Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module you should be able to:

• Describe the diagnostic signs, clinical course and symptoms of HD
• Describe the epidemiology of HD;
• Describe the genetic mechanisms involved in HD and their impact on the brain; Identify the pattern of communication in HD, mobility, daily activities, nutrition and other care needs;
• Describe the ethical and legal issues in providing care for people with HD, and existing and preferred services.

Credits

10 credits

Module Attendance Required

Modules date to be confirmed.

Assessment

A thorough case history.

Academics involved in the delivery of this module

Professor Hugh Rickards, Consultant in Neuropsychiatry and Programme Director

Most lectures are from visiting consultants, professionals and researchers in the field.

Stand Alone Course

This module can also be taken as a stand-alone course if required. If taken as an individual module you will receive a certificate of attendance for CPD purposes.

Fee if taken as a stand alone course

For information on fees please contact the Programme Administrator. Please note - no masters level credits are available for this module unless taken as part of the MSc, PGDip or PGCert in Clinical Neuropsychiatry programme.

Entry requirements if taken as a stand alone course

For information on requirements please contact the Programme Administrator. You are encouraged to get in contact no later than 6 weeks before the start date of the module to ensure we can consider your application. More information Please contact the Postgraduate Administrator, +44 (0)121 415 8118, clinicalneuro@contacts.bham.ac.uk

The module introduces students to the principles of health technology assessment (HTA) and its place in healthcare decision making. The aim of the module is to provide students with an understanding of: what technologies are; the rationale underpinning the need for HTA; the history of the development of HTA; organisations, systems and approaches to HTA; and the differing perspectives of the role and use of HTA. The module takes students on a journey from the regulation of technologies, through the mechanisms underpinning the evidence based approach to their adoption by healthcare systems on clinical and cost-effectiveness grounds to the influence of HTA on the continued development of new technologies. It is illustrated throughout by reference to real world examples.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module you should be able to:

1. Describe the different types of health technologies and demonstrate the different evidence requirements for regulation

2. Recognise and describe the different stages of the HTA cycle (horizon scanning, prioritisation, evidence assessment, policy making, dissemination and implementation)

3. Demonstrate an understanding of the information and evidence requirements for healthcare policy making in the context of new and existing health technologies.

4. Understand the rationale underpinning the need for HTA from a healthcare, economic and societal perspective.

5. Describe the origins, development, and current status of HTA in England, elsewhere in the UK, and internationally.

6. Explore critically the current systems for HTA and health care policy making in the UK with particular reference to local commissioning and national decision making (e.g. NICE).

Credits

10 credits.

Module Attendance Required

One block week of teaching.

Module Dates

Module dates are to be confirmed.

Assessment

One written assignment.

Module Coordinators:

Module Lead: Dr Derek Ward

Deputy Module Lead: Dr Agnieszka Ignatowicz

Stand Alone Course

This module can be taken as a standalone course if required.

The course can be taken as an assessed or non assessed week. To apply, please contact the MPH Programme Coordinator. All applications must be received a minimum of one month before the start date of the module. For further information on fees and entry requirements, please contact the Programme Coordinator.

This module introduces the most common clinical presentations of functional (non-organic) neurological symptoms, encompassing psychogenic movement disorders and non-epileptic attacks. The diagnosis of somatoform disorders is explained with focus on the role of clinical examination and neuropsychiatric investigation in assisting the differential diagnosis between dissociation, factitious and malingering. Possible underlying mechanisms are covered and available management options are presented according to current evidence.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module you should be able to:

• Identify the different presentations of functional neurological symptoms, including psychogenic movement disorders and non-epileptic attack disorder
• Understand the differential diagnosis between somatoform disorders, factitious disorders and malingering
• Critically appraise the scientific literature on the clinical and research aspects of functional neurological symptoms
• Understand the methods of investigation and diagnosis of somatoform disorders and apply them to clinical practice
• Understand the management options available to patients with somatoform disorders and apply them to clinical practice

Credits

10 credits

Module Attendance Required

Module dates are to be confirmed

Assessment

Presentation

Academics involved in the delivery of this module

Professor Andrea Cavanna - Consultant in Behavioural Neurology and Deputy Programme Lead Most lectures are from visiting consultants, professionals and researchers in the field.

Stand Alone Course

This module can also be taken as a stand-alone course if required. If taken as an individual module you will receive a certificate of attendance for CPD purposes.

Fee if taken as a stand alone course

For information on fees please contact the Programme Administrator. Please note - no masters level credits are available for this module unless taken as part of the MSc, PGDip or PGCert in Clinical Neuropsychiatry programme.

Entry requirements if taken as a stand alone course

For information on requirements please contact the Programme Administrator. You are encouraged to get in contact no later than 6 weeks before the start date of the module to ensure we can consider your application. More information Please contact the Postgraduate Administrator, +44 (0)121 415 8118, clinicalneuro@contacts.bham.ac.uk

The module presents a coherent overview of the major tissue, cellular and molecular components of both the innate and adaptive immune system, and their role in the induction of immune responses and as effector mechanisms that resolve infection. Abnormal immune responses are also covered, with reference to human disease. This learning will be enhanced with a few face-to-face lectures followed by an extensive series of small group teaching sessions to provide further tuition and clarification of understanding.

Module attendance required:

Two-week series of lectures and small group tutorials

Assessment:

100% in course assessment

Academics involved in the delivery of this module: 

 Dr Nick Jones and Dr William Jenkinson  (Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy) and a number of post-doctoral researchers from across the Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy.

This short course provides an introduction to management for students from a range of professional and academic backgrounds. Its aim is to examine the main components of management in a way that is accessible to students with different levels of experience of working in organisations. Using health care organisations as a focus it explores the key elements of managing self, managing teams and managing organisations to enable students to develop a critical perspective on organisation. It focuses on the use of theory and research to build an understanding of management and leadership in organisations.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this short course you should be able to:

1. Discuss broad conceptual approaches to the study of management

2. Examine management of self; management of teams; management of the organisation as a framework for the practice of management.

