University of Bradford: Postgraduate Programme specification

UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORDSchool of Health Studies (SOHS)Department: Allied Health Professions

Programme title: MSc Applied Physiotherapy

Post graduate award within the Specialist Skills to Post Registration Development (SSPRD) for Health (Formally CPD) Framework for Flexible Learning in Health and Social Care

Leading to: Postgraduate Certificate/Postgraduate Diploma/Master Degree in Applied Physiotherapy

Awarding and teaching institution:

University of Bradford

Final award: Masters Degree

Postgraduate Diploma

Postgraduate Certificate

FHEQ level 7

Programme title: Applied Physiotherapy

Duration: MSc Full time: over one year.

PG Dip Full time: over nine months

PG Cert Full time: over three months

UCAS code: n/a

Date produced: January 2012

Last updated : January 2014

Introduction

The MSc Applied Physiotherapy programme has been specifically designed to

advance the practice of qualified physiotherapists both in the UK and internationally.

Through studying from a range of varied and specialist modules students will

develop evidence based knowledge and skills in key areas of physiotherapy relevant

to the needs of your workplace. Learning alongside fellow students from diverse

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backgrounds promotes sharing of ideas and clinical experiences. You will develop

independent critical thinking and the ability to reflect on, challenge and advance

established concepts and practices. We offer specialist modules in musculoskeletal

therapy, continence, women’s health and exercise rehabilitation as well as a range of

modules from across the School of Health Studies.

Students cannot normally undertake modules that require access to a clinical

practice whilst studying. However we are able to offer access to a clinical load for a

limited number of students through the Physiotherapy out-patients Clinic within the

School of Health Studies.

This programme does not meet the requirements for Health and Care Professional

Council (HCPC) registration but may enable you to develop some of the skills which

are required to enable you to apply for registration as a physiotherapist with the

Council.

School of Health Studies Specialist Skills to Post Registration Development for Health Framework for Flexible Learning

The MSc Applied Physiotherapy is part of the multidisciplinary SSRPD Framework

for Flexible Learning within the School of Health Studies. The Framework enables

you to create an individualised programme of study that will meet your needs and/or

your employer’s needs for a changing diverse workforce within your organisation.

The School of Health Studies’ focus on excellence though knowledge, practice,

research, leadership and management aims to support the future sustainability of the

individuals, through lifelong learning and improved employability and thereby

influencing the future adaptability of individual organisations and service delivery to

promote change and advance practice.

Your programme of study and the collection of modules you choose to study will

contextualise your learning by addressing the Aims and Learning Outcomes for the

programme which are outlined in the next section of this document. Modules such as

public health, patient safety and research modules, enable you to shape your own

focus of study within the modules aims and learning outcomes by learning the

principles being taught and applying them to your own professional/ employment

area.

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The flexibility offered by the School of Health Studies’ framework will enable you to

take forward your current experience whatever the area of your work, in collaboration

with the University of Bradford. An academic advisor will discuss and support your

choices with you. This will be recorded in an individual study plan.

Programme / Framework Aims

The MSc Applied Physiotherapy and the School of Health Studies’ framework share

the same aims. There are several aims for the programme and these are

contextualised within the aims of the modules and the route of study that you take. If

you study a School framework module, alongside students from different

professions/employment areas, it is the application of the Aims and Learning

Outcomes to your own subject area that maintains the focus on your area of interest

on Physiotherapy. The programme aims are applied to address the requirements for

the MSc Applied Physiotherapy:

Level 7

Postgraduate Certificate: Aims 1 – 7 are essential

A1 Provide a flexible educational framework that is vocationally relevant, which

meets the professional development needs of the student, as well as the

organisational needs of employers.

A2 Stimulate students to become autonomous self-directed learners who are

motivated to sustain and advance their own continuous professional learning

with a confidence to support the professional development of colleagues and

the work of their organisations.

A3 Develop the skills , knowledge, critical understanding and awareness of the

depth and breadth of knowledge applicable to their own fields of practice

A4 Further develop the students cognitive and practical skills to undertake data

synthesis, complex problem solving, the articulation of competing perspectives

and competence in their field of practice

A5 Provide opportunities for interprofessional teaching and learning to share the

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knowledge, skills and experience common to a range of different health and

social care disciplines.

A6 Develop critically reflective, competent practitioners, managers and leaders

who will inform and shape or change inclusive, fair and ethically sensitive

service provision.

A7 Develop the skills required for life-long learning and professional development

Postgraduate Diploma: Aims 1 – 8 are essential

A8 Develop critical perspectives on research and knowledge development in

Physiotherapy.

Masters Degree: Aims 1- 9 are essential

A9 *Develop an understanding of the theoretical constructs underpinning research

or project management which will inform the undertaking of an ethical piece of

research or a work based project and the ability to demonstrate how the

findings can influence practice and policy.

Students must normally undertake a systematic review

Programme Learning Outcomes

The MSc Applied Physiotherapy programme learning outcomes are compatible with

the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (QAA 2008).

The programme contains the flexibility to design your own pathway and the learning

outcomes outlined below are contextualised within the learning outcomes of the

modules that you study. When you have successfully completed your programme of

study within the programme you will be able to:

Programme Learning Outcomes (LO’s)

Post Graduate Certificate: Aims 1 – 9 are essential1. Develop a detailed knowledge and understanding of the literature that

relates to inclusion and diversity.2. Critically appraise and synthesise research evidence in order to analyse,

evaluate and apply principles of inclusion appropriately to ensure efficacy of policy development and contemporary practice.

3. Evaluate and critically apply theoretical concepts and where appropriate,

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master practical skills for the management of complex issues associated with contemporary diversity management.

4. Reflect upon and demonstrate knowledge of values and ethical thinking and demonstrate mastery within the field of diversity management.

5. Develop and demonstrate the ability to articulate sound arguments using a variety of formats including written and oral communication skills.

6. Demonstrate management and leadership through effective communication, problem solving and decision making

7. Demonstrate the ability to become an autonomous learner through independent study and critical reflection on continuing development needs

8. Demonstrate the ability to use IT skills to gather and synthesise information , to access programme materials

9. Evaluate changes in practice to contribute to the development of quality systems and frameworks, which embrace inclusive leadership, management and organisational governance.

Postgraduate Diploma: Aims 1 - 10 are essential10.Critically evaluate theoretical perspectives, methodologies and methods

associated with knowledge development through research commissioning

Masters Degree: Aims 1 - 12 are essential

11.Demonstrate a critical awareness and understanding of different theoretical constructs underpinning research, project management methodologies or management theories

12.*Design, undertake and report on either a systematic review, a piece of empirical research, work based or management project that contributes to or extends the body of knowledge for your field of practice

*Students must normally undertake a systematic review.

Curriculum

The curriculum has been designed to meet the needs of students from a range of

employment backgrounds. The modular format of the programme and its position

with the School of Health Studies Framework permits you to select and study at least

one module that is out with but complementary to, your speciality, and in so doing

broaden your knowledge and understanding of other areas that impact on

Physiotherapy. The curriculum provides a range of modules that are combined to

provide an individualised award. However, it is possible in negotiation with your

programme leader or personal academic tutor (PAT) to undertake modules from

across the School’s Framework to accrue credits by applying the coursework from

for example, the ‘understanding patient safety’ or ‘public health’ module to your field

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of practice/area of employment which will make the module relevant to

Physiotherapy. This principle would be the same for the independent study modules,

or other inter-professional modules offered as application of specialist knowledge

applied to these modules enables your learning needs to be achieved.

Students on the MSc Applied Physiotherapy also undertake the School’s taught 30

credit ‘undertaking a systematic review’ research module in order to study a final

stage 60 credit research module. The final stage 60 credit research module for the

Master’s award will normally require you to complete a Systematic review. The

following table of the curriculum matrix highlights how the curriculum maps to the

MSc Applied Physiotherapy and nested awards. Each student will develop a study

plan tailored to their specific learning needs in conjunction with the programme

leader. Please note the curriculum may change, subject to the University’s

progarmme approval, monitoring and review procedures. In particular it is intended

that new modules may be added in order that customised programmes can be

developed in response to employers training needs provided that these align with the

framework learning aims and objectives.

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Curriculum matrix

MSc Applied PhysiotherapyNormally up to 24 students will be admitted for each of the named award each year; for all units (modules) a minimum of ten students are normally required. Units may be offered in alternate years

Module Title

Cod

e

Leve

lM

Sc A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

PG D

ip A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

PG C

er A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

Evidence Based Clinical Guideline Development (20 credits)

HP-1200D 7 O O O

Final Stage Systematic Review (60 credits) HGR-702Z 7 C

Independent Study in Rehabilitation (10 credits) HP-4008M 7 O O

Independent Study in Rehabilitation (15 credits) HGP-701G 7 O O

Independent Study (30 credits) HGI-701T 7 O O

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Module Title

Cod

e

Leve

lM

Sc A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

PG D

ip A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

PG C

er A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

Management of Chronic Pain in Musculoskeletal Practice (20 credits)

HP-1215D 7 O O

Theory of Physiotherapy in Women’s Health (30 credits)

HPP-708T

7 O O O

Physiotherapy Management of peripheral joint dysfunction – lower limb (30 credits)

HP-4025T

7 O O O

Physiotherapy management of peripheral joint dysfunction – upper limb (30 credits)

HP-4024T

7 O O O

Physiotherapy Management of Spinal Dysfunction (30 credits)

