthy work placesincluding: human resource managers,occupational health practitioners,health care workers, health andsafety representatives, applied/organisational psychologists.

The specialist taught modulesaddress the interaction between the work environment and health,organisational change anddevelopment.

PhD in Palliative CareDirector of StudiesDr Sarah Brearley.

Duration48-84 months part-time.

Entry requirementsAn upper second class honoursdegree, in an appropriate subject, and relevant work experience.


AssessmentCombination of taught modules,original research and thesis.


The PhD in Palliative Care providesopportunities for people working in palliative, hospice and end of lifecare, in the UK and internationally, to undertake advanced study. Theaim is to create leaders in palliativecare, promote the development ofadvanced knowledge and practice,develop critical understanding ofpolicy and practice, and enhancescholarship and research skills.

The specialist taught modules focuson the policy and practice of palliativecare nationally and globally.


Programme structureThe following PhD programmescomprise two years of taughtmodules, delivered predominantly by distance e-learning, alongside one residential week per year atLancaster University.

Years three and five are spentundertaking a research project and thesis (35,000 words) at yourown location, with supervision from Lancaster.

PhD in Mental HealthDirector of StudiesDr Alyson Dodd.





Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/study/doctoral_study/phd/mental_health

The PhD in Mental Health providesopportunities for professionalsworking within the field of mentalhealth, in the UK and internationally, to gain a deeper and more criticalinsight into their practice, whetherthey are based within healthcaresettings, local government, education,research or management.

This programme meets the needs of mental health professionalswishing to enhance their researchskills, develop their understanding of theory, policy and practice, andmake an original contribution toknowledge development within theirfield, while at the same time fulfillingtheir existing responsibilities.

The specialist taught modulesinclude both the theory and practiceof mental health (psychosocialmodels of psychological disorders,evidence-based interventions andcurrent priorities for mental health).

PhD in OrganisationalHealth and Well-BeingDirector of StudiesDr Alison Collins.



Doctoral degrees (blended learning; coursework and thesis)PhD in Public Health Director of StudiesDr Paula Holland.






The PhD in Public Health providesopportunities for professionalsworking within the field of publichealth, in the UK and internationally, to gain a deeper and more criticalinsight into their practice, whetherthey are based within healthcaresettings, within local government,education, research or management.

This programme meets the needs of public health professionals wishing to enhance their research skills,develop their understanding of policy and practice, and make an original contribution to knowledgedevelopment within their field, while at the same time fulfilling their existing responsibilities.

The specialist taught modulesinclude both the theory and practiceof public health (health protection,health promotion and policy).

140/141Faculty of Health and Medicine – Health ResearchFor more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk

Doctorate in ClinicalPsychology (DClinPsy)Course DirectorsDr Anna Daiches (Clinical Director) andDr Jane Simpson (Research Director).


Application procedureVia the national clearing house(www.leeds.ac.uk/chpccp).

Entry requirementsFirst degree in Psychology, or an equivalent qualification whichconfers eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society (at time of application). Applicantsmust do well in written testassignments before being invited to interview (see website).

IELTS7.0 (or a ToEFL Score of 93) or equivalent.

AssessmentPlacement, presentations andreports, essays and critical reviews,service-related project, thesis, and clinical competence.

Financial supportParticipants are employed as trainee clinical psychologists on athree-year training contract with theLancashire Care Foundation NHSTrust (conditions of service apply).Placements may involve extensivetravelling as a result of the location or the nature of services provided;assistance with travel andsubsistence expenses is provided.

Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/study/doctoral_study/dclinpsy/new

Our aim in training is to strike abalance between the interests of the individual trainee, formalprofessional training requirements,academic requirements appropriatefor a doctoral level qualification, andthe broader and developing needs of a clinical psychologist within theNational Health Service.

Academic structureThe formal academic programme is organised on the basis of (at least)one full day teaching per week. Inaddition, trainees normally receiveone full day per week for study and research time. There are ninecurriculum strands which run throughthe three years of the programme:theory to practice, transferableclinician skills, personal developmentand reflection, physical and cognitivedevelopment across the lifespan,critical and community psychology,research, professional issues,assessment and quality assurance.

