Professional Development

The Masters Framework

The Masters degree programme is designed to be as flexible as possible and consists of stand- alone modules and short courses as well as a full Masters Programme. You will be supported in choosing a range of these modules and short courses to provide a tailor-made educational experience which increases your knowledge and skills in your particular field and supports your career development.

There is no requirement for you to sign up for, or ind eed complete a Masters degree. This system is designed so that you can progress at your own pace and to your own desired level of education.

What qualification is required to enrol in these modules?

If you hold a professional healtheare degree such as a nursing degree, or you have another qualification e.g. diploma, with at least 3 years clinical experience then these modules are appropriate for you.

Structure of the modules

Each module is rated at 15 Masters-level (M-level) academic credits. A typical module comprises 1 12 - 120 hours of study of which 10 - 20 hours may be face-to-face lectures; the remainder may include seminars, tutorials, fieldwork and reflective practice. A significant proportion of this time will be for private study.

We minimise the proportion of lecture-based teaching and promote small group, problem- solving learning opportunities led by expert practising medical practitioners. Experienced tutors and detailed workbooks support the self-directed learning process. Educational materials emphasise application to clinical problems.

Masters-level study is assessed in a variety of ways which typically requires a reflective component based on the learner's clinical or NHS experience (portfolio of reflective practice), practical assessments and problem-solving papers testing the application of knowledge. These assessments are aligned with recommended local and national competencies and requirements of the NHS.