3. Analyse critically specific theories of management and leadership and their utility in increasing understanding of organisations

4. Examine the rationale for and effectiveness of change strategies utilised in health care organisations.

5. Evaluate critically the concept of organisational culture and its applications in managing health care.

6. Critique relevant research to inform an analysis of health care organisations.

Assessment

One written assignment

Course dates

7-11 April

Course coordinators

Course Lead: Iain Snelling

Course prerequisites

Degree level needed

Further information

Please contact the Programme Administrator, 0121 414 7577, or at mph@contacts.bham.ac.uk for information on fees or entry requirements.

You can choose to study this course as either a microcredential or a non-credit CPD shortcourse.

Why choose a Postgraduate Microcredential short course?

• Usually taken from exisiting modules within a Masters, they can be used as standalone credentials with some also counting as academic credits at postgraduate level
• Add a postgraduate level qualification to your CV
• Develop the specialist skills you need for your career goals
• Alumni status with the University of Birmingham
• Learners will have the same access to our student support and campus facilities as our students on full degree programmes.

Please note that once registered for the microcredential you cannot swap for the non-credit shortcourse version.

Apply for the Microcredential

Non-credit short course

The microcredential and the non-credit short course follow the same course structure, the difference between them both is with the non-credit short course you do not take the assessment at the end therefore you will not receive credits but will recieve a certificate of completion, this certificate cannot be converted to credits. 

Please note if you apply for the non-credit short course, you cannot swap to the microcredential version once registered. 

Apply for the non-credit CPD shortcourse

Applications must be received a minimum of one month before the start date of the course.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module you should be able to:

• critically discuss health promotion policy, theories and research
• consider and evaluate health promotion priorities, strategies and methods used with individuals, groups, partnerships and communities
• critically analyse issues of power, ethics and politics within health promotion policy and practice.

Credits

10 credits.

Module Dates

Module dates to be confirmed.

Assessment

One written assignment.

Module Coordinator

Module Lead: Professor Jayne Parry 

Deputy Module Lead: Dr Beck Taylor
Deputy Module Lead: Dr Miranda Pallan

Stand Alone Course

This module can be taken as a standalone course if required. To apply, please contact the Programme Coordinator on 0121 414 7577 or mph@contacts.bham.ac.uk. Please contact the Programme Coordinator for information on fees and entry requirements. The course can be taken as an assessed or non assessed week.

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of higher education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering MOOCs in partnership with Futurelearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University. 

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via a interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners. 

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

Improving your image: Dental Photography in Practice

This course promotes the use of digital photography in dental practices, and gives participants the information and techniques to achieve good quality consistent results.

You will cover all aspects of the use of digital photography in dental practice and will be taken through photography from the basics to choosing correct equipment, setting up equipment to optimum settings, techniques for consistent imaging and the safe storage of images.

How to apply

You can join at the FutureLearn website

Start date

No official start date - this is an open and rolling course. 

It is part of the process of conferring the status of Associate Fellow of the Albert Ellis Institute upon REBT therapists. It is designed to further increase course participants' theoretical understanding of the principles of REBT and offer feedback to participants on the nature and quality of the therapy they have been offering to service users in their area of practice. This is achieved through a combination of workshops and live supervision of therapy session recordings.

Dates: Autumn 2017 / TBC. Please contact psychology-placementadmin@contacts.bham.ac.uk if you are interested in attending the associate workshop.

Credits available
20 Masters level credits

Module dates
TBC

Assessment

• 20% Discussion on the contemporary management of tooth wear (1000 words)
• 30% Structured clinical case reports on caries management (maximum 1500 words & 6 illustrations)
• 20% 2 Caries risk management patient information leaflets (1 for children under 12, one for the elderly)
• 30% Appraisal of 6 innovative technologies appraisals (using the proforma provided)
  

Entry requirements
Dental degree and to be working actively in dental practice.

How to register/apply
University of Birmingham website
www.birmingham.ac.uk/dentalpractice-distance  

Module dates
TBC

Assessment

• 20% Creation and submission of patient information literature (2 leaflets) relevant to prevention and management of gingivitis and chronic periodontitis
• 40% Creation and submission of a structured clinical case report for a patient whose periodontal disease you have managed
• 10% Creation and submission of professional information document (for peers) with regard to oral cancer screening
• 10% Creation and submission of a referral letter (& photographic report where relevant) of oral mucosal lesion/condition
• 20% Creation and submission of a structured oral surgery assessment protocol for impacted third molars

Entry requirements (if required)
Dental degree and to be working actively in dental practice.

How to register/apply
University of Birmingham website
www.birmingham.ac.uk/dentalpractice-distance  

Credits available
20 Masters level credits

Module dates
TBC

Assessment

• 20% Submission of a series reflective case reports of simulated practical exercises using direct restorative techniques (word limit 250 each) (Online assessment of annotated photographic case presentations and direct assessment of actual restorations on residential course)
• 40% Submission of (structured, annotated, photographic) a clinical case report of direct aesthetic restorative dental procedures to include reflection relating aesthetic principles to clinical need. (1500 word limit).
• 40% Online submissions and assessment of structured endodontic clinical and/or simulation exercise case reports and direct assessment of endodontic simulation exercises on residential course

Entry requirements
Dental degree and to be working actively in dental practice.

How to register/apply
University of Birmingham website
www.birmingham.ac.uk/dentalpractice-distance  

• 40% Submission of a reflective structured clinical case report involving one or more indirect restoration(s) (1500 word limit) If the timetable permits, this case report may be given as a PowerPoint presentation.
• 20% Submission of designs for partial dentures (to include rationale for design decisions)
• 10% Submission of a structured document on assessment criteria for dental implants
• 30% Submission of a photographic portfolio of simulated tooth preparation exercises (Preparations will also be directly assessed on residential course)

Entry requirements
Dental degree and to be working actively in dental practice.

How to register/apply
University of Birmingham website
www.birmingham.ac.uk/dentalpractice-distance 

Credits available
20 Masters level credits

Module dates
TBC

Assessment

• 10% Create and submit patient information literature specific to an individual practice that demonstrates clear understanding of consumer requirements
• 20% Create and submit job description for a new member of staff that demonstrates leadership and organisational skill.
• 20% Create and submit a practice infection control document that demonstrates clear understanding of the relevant guidelines and which would be suitable for the training of a new member of staff.
• 10% Submit a structured, reflective personal/practice plan for continuing professional development for immediate future beyond MSc
• 40% Produce a case report (1500 words) on a child or elderly patient whose dental problems you have managed.

