Introduction to the Program

The University College Cork (UCC) offers a Continuous Professional Development (CPD) module titled "CG6015 Understanding Cognitive Disorders and Dementia." This module aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of cognitive impairment and dementia, including their assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

Module Content

The module covers various topics, including:

• Epidemiology
• Risk factors and prevention of dementia
• Cognitive reserve, cognitive domains, and commonly used cognitive assessment tools
• Language versus memory in assessment
• Subjective memory impairment and mild cognitive impairment versus dementia
• Diagnosing and disclosing diagnoses
• Differential diagnosis of dementia
• Dementia sub-types
• Delirium
• Treatment of memory impairment, including cognitive-enhancing medications, cognitive rehabilitation, and cognitive stimulation
• Treatment of "Behaviour and Psychological symptoms of dementia" (BPSD), including psychosocioeducational interventions and medications

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this module, participants should be able to:

• Critically discuss the current evidence for interventions to prevent and/or delay dementia
• Integrate knowledge of brain regions, cognitive domains, and specific dementia syndromes to aid diagnosis and individualized care planning
• Discuss the assessment and differential diagnoses of subjective and objective cognitive impairment
• Evaluate preventative, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions for delirium in various settings
• Reflect upon the complex inter-relationship between communication and cognition as it relates to cognitive assessment
• Critically appraise the evidence for treatment strategies for BPSD, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies
• Evaluate commonly used rehabilitation strategies for cognitive impairment, both restorative and adaptive

Practicalities

• Teaching Method(s): 40 x 1hr(s) Lectures (includes group discussions, workshops, and directed study, e-learning, and web seminars); 160 x 1hr(s) Other (self-directed learning)
• Contact Days: Thursday, 18th September 2025; Friday, 19th September 2025; Thursday, 13th November 2025; Friday, 14th November 2025
• Assessment: Total Marks 200: Continuous Assessment 200 marks (1 x 3,000 Word Essay - 150 Marks; In-Class MCQ - 50 Marks)

Requirements

Candidates must have:

1. A Primary Degree in a relevant healthcare discipline or an equivalent academic qualification and professional experience to be approved by the programme team
2. Ideally, candidates should have at least one year's practical experience in their area of qualification post-registration
3. Applicants who do not meet the normal academic or experience requirements may also be considered following a review of their individual qualifications and experience by the Programme Team

Fees and Costs

• General Intake: The fee for this module is 1,080. There is also a 35 application fee
• Springboard+ Fee: 1,250. Limited places available. You may be eligible for 50% funding through Springboard+

CPD Module Credit

This module can be credited towards the Postgraduate Certificate in Dementia or the MSc in Dementia, subject to approval by the Programme Team and meeting the entry requirements for the respective programs.

University College Cork

---

Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

---

Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

---

Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

---

Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.