MSc Advancing Practice Sensory Integration

Program Overview

The MSc Advancing Practice Sensory Integration program at Sheffield Hallam University is designed for occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists to enhance their knowledge and skills in sensory integration. Through distance learning, students explore the neuroscience behind sensory processing and develop advanced clinical reasoning and intervention strategies. The program includes a research dissertation and clinical mentoring to prepare graduates for careers in healthcare, social care, education, and other fields requiring expertise in sensory integration.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc Advancing Practice Sensory Integration program is designed for occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become advanced practitioners in sensory integration. The program focuses on:

• Developing knowledge and understanding of the neuroscience underpinning sensory integration and processing.

• Exploring the theory and application of Ayres Sensory Integration.

• Gaining the confidence to work in advanced sensory integration.

• Contributing to the growing evidence base through research.

• Planning and implementing a research study focused on sensory integration.

Outline:

The program is structured as a distance learning program, allowing students to study from any location. It is offered over a period of 2 to 4 years.

Modules:

Year 1:

• Sensory Integration 1: Foundations And Neuroscience (30 Credits): This module covers the foundational principles and neuroscience of sensory integration.
• Sensory Integration 2: Clinical Reasoning In Sensory Integration: Assessment (20 Credits): This module focuses on clinical reasoning and assessment techniques in sensory integration.
• Sensory Integration 3: Clinical Reasoning And Practice In Sensory Integration: Intervention (40 Credits): This module delves into clinical reasoning and intervention strategies in sensory integration.
• Sensory Integration 4: Advanced Practice (30 Credits): This module explores advanced practice concepts and skills in sensory integration.

Final Year:

• Dissertation (45 Credits): Students undertake a research dissertation, guided by a research supervisor.
• Researching For Practice (Distance Learning) (15 Credits): This module provides training in research methods for practice.

Course Schedule:

• Multiple intakes of each sensory integration module are available throughout the year.

Assessment:

• Coursework (100%): All modules are assessed through coursework, including assignments, projects, and presentations.

Teaching:

• Online Learning: The program is delivered through a combination of online presentations, lessons, webinars, independent study tasks, online discussion boards, meetings, and activities.
• Multi-disciplinary Teaching Team: The research methods module is taught by a multi-disciplinary team, including an e-tutor.
• Research Supervisor: Students receive individual support from a research supervisor for their dissertation.
• Clinical Mentoring: The postgraduate certificate and diploma include up to 60 clinical hours, which can be completed in the student's workplace or another suitable environment.
Students also receive clinical mentoring sessions to enhance their clinical skills.

Careers:

This course prepares graduates for careers in:

• Healthcare
• Social care
• Education
• Third sector organizations
• Private practice

Other:

• Applied Learning: The program includes clinical hours and mentoring sessions to provide practical experience.
• Networking Opportunities: Students become members of the Association of Sensory Integration Practitioners (ASIP) upon starting the course.
• Support: Students have access to a range of electronic resources and a supportive online community.