Entry requirements
Dental degree and to be working actively in dental practice.

How to register/apply
University of Birmingham website
www.birmingham.ac.uk/dentalpractice-distance

What is a MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of higher education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with Futurelearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University. 

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via a interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners. 

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

Interested in our other courses?

Find out more about our courses and research on our College website.

The Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues is a unique and leading research centre for the examination of how character and virtues impact on individuals and society.  Based within the School of Education at the University of Birmingham, the Centre also seeks to promote the practical application of its research evidence through various development projects.  A key conviction underlying the existence of the Centre is that the virtues that make up a good character can be learnt and taught. 

What is a MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University.

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners.

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

This 20 credit module forms one part of the Post Graduate Certificate in Multidisciplinary Healthcare Simulation. The aims of this module are:

To provide you with:

• An understanding of the process for creating an effect scenario that can be used in simulation training.
• Knowledge of the available technologies and how to ‘drive’ the technology. 

Additionally you will explore all roles within the simulation faculty and how they contribute to the fidelity of multidisciplinary health care simulation as well as the principles of debriefing a simulation scenario.

Credits

20 Masters level credits

Module attendance required

The formal taught component is delivered over 3 full days in 2 blocks of teaching (1+2 days) with a 3 week break between blocks. The break in teaching allows you time for reflection and preparation of simulation scenarios in advance of the simulation sessions held in the specialist simulation suite.

Module dates

Module dates to be confirmed

Assessment

Methods of assessment comprise: creation and application of 3 simulation scenarios, a reflective portfolio and a 3000 word evidence based essay.

Academics involved in the delivery of this module 

The teaching will be delivered by Dr Sandeep Randhawa, Academic General Practitioner with a specialist interest and expertise in medical education.

Stand-alone course for CPD

This  module is not currently available as a stand-alone module for CPD. 

Students will be provided with a platform of ethical understanding from which to consider issues of human confidentiality, autonomy, disclosure, informed consent and natural justice. Upon this platform, students will consider the impact of genomic technologies on individual lives and those of demographic and ethnic groupings. The social implications of the availability of genetic testing and screening will be considered, especially in the context of reproductive technologies. Finally students will be provided with a legal framework for patenting of genetic information as well as the use of genetic data for research, diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Credits

15 Masters level credits.

Module attendance required

Teaching delivered one day each week for five consecutive weeks.

Module dates

Module dates to be confirmed.

Assessment

The module will be assessed via a 3000-word essay, and an exam made up of short answer and extended matching set questions. For those taking the module as a stand-alone option, you need only take the assessment if you require the University credits.

Academics involved in the delivery of this module 

Module Lead:

Dr Lauren Traczykowski (Aston University Law School)

Other University staff:

To be confirmed.

NHS staff:

• Dr Pooja Dasani
• Dr Laura Boyes
• Dr Peter Marks

Fee

Contact the Programme Administrator for further information at genomics@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Stand-alone module

This module can be taken as a stand-alone assessed or non-assessed course.  

You should have a good honours degree in a life sciences subject, although we will consider applicants with alternative qualifications and professional experience within the health service or other relevant background. You should either take Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics , Omics Techniques and their Application to Genomic Medicine and Genomics of Common and Rare Inherited Diseases first, or be able to show you have equivalent knowledge and understanding to enable you to benefit from this module. 

Please contact the Programme Administrator for further information at genomics@contacts.bham.ac.uk

This optional module will extend your knowledge and capabilities for bioinformatic analysis of genomic data, beyond that achieved in the core Bioinformatics module. You will gain greater understanding of the different approaches to mapping and alignment of sequence data, learn how to use programming and scripting via command line and the Galaxy interface and learn approaches for detection of structural or copy number changes, and for analysis of epigenetic changes.

Much of the learning on the module is based on practical exercises and to ensure optimal teaching support for these sessions, the number of places is capped at 10.

This module is significantly more demanding than Module 3 (Bioinformatics, Interpretation and Data Quality Assurance in Genome Analysis) and students are strongly encouraged to discuss their suitability with module staff prior to enrolling.

Credits

15 Masters level credits

Module attendance required

Teaching delivered one day each week for 5 consecutive weeks.

Module dates

To be confirmed. Please contact the Programme Administrator for further information at genomics@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Assessment

The module will be assessed via a short software presentation, and an exam made up of multiple-choice questions and a choice of essay. For those taking the module as a stand-alone option, you need only take the assessment if you require the University credits. 

Academics involved in the delivery of this module 

Module Lead:
Professor Jean-Baptiste Cazier (University of Birmingham Chair of Bioinformatics; Director Designate of the Centre for Computational Biology)

 University staff:

• Dr Andrew Beggs
• Dr Mark Slater
• Dr Boris Noyvert

Stand-alone

Fees
Please contact the Programme Administrator for further information at genomics@contacts.bham.ac.uk

This module can be taken as a stand-alone assessed or non-assessed course.  

You should have a good honours degree in a life sciences subject, although we will consider applicants with alternative qualifications and professional experience within the health service or other relevant background. 

You should either take Fundamentals in Human Genetics and Genomics ,  Omics Techniques and Technologies and their Application to Genomic Medicine and Bioinformatics, Interpretation and Data Quality Assurance in Genome Analysis first, or be able to show you have equivalent knowledge and understanding to enable you to benefit from this module.

Please contact the Programme Administrator for further information at genomics@contacts.bham.ac.uk

This course is currently being redesigned; please contact the PGT administrator for more information.

Credits

20 Masters level credits

Module attendance required

To be confirmed.

Method of teaching

To be confirmed.

Module dates

To be confirmed.

Assessment

To be confirmed.

Academics involved in the delivery of this module 

• Dr Cara Bailey

Stand-alone course

Supportive and End of Life Care is available as an optional module as part of the MSc Advanced Clinical Practice 

It can also be taken as CPD with no academic accreditation, in which case a ‘certificate of attendance’ will be provided. 

Fee if taken as a stand alone course
To be confirmed.

Entry requirements
Professional qualification in healthcare 

To apply please contact:
Administrator: acp@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Tel: 0121 141 6014

Programme lead:
Dr Cara Bailey
Email: c.bailey.2@bham.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3657 

This module allows students the opportunity to further develop their research skills within sport, physical activity and rehabilitation. It will cover the practical usage and critical analysis of methodologies, including studies that utilised empirical data collection as well as review based research.

