This framework is designed for junior doctors who have been awarded a place as an Academic Clinical Fellow. It meets the requirements set out by National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) for accredited academic experience, whilst leaving the student free to maintain their primary focus on gaining a fellowship (Wellcome, MRC etc).
Related Links
NHS NIHR Integrated academic training
West Midlands Deanery academic training
Throughout the Academic Clinical Fellows course, you undertake two core modules during the first year of the ACF appointment.
These are both 20 credit modules. Research Methods is delivered by distance learning. Project Management and Research Governance is currently taught in two week blocks of study, however it is hoped that it will be available by distance learning later in the year. 2011/12 module dates are 17-21 October and 21-25 November 2011.
There is no requirement to take further modules and some of you may feel that the core modules provide all the academic input you need to enable you to complete your fellowship application.
However, you can choose to select further modules during your three year appointment from the broad range available within the College of Medical and Dental Sciences, relating to either the research process (e.g. advanced statistical methods; qualitative research) or to your particular field of interest. You can also choose to write up your research and submit it for academic assessment.
If you gain a total of 60 credits (i.e. a further 20 credits over and above the core) you are eligible for the award of Postgraduate Certificate: Health Research. If you undertake a total of 120 credits of taught modules, you are eligible for the award of Postgraduate Diploma: Health Research. You have two alternative routes to gaining a Masters Degree. If you successfully complete 60 credits worth of taught modules and 120 credits worth of submitted and approved research, you will be awarded an MRes: Health Research. If you successfully complete 120 credits of taught modules and 60 credits worth of submitted and approved research, you will be awarded an MSc: Clinical Health.