Health and Social Care

Transcription

1 Health and Social Care Undergraduate and Postgraduate Prospectus 2014/2015

2 I did it. I like the way you study, the flexibility. The materials were brilliant and my tutors were immensely helpful. The feedback you get from them is very good and the written feedback is constructive. You meet other students in your first year and see them all the way through. We even arranged revision groups when exams were approaching. Catherine Flint, OU graduate

3 1 You can do it too. Everything you need to know to make a start on changing your life is right here in your hands. Read on and find out why we have some of the most satisfied students in the UK, then follow these simple steps to join them Undergraduate Postgraduate 1 Choose your qualification 1 Choose your qualification Decide on the qualification you want to study, for example, a BA or BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care. The qualification you choose will usually be related to your undergraduate studies or professional expertise. 2 For more information, click Register To secure your place, you need to register don t worry, there s nothing to pay at this stage. Register online at or call +44 (0) once you ve registered, we ll send you an with login details so you can move on to the next step. 2 3 Choose your first module The description of your chosen qualification will help you decide on the first module to study. If you need advice on the recommended study order, click or call +44 (0) Complete your registration 3 Choose your first module Some of the modules in your chosen qualification will be compulsory, others may be optional. When you ve decided on your first module(s), we will ask you to confirm, and tell us how you intend to fund your studies. There s still no need to make a payment at this point. Register for your module online at or call +44 (0) You ll be asked to link the module to the qualification you intend to work towards and will be given the option of paying for your module upfront or paying by instalments. And that s it you re ready to start your postgraduate studies. 4 Sort out your funding Contents We can help you manage the costs, making study more affordable than you might think. Depending on where you live, we offer a variety of ways to pay find out more on pages Wherever you re going, it starts here 2 There s nothing distant about us 4 5 Complete your registration Introducing our curriculum 6 Finally, we ll need a few personal details and your payment method or loan reference number. You can give us this information online, or call +44 (0) and that s it you re a fully-fledged OU student and ready to get going. Get the kind of CV employers are looking for 7 Undergraduate study 10 Postgraduate study 92 Transforming care short courses 98 Becoming an Open University student 100 Any questions about studying with us? Back cover

4 2 Wherever you re going, it starts here. The launch of The Open University changed the landscape of higher education forever. The principle we were founded on that the very highest standard of education should be accessible by the many, not the few still drives everything we do. It s why we re the undisputed experts in part-time study and why more adults choose the OU to help them get ahead than any other university. We re the UK s largest university We offer one of the widest choices of qualifications in a broad range of subjects. Four out of ten of all part-time undergraduate students in the UK study with us and over 1000 tutorials are held across the UK every week. We ve spent over 40 years honing our methods, harnessing new and emerging technologies, and drawing on an unrivalled level of practical experience to make sure every student has the best possible chance to learn, achieve and succeed. The OU rekindled my joy of learning things just for the sake of learning them. It was fantastic to have access to these people who knew so much more than me. Philip Vincent, OU student We re experts in flexible, part-time study No-one understands how to help students succeed and make knowledge stick better than us we re the experts in part time study. To do what we do successfully, year after year, requires exceptional technology, methods and staff. The way we work, works not least because it s flexible enough to work around you and your life. So, whether you re a nursing auxillary in the Shetland Isles or a Director of Children s Services in Cornwall, a working parent or a retired grandparent, our methods are tried, tested and proven. FACT Someone logs onto our servers every 0.5 seconds. An OU qualification says employ me An OU qualification on your CV shows more than your level of knowledge about a subject. It demonstrates to employers that you re someone who is up for a challenge and committed to successfully seeing it through, with excellent time management and prioritising skills. Just the kind of person, in fact, that employers are looking for, which is why organisations like NHS Trusts and Local Authorities work with our Careers Advisory Service to actively recruit OU students. With us, you don t have to put your life on hold to get the qualification you need. Around 70 per cent of our students fit study around their job and busy, changing lives. Whether you want to start a new career or go further in your current job, we can help. Find out more at We offer outstanding value for money We understand that when you re investing your time, effort and money into studying, you need to know that the qualification you get at the end is worthwhile. So ask anyone who knows us whether studying for an OU qualification is worth it. Ask our 540,000 alumni, or the 30,000 employers that have chosen us to develop their workforce organisations like the NHS, John Lewis and O2. We re confident that their answer will be yes. And it isn t just about getting the most out of the money you spend. You save money with us, too. You won t need to move away to a campus-based university, or pay extra travel expenses. And because you have the flexibility to carry on working, you can earn while you learn.