The content will include a focus on positionality, research writing, research questions, design, data gathering, interpretation and data analysis, reporting, ethics, and issues such as sampling, carrying out research with adults and juniors, working in different social and cultural settings, applying findings to practice.

The module will provide students with an essential understanding of conducting research in a real world sport/physical activity/rehabilitation environment and will provide a firm grounding for their masters dissertation research.

Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate and advanced understanding of positionality in relation to research questions, design and conduct
• Critically evaluate the key research methodologies in their field of study
• Through critical analysis identify appropriate methods of data collection and analysis for different types of research
• Critically evaluate the wider issues surrounding research (e.g. ethics, research governance)
• Design research using advanced methods to answer current practical and theoretical questions in their area of study

Credits

20 masters level credits

Module attendance required

As above

Modules dates

Module dates to be confirmed

Method of teaching

The module is delivered through a blend of intensive blocks of face to face teaching, web based distance learning, personal study time, independent study, group and individual problem solving tasks. 

Assessment

Positionality and Research Questions (Written assignment – 30%)
Methodological Case Study (Written assignment – 70%)

Academics involved in the deliver of this module

A number of academics across the School deliver on this module with normally over 8 different lecturers contributing their expertise in differing areas.

Entry requirements

2i UG degree in a related discipline

This course will teach you about the fascinating field of liver transplantation. We will cover the history of liver transplantation - from early experiments in the late 1960s to exciting new technological advances in organ preservation happening today. 

You will find out why there is such an increasing global need for liver transplants, and look at the science behind the operation and the drugs used to prevent organ rejection. We will discuss the intriguing and unique biology of the liver, explaining how one donor organ can help two patients in need, and how some people can eventually manage without any anti-rejection medication.

What is a MOOC? 

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University. 

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners. 

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

Module overview

During this module you will undertake a 6 month full time laboratory research project within a research group in the Institute of Cardiovascular Science. You will join a research group and become part of its activities including lab meetings. You will also take part in the design of the project and fully undertake the experiments and write up of data. Projects will stem from the expertise of the institute research groups.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module students should be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the current knowledge of the cardiovascular system
• Analyse experimental data from primary research papers           
• Construct a well-argued report or presentation on specific aspects of cardiovascular science
• Be able to critically appraise the literature on specific aspects of cardiovascular science
• Design experiments to test specific hypothesis

Module dates: January to August

Assessment: 

• 15 min oral presentation (25%)
• 15,000 word thesis (75%)

Academics involved in the delivery of this module: Dr Steve Thomas; Professor Neil Morgan plus a supervisor chosen from one of the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences research groups.

This module is designed to: 

• be paired with a companion module (Prescribing: Safe Effective Practice, 20 credits) as part of the Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing.  The pairing is designed to meet the requirements for an accredited programme for independent non-medical prescriber status (according to each relevant professional body, General Pharmaceutical Council, Nursing & Midwifery Council).   

• be used as a self-standing CPD module to provide extended knowledge and understanding of the medical prescribing process (to service existing prescribers wishing to develop their knowledge base or those who do not necessarily prescribe but are involved with a medicines management process).

You will:

• extend your existing knowledge base and professional practice through a critical appreciation of the influences on and psychology associated with the prescribing process, in order to deliver patient-focused, best-practice approaches to prescribing. 
• be able to critically assess the complex contexts in which the prescribing process is conducted and respond dynamically with appropriate prescribing actions. 
• build a critical knowledge base of the principles of evidence-based practice and clinical governance for complex, multi-factorial prescribing scenarios. 

Module Outcomes
By the end of the module you should be able to demonstrate: 

Knowledge and Understanding

• a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology and it’s practical application to the conditions being treated and recognise the signs and symptoms of a range of illnesses. 
• a systematic understanding of the relevance, mechanisms and impact of public health issues on prescribing and the effects of prescribing practice on public health outcomes. 
• a practical understanding of the legal, ethical and professional framework for accountability and responsibility in relation to prescribing. 
• a critical understanding and application of clinical governance frameworks including audit of prescribing practice and personal development. 

Intellectual Skills 

• a systematic understanding of pharmacology, numeracy and clinical skills to formulate treatment plans, devise checking processes to ensure patient safety and  monitor responses to therapy. 
• the ability to critically appraise sources of information and decision support for prescribing. 
• a critical understanding of the accountability and responsibility that prescribing entails. 
• critical awareness of the influences on individual, local and national prescribing practice. 
• sound judgment using critical understanding of factors determining legal, appropriate, safe and cost-effective prescribing. 

Transferable Skills 

• Demonstrate critical awareness of personal limitations in the context of professional competence. 
• Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of the complex issues that impact on effective prescribing in a partnership leading to optimal therapeutic outcomes for patients.

Module dates
Module dates to be confirmed shortly

Assessment day - (university attendance required)

This multi-professional blended learning course takes place over 3 months and comprises of 3 days attendance for course learning with a further ½ day attendance to complete course assessment. Attendance at the University for these dates is mandatory and will need to be repeated if missed.   Further learning is provided through online activities and independent learning. 

Method of teaching

During attendance at the University you will undertake key lectures, small group work, workshops and enquiry based learning.  

The virtual learning environment CANVAS will support directed and independent learning.  You will use the web-based SCRIPT e-learning programme.  This comprises of 44 modules designed to improve prescribing competency and is developed in partnership with Health Education England – West Midlands and OCB media.  SCRIPT offers a range of modules including Fundamentals of Pharmacology, Dosing and Calculations and modules related to specific therapeutic areas. 

You will prepare for and reflect upon the key learning within the University and undertake the full range of portfolio activity to evidence your achievement of learning outcomes and prescribing competencies (for Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing).

Assessment

• Structured learning and reflective portfolio
• Virtual scenario-based assessment
• Group presentations of set prescribing scenarios
• Calculations Examination (must pass at 100%)

Academics involved in the delivery of this module

• Mrs Parbir Jagpal – Programme Director, Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing 
• Mrs Pat Hibberd – Leader Independent/Supplementary for Nurses and Midwives 
  
• Christine Hirsch – Deputy Programme Director 
• Professor John Marriott – Professor of Clinical Pharmacy Head of School of Pharmacy 
• Kaldeep Singh – Academic Practitioner 
  
• Dr Asma Yahyouche – Academic Practitioner  
• Sarah Pontefract – (Thomas) NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow SCRIPT Editorial Lead

The module addresses the underpinning practical principles of prescribing practice and highlights mechanisms and pathways necessary to refine and optimise the prescribing process at patient, local practice and national levels resulting in safe, effective prescribing.

