Research Methods for Healthcare Professionals

The Micro-credential in Research Methods for Healthcare Professionals from RCSI School of Physiotherapy provides a solid foundation in the design, analysis, and interpretation of research conducted in a healthcare setting. Students will explore core concepts of contemporary research methods, including study design, outcome measurement, statistical methods, and research ethics.

About the Program

This course is designed to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to formulate a research question, convert that question into a research protocol, collect and analyze data. The program is delivered part-time over 18 weeks online and is a Level 9 award on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate an overall understanding of the research process and an ability to formulate workable research questions.
• Understand appropriate applications for quantitative and qualitative research design and the differences between these research design types.
• Critically evaluate methods of measurement at all levels of the WHO ICF and implement the use of appropriate outcome measurement.
• Demonstrate an ability to understand and analyze data.
• Demonstrate scientific writing skills.

Schedule

The schedule for this course will be published when available.

Accreditation and Recognition

RCSI is proud to be a recognized University of the National University of Ireland (NUI). Recognition by Ministries and bodies in other jurisdictions must be determined by the individual applicants.

Admissions

Entry Requirements

To be considered for entry into the program, applicants must:

• Be a healthcare professional, including social care professionals.
• Hold a bachelor's degree. If you don't hold a bachelor's degree, please see the recognition of prior learning pathway outlined.
• Each application will be assessed on an individual basis.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you do not meet the minimum academic requirements above, you may still be eligible to apply through recognition of prior learning (RPL). RPL is the assessment of knowledge, skills, and competence previously acquired.

English Language Requirement Exceptions

If English is not your first language, you will also need to supply a copy of an academic IELTS examination or equivalent, with an overall score of at least 6.5 and no individual band below 6.5.

Fees and Funding

• Total fees: €1,350 (needs to be paid on acceptance of the course).
• Fee includes all resources and access to our online learning portal.
• RCSI accepts no obligation to refund any fee, or part thereof, in respect of a student who chooses to withdraw from a program.
• If you choose to withdraw from a program you are liable for the full fees owed for the seat on that program.

Suitable for

This course is for healthcare professionals working in hospital, community, or private practice settings. Professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, nurses, and medical doctors may apply for this course.

Duration and Mode of Delivery

• Duration: 2 months
• Mode of delivery: Online - Part-time
• Credits: 10 ECTS

Next Start Date

• February 2027

Award

• Micro-credential

By completing this program, students will develop the knowledge and skills required to conduct research in a healthcare setting, learn how to formulate a research question and develop a research protocol, and become confident in interpreting and appraising evidence to inform decision-making.

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI)

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Overview:

RCSI is a university focused exclusively on health sciences. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as professional development courses. RCSI emphasizes collaboration between students, educators, and researchers to advance human health.

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