HP-4023T

7 O O O

Physiotherapy management of musculoskeletal function and dysfunction (Lower Limb) (15 credits)

HPP-703G

7 O O O

Physiotherapy management of musculoskeletal function and dysfunction (Upper Limb) (15 credits)

HPP-702G

7 O O O

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Module Title

Cod

e

Leve

lM

Sc A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

PG D

ip A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

PG C

er A

pplie

d P

hysi

othe

rapy

Physiotherapy management of musculoskeletal function and dysfunction (Spinal) (15 credits)

HPP-701G

7 O O O

Continence theory for physiotherapists (30 credits) HPP-704T 7 O O O

Undertaking a systematic review (30 credits) HGR-702T 7 C C

Therapeutic Exercise in Rehabilitation (30 credits) HP-New 7 O O O

Sports Physiotherapy and Trauma Management (20 credits)

HP-4022D 7 O O O

Students can also study alternative optional modules from the within the CPD Framework for Flexible Learning in Health and Social Care. These should be discussed with the programme leader

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Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategies

Whilst following this programme of study you will engage with learning through a

range of teaching methods. To a degree these methods will be dependent on

modules studied, however student-centred approaches to learning are a feature of

the modules and you will be expected to take responsibility for your learning as you

develop your academic skills. There are a number of blended learning approaches to

the manner in which modules are delivered including block attendance, study day

attendance and self-directed study. When devising your study plan you will be

informed regarding which delivery methods are utilised for which module and in

which semester your chosen modules are being delivered. You will also be informed

about dates and times of compulsory attendance at the university.

The aims of the teaching and learning strategies have been designed so that you will

be given the opportunity to develop theoretical and experiential understanding

(Programme LO’s 1, 2, 3, 7, 11), advance your knowledge and critical thinking

(Programme LO’s 2, 8, 4, 10, 11) and to develop a range of skills appropriate to your

professional field your, organisation and workplace setting (Programme LO’s 5, 6, 9).

The modules nested within the framework offer you the capacity to acknowledge and

build upon the knowledge and skills you may have acquired through previous

learning experiences including those in the work place.

Your programme of study will expose you to a range of different teaching, learning

and assessment strategies required to achieve the learning outcomes. The teaching

approaches that are used across the School of Health Studies are informed by the

University core values which for teaching and learning are: Reflective, Adaptable,

Inclusive, Supportive, Ethical and Sustainable. You may experience these across

your choice of modules in order to meet both the aims of the programme and your

learning outcomes which may include any number of the following:

Lectures: to a group of students where information will be presented and discussed whilst informed by the core values.

Facilitated seminars and group discussion: where learning will be through the interpretation and critical application of information and group learning

Tutorial where small group number of students reflect and discuss issues related to their learning

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Critical reflection on students’ previous learning within the work environment

Classroom-based practical learning where skills are taught in relation to theory and best practice enabling students to develop advanced competence and clinical practice skills in their field of practice

Use of Web based virtual learning environments, such as video analysis, Blackboard, to access information and to interact with other students undertaking group work or developing wikis.

Directed reading where set reading may be recommended

Self-Directed learning where student are expected to develop their own learning by identifying areas of interest and areas in which knowledge needs to be developed thus encouraging independence and development of critical thought.

Undertaking a research module which is shaped by your own self-directed learning needs and the learning outcomes at MSc level.

You will be expected to develop an autonomous learning style and become self-directed as a learner.

Your learning will be assessed against the learning outcomes and programme aims through the use of a range of different assessment techniques which may include one or more of the following approaches:

Written assignment

Reflective case study

Development of a reflective portfolio

Completion of set competencies

Completion of a set number of clinical observations

Video analysis exam

Clinical Assessment

Practical examination (OSCE/OSPE)

Computer based Multiple Choice Question examination

Computer based open book examination

Seminar Presentation

Written project report

Completion of a systematic review

Research paper/executive summary

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Some of these teaching and assessment strategies may change over time and through the ongoing development of the programme. Please see annex for Assessment map:

Assessment Regulations

This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations for Postgraduate Programmes which are available at the following link: http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/

The exceptions to these regulations for which there is a School waiver. This applies to the practice based modules with the following module codes: HNP*, HMP*, HPP*, HRP*, where each component and element of assessment must be passed at 40%.

Admission Requirements

The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability to succeed on this particular programme. Consideration of your application will be based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience. Admission is on the basis of submission of an application form, curriculum vitae and possible advisory interview. An advisory interview may be used to discuss the content and expectations of the programme.