This module is designed to:

• be paired with a companion module (Prescribing: Scientific Principles and Practice, 20 credits) as part of the Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing.  The pairing is designed to meet the requirements for an accredited programme for independent non-medical prescriber status (according to each relevant professional body, General Pharmaceutical Council, Nursing & Midwifery Council). 
• be used as a self-standing CPD module to provide extended knowledge and understanding of the medical prescribing process (to service existing prescribers wishing to develop their knowledge base or those who do not necessarily prescribe but are involved with a medicines management process).

Candidates will extend their existing knowledge base and practical professional practice through development of appropriate diagnostic skills. You will demonstrate a critical, personalised approach to autonomous, safe and effective prescribing of high quality using appropriate problem-solving and in-process controls within individual limits of competence. This practice will show evidence of recognition and application of appropriate national or local therapeutic guidelines.

Module Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding
By the end of the module you should be able to demonstrate:

• a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology and it’s practical application to the conditions being treated and recognise the signs and symptoms of a range of illnesses.
• the ability to critically appraise appropriate information sources accessed and utilised during the prescribing process.

Intellectual Skills
By the end of the module you should be able to demonstrate:

• the appropriate independent formulation of a working diagnosis and treatment plan which culminates in an appropriate prescription supported by effective monitoring and safety checks with follow up as necessary.
• appropriate responses to influences on prescribing including effective communication.
• appropriate, safe, cost-effective prescribing both independently and within partnerships, with accurate, effective and timely record keeping.
• critical application of public health, legal, ethical, professional, audit and governance frameworks in the prescribing process.

Professional/Subject Specific Skills
By the end of the module you should be able to demonstrate:

• the ability to practice within the limits of professional  competence (including appropriate referral, consultation and guidance seeking).
• the ability to elicit an accurate patient history and conduct  relevant clinical assessment and monitoring including appropriate use of common diagnostic equipment.
• a proactive patient-focussed approach to prescribing.

Transferable Skills
By the end of the module you should be able to demonstrate:

• an effective approach, including communication in a prescribing context.  
• a proactive approach to participation in CPD in order to continue to advance knowledge, skills and understanding in prescribing practice to a high level.

Module dates
Module dates to be confirmed shortly 

This is a multi-professional blended learning course which takes place over 3 months.  It comprises of 5 days attendance for course learning with a further 1 day attendance to complete course assessment. 

Attendance at the University for these dates is mandatory and will need to be repeated if missed.   Further learning is provided through online activities and independent learning. 

Method of teaching

During attendance at the University you will undertake key lectures, small group work, workshops and enquiry based learning.  

The virtual learning environment CANVAS will support directed and independent learning.  Students will use the web-based SCRIPT e-learning programme.  This comprises of 44 modules designed to improve prescribing competency and is developed in partnership with Health Education England – West Midlands and OCB media.  SCRIPT offers a range of modules including Fundamentals of Pharmacology, Dosing and Calculations and modules related to specific therapeutic areas. 

You will prepare for and reflect upon the key learning within the University and undertake the full range of portfolio activity to evidence their achievement of learning outcomes and prescribing competencies (for Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing).

Assessment

• Structured learning and reflective portfolio
• Five station OSCE
• One hour Extended Matching MCQ examination + short answer examination
• Completion of 90 hours supervised learning in practice, validated and signed off by DMP 

Academics involved in the delivery of this module

• Mrs Parbir Jagpal – Programme Director, Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing
• Mrs Pat Hibberd – Leader Independent/Supplementary for Nurses and Midwives
  
• Christine Hirsch – Deputy Programme Director
• Professor John Marriott – Professor of Clinical Pharmacy Head of School of Pharmacy
• Kaldeep Singh – Academic Practitioner
  
• Dr Asma Yahyouche – Academic Practitioner 
• Sarah Pontefract – (Thomas) NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow SCRIPT Editorial Lead

Youth social action – activities young people do to help others and the environment – is becoming increasingly recognised as a means of improving our communities and developing young people’s character. Educational institutions, businesses, voluntary sector organisations and governments are investing in social action to provide opportunities to young people of all backgrounds.

This MOOC discusses social action as a form of character development. It explores the historical and theoretical roots of youth social action and character, and positions participation in social action as a journey for young people from the age of 10 through to adulthood. Involving academics and practitioners from a range of sectors, this MOOC aims to explain why character and social action matter to society, and how organisations can work collectively to support young people to build character through social action.  

The ‘Building character through Youth Social Action’, MOOC has been created by the Jubilee Centre for Character and Virtues at the University of Birmingham. This unique and leading research centre examines how character and virtues impact on individuals and society.  Based within the School of Education at the University of Birmingham, the Centre also seeks to promote the practical application of its research evidence through various development projects.  A key conviction underlying the existence of the Centre is that the virtues that make up a good character can be learnt and taught. 

What is a MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University.

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners.

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the social learning platform, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University. 

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners. 

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham

If you have trouble viewing the above video, you can view it via this page.  A transcript in English and Mandarin Chinese is provided.

Electrical Engineering: Sensing, powering and controlling

The course will explore electrical engineering applications which are down-to-earth - such as an electrical pick-up for a musical instrument - and out of this world - such as measuring Space Weather. Analogue and digital systems will be covered, and you will use technical vocabulary to express key concepts.

You’ll develop skills in analysing and designing digital and analogue circuits and systems, and become familiar with using English technical vocabulary. You’ll understand how electric engineering systems are used in specific contexts, and gain confidence in communicating engineering ideas.

The course is based on first year electrical engineering modules in the School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham.

The course is designed for students for whom English is a second language.  It is provided in English, with transcripts in English and Mandarin.

Lead Educator

Dr Tim Jackson is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Engineering. His teaching in Electrical Engineering and Electrical Energy Systems combines traditional-style live lectures with innovations in online learning and practical laboratory classes. Tim has a long standing interest in outreach and public engagement projects including theatre production, appearing and advising on radio and television programmes, and writing for magazines.  

