Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Health Sciences and Social Care 134 Brunel University School of Health Sciences and Social Care
Health Sciences and Social Care Annual Intake: 440 Why study Health Sciences and Social Care at Brunel? Brunel offers outstanding facilities, including state-of-the art Biomedical Sciences laboratories and first-rate facilities in the Mary Seacole Building, which opened in 2006. Students benefit from close links with colleagues in the NHS, social services and voluntary organisations around London, through research and practice placements. We have an impressive record of research, innovation and publication. Lecturers leading-edge findings feed into our courses to ensure content is up-to-date and original, and a number of academics are internationally renowned scientists in their fields of expertise. Depending on your degree programme, there may be opportunities to undertake part of your studies overseas. COURSES AT A GLANCE Biomedical Sciences BSc... 136 Biomedical Sciences (Biochemistry) BSc... 136 Biomedical Sciences (Forensic) BSc... 136 Biomedical Sciences (Genetics) BSc... Biomedical Sciences (Human Health) BSc... 136 Biomedical Sciences (Immunology) BSc... 136 Occupational Therapy BSc... 138 Physiotherapy BSc... 140 Social Work BA... 142 Specialist Community Public Health Nursing BSc... 144 Specialist Social Work (Adults/Children and Families) BA... 146 Emma made her senior debut in the GB team in 2010, just weeks after finishing her Physiotherapy degree. As a sports scholar I enjoyed benefits such as free access to Brunel s fantastic facilities, Lucozade supplements and a grant. The University was very supportive of my running and I loved competing for Brunel as we have a very motivated athletics team that seems to be getting better every year! My degree was quite challenging and I had to work a lot of hours. It was hard to balance with training, but the University was brilliant in trying to organise placements as near to training as possible. I would highly recommend the Physiotherapy course and athletics at Brunel, and I felt proud wearing those blue and yellow colours out on the track! Emma is pictured with Dame Kelly Holmes, at Kelly s honorary graduation ceremony at Brunel. Kelly mentors Emma as part of her On Camp with Kelly initiative. Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Brunel University www.brunel.ac.uk/courses 135
Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care ENTRY CRITERIA GCE A-level BBB, with B in A-level Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Advanced Diploma Not currently accepted. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDD in a related subject. IBDP 32 points, including 6 in Higher Level Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Access Pass in a related subject. Foundation Course Pass in a related subject. For all of the above, 5 GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or above are also required, to include English, Maths and Science (please note that these must have been gained by the time you submit your UCAS application). MODE OF STUDY/ UCAS CODES BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES BSc C900 3-years full-time C901 4-years thick-sandwich BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (BIOCHEMISTRY) BSc C722 3-years full-time C723 4-years thick-sandwich BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (FORENSIC) BSc F410 3-years full-time F411 4-years thick-sandwich BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (GENETICS) BSc C400 3-years full-time C401 4-years thick-sandwich BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (HUMAN HEALTH) BSc B990 3-years full-time B991 4-years thick-sandwich BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (IMMUNOLOGY) BSc C550 3-years full-time C551 4-years thick-sandwich Biomedical Sciences BSc Check the Web for up-to-date course, entry criteria and fees information. About the Course The modern biomedical scientist needs to be familiar with a wide range of subject disciplines including biochemistry, genetics, cell and molecular biology, immunology, and anatomy and physiology, as related to human health, disease and treatment. You can follow the mainstream Biomedical Sciences degree or select a particular pathway, allowing you to gain specialist knowledge in your chosen area. The Biochemistry pathway explores the role of various biochemical pathways in normal metabolism, and also how these pathways may be altered during specific human diseases. The Forensic pathway emphasises the basic principles of forensic investigation and analysis and their application to the study of various criminal activities. The Genetics pathway emphasises how the role of various genetic mutations alter cellular processes and biomechanical pathways in normal metabolism, and also how these pathways may be altered during specific human disease. The Human Health pathway focuses on the role of infectious organisms in disease and how human activities can lead to disease transmission. The Immunology pathway provides a greater understanding of the role of the immune system in preventing human disease and focuses on how deficiencies in immunity can result in disease susceptibility. Course Content Level 1 is compulsory for all pathways, and gives a background in cellular and biochemical processes. At Level 2, all pathways with the exception of Biochemistry have optional study block choices. At Level 3, you are given as much choice as possible to allow you to follow your interests. Typical Study Blocks Level 1 Core The Human Body: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology Biochemistry: Structure and Function Biology of the Cell Practical Skills In Biomedical Sciences Research Skills Critical Thinking 1 136 Contact Dr Anthony Tsolaki, Admissions Tutor Tel: +44 (0)1895 266077 Email: biosciences@brunel.ac.uk