Clinical structureClinical placements are undertakenthroughout the three years. Normally,all trainees undertake the samesequence of placements at the same time. It is anticipated thatclinical training will start with aplacement working with children and families, followed by work withadults, then older adults, and finallypeople with learning disabilities.

Each of the four placements lasts six months. In the third year, traineesundertake a longer placement of eight to nine months’ duration.Course staff visit each supervisorand trainee during placements to discuss progress.

Assessed workOver the course of the three yearstrainees submit the following:

Two professional issuesassignments

Two placement presentations and reports

One critical review

ResearchTrainees are required to submit aservice-related project and a thesis.The thesis is undertaken throughoutthe second and third year of trainingand comprises:

An ethics committee researchproposal

A literature review, written inacademic journal format

A research paper describing the study, written in academicjournal format

A critical appraisal of the research project

Trainees are encouraged to submittheir work to appropriate academicjournals.

Development and supportThe course uses a number ofcomplementary support systems to facilitate trainees’ personal andprofessional development. Inaddition to supervision while onplacement (including visits fromclinical tutors) and informal peersupport, there are bi-annual traineeprogress reviews held with eachtrainee’s research and clinical tutors.

The review process provides anopportunity to discuss progress and your individual training needs.The support scheme also offerscontinuity of contact with twomembers of the course team overthe three years of training. All traineesare invited to take advantage of amentor system, in which all mentorsare local clinical psychologists. Thereis also the opportunity to access alimited number of cognitive analyticaldevelopmental sessions.

Professional Doctorate

142/143Faculty of Health and Medicine – Health ResearchFor more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk

MRes in Health and Well-Being/PhD in Health ResearchDirector of StudiesProfessor Carol Thomas.

Duration48 full-time.

Entry requirementsAn upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in an appropriate subject.


AssessmentMRes:Coursework and exam. PhD:Original research and thesis.

FundingEconomic and Social ResearchCouncil (see NWTDC page 12).

Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/dhr

If you are successful in applying to the NWDTC for a 1+3 PhDstudentship, you will take an MRes in Health and Well-Being in Year 1before progressing to three yearsstudy at PhD level. Please contact theDepartment for further informationon this option.

Integrated degrees (1+3)Within Health Research we undertakeresearch in the following areas:ageing and palliative and end of life care, mental health andorganisational well-being, publichealth, health equity, disability studies and health economics.

Ageing research:The Centre for Ageing Research is aninterdisciplinary centre of socialscientists, scientists and biomedics.We work around the broad themes of: older people and newtechnologies, care of older people,health and their environment, mental health and mental well-beingamongst older people, healthyageing; and understanding normalageing processes.

Palliative and end of life careresearch:The InternationalObservatory on End of Life Care was established in 2003. As amultidisciplinary team we conductresearch on: patient and carerexperiences; symptom management;evaluations of service configurationsand models; public and professionalengagement.

Mental health research:The Spectrum Centre for MentalHealth Research, was established inFebruary 2008. We conduct researchto develop, test, disseminate andimplement clinically effectivepsychosocial interventions formental health problems. The Centrehas a major focus on translationalresearch into psychosocialinterventions to improve clinicaloutcomes for people with bipolardisorder. Other research we undertakefocuses on abnormal psychology,emotional and cognitive disorders.

Organisational health and well-being:we develop researchregarding the evidence base ofworkplace stress and well-being toaddress how health and well-beingcontributes to business performance.

Public health and health equityresearch:we focus on healthinequalities and equity issues looking specifically at macro-socialdeterminants of health and healthinequity. Our research is structuredaround the following themes:understanding pathways from thewider social determinants of health tohealth (in)equity; evaluating complexarea based interventions, publicpolicies, and natural experiments;evaluating action to promotecommunity/public empowerment;and developing and evaluatingmethods for effective knowledgeexchange with public health policymakers and practitioners.

Our research interestsDisability Studies: The Centre for Disability Research is a specialistresearch grouping that promotes andconducts high quality interdisciplinaryresearch and research-led teachingabout disability. We have specific foci around disability studies andlearning disabilities.