The entry requirements for this programme are:

A first degree in physiotherapy, or equivalent or a relevant postgraduate qualification

Students for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent overall, with no banding below 6.0

Meet the current visa and entry requirements for study in the UK. Have access to a computer that has a broadband connection and that can

browse the internet and has word processing on it*

Have computing skills commensurate with the demands of programme*

The University of Bradford has computers with internet and word processing facilities available to students across a number of locations therefore students do not need to own their own computer or have a home internet service. Computer literacy programmes are available for people new to information technology and both the Learner Development Unit and the Disability Office can provide support

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to students who have a disability. Dyslexia screening is also available. For further information please see www.bradford.ac.uk/lss

Recognition of Prior Learning experiential / certified Learning (RP(E/C)L)

If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained within the curriculum. You may be permitted to import specific academic credit subject to the conditions and waivers from the regulations of the University of Bradford. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry qualifications. Guidance on how to make a claim for prior learning is available from the School of Health Studies.

The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from disabled students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as are applied to all applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to contact the programme leader before you apply.

Please note that admission requirements may change, subject to the University's monitoring and review procedures, and subject to guidance from the HCPC on specialist practitioner status and entry to postgraduate programmes.

Learning Resources

The JB Priestley Library on city campus and the School of Management provides a wide range of printed and electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your programme, and will help you learn how to organise your references correctly.

Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus. Many of these are open 24 hours a day. You can also use the University's wireless network to access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available on the internet (both on and off campus) and you can also access your University email account, personal information and course-related materials this way. Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you and there is a 24 hour IT helpline available.

If you are studying on a distance learning route you may find the dedicated distance learner web-page on the University of Bradford web-site helpful. This web-page includes direct links to the learning support and other resources relevant to distance

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learning students. The library also has a dedicated Distance Learning Librarian who understands the specific needs that distance learners may have.

Student Support and Guidance

Programme TeamSupport for you personally and in your programme of study will be provided both by the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal academic tutor (PAT) who is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal concerns by the use of telephone, letter, e-mail and the virtual learning environment (VLE) Blackboard. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive series of relevant handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.

The University provides an orientation programme specifically designed for internationals students. This includes events planned for your first few weeks to help you settle in and meet your fellow students. International students are encouraged to attend the international student’s induction week and have access to a range of activities and support aimed specifically at the international student including English language support, if required. Please see the following website for further details:

http://www.bradford.ac.uk/new-students/international-and-eu/

An induction programme will also introduce students to the programme and the University including student support systems and information about counselling services, Learner Development Unit (LDU), Disability office and the facilities available from the interactive learning centre (ILC). Further information on these is provided on the University web page http://www.bradford.ac.uk/lss / .

Students’ Union

We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’ Union through a system of programme representatives and formal staff student liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly. The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (part of the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International students can

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access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s Union.

Careers and Employability

The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance employability and this is an integral part of many programmes. Specialist support is available throughout the programme from Career Development Services including help to find part-time work while studying, vacation work and graduate vacancies. Students are encouraged to access this support at an early stage and to use the extensive resources on the web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk.

Discussing options with specialist advisers helps to clarify plans through exploring options and refining skills of job-hunting. The specific provision for the students within the Framework and for yourself on the MSc Applied Physiotherapy remains focussed on planning your studies in consideration of your current or future career and/or with your current employers needs in mind.

Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills

The Learner Development Unit provides support in all aspects of academic, maths, numeracy and interpersonal skills. A programme of interactive workshops is delivered during both semesters which complement the individual support available from Advisers and the wide range of interactive online materials.

Disability

Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to everyone.  The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues.  For more information contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email: disabilities@bradford.ac.uk

Ecoversity and Education for sustainable Development

Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching, research activities, campus operations and lives of our staff and students. The focus of the modules and award pathways held within the Framework is to facilitate your continuing development as lifelong learners who have developed critical thinking and analysis skills which you can apply into your work place. Inherent within the learning outcomes for the modules and awards are the values we aspire to in providing high quality education to support high quality care whatever professional discipline, sector or organisation you work for.

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The core work of the School of Health Studies is the focus on health and well-being and developing professionals such as yourselves who can work within multidisciplinary teams, work across care sectors and different types of organisations using clinical, educational, research or management and leadership skills to improve practice, services or improve organisations and their cultures and influence change. Modules from across the Framework offer these opportunities. The core research modules are taught by a multidisciplinary team with a range of different backgrounds and experiences similar to students such as yourself from a variety of backgrounds. This combined focus enables your education to have a sustainable component in terms of your future career as well as the sustainability of your services by maintaining and improving what you provide for your local communities. For more information please go to: www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity /

Further Information:

For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact Admissions.

The Admissions Office

The University of Bradford

Richmond Road

Bradford, BD7 1DP

UK

The Admissions Office

School of Health Studies

The University of Bradford

Richmond Road

Bradford, BD7 1DP

UK

+44 (0)1274 233054

http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses /

+44 (0)1274 236367

http://www.brad.ac.uk/acad/health

The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's regulations and programme approval, monitoring and review procedures.

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