Level 2 Core Molecular and Cellular Biology Genetic Engineering and Immunobiology Principles of Human Disease Career Skills Critical Thinking 2 Analytical Biochemistry (Core Biochemistry) Metabolic Regulation (Core Biochemistry) Medical Microbiology (Core Human Health and Immunology) Genetics and Development (Core Genetics and Forensics) Level 2 Options Analytical Biochemistry Metabolic Regulation Genetics and Development Medical Microbiology Level 3 Core Final Year Project Medical Biochemistry (Core Biochemistry) Forensic Technologies (Core Forensics) Genomic Technologies (Core Genetics) Microbial Pathogenesis (Core Human Health and Immunology) Medical Immunology (Core Immunology) Plus 3 from Biology and Treatment of Cancer Cellular Pathologies Endocrine Disorders Genomic Medicine Medical Immunology Molecular Pharmacology and Toxicology Teaching and Assessment You will be taught through various methods such as lectures, tutorials, laboratory work and seminars and you will receive one-to-one supervision in your final year project. You must pass Level 1 in order to progress to the next level, but the grades do not contribute to your final degree classification. Level 2 grades contribute one third and Level 3 marks contribute two thirds to the overall degree award. Employability Studying biomedical sciences will equip you with a range of transferable and employability skills that will enable you to follow the career you want after graduation. We also give all our students the opportunity to develop the skills and competencies needed for employment through a unique, creditrated study/assessment block at Level 2, which is delivered in partnership with employers and the Placement and Careers Centre. Placements Your employability will be increased by undertaking a one-year work placement at a company or institution such as GlaxoSmithKline or Cancer Research UK, or within hospitals and medical research institutes. Students who complete the thicksandwich course will be awarded their degree with Professional Experience. Careers In recent years, graduates have found employment with a wide range of companies, in both the public and private sectors. Some examples include: Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Home Office Forensic Science Service, Laboratory of the Government Chemist, Hospitals and NHS Research Centres, Shell Ltd, National Institute for Medical Research, Unilever Research Ltd, Bass Breweries, Novartis, Chester Beatty Research Institute, Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, GlaxoSmithKline and Parexel International. A substantial proportion of our graduates go on to obtain higher degrees by research (such as taught MSc courses, MPhil and PhD) or study for further qualifications such as medicine, dentistry, ophthalmology or teaching. For further information on career destinations for Brunel Biosciences students, go to the Placement and Careers Centre page. For those wishing to pursue a career as an NHS medical laboratory scientific officer, please note that this course is not IBMS accredited. Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Brunel University www.brunel.ac.uk/courses 137
Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Entry Criteria GCE A-level BBB, including Grade B in Biology, Human Biology, Psychology or Sociology. Advanced Diploma Progression Diploma Grade B in Society, Health and Development plus A-level Biology or Human Biology at Grade B for Additional and Specialist Learning. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDD in a health-related subject. IBDP 32 points including Biology, Human Biology or Psychology. Access Pass in a relevant subject, including at least 65% of Level 3 units with Merit and Distinction. For all of the above, 5 GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or above are also required, to include English and Maths (please note that these should have been gained by the time you submit your UCAS application). A satisfactory health declaration and enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check will be required. Mature students A high percentage of our intake are mature students, and these applicants are considered on individual merit, relevant work experience and evidence of recent academic achievement. Grade C at GCSE in both English and Maths is required. Part-time students In addition to the full-time requirements, part-time students must have experience of working with people with disabilities or who have encountered social exclusion. MODE OF STUDY/ UCAS CODES B920 3-years full-time; 4-years part-time Occupational Therapy BSc Check the Web for up-to-date course, entry criteria and fees information. About the Course As occupational therapists and as educators we value human occupation, believing that an individual s occupational performance is integral to health and quality of life. Viewing people as individuals is central to our occupational