Evidence Based Practice

Program Overview

Evidence Based Practice

Module Overview

'Evidence, research and development’ is one of the four pillars of practice (NES Post Registration Career Framework). This online module aims to develop an advanced knowledge of how contemporary research and evidence can be applied to practice. This module will enable students to develop confidence and structure when searching for evidence. In addition, critical appraisal skills will be developed, and hierarchies of evidence will be explored. The possible barriers to implementation of evidence-based practice and how these can be overcome will also be debated.

Key Facts

• Module code: ADPP014
• Start date: 19 Jan 2026
• Application deadline: 5 Jan 2026
• Duration: 11 weeks
• Credit value SCQF: 20
• SCQF level: Level 11
• Fees: Home: £889, International: £2,289
• Mode of study: part time
• Delivery: online

Flexible Learning

This short course forms part of the MSc Advancing Practice. You can study other stand-alone continuing professional development (CPD) short courses from this degree:

• Advanced Practice
• An Integrated Approach to Frailty
• Diagnosis and Decision Making in Advanced Practice
• Essentials of Mental Health Assessment – a multi-professional approach
• Exploring the Theory and Practice of Psychological Trauma
• Living Well and Managing Long Term Conditions
• Prescribing for Healthcare Professionals (Advancing Practice)

Entrance Requirements

• Current professional registration with NMC, HCPC, GPC or SSSC is required for entry to this module.
• Applicants are required to have a degree qualification.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill.
• Pearson Test of English (Academic) 62 overall with 60 in each sub-skill.
• IBT TOEFL 80 overall with 18 in reading, 23 in writing, 19 in listening and 21 in speaking.

Objectives

• Learning outcome 1: Systematically locate a variety of evidence sources with a critical awareness of the hierarchy of evidence
• Learning outcome 2: Critically appraise qualitative and quantitative research, systematic reviews, policy documents and other evidence for its validity and usefulness.
• Learning outcome 3: Critically evaluate the literature relevant to a specific clinical issue or problem
• Learning outcome 4: Review and assess the implementation of evidence-based practice, including any barriers.

Delivery and Assessment

• 3,000 word literature review.

Module Coordinator

• Dr James Nicholls

Employability

• All modules can be linked to specific professional capability/competency frameworks within your practice area.
• You are encouraged to view your participation within the Masters of Advancing Practice programme as a means of supporting your professional development plans (PDP) and career progression.

Career Opportunities

• Completion of the Advancing Practice course provides opportunity to develop transferable skills.
• This will optimise the ability of each student to impact on the experience of individuals, families and service providers within a range of clinical, social and pastoral settings within the UK and internationally.
• All modules are related to NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF), enabling you to clearly identify the core and specific dimensions within the KSF which can be achieved when you successfully complete your module/programme.