Health Economics: our currentresearch includes work on efficiencyand productivity measurement;economic determinants of health;quality of life; health econometrics;economic evaluation of interventions;the economics of prevention, primaryand public health; and healtheconomics applied in less developedand middle income countries.

MPhil/PhD in MedicineDirector of StudiesProfessor Colin Ockleford.

Entry requirementsAn upper second class honoursdegree, or its equivalent, in anappropriate subject and an interest in pursuing medical research at advanced level.



Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/study andwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/med/research

A wide variety of medical andclinically applied research projects can be undertaken with the Lancaster Medical School. Weoffer a range of opportunities foradvanced postgraduate study withexperienced supervisors in areasincluding: medical education;epidemiology; reproductivepathology; social studies of scienceand technology in clinical practice;qualitative methods in healthresearch; cellular responses to DNA damage; musculoskeletalmedicine; degenerative conditions in bone and medical ethics.

Research degreesMPhil/PhD in Medicine

MSc (Research) in MedicalSciences

PhD in Statistics andEpidemiology

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

Taught programmesPgCert in Clinical Research

MSc in Clinical Research


Head of SchoolProfessor Anne Garden

Postgraduate enquiriesDirector of Postgraduate Studies:Professor Colin OcklefordTel: +44 (0)1524 593 936Email: [email protected]/fhm/med

144/145Faculty of Health and Medicine – Lancaster Medical School

While preserving traditionaldisciplinary strengths we bringtogether researchers from differentdisciplinary backgrounds. Modernapproaches to health and medicalresearch typically demand expertisefrom scientists with depth ofknowledge in a specific discipline. They also demand interaction withother specialties. This broadens thebackground understanding, ensuresthe work is well targeted anddevelops transferable teamworkskills. Lancaster University has manyareas of strength in research in healthand medicine. The Lancaster MedicalSchool acts as a catalyst to promoteinteractions and to enhance links with the NHS Trusts and to developtranslational research in the region.

Lancaster Medical School is thecoordinating unit for all medicaleducation activity across LancasterUniversity through its Centre forMedical Education; related researchstrengths are the sociology ofmedicine and medical education.

CHICAS (Combining HealthInformation, Computation andstatistics) is a high profile researchgroup with a focus on medicalstatistics and epidemiology, while the Development and Immunologygroup carries out translational andbasic biomedical bench research in collaboration with NHS staff andstaff in Biomedical and Life Sciences.The areas of strength include cancerresearch, reproductive pathologyand toxicology, diseases of theskeleton and infectious diseases.

Research in the Lancaster MedicalSchool is a lively, dynamic andgrowing aspect of our departmentalactivity. Our current postgraduatestudents are a vital part of our vibrant research culture and take part in seminars and postgraduatesymposia. There is a caring frameworkfor postgraduate training andsupervision in the School which isaimed at a high on-time completionrate for studies.

Lancaster Medical SchoolLancaster Medical School staff have a wide range of researchinterests including epidemiology, medical education as well as social science and biomedical science subjects applied to medicine.


Research degrees

Dr Maggie Mort Reader in Medicine

Dr Mort’s research interests liein the field of health science andtechnology. She was recentlyinvolved in ground breakingresearch conducted by theDivision of Health Research intothe human cost of the foot andmouth epidemic which hit the UK in 2001.

The research carried outby myself and colleagues

into the long term effects of thefoot and mouth crisis revealed the extent of the often untoldhuman story of the foot and mouthdisease epidemic. As a result ofour research we were able to makesuggestions as to how disasterplanning should be handled andimproved in the future.

146/147Faculty of Health and Medicine – Lancaster Medical SchoolFor more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk

MSc (Research) in Medical SciencesDirector of StudiesProfessor Colin Ockleford.

Duration12 months full-time, 24 months part-time. Undergraduate medicalstudents who are intercalating willstart on 1st September and submittheir thesis by 27th August; otherapplicants may take advantage of greater timetable flexibility.

Entry requirementsUndergraduate medical studentsintercalating between 4th and 5thyears of study require a top quartileoutcome in MBChB finals. Otherapplicants must hold an uppersecond class honours degree, or its equivalent, in a relevant subjectarea. Candidates with a lower secondclass degree may be invited tointerview to assess suitability.



Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/med

During the MSc (Research) you willundertake research training, a ninemonth research project with a threemonth write up of your dissertation,which will equip you for original workin your professional career andadvanced level clinical researchpositions with the NHS, governmentand charities. The course will train youto initiate medical sciences relatedresearch projects; to design, conductand report independent and originalresearch; to understand medicalsciences research areas; to criticallyevaluate relevant literature; to develop

problem solving skills; to analyseresearch data; to communicateeffectively the results of research andscholarship; to understand scholarlyconventions in the discipline area;and to have respect for intellectualintegrity and the ethics of research.

PhD Statistics and EpidemiologyDirector of StudiesProfessor Peter Diggle.

Entry requirementsAt least an upper second classhonours degree or its equivalent, with a substantial statistical and/or epidemiological component.



Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/med/research andwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/study

CHICAS (www.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/med/chicas) conducts research on the development of novelstatistical and epidemiologicalmethods and their applications. Themethodological strengths of staff arein spatial statistics and longitudinaldata analysis. The applied researchspans a wide range of clinical settingsboth in the UK and internationally with collaborations in Europe, Africa,North and South America.

Research topics can focus on eithermethodological development,substantive application, or a blend of the two. Students will be allocateda space in a shared office and will be encouraged to attend and makepresentations at scientific meetingsboth within the UK and overseas.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)Director of StudiesProfessor Colin Ockleford.


Entry requirementsApplicants must (i) hold a medical or dental qualification recognised by the UK General Medical/DentalCouncil, (ii) must have held thisqualification for at least three years by the date of submission, and (iii) must be employed during theirperiod of registration in appropriateclinical or scientific work in hospitalsor institutions (associated with the University) within the local NHS region.


AssessmentOriginal research and thesis, viva voce.

Further informationwww.lancs.ac.uk/shm/study/doctoral_study/md

The Doctor of Medicine degreescheme provides opportunities for clinically qualified candidates to undertake a two year full-timeDoctoral level research project atLancaster (or part-time pro-rata).

Our links with many NHS trustsprovide a wide range of opportunitiesfor medically related research. You willbe supervised by a clinical supervisorand a member of academic staff inBiomedical and Life Sciences or theMedical School.

Research in the School spansmedical education, social science,medical science, epidemiology, andstatistics. Research is undertaken in collaboration with the Divisions of Health Research and Biomedical and Life Sciences, other Lancasterdepartments, and a range of nationaland international research partners.

Within the medical educationarea, our research interests include:quality assurance in medicaleducation, professionalism inmedicine, innovation in medicaleducation and admissions, publichealth and medical education, andmedical education e-learning.

In social sciencestudies we focus on: medical ethics, science andtechnology in clinical practice,disaster and recovery, health policyand politics, and the use of qualitativemethods in health research. Recentprojects include an interdisciplinaryevaluation of the natural and societaleffectiveness of containmentstrategies for animal diseases, the health and social consequencesof the 2001 UK foot and mouthepidemic (acquired and archived by ESRC as a ‘classic study’),understanding expertise inanaesthesia, and the socialconstruction of evaluation intelemedicine and telehealth care.

In the medical sciences, our currentareas of research include: cellular andimmuno-pathology of the materno-fetal interaction, immunology ofreproduction, musculo-skeletaldisease, DNA damage and repair.

Recent projects include:Diagnosis of arthritis in the knee

Development of the costamere in dystrophic muscle

The role of the innate immunesystem’s CD56-positive NK cells in recurrent miscarriage

The allo-epi-endothelium of thehuman placenta, and the pathologyof pre-eclampsia

Our current biostatistical andepidemiological research topicsinclude: spatial and longitudinal data analysis, environmental andtropical disease.

Recent projects include:The risk of childhood cancer fromliving near high voltage power linesand the effects on soldiers of takingpart in chemical weapons tests

Disease risk-mapping for the African Programme forOnchocerciasis Control (APOC)

Forecasting and control strategiesfor meningitis epidemics in Sub-Saharan Africa

Exposure measurement and modelling for studies ofenvironmental determinants of disease

Early detection of incipient kidneyfailure in primary care patients

The integration of statistical models with geographicalinformation systems for real-timeepidemiological applications

Our research interestsResearch degrees continued

148/149Faculty of Health and Medicine – Lancaster Medical SchoolFor more information please go to www.lancaster.ac.uk

PgCert in Clinical ResearchDirector of StudiesDr Sally Spencer.