There are very few aspects of dentistry that do not rely on materials, and the science of dental materials is arguably the most important subject that a dental practitioner, allied teacher or researcher should learn. The dental materials market also rapidly evolves and has a quick turnover of products. Further education in dental materials science will be beneficial for daily clinical practice and successful completion of this programme will provide greater employability in dental practice and when applying to undertake postgraduate research degrees

The one-year full-time (and two-year part-time) Masters programme welcomes students from a variety of backgrounds from clinical practitioners and dental technicians who are required to teach the subject, to those pursuing a career in a related research field, whether having a clinical or non-clinical undergraduate education, and whether from the UK or abroad.

Scholarships for 2024 entry

The University of Birmingham is proud to offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate programmes. With a scholarship pot worth over £2 million, we are committed to alleviating financial barriers to support you in taking your next steps.

Each scholarship has its own specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Please familiarise yourself with the information on individual scholarship webpages prior to submitting an application.

Explore our scholarships

Module Overview
The culmination of knowledge and skills obtained during semesters 1 and 2 of the MSc in Clinical Trials, will be applied in this Final Research Project. Students will plan an investigation (obtaining ethical approval where necessary), critically appraise the relevant literature, design, analyse and report on the resulting data. Students will select from a list of pre-determined research questions or may propose their own research question. Whilst there is not capacity for students to design and run their own clinical trials (which would take several years), they are able to focus on a specific aspect of the design, delivery or analysis of trials. In practice, trials require a large multidisciplinary team and the individual team member is likely to focus on either design/analytical issues related to trials or on aspects of trial management, so the Final Research Project will prepare students for independent work within the workplace. The nature of the research question will depend on the expertise of the individual student.

Example projects might include the following:

• Identification of a current issue in trial delivery, such as poor recruitment, and the development of a potential method to overcome it or testing an existing method within an ongoing trial.
• Qualitative interviews with those involved with trials around a specific issue of trial delivery or the impact of advanced trial designs on delivery.
• Development of a full trial protocol ready for a grant application.
• Systematic review of approaches to public and patient involvement and engagement in trials.

Students will produce and submit (as a summative assessment) a protocol detailing the research question, aims, and planned methods before conducting the research.

Method of Teaching
The module will include a number of lectures throughout semesters 1 and 2 to guide students through choosing a topic, developing their methods and managing their work. Workshops will allow students the opportunity to apply these skills. Students will be allocated a supervisor to support them throughout the module.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module you should be able to: 

• Design a research project or investigation demonstrating independent research skills with consideration of any ethical requirements.
• Review and critically analyse previous work in this area to determine / refine and inform the focus and nature of the investigation.
• Select appropriate methodology, providing justification for the approach selected and recognising its limitations.
• Collect or review and critically analyse relevant data or information.
• Interpret data or information collected and explain its impact in the relevant field.
• Write up, present and defend the research findings relating to the project, with acknowledgment of any limitations.

Module Attendance Required 
The majority of this module involves guided independent study. Students will however be required to attend for occasional lectures/seminars/supervision during the year.

Module Dates
2019/20
Summer term - August

Assessment

1. 2,000-4,000-word research protocol (20%)
2. 10,000-15,000-word independent project report (75%)
3. Exhibition/poster presentation (5%)

Academics involved in the delivery of this module
Dr Sara Brookes
Mrs Razia Meer-Baloch

This module is not available on a stand-alone basis for any other queries please contact the programme team at clinicaltrialsmsc@contacts.bham.ac.uk

This is a core module on the MSc/PGDip in Clinical Trials programme. 

Module Overview

This module will provide students with a thorough understanding of why clinical trials have become so important in the evaluation of healthcare, social care and public health interventions. Whilst providing an overview of the different phases of clinical trials, the module will focus on the fundamental features of definitive randomised controlled trials.  Key decisions surrounding the design of trials, such as methods of randomisation, blinding and sample size, will be explored. The module will also introduce key statistical concepts applicable to the design, analysis and interpretation of trials. By the end of the module students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to recognise when a clinical trial is needed and contribute to the design of a subsequent trial.

Method of Teaching

The module involves a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical classes/workshops and guided independent study. 

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module you should be able to: 

• Distinguish between observational and interventional study designs and identify the most appropriate design for different research questions.
• Explain the fundamental principles of randomised controlled trials and propose methods to reduce bias in the design of trials.
• Summarize the factors that have driven the development of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and regulatory requirements in trials.
• Construct appropriate research questions with consideration of population, intervention, control and outcomes.
• Demonstrate that systematic reviews are essential for contextualising trials and recognise the essential processes involved in undertaking a systematic review.
• Critically appraise medical research literature, including systematic reviews, relevant to a particular area of healthcare, social care and public health research.
• Explain key statistical concepts such as probability and statistical inference and interpret measures of treatment effect, confidence intervals and P-values.
• Discuss the need for sample size calculations and the impact of changing trial assumptions on the required size of a trial.

Module Attendance Required

2 block weeks of teaching

Module Dates

Module dates to be confirmed

Assessment

1. A 2.5-hour unseen examination (80%)
2. A 1500-word critical appraisal (20%)

Academics involved in the delivery of this module

Lee Middleton
Samir Mehta

Research provides teachers with opportunities to improve their practice and gain new knowledge to better support their students' learning. But where can you find good research and how do you apply its insights? Learn how to make the most of education research with this course.

You will explore how to access, understand and evaluate research from a range of sources. You will also learn powerful search techniques, how to analyse research, and how to assess its usability. Upon completion of this course, you will feel more confident to embark on research of your own and use it in your teaching practice.

Who is the course for

This course is for teachers working in early years, primary, secondary and further education settings. It would also be of interest to other education professionals working outside of school settings.

What is a MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University.

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners.

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

The aim of the module is to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the state of the art in data integration, mining and analysis with applications in biology and biomedicine. 

The module covers topics related to data

• Data types,
• Data modelling,
• Data management,
• Semantic representation,
• Integration,
• Analysis

• Frequentist and Bayesian approaches,
• Univariate and multivariate analysis,
• Specific statistics definition.

• Hidden Markov Models,
• Self Organizing Maps,
• Boot-strapping and resampling procedures,
• Agent-based modelling,
• Statistical Machine Learning.