5 3 We re one of the world s finest universities Anyone who wonders whether the way we do things means cutting corners on the quality of the education we provide should consider this: our learning materials are so good, over two thirds of the 100 largest universities in the UK use them too. Everything we do is grounded in the research we re internationally famous for OU research changes the world. It s this reputation as one of the world s finest research universities that makes our qualifications so highly respected and our learning materials so sought after. We re more local than you think Many people are surprised to learn that we operate from 13 OU offices located right around the UK. Why not come and talk to us at a regional event? You can find one nearest to you at We re just a phone call away Students get excellent study assistance from student support teams specialist teams dedicated to helping students successfully complete their modules. Once you are registered as a student, you will have access to these specialist teams. If you d like to find out more, contact our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0) Students love us In 2013, the OU once again kept its place in the top five of all UK universities for student satisfaction, the only university to have achieved this every year since the survey began in 2005.

6 4 There s nothing distant about us. We ve taken distance learning to a whole new, incredibly supportive level many students who ve studied elsewhere say that they ve been better supported at the OU than at campus-based universities. Every year, we help thousands of ordinary people achieve extraordinary things using our unique method of Supported Open Learning. It s different from other methods because it combines more one-to-one contact than distance learning with more flexibility than campus-based learning. We blend the best of technology and tutoring to let you decide how you want to study. It s this unique combination of flexibility and support that makes Supported Open Learning such a successful way to learn. Whether you re at home, at work or on the move, your tutor, study advisers and other students are as close as you need them to be online, on , on the phone and face to face. FACT Supported Open Learning has helped over 1.8 million students get to where they want to be. What s it like being part of the world s largest student community? Ask them New students are often surprised by how social studying with the OU can be, but a large and lively student community is part and parcel of being the UK s largest provider of part-time higher education. Whenever you log on, our online forums are alive with people like you, and the opportunity to socialise doesn t stop when you log off. Our students regularly get together, either to attend an OU tutorial or as part of a local study group. Find out what OU life is like before you sign up click today to chat to our friendly, helpful student community. Our world-class library is open all hours As an OU student you ll have free access to the OU s huge online library to help you research and complete your assignments. There are thousands of online ejournals, ebooks, databases and multimedia resources for you to tap into, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever you need them and wherever you are. And it s worth visiting the library at our Milton Keynes campus in person if you can it s a brilliantly inspiring place. Support that continues when your studies end Once you ve achieved your qualification, you ll be invited to join the OU Alumni Association. With 540,000 members, it s a vibrant community and a great way to connect and network with people like you. Studying at home was ideal for me. I didn t want to be away from my children any more than I had to, so it meant I could juggle my role as a mum and fit my study around home life. Clare Chambers, OU graduate

7 5 We can help you approach your employer for sponsorship When it comes to managing the cost of your study, you ve got options see pages but did you know that 80 per cent of FTSE 100 companies have sponsored staff to study with us? There are many commercially sensible reasons for organisations to help fund your personal and professional development with us to find out more, call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0) I was an unqualified social worker but I d always wanted to qualify. I was asked if I wanted to do an Open University BA in Social Work and I seized the opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The council really supported me. I would seriously recommend the OU as the way forward for anyone thinking of doing a degree. I think it s wonderful. David Jennings, Operations manager for the Over 18s Support Intervention Team at Brighton & Hove City Council A world-class education for anyone who wants it At the OU, we believe it doesn t matter where you start from it s where you want to be and how committed you are to getting there that matters. Because we know that the grades you got at school aren t the only measure of ability, you don t need any previous academic qualifications to study with us. You may, for example, discover the skills you ve gained through working will help your studies. If you want it badly enough, we ll do everything we can to help you achieve a qualification perhaps that s why more people choose us every year than any other UK university. We support disabled students The unrivalled personal support we offer combined with our multimedia learning methods and the ability to study at your own pace means we re perfectly placed to make study accessible to almost everyone. You may also be eligible for extra help with study and travel costs. Call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0) , or click Free tasters If you re worried about your study skills, the free taster courses at are there to help you prove you can do it. There are over 600 to choose from, ranging from introductory to postgraduate level, each taking between one and 50 hours to complete.