therapy philosophy. A client-centred approach facilitates the practical application of this philosophy and recognises the importance of the therapist to enable optimum occupational performance. By studying on this course, students will become able to work with people across the lifespan, from birth to death, with those who have health problems, those who are learning new skills for the first time, or those who are regaining lost skills. Students will learn to work with people in a variety of situations who may have physical or mental health problems, or be disabled from birth or because of disease or injury. The central aim of the programme is to enable students to be able to register and practice as occupational therapists; enabling individuals and groups to achieve and maintain optimum levels of functional ability, and to be able to engage in the activities and occupations they need and want to do. Students learn the core skills and knowledge of occupational therapy, integrated with interprofessional issues and research. Periods of academic study on campus are interspersed with practice placements. Students are also encouraged to examine the evidence base of occupational therapy, concluding in the presentation of a research proposal. Professional Accreditation The programme is approved by the Health Professions Council and accredited by the College of Occupational Therapists. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council and for a license to practise. You may also apply for membership of the British Association or College of Occupational Therapists. Course Content The course integrates theory with practice. Periods of campus-based study will prepare you for practice placements, and then information and experience gained on placements provides much of the case study material used in University study. 138 Contact Christopher Bailey, Admissions Tutor Tel: +44 (0)1895 268739 Email (full-time enquiries): occupationaltherapy-ft@brunel.ac.uk Email (part-time enquiries): occupationaltherapy-pt@brunel.ac.uk
Typical Modules Employability Level 1 Communication and Clinical Effectiveness Practice Placement I Occupational Therapy I Occupational Performance Professional Development Level 2 Occupational Therapy II Practice Placement II Practice Placement III Enabling Health and Wellbeing through Occupation Level 3 Professional Practice Occupational Therapy III Practice Placement IV Research Proposal Research Methods Teaching and Assessment You will be taught through various methods such as problem-focused seminars, practical work, group work, lectures, private study and tutorials. As you progress through your studies, your performance in all modules will be assessed. Assessment includes written examinations, essays and reports together with practical presentations. You will be assessed on each practice placement and must pass these in order to graduate. You will develop a variety of transferable skills in the context of problem-focused learning and in practice placements, and your placements will give you the opportunity to practice these in the workplace. They include the ability to: communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; identify and use resources effectively; gather information and organise it appropriately; use information technology in accessing relevant articles and especially within research processes; work independently and collaboratively when studying, and when resolving problems. Careers Occupational therapy has developed rapidly over the past decade and there are opportunities to work in the health and social care sector with people of all ages and all types of disability. More recently, the profession has seen rapid development in the voluntary sector, private practice, schools, prisons and industry. Future developments are likely to be in vocational rehabilitation, medicolegal practice, forensic mental health, and health promotion. Employers recognise that practice placements give students the confidence and skills required for graduate employment: Hillingdon Association of Voluntary Services has been delighted to offer several Brunel students a placement in the voluntary and community sector. All placements have been first-class and it has been great to see the individuals grow, develop and learn new skills as the placement has progressed. In the current economic conditions it is vital that students seize every opportunity to gain access to a good job when they graduate. Ted Hill, Hillingdon Association of Voluntary Services Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Brunel University www.brunel.ac.uk/courses 139
Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Entry Criteria GCE A-level ABB, to include grade B in Biology or Human Biology or Grade B in at least one subject from the following list: Chemistry, Classical Civilisations, Economics, English, Geography, History, Languages, Law, Maths (Further Maths or Statistics), Physical Education, Physics, Politics, Psychology, Sociology, Sport Studies. (General Studies and Critical Thinking not accepted). Advanced Diploma No subjects currently accepted. IBDP 33 points including 6 in Higher Level Biology. BTEC Level 3 Diploma DD + AB in A-levels - with Grade B in Biology or Human Biology and grade A from the preferred list. BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D + AB in A-levels - with grade B in Biology or Human Biology and Grade A from the preferred list. Non-standard entrants/mature students Please check the website Interviews All shortlisted applicants sit a written test and are observed in group interviews. ISA/CRB An enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check along with a satisfactory health declaration will be required. MODE OF STUDY/ UCAS CODES B160 3-years full-time 4-years part-time Physiotherapy BSc (full-time programme) Check the Web for up-to-date course, entry criteria and fees information. About the Course The BSc Physiotherapy BSc (Hons) programme is a long established and highly successful programme which aims to prepare you for professional autonomy and excellence in clinical practice. It provides you with a strong scientific foundation and encourages you to develop excellent practical and clinical reasoning skills. All of this is essential for you to safely and effectively treat patients. The programme also provides you with the means to critically evaluate the effectiveness of your own treatments and those of others a skill which is vital to continuing evidence-based practice. A sound working knowledge of research methodology provides you with the basis for this evaluation process and also provides you with the tools to develop your own research interests at any stage of your professional career. Professional Accreditation Successful completion of this course means you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health Professions Council. Course Content All modules are core to the curriculum, and are therefore compulsory. Module Outlines Year 1 - Term 1 Anatomy 1 Rehabilitation 1 Pathophysiology Professional Development Term 2 Anatomy 2 Rehabilitation 2 Musculoskeletal 1 - The Lower Quadrant Respiratory Term 3 The 11 weeks of Term 2 teaching ends with a oneweek revision period and three weeks of the Easter break. After Easter the term finally ends with a threeweek exam period in which Term 2 modules and any outstanding modules from Term 1 will be assessed. Year 2 - Term 1 This 11-week teaching period includes two new assessed modules plus the ongoing professional development module and the study block Clinical Preparation. Musculoskeletal 2 The Upper Quadrant Neurorehabilitation Clinical Preparation 140 Contact Full-time mode - standard entry (for applicants under the age of 21 years at point of entry) Alan Esnouf Tel: +44 (0)1895 268757 Email: alan.esnouf@brunel.ac.uk
Term 2 This term consists of a sixweek clinical placement period followed by six weeks of campus based studies. Clinical Placement 1 Cardiovascular Health Critical Care Term 3 Following the three-week Easter break there will be a one-week revision period followed by three weeks of exams in which Term 2 modules and any outstanding modules from Term 1 will be assessed. The exam period is followed by two-weeks in which you will study Paediatrics and Ageing, and the term will conclude with your second six-week clinical placement. Paediatrics Aging Studies Clinical Placement 2 Year 3 -Term 1 Clinical placement 3 Women s Health Oncology and Palliative Care Research Methodology Research Proposal Professional Practice Term 2 Falls Services Mental Health Clinical Placement 4 Term 3 This is a very short term. You have to complete your final clinical placement module, but after that it s just a case of waiting for the results and of course for the graduation ceremony. Clinical Placement 5 Clinical Education Teaching and Assessment Our primary aim is to combine a thorough professional education with academic excellence. With respect to your university-based studies we use a variety of teaching and learning methods throughout the course including lectures, tutorials, and practical sessions (small group), study guides and computer based learning packages. All modules must be passed in order to proceed through the course. Normally students will have two attempts at passing each assessment. Grades from all modules in Years 2 and 3 (excluding study blocks) contribute to overall degree classification. Modules will be assessed in the assessment week at the end of either term 1 or in term 3. The majority of examinations will be scheduled for the third term. Careers At Brunel, the physiotherapy teaching team strongly recommends that graduates enter the NHS on qualification. We feel that the organisation of the NHS and the scope of patients who pass through the NHS offer newly graduated physiotherapists an invaluable learning opportunity and provides a solid clinical foundation on which to base their future career choices. Our students come to us having attained a reasonably high entry criteria. They are generally committed to their studies, work solidly throughout the course and perform very well on clinical placement. Indeed generally our students are thought of very highly by clinicians whilst on clinical placements and there is some evidence that this translates well in terms of employment on graduating. NHS Funding Funding for Physiotherapy programmes in all London Universities is currently under review by the NHS. We will not be aware of the outcome of this review until January 2012. Please check the website for more details. Home student/eu citizens who are not in receipt of an NHS bursary will be required to self-fund. Currently (2011/12) these fees stand at 7,081 per annum. Applicants should budget for the fact that the fees can increase annually. Overseas Fees Students not designated as home/eu citizens will be subject to tuition fees. Currently (2010/11) these fees stand at 11,765 p.a. Applicants should budget for the fact that the fees can increase annually. Health and the CRB check A satisfactory health declaration and enhanced criminal record check will be required from all applicants. Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Full-time mode - non-standard entry (for applicants over the age of 21 years at point of entry) Pam Shiers Tel: +44 (0)1895 268839 Email: physio.admftns@brunel.ac.uk 141
Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Entry Criteria GCE A-level BBB, including Grade B in a Social Science subject (General Studies not accepted; Critical Thinking not accepted). Advanced Diploma Progression Diploma Grade B in Society, Health and Development or Public Services plus a B at A-level for Additional and Specialist Learning. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDD in a related subject. IBDP 32 points, including 5 points in a Social Science subject at Higher Level. Access Pass in a relevant subject area only including 30 credits at Level 3. For all of the above, 5 GCSEs or equivalent at Grade C or above are also required, to include English and Maths (please note that these must have been gained by the time you submit your UCAS application). Interviews All shortlisted applicants sit a written test and are observed in group interviews. ISA/CRB An enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check along with a satisfactory health declaration will be required. MODE OF STUDY/ UCAS CODES L500 3-years full-time Social Work BA Check the web course entry for up to-date course information and detailed entry requirements. About the Course This is a broad-based course which benefits from a wide range of staff specialisms. It is validated by the General Social Care Council (GSCC) (From April 2012 Health Professions Authority). The Social Work programme at Brunel has been rated by the Guardian University Guide as being in the top 20 Social Work programmes in the UK. Our degree in Social Work is organised by a partnership between Brunel and a number of statutory and voluntary agencies. The professional and academic elements of the course are closely integrated throughout. Seminars, tutorials and formal classes are integrated with professional practice, and theory is applied through the analysis of social issues and problems. Service user perspectives and involvement is integral to the programme both in the admissions process and in the delivery of programme modules. The programme is located in the School of Health Sciences and Social Care, and benefits from interaction with allied health and social care professions such as Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy and Community Nursing. Mature Students We attract younger students, and a high percentage of our intake is also mature students. All candidates must demonstrate the capacity to undertake the academic demands of the course and have relevant work or voluntary work experience. You must be able to attend university and your placement between 9am and 5pm each day. Typical Modules Level 1 Supported Learning for Key Skills Introduction to Social Work Social Policy Human Development Practice Learning 1 (30-day placement) Level 2 Theoretical Perspectives in Social Work Social Work, Law and the English Legal System Values and Contemporary Issues Reflective Social Work Practice Practice Learning 2 (70-day placement) 142 Contact Dominic Crawford, BA Social Work Programme Administrator Tel: +44 (0)1895 268762 Email: socialwork@brunel.ac.uk
Level 3 Social Research Methods Either Children and Families or Community Care Social work Electives (Family work, Care Management and Networking, Specialist Therapeutic Settings, Psycho-Social Interventions) Practice Learning 3 (100-day placement) Client Groups You will work in the following broad fields: Children and families Mental health work Older people Illness and disability Social Work Methods You will learn to employ the following methods: Therapeutic work with individuals Family work Care management Group work/ Community Development You will also develop skills in the following areas Reflection and critical reflection Social Policy and models of welfare The application of professional values and ethics to practice The integration of theoretical perspectives and social work methods with practice Communication skills Family Supported Child Protection Critical reasoning Assessment/risk assessment Interventions Research skills Written skills Teaching and Assessment Teaching methods combine seminars, case discussions and tutorials with more formal lectures. These emphasise the integration of social science subjects with professional practice and the application of theory to the analysis of social issues and problems. Assessment in practice placements is continuous and culminates in the placement report, to which both student and practice educator contribute. Academic work is assessed through a range of assignments including tests, presentations, essays and examinations. Practice Learning Practice Learning is an essential part of the course at Levels 1, 2 and 3. The professional and academic elements of the course are strongly integrated. The GSCC requirement is 200 days in practice learning settings over the three-years. You will have an academic tutor, a practice tutor tutor and an experienced practice educator in each placement. Individual and group tutorials are a core timetabled part of the curriculum. Ensuring that you meet the required National Occupational Standards (NOS). Careers The aim of this course is to produce competent, anti-discriminatory, social work practitioners, who are able to work critically and professionally. The Division has an alumni committee through which graduates support student social workers. Graduates are employed in a wide variety of organisations from statutory social care providers to national and local voluntary agencies. Many students who complete the BA in Social Work go on to attend one of our post-qualifying courses. Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Brunel University www.brunel.ac.uk/courses 143
Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Entry Criteria Qualified first level nurse. 120 CATs credits at Level 1 and 120 at Level 2. Relevant post-registration experience. APL/APEL available. ISA/CRB An enhanced Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check along with a satisfactory health declaration will be required. MODE OF STUDY/ UCAS CODES 1-year full-time; 2-years part-time You should apply directly to the School of Health Sciences and Social Care, not through UCAS. To apply, please download and complete the application and reference forms from the website. Please note Open Days are not applicable for Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (SCPHN) applicants who will be invited to attend for interview. Specialist Community Public Health Nursing BSc Check the web for up-to-date course, entry criteria and fees information. About the Course This Statutory Body approved course is designed for those with initial nurse registration who wish to become specialist community public health nurses in one of three areas of practice: Health Visiting Occupational Health Nursing School Nursing The full-time course is 52 weeks long. The part-time course involves two and a half days a week for two years, with one day a week in the University. Health Visiting develops practitioners who are proactive and innovative in the promotion of health and the prevention of ill health at the individual, group and community level, within the context of national and international considerations. You will gain Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Occupational Health Nursing equips you to function competently in the specialist area of Occupational Health. This involves responsibility for health and safety at work, risk assessment, management of occupational disease and the promotion of physical and psychological health among the workforce. You will gain Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). School Nursing will prepare you to lead a school nursing team of variable skill mix, to promote school health and meet the health-related needs of children and adolescents at school and their families and carers. You will gain Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). The primary aim of the School of Health Sciences and Social Care is to combine a thorough professional education with academic excellence. Most of our undergraduate programmes are funded by various NHS consortia. This reflects their high quality and ability to respond to the needs of community nursing today. 144 Contact Antonia Marray, SCPHN Course Administrator Tel: +44 (0)1895 268833 Email: communityhealth@brunel.ac.uk
Typical Modules Employability Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Practice Professional Perspectives in Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Evidence Based Practice for Public Health Promoting Public Health Management of Public Health Practice Option module in Term 2 Consolidated Practice Teaching and Assessment The School of Health Sciences and Social Care uses many innovative teaching and learning methods to balance professional training with academic excellence. You will be assessed through a range of essays, projects, examinations and practice assessments. These are handed in at different stages of the year. Fifty per cent of the course involves supervised practice placements within the chosen area of specialist practice. These are generally arranged with NHS trusts and involve experienced practice teachers who attend study days at Brunel. For Occupational Health Nursing students, you will gain practical experience within occupational settings in either the public or private sector, and be supported by a qualified and experienced practice teacher. Careers Around 95% of graduates annually secure employment in their chosen specialist field. Rakesh is studying Specialist Community Public Health Nursing: Occupational Health Nursing, part time. Brunel University has provided a great opportunity for me to further my specialisation in my current area of practice. Brunel really stands out for the facilities and learning opportunities it offers. Working full-time and studying is a hard balancing act, but the flexibility of the course and the support I receive make all the difference. I was amazed at how easy I found it to settle into this course. My lecturers are so helpful and approachable often they communicate with me on a one-to-one basis which really boosts my confidence. I look forward to obtaining my qualification and intend to practise as a Specialist Occupational Health Nurse, strengthening my experience in the field. I also want to study at postgraduate level, and Brunel offers some exciting courses which I may consider in the future. Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Brunel University www.brunel.ac.uk/courses 145
Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care ENTRY CRITERIA Recognised Social Work qualification (CSS, CQSW or DipSW) with a minimum of 240 credits or equivalent. Current employment in direct practice as a social worker and registration with the General Social Care Council. Candidates must provide satisfactory evidence that they are: suitable for post-qualification education; able to work directly with service users including those from different backgrounds, of different ages, and with different needs; likely to benefit from the programme; capable of meeting the assessment requirements. All candidates must be nominated and supported by their employing agency, which will undertake to provide support and appropriate learning opportunities. Applicants with other qualifications and experience will be considered on an individual basis. APL (Accreditation of Prior learning) will be applied to credits gained on social work qualification courses, and will be considered on an individual basis for those who have already completed parts of the previous Post Qualifying Award in Social Work. The University will apply a maximum to the number of credits for which APL will be granted. Successful applicants will not be permitted to register for the BA programme until they have gained the credits for the appropriate Consolidation module as Associate students, or have satisfied APL requirements for this module. MODE OF STUDY/ UCAS CODES 2-3 years part-time Specialist Social Work (Adults, Children and Families) BA Check the web for up-to-date course, entry criteria and fees information. About the Course This Post Qualifying programme will develop your in-depth knowledge and understanding of a specialist area of social work, and will help you to apply this knowledge in practice. The programme follows two pathways: Adults Children and Families It covers all the units of the National Occupational Standards for Social Work in direct work with users of social care services and carers. It draws on knowledge and understanding of service users and carers issues to actively contribute to strategies and practice which promote service users and carers rights and participation, in line with the goals of choice, independence and empowerment. You will learn to think critically about your own practice in the context of the General Social Care Council codes, including the embedded values and national and international codes of professional ethics and the principles of diversity, equality and social inclusion. This is related to a wide range of situations, including those associated with inter-agency and inter-professional work. Using theories, models and relevant up-to-date research, you will learn to manage your own work effectively and demonstrate a capacity to plan for, and respond to, change in organisational, inter-organisational and team contexts. Typical Modules Core Adults Pathway Critical Perspectives on Assessment and Direct Work with Adults (15 credits) Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults, Critical Decisions in Work with Adults: Law, Policy and Practice (15 credits) Working Together to Promote Independence, Well Being and Choice: Critical Perspectives on Multi-agency Working (15 credits) Assessment of Specialist Practice (15 credits) Enabling The Learning and Assessment of Others Research Project (30 credits) 146 Contact Keith Goodman Tel: +44 (0)1895 268767 Email: socialwork@brunel.ac.uk
Children and Families Critical Perspectives on Direct Work with Vulnerable Children, Young People and Families (15 credits) Safeguarding Children, Critical Decisions in Child Care: Law, Policy and Practice (15 credits) Working Together to Safeguard Children: Critical Perspectives in Multiagency working (15 credits) Assessment of Specialist Practice (15 credits) Enabling The Learning and Assessment of Others (15 credits) Research Project (30 credits) A total of 90 credits are required for the award of the Graduate Certificate in Specialist Social Work. A total of 120 credits are required for the award of the BA in Specialist Social Work. Teaching and Assessment You will be taught through various methods such as lectures, small and large group seminar discussions, role play, videos followed by discussion, case discussions, practice assessment, tutorial support, online elearning, personal study involving directed reading and assignment preparation and supervision by line managers. Assessment includes a critical career review; a case study; practice assessments; and a research project. Employability Brunel has always placed great emphasis on developing graduates who can innovate and implement, and who can add value to society through their industry. Brunel students become the kind of graduates who employers want to recruit, and as a result they currently enjoy the 13th highest starting salaries in the UK. This success is down to several factors. Combining academic study with work experience Creative and forwardlooking subjects An award-winning careers service Working while they study The entrepreneurial spirit Brunel University Health Sciences and Social Care Brunel University www.brunel.ac.uk/courses 147