It will as well provide methods to analyze, visualize and integrate the various types of data.

It includes as well the training on several well used web-based resources (e.g. OMIM, TCGA, DAVID, REACTOME)

By the end of the module you should be able to:

• Demonstrate a good understanding of complexity of omics and clinical data and their management including their semantic representation
• Demonstrate an in-depth understanding and ability to perform Data integration, mining and analysis
• Demonstrate conceptual understanding of Computing, Algorithmic and Programming that enables the student to evaluate methodologies and develop critiques of them and, where appropriate, propose new methods
• Deal with the complexity of information available to enable the integration of diverse data types
• Demonstrate self direction and originality in tackling and solving problems to perform the appropriate Modelling and Optimization

Credits

20 credits

Assessment

Essay - 60%
Presentation - 40%

Academics involved in the teaching of this module

Module lead - Professor Georgios Gkoutos whose interest is in the general areas of clinical and biomedical informatics, computational biology, and integrative and translational research aiming at the discovery of molecular origins of human disease and the development of novel diagnostic and intervention strategies.

Please note this module is only available as part of MSc Bioinformatics and the International Doctoral Training Programme. 

• History: Sanger sequencing through array technologies
• Next generation Sequencing
• Advanced library construction procedures for specialized assays (e.g. ChIP, DNase, ATAC, HiC, eCLIP)

• Classical Genetics
• Population Genetics
• Cancer Genomics

It will involved a biological, technological and analytical dimension to help the student design the best experiment with the appropriate data type and enable its analysis with the latest state of the art approaches.

By the end of the module you should be able to:

• Understand the biological interpretation of the various *omics fields, especially DNA, RNA and Methylation based.
• Understand the various technologies available to measure the various type of information from Sanger sequencing, micro-array, Mass-Spectrometry to Next Generation sequencing
• Analyse the various types of data generated in the field both with command line and web interface such as Galaxy
• Integrate the various type of data to understand the biological implication of the results
• Deal with the complexity of information available to enable the integration of diverse data types

Assessment

The module is assessed by a combination of a written examination (60%) in the form of short answer questions and a group presentation (40%) during the course of the module.

There will also be a formative written examination in the form of MCQ during this module.

Module lead

Professor Jean-Baptiste Cazier

Please note module is only available as part of MSc Bioinformatics and the International Doctoral Training Programme.

The University of Birmingham’s Healthy Ageing MOOC course will help anyone who wants to make a difference to older peoples’ lives understand the consequences of ageing and how to intervene in order to maintain good health.

Open to anyone from family members, carers, nurses, practitioners, researchers, policy makers to older adults, our free online course will help you understand how lifestyle behaviours can promote health and physical independence in ageing populations and what is being done to prepare us all for a healthier, more independent future.

Over 3 weeks, you will learn the meaning of ‘Healthy Ageing’. The course will present current knowledge of physical activity and nutrition research in diverse groups of older adults across different settings. The sessions will examine ageing and frailty demographics through a global lens, age-related health inequalities and government policies. You will also be introduced to different research methods, tools, and technologies to help older adults live healthier lives.

Delivered by internationally recognised experts in the field within our School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences and designed in collaboration with older adults, our course will positively impact your knowledge, behaviours and practices.

What is a MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University.

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners.

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

Credits

60 credits

Assessment

A4 Research proposal (5%) and Final Project Submission (95%) (15,000 words; +/- 10%) 

Module Lead

• Professor Andrea Cavanna

Stand Alone Course

This module can also be taken as a stand-alone course if required. If taken as an individual module you will receive a certificate of attendance for CPD purposes.

Fee if taken as a stand alone course
For information on fees please contact the Programme Administrator. Please note - no masters level credits are available for this module unless taken as part of the MSc, PGDip or PGCert in Clinical Neuropsychiatry programme. 

Entry requirements if taken as a stand alone course
For information on requirements please contact the Programme Administrator. You are encouraged to get in contact no later than 6 weeks before the start date of the module to ensure we can consider your application.

More information
Please contact the Postgraduate Administrator, +44 (0)121 415 8118, clinicalneuro@contacts.bham.ac.uk

Subject to Ministry of Education Accreditation

The programme introduces core management concepts in semester one before developing these in semester two.

The Construction Management pathway provides advanced training to graduates to develop their construction management skills enabling them to play leading roles in a professional capacity in both the civil engineering and building industries.  The skills gained will provide them with the ability to respond to the changing requirements of the construction industry in both the UK and overseas.

The programme includes lectures, tutorials, workshops, industrial seminars, site visits and individual projects. The delivery of the programme is designed with the needs of young professionals in mind and it is supported by the provision of online material. It can be followed on a full-time or part-time basis. Certain learning activities may be scheduled in evenings and weekends to enable students to spread out their work load evenly.

Why study this course in Dubai?

• Developed to address the challenges faced by engineering graduates who move into general management or senior specialist roles, this innovative new programme will allow students to draw on the specialist expertise of both Birmingham Business School and the School of Engineering.
• Birmingham Business School is a global centre of teaching and research excellence, holding the ‘Triple Crown’ of international accreditations: AMBA, EQUIS and the AACSB. 
• The MSc programmes in the School of Engineering are rooted in high-quality teaching and learning through enquiry-based and independent study, producing high calibre graduates equipped with the skills to excel in technical management.
• Students will benefit from our established links with industry, which can be utilised during the dissertation projects and form a solid networking base for prospective careers.

Get ahead in the ever-changing field of public service as you’ll explore the latest citizen participation practices. This understanding will help you analyse the new forms of deliberative, collaborative, and participatory decision-making that are evolving globally.

Discover the power of using social media and clicktivism

How people consume news has changed radically in recent years, fuelled largely by the emergence of social media platforms. You’ll explore how these platforms could be used as a force for good and the techniques you can apply to harness social media. Within this, you’ll unpack the concept of ‘clicktivism’ and how social media has made it possible for electronic, lower-cost activism.

Understand the concept of social listening

Delving into social listening, you’ll learn how to monitor the views of citizens and how to extract valuable insights from this. You’ll also explore the presence of public servants of social media, and the opportunity of a ‘digital frontline’.

Study real-world social media strategies

Some social media strategies have been highly effective at disseminating information or fostering a sense of community, but others have been less so. You’ll explore both to understand the best practices in social media strategies.

This course gives you the opportunity to hone your skills and boost your CV as you learn from the experts at the University of Birmingham.

What is a MOOC?

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are open, online courses designed to offer a taste of Higher Education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with FutureLearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University.

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via an interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners.

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

A MOOC is a Massive Open Online Course - these are free, open, online courses designed to offer a taste of higher education to learners from across the UK and the world. The University of Birmingham is delivering new MOOCs in partnership with Futurelearn, the UK’s first MOOCs provider established by the Open University. 

Delivered by world-class academics from the University of Birmingham, the courses enable learners worldwide to sample high-quality academic content via a interactive web-based platform from a leading global University, increasing access to higher education for a whole new cohort of learners. 

The courses have been developed by senior academic staff and their content is quality-assured in line with our other programmes. The courses do not offer credits towards admission to the University of Birmingham.

Interested in our other courses?

Find out more about our courses and research on our College website.

Programme team:

School of Dentistry

Dates of the course:

New Dates TBC. 

How to apply:

Registration will open once new dates are confirmed. In the meantime, please contact mdscpdenquiries@contacts.bham.ac.uk  to express your interest.

The courses have minimum required attendance levels, and the University reserves the right to cancel or postpone the course if the minimum required number of delegates has not been achieved for the course.

For enquiries, please use our enquiry form. 

See how the University of Birmingham uses your data, view the Event attendee privacy notice. 

This 5-day, hands-on course is designed to provide microbiologists with the ability to perform high-level analysis of microbial genomic data sets, regardless of background knowledge or ability. A mixture of seminars from world leading researchers, discussion fora and guided training will provide participants with the skills and knowledge required to plan, design, and analyse data from microbial genomics-based investigations.

With one of the largest communities of academic microbiologists in the world, the Institute of Microbiology and Infection is at the vanguard of innovative research into combatting threats to human health from infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. We do this by developing new approaches in three areas: diagnosis, treatment and prevention.  By bringing together a diverse community of internationally recognised researchers, we are developing strategies that range from novel antimicrobial surfaces, through hand-held DNA sequencers to novel drugs and vaccines.  At the heart of all these approaches is an unwavering dedication to ground-breaking, fundamental microbiology research – something that has been integral to the University of Birmingham since its foundation more than a century ago.

Dates of the course:

Monday 17th - Friday 21st March 2025. NOW FULLY BOOKED.

Course content:

• Genome data formats, retrieving sequence data from repositories, and QC
• Genome assemblies and annotation
• Mapping and SNP calling
• Pangenome analysis
• Phylogenetics
• Interpreting your data

Place availability:

15

How to apply:

This course is now fully booked and so the booking link has been disabled. If you would like to express your interest for our next intake in Autumn 2025, please email mdscpdenquiries@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

The courses have minimum required attendance levels and the University reserves the right to cancel or postpone the course if the minimum required number of delegates has not been achieved for the course.

See how the University of Birmingham uses your data, view the Event attendee privacy notice. 

Please visit this government’s Step Up to Social Work page, and return to our site in January for any updates.

Please note that the DfE may award funding for another round of Step Up programmes to begin in 2026.  However, this is unconfirmed. 

If you were unsuccessful in your 2025 application, missed the opportunity to apply and or are unable to wait for the next possible programme, you could consider alternative routes into social work, such as the University of Birmingham's Masters in social work programme. 

MA Social Work 

We have places available on our MA Social Work course at the University of Birmingham. These places have a bursary attached for eligible students. The NHS bursary can support you with your study fees and the cost of living. Read more about the bursary, including eligibility criteria. 

If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer: socialwork-ma@contacts.bham.ac.uk

The Step up to Social Work programme  

As a social worker, you will need to build relationships with families facing difficult times, listen, enable and advocate and work with empathy, compassion and humility. Your emotional intelligence, resilience, stamina, and resolve will be tested as you negotiate complex human rights, ethical and moral issues, which demand self-awareness, a non-judgemental attitude and high order thinking skills. The tests of social work are rewarded with the chance to facilitate positive change in the lives of those you work with.

This programme, delivered by the University of Birmingham and in collaboration with the West Midlands Regional Teaching Partnership, will ensure you meet the requirements for a social work qualification on successful completion of all modules and placements. Once awarded a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Social Work, you will be able to register with Social Work England and practice as a social worker.

Social Work is an academic and practice-based discipline therefore, all students will be expected to perform with academic skill in equal measure to practical skill. This duality is reflected in the 14 month programme, which features several assessed modules designed to develop your social work knowledge, skills and values.

We offer a range of learning activities throughout, drawing upon contributions from our 'Lived Experience' (service user and carer) team, local professionals and former students. In addition to the taught sessions, you will complete 2 practice learning opportunities ('placements') in which you are expected to apply your research and theory informed learning in practical ways. Placements are identified by the Regional Partnership team and will be based in the Local Authority area you are assigned to.  

The Birmingham MBA in Singapore combines online and in-person learning designed to allow flexibility so you can study around work and other commitments. Our in-person learning is taught over residential weekends running from Friday evening to Sunday evening in conjunction with seven-week blocks of online learning.

The Birmingham MBA will challenge you to reflect on your approach to responsible business and help you develop key skills for your future. This post-experience master programme is designed to be flexible. You can also tailor your studies around your passions and interests with our three specialist areas focusing on Innovation & Business Transformation; Marketing; International Business & Strategy, plus our Global Perspectives in Responsible Business module.

If you have a conditional offer, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. 

The Presessional English 10 week and 6 week online courses are delivered from our Edgbaston campus in the UK using our own virtual learning environment and Zoom. Online classes are taught from 9am to 1pm BST (British Summer Time)

The Presessional English on-campus course is a blended course which combines three days of face-to-face study in class on our Dubai campus with two days taught remotely using Zoom or Teams.

Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

The table below is a summary of available courses. The course you apply for will depend on the requirements detailed in your offer letter from Admissions.

In the event we do not have the minimum number of applicants required to run the campus course, we reserve the right to cancel the course and offer an alternative or full refund.

For queries about our Presessional English programme, please contact the Presessional Admissions team: presessional@contacts.bham.ac.uk

For visa queries, contact us by submitting an enquiry form to Student and Programme Administration.