Program Overview
The Professional Certificate in Evidence Synthesis equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to critically appraise and conduct evidence synthesis studies. This graduate-level program, delivered online, aims to address the growing need for rigorous methods to inform decision-making in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and research. Upon completion, students can apply evidence-based practice principles, identify uncertainties in scientific evidence, and translate research findings into implementation.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Professional Certificate in Evidence Synthesis is a graduate-level program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to critically appraise and conduct evidence synthesis studies. The program aims to address the growing need for rigorous and transparent methods to inform decision-making in various industries, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and research.
Objectives:
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Acquire knowledge and understanding of:
- Evidence-based practice
- Strengths and limitations of evidence synthesis methods
- Uses of systematic reviews and meta-analysis
- Apply knowledge and understanding in:
- Critically appraising new medical literature
- Evidence synthesis methods for healthcare decision-making
- Identifying uncertainties emerging from scientific evidence
- Conducting new evidence synthesis projects
- Make judgments for:
- Strengths and limitations of scientific evidence
- Correct methodological approach to summarize scientific evidence
- Objective interpretation of available scientific evidence
- Translation of scientific evidence into implementation
- Acquire skills in:
- Communication and working skills: Communicate clearly and accurately the strengths and limitations of scientific evidence, acquire skills to publish evidence synthesis-based research projects.
- Learning skills: Develop motivational and time-management skills for effective self-directed learning, challenge the status quo of current evidence synthesis techniques, carry out independent evidence synthesis research projects, develop and enhance interpersonal skills and group communication through peer interaction.
Outline:
The program consists of three core modules, each worth 5 ECTS credits:
- PHPS40980 - Introduction to Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: This module offers a range of synchronous and asynchronous lectures covering the rationale for conducting systematic reviews, types and methods of evidence synthesis, steps to complete an evidence synthesis project, and using existing software for systematic reviews (Excel, RevMan, Covidence, R). Assessment includes applying a systematic review to a real-world decision-making scenario and completing a protocol for a systematic review.
- PHPS40990 - Advanced Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Clinical Guidelines Development: This module utilizes a blended learning format to teach software skills and communication skills.
- Optional Modules: Students can choose one of the following optional modules based on their professional background and career plans:
- PHTY41200- Evidence-Based Practice for Healthcare Professionals
- PHPS40970- Randomised Clinical Trials
Careers:
The Professional Certificate in Evidence Synthesis is designed to prepare professionals for roles in industries where evidence synthesis is crucial for decision-making. Examples of these industries include:
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Clinical research organizations (CROs)
- Governments
- Healthcare settings
- International Organizations
- NGOs
- Medical device companies
Other:
- The program is delivered through a flexible online learning format, aligning with the Higher Education Authority's objective to enhance equality of opportunity in modern Irish society.
- Students can complete the certificate in one year or up to three years.
- The program is suitable for domestic (EEA) applicants.
- International (non-EEA) applicants currently residing outside the EEA region are not eligible.
University College Dublin
Overview:
University College Dublin (UCD) is a leading research-intensive university located in Dublin, Ireland. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. UCD offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCD provides a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. The university emphasizes the holistic development of its students, offering a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
UCD is renowned for its strong research output and collaborations with industry partners.Global Partnerships:
The university boasts a vast network of partner institutions worldwide, providing students with opportunities for international study and exchange.Transformational Learning:
UCD focuses on providing a transformative learning experience that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.Other:
UCD is actively involved in promoting sustainability and social responsibility. The university is committed to creating a positive impact on society through its research, teaching, and engagement activities.
Entry Requirements:
Applicants should hold:
- A second-class honours degree at a 2.2 level or higher in any professional field including any health science discipline, social sciences, computer sciences, communication, and education. Or, in exceptional circumstances:
- In exceptional circumstances, where an individual has substantial and significant experiential or professional learning and can present to the course director a portfolio of written evidence demonstrating the meeting of graduate qualities (including subject-specific outcomes), this may be considered as an alternative entrance route.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
In addition, all applicants must have evidence of competence in written and spoken English (IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, with no element below 6.0).
Huge and always expanding. Lots of course options and the professors care a lot about what they teach. Huge amount of students and clubs so there is something for everyone.
Finished my Masters in Food Safety here in 2019. Quality of education is pretty good. Facilities are on point. One of the better universities in Ireland. A lot of extra curricular activities organised all round the year. No racism or any other issue as per my experience. Teaching staff is quite knowledgeable. I loved my time there. 10/10
