Dementia MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in Dementia equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide expert care for individuals with dementia, from diagnosis to end-of-life. The program emphasizes a biopsychosocial approach, considering the body, mind, and environment in a holistic manner. Through a combination of online content, evening webinars, face-to-face lectures, and case-based learning, students gain a comprehensive understanding of dementia care and develop the ability to assess and manage dementia presentations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc in Dementia is an interdisciplinary program designed for healthcare professionals. It equips them with the skills to provide expert care for individuals with dementia, from diagnosis to end-of-life. The program emphasizes a biopsychosocial approach, considering the body, mind, and environment in a holistic manner.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to expertly care for individuals with dementia.
• Foster a biopsychosocial approach to dementia care, encompassing the physical, mental, and environmental aspects.
• Equip students with the ability to assess and manage dementia presentations.
• Develop students' understanding of restorative and adaptive cognitive and non-cognitive interventions.
• Emphasize communication, ethical approaches, and care planning in dementia care.
• Translate evidence-based practices into clinical settings.
• Encourage reflection on legislative, policy, and societal influences on dementia care.

Outline:

The program is structured as a blended learning experience, combining online content, evening webinars, and face-to-face lectures, tutorials, workshops, and case-based learning.

Course Schedule:

• Students complete taught modules worth 60 credits, involving approximately 300 hours of structured contact time.
• Most classes are held in two-day blocks during weekdays.
• Students engage in approximately 900 hours of self-directed learning, including assignments and reports.
• A research dissertation (30 credits) is submitted at the end of the calendar year for full-time students or at the end of the second academic year for part-time students.
• CG6016 Advanced Issues in Dementia Care (10 credits): This module delves into advanced topics in dementia care, such as ethical considerations, legal frameworks, and the role of technology in supporting individuals with dementia.
• CG6017 Clinical Practicum in Dementia (5 credits): This module offers practical experience in dementia care settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations.
• EH6038 Applied Research for Gerontology and Rehabilitation (10 credits) OR MH6014 Advanced Research Methods for Healthcare Professionals (10 credits): These modules provide students with the necessary research skills to conduct independent research projects.

Elective Modules:

• CG6002 Stroke Rehabilitation (10 credits): This module focuses on the rehabilitation of individuals who have experienced a stroke, including the assessment and management of cognitive and physical impairments.
• CG6006 Falls, Mobility and Movement Disorders (10 credits): This module explores the causes, prevention, and management of falls and other mobility disorders in older adults, with a particular focus on individuals with dementia.
• CG6007 Independent Study (5 credits) OR CG6011 In-depth Independent Study (15 credits): These modules allow students to undertake in-depth research on a topic of their choice, either within or outside the course curriculum.
• CG6012 Neuromuscular Disorders (10 credits): This module examines the diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation of neuromuscular disorders, including those that can affect individuals with dementia.
• MH6016 Advance Care Planning (5 credits): This module examines the importance of advance care planning in dementia care, including the process of creating and implementing advance directives.
• NU6053 Ethics for Specialist Practice (5 credits): This module explores ethical considerations in dementia care, including issues related to decision-making, consent, and end-of-life care.

Research Module:

• CG6018 Dissertation in Dementia (30 credits): This module requires students to conduct and write a research dissertation on a topic related to dementia care.

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Assignments: Students complete written assignments throughout the program to demonstrate their understanding of course concepts.
• Presentations: Students may be required to present their research findings or case studies to their peers.
• Examinations: Written examinations are used to assess students' knowledge and understanding of core course content.
• Dissertation: The research dissertation is a major component of the program, requiring students to conduct independent research and write a comprehensive report.

Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Lectures provide students with a foundation in key dementia concepts and theories.
• Tutorials: Tutorials offer students the opportunity to engage in interactive discussions and problem-solving activities.
• Workshops: Workshops provide hands-on training in practical skills, such as communication techniques and assessment tools.
• Case-based learning: Case studies are used to help students apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.
• Online learning: Online resources and platforms are used to supplement face-to-face instruction and provide students with access to additional learning materials.

Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced clinicians and academics from various disciplines, all of whom are experts in dementia care.

Careers:

The MSc in Dementia provides healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to advance their careers in dementia care. Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles, including:

• Dementia Care Specialist: Providing specialized care and support to individuals with dementia and their families.
• Dementia Care Manager: Leading and coordinating dementia care services within healthcare organizations.
• Dementia Research: Conducting research to advance the understanding and treatment of dementia.
• Dementia Advocacy: Working to improve the lives of individuals with dementia and their families through advocacy and policy change.

Other:

• The program emphasizes the importance of critical appraisal of research evidence and knowledge of current policy and societal influences on dementia care.
• Students are encouraged to present their research at national and international conferences and publish their findings in academic journals.
• The program is aligned with the Connected Curriculum, which emphasizes the connection between students, learning, research, and leadership.
• The program includes an optional clinical placement module, allowing students to gain practical experience in a variety of dementia care settings.
• The program is designed to support continuous professional development and career advancement for healthcare professionals.