8 6 Introducing our curriculum. If your motives for study are personal or professional, or if you are an employer considering the development of your workforce, there are many reasons to choose The Open University. With a record of excellence in teaching and research, we are a leading provider of part-time education and development for anyone working in or interested in health and social care. With a long history of providing relevant, career and care-focused qualifications and modules, we continue to innovate and develop in important new areas to meet the changing needs of the health and social care sector. Skills development, improving outcomes and employability are all at the heart of our thinking. By studying with us there is potential to make a real difference to health and social care service-delivery and service-user outcomes. We provide: World-class learning resources developed by leading academics and practitioners which take into account the views of service users and carers and are underpinned by relevant research and excellent scholarship. Flexibly-supported qualifications which help you fit study around busy work and family commitments and often mean no time out of the workplace for education and training. Openness and accessibility which puts qualifications within reach of people who never thought they could study at university level. Our widening participation credentials are second to none but that s what you d expect from the OU. We deliver excellent outcomes for employers by: Enabling organisations to develop the talent and capability in their local workforce. Supporting recruitment and retention by motivating staff and supporting their development. Undergraduate Our wide-ranging qualifications cover today s topical and most important issues, and are expertly designed to inspire and challenge you. Some, such as the BA or BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care, offer a broad-based background exploring principles and approaches to caring across the health and social care sector. Others offer a route to a professional qualification, such as the BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult or Mental Health), the BA (Hons) Social Work, the Foundation Degree/Diploma of Higher Education in Paramedic Sciences, and the BSc (Hons) Sport, Fitness and Coaching. Our qualifications address policy and practice and some enable you to focus on a particular aspect of provision, such as children and families, adult health, mental health, dementia care or biology. All draw on the latest research and the experience of practising professionals, to provide you with real-world knowledge, skills and insight. Providing help and care for those in need or who are vulnerable offers a unique sense of personal and career fulfilment. Through OU study you can become part of this essential and worthwhile sector, or you can build on your existing professional experience and progress your career in a particular area of health and social care. Postgraduate Our advancing healthcare practice programme is highly relevant and ideal for anyone who wants to develop leadership, management and research skills, and address innovations in practice. As well as a masters degree, the programme includes a postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma. We also offer an exciting interdisciplinary programme in childhood and youth that is underpinned by a commitment to integrated practice. The programme offers progression through a postgraduate certificate and postgraduate diploma to a masters degree.

9 7 Get the kind of CV employers are looking for. Your route to skills development and career enhancement. The health and social care sectors continue to experience radical and rapid change. The emphasis on delivering high quality, safe and compassionate care means there s a demand for well-educated and multi-skilled people across a range of rewarding roles. Many health and social care students are already employed in the sector and study with us to build on their knowledge and skills to progress their career in a particular area of health and social care. OU study develops the skills you need in the workplace Whatever your motivations for study, your goals and career aspirations, we offer you supported personal development planning either as an intrinsic part of your programme of study or through signposted optional activities. We will provide information explaining how particular study pathways can enhance your employability and can develop your skills. You will have opportunities to reflect on and articulate the skills that you have gained to enable you to communicate your learning effectively to prospective employers. You can find out more at Your studies will help you develop a broad set of abilities that appeal to employers. For health and social care students the skills you will develop include the ability to: articulate and demonstrate values and behaviours which improve the experience of patients/service users locate, analyse and critically evaluate information communicate effectively produce accurate records and make informed decisions think logically and propose reasