PgDip Rheumatology

01 Sep 2022 - 31 Aug 2028

Course Leader Karl New
Course Team
Awarding Body University of South Wales
Teaching Institutions Learna Ltd
Modes of Study Part Time

Document Version

Version 2
Valid From 01 Sep 2022
Valid To 31 Aug 2028

QAA Benchmarks

QAA Master’s Degree Characteristics Statement (Feb 2020)

Educational Aim

To enhance the care of people with rheumatological conditions by applying cutting edge research to clinical practice.
To lead the intergration of global and multi-disciplinary perspectives into graduate rheumatology practice.
To produce graduates who can critically analyse research and translate findings into best practice.
To produce graduates who can provide credible clinical advice in complex situations where there are many interacting factors.
To produce graduates who can effectively translate and disseminate evidence-based rheumatology information to a wide range of audiences.

Learning Outcomes

A1 The students will apply a systematic understanding of knowledge and specialist theoretical and methodological approach in relation to Rheumatology.
A2 The students will be able to make informed judgements by critically appraising a variety of information sources and developments in Rheumatology and their relevance in a various settings.
A3 The students will be able to critically apply extensive knowledge of Rheumatology and apply appropriate advanced problem-solving strategies, methods, and techniques to design systematic investigations that define and critically evaluate problems, using specialist information and data in unpredictable and complex contexts.
B1 The students will be able to systematically and critically evaluate current research and advanced scholarship in Rheumatology by synthesising information and advanced methodologies to explain and support conclusions and recommendations.
B2 The students will be able to act autonomously and take responsibility by making strategic decisions regarding complex Rheumatology problems.
B3 The students will be able to apply advanced principles and concepts to critcially develop systematic responses in addressing complex Rheumatology scenarios that may involve interfacing factors.
C1 The students will be able to design and develop management strategies for the investigation and treatment/management of rheumatic conditions.
C2 The students will be able to systematically analyse practical treatments for use in a range of patient population groups/practical interventions across a variety of settings related to Rheumatology.
C3 The students will be able to develop and apply a range of leadership and organisational skills in various settings related to Rheumatology.

Course Structure

Level 7 Modules

Module Code Module Id Module Title Module Status Credit Value Module Type
PE4S253 MOD012757 Rheumatology: A Clinical Overview Running 20 specified
PE4S254 MOD012758 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Running 20 specified
PE4S255 MOD012759 Spectrum of Other Inflammatory Arthritides Running 20 specified
PE4S256 MOD012760 Connective Tissue Disorders Running 20 specified
PE4S257 MOD012761 Miscellaneous Rheumatic Conditions Running 20 specified
PE4S258 MOD012762 Non-inflammatory Musculoskeletal Conditions Running 20 specified

Teaching and Assessment

Learning and Teaching Methods

Each 20 credit module has the same format and is studied over a 6 week period. Using an online platform and one tutor per 10-15 students, the self-directed distance learning is guided by tutor stimulated discussion based on clinically rich case scenarios. Group projects are undertaken alongside independent projects. Reflective practice is recorded in a reflective portfolio to help students consider how the learning can be translated into everyday work and practice.

Employer Engagement

Students learn within their employment as well as independently within the course. Formal employer engagement is not required.

Means of Assessment

Online tutor assessment for the modules based upon student contributions to the individual components comprising of:

Weekly case based scenarios and discussion: 40%

Reflective portfolio: 10%

Group activity: 20%

Time limited, multiple choice, case based exam 30%

Learning Support

Student induction includes Library induction, navigation of the learning platform Moodle, and access to Blackboard and study skills support.

Each module is 6 weeks in duration. Students have access to the online module 24/7 for the duration of the module with regular interaction between them, their fellow students and their assigned tutor.

Students also have access to:

The full range of University support facilities including a student drop-in centre, student services, the Faculty Advice Centre and USW chaplaincy service

A Student Handbook

An on-line tutor

The Learna student administration team

Course Exit Points

Award Criteria Final
Postgraduate Diploma 120 credits of which at least 90 must be at Level 7 and no more than 30 at Level 6 Final
Postgraduate Certificate 60 credits with at least 40 at Level 7 and no more than 20 at Level 6 Intermediate
Foundation Degree in Science 240 credits of which at least 100 must be at Level 5 or above, 120 at Level 4 or above and no more than 20 at Level 3. Of the 240 credits, at least 60 credits must be derived from Level 5 work-based learning Intermediate
Higher National Diploma 240 credits of which at least 120 must be at Level 5 or above and the remaining credits at Level 4 or above Intermediate
Certificate of Higher Education 120 credits of which at least 100 must be at Level 4 or above and no more than 20 at Level 3 Intermediate
Diploma of Higher Education 240 credits of which at least 100 must be at Level 5 or above, 120 credits at Level 4 or above and no more than 20 credits at Level 3. Intermediate
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) 360 credits of which at least 100 must be at Level 6 or above, 120 at Level 5 or above, 120 at Level 4 or above and no more than 20 at Level 3 Intermediate

Progression Route

Students who have successfully completed the 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma in Rheumatology may continue to the MSc in Rheumatology.

Entry Requirements

Admission to the course is typically through the following qualifications:

Admission to the course is typically through the following qualifications:

First degree or equivalent (including international qualifications).

Relevant professional healthcare (e.g. doctor, nurse) qualifications.

Those without recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be taken into account. The RPL process is in line with the University of South Wales’ Regulations and students seeking to access this mechanism will submit evidence to the Course Director at Learna Ltd. The portfolio will subsequently be examined in liaison with the Course Link at the Faculty of Life Sciences and Education.

English language requirements for overseas applicants are in line with USW requirements for postgraduate study.

Inclusive Curriculum Statement

The University of South Wales operates a policy of inclusive learning, teaching and assessment to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to fulfil their educational potential. Course teams will have considered ways of designing out any potentially disadvantageous element of courses during the course design process. However some specific needs may remain, details about how to apply to have your needs assessed can be found at: http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3040-disability-and-dyslexia-service/

Addendum for Delivery at a Partner Institution

N/A

Methods Of Quality Standards

N/A

Quality Of Standards Indicators

N/A