Duration12 months (600 learning hours in total).

Entry requirementsFirst degree in a relevant subject,applicants with relevant professionalexperience and without a first degreeshould contact the Course Director.


AssessmentCoursework.

Further informationwww.lancs.ac.uk/fhm/med/prospective_students

The purpose of the programme is to provide an introduction to the coreknowledge and skills that form thefoundations of clinical research. It isaimed at doctors, health practitionersand healthcare scientists activelyengaged in research or thoseplanning a future career in research.The programme:

Introduces students to theconcept, definition, generation anddissemination of evidence-basedclinical research

Equips health professionals with an in-depth understanding of theskills and processes required toeffectively support healthcareinnovation across a wide range of health settings

Draws upon the breadth ofinterdisciplinary research skills and internationally-recognisedresearch expertise housed withinthe Faculty of Health and Medicine,complemented by specialist NHSknowledge and experience

Successful completion of theprogramme will enable professionals to:

Participate in research projects,new initiatives and related activitiesto advance local research practice

Support further development ofNHS capability for research

Integrate and utilise researchknowledge to enhance the qualityof their professional practice

ModulesThe programme is delivered throughnine face-to-face contact days overone year. Students who wish toextend their level of study may, oncompletion of the PostgraduateCertificate, progress to registrationon the MSc in Clinical Research.

The overall programme comprisesthree modules (60 credits):

Essential Tools for ClinicalResearch

Governance and Managementof Clinical Research

Turning Research Evidence intoHealthcare Policy and Practice

Taught programmes MSc in Clinical ResearchDirector of StudiesDr Sally Spencer.

DurationThree years minimum, part-time(1,800 learning hours in total).

Entry requirementsFirst degree in a relevant subject.


AssessmentCoursework and practice-baseddissertation.

Further informationwww.lancaster.ac.uk/fhm/med

The MSc in Clinical Research hasbeen designed, in consultation withNHS Partners, to meet the needs of practitioners and staff working inthe NHS to ensure its relevance andvalue to NHS health professionals.

The programme builds on theintroduction to clinical research in the Postgraduate Certificate,developing and undertaking applied clinical research within an NHS organisational context. The programme:

Addresses the complete cycle ofclinical research, from identifyingresearch questions, and designingand managing research studies,through to translating researchfindings into professional practice

Enables health professionals to lead the development, delivery and translation of clinical research,supporting the processes ofdiscovery and innovation at anorganisational level

Draws upon the breadth ofinterdisciplinary research skills and internationally-recognisedresearch expertise housed within the Faculty of Health andMedicine, complemented byspecialist knowledge and practicalexperience from NHS Partnerorganisations and researchnetworks

Successful completion of theprogramme will enable professionals to:

Lead research projects,innovations and new developmentsin order to advance local andnational evidence-based clinicalresearch practice

Contribute to organisationaldevelopment of NHSinfrastructural research capability

Contribute to the translation of research knowledge and skills to inform and develop the quality of evidence-based professionalpractice

The programme is delivered through blended learning with nine face-to-face contact days over the first year and the remainderundertaken through distancelearning. The scheme is modular, with a tiered-exit design providingPostgraduate Certificate andPostgraduate Diploma awards as appropriate for participants who do not complete all modules for the MSc.

During the MSc you will gain keyresearch knowledge and skills,transferred into practical topicsapplied within your own professionalenvironment, culminating in a 12 month research project, designed,delivered and submitted as adissertation. This will prepare you for original work in your professionalcareer and advanced level clinicalresearch positions with the NHS,government, industry and healthcareorganisations.

The overall programme compriseseight modules as follows:

Essential Tools for ClinicalResearch

Governance and Management of Clinical Research

Turning Research Evidence intoHealthcare Policy and Practice

Literature Review

Principles of Evidence-BasedPractice

Analysing Qualitative Data

Quantitative Data Analysis

Practice-based dissertation

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