MSc/PgDip Advancing Practice in Physiotherapy (Advancing Practice in Health Framework)

Program Overview

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This online MSc/PgDip program in Advancing Practice in Physiotherapy equips physiotherapists with advanced skills and knowledge for leadership roles. Delivered flexibly, it allows participants to tailor their learning to their interests and career aspirations, preparing them for advanced clinical practice, research, and management positions.

Program Outline

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MSc/PgDip Advancing Practice in Physiotherapy (Advancing Practice in Health Framework) - Queen Margaret University

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Degree Overview:

This postgraduate program aims to equip qualified physiotherapists with the knowledge and skills necessary for advanced practice. Delivered fully online, the program offers flexible study options (part-time, full-time, or workplace) and caters to individual needs.

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Objectives:

• Develop advanced physiotherapy practice skills and knowledge.
• Enhance critical analysis and research methodologies.
• Refine clinical competency in the workplace.
• Foster multi-professional learning and collaboration.
• Contribute to improved health and well-being.

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Program Description:

The program leverages research and evidence-based learning while remaining responsive to current and evolving healthcare landscapes. Participants can tailor their learning to specific interests, requirements, and career aspirations.

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Outline:

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Structure and Exit Awards:

• MSc: Complete 180 credits (full program).
• PgDip: Complete 120 credits.
• Single Module: Complete a single module for CPD (Continuing Professional Development).
• Progression to named awards is possible after completing single modules.

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Teaching, Learning, and Assessment:

• All modules are delivered online.
• Support is available for new or returning master's level students.
• Assessments include critical and reflective coursework, ePortfolios, presentations, and practice-based assessments.
• No on-campus attendance is required.
• Each 20-credit module equates to approximately 200 hours of study (online contact and independent learning).
• Multi-professional online learning community fosters interaction and experience sharing.

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Modules:

• Advanced Competencies I & II (20/40 credits): Attain pre-agreed workplace competencies and critically evaluate the evidence base for the selected area of work.
Requires working in the specific area and/or access to an appropriate workplace setting.
• Demonstrating Impact in Practice (20 credits): Advance practice by demonstrating sustainable impact at a service, project, or community level.
• Enquiry-based Practice (20 credits): Gain understanding of research principles, methodologies, and analysis.
• Fundamentals of Advancing Practice (20 credits): Develop critical knowledge and understanding of advanced practice.
• Optional Module (20 credits): Choose from approved Framework modules.
• MSc Dissertation (60 credits): Required for the MSc award.

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Note:

Module details were accurate as of October 2022 and are subject to change.

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Assessment:

Assessment methods are varied and include:

• Critical and reflective coursework.
• ePortfolios.
• Presentations.
• Practice-based assessments.
• Dissertation (for MSc students).
The program emphasizes the application of knowledge and skills in real-world settings.

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Teaching:

The program utilizes online learning and teaching methods. No on-campus attendance is required. Each module is designed for approximately 200 hours of study, including regular online contact and independent experiential learning.

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Teaching Staff:

• Dr. Kavi Jagadamma
• Dr. Kath Nicol

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Teaching Approach:

The program offers a learner-centered approach, allowing participants to tailor their learning to individual interests and career goals. The curriculum is designed to be practically focused and relevant to current healthcare practices.

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Careers:

This program prepares graduates for leadership roles or advancement within their specialist field of physiotherapy. The skills and knowledge acquired can lead to various career opportunities, including:

• Advanced clinical practice roles.
• Research and academic positions.
• Leadership and management positions within healthcare organizations.
• Educational roles.
• Consultancy roles.

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Other:

• The program is open to individuals with a professional registration in physiotherapy and an honors degree or equivalent.
• International students require English language competence at IELTS 6.5 with no individual component score lower than 6.0.
• The program cannot sponsor international students for a student visa.
• Some modules require working in the specific area of practice and/or access to a suitable workplace setting with the support of a line manager and workplace mentor.
• The program is part of the Advancing Practice in Health Framework, which offers multi-professional learning and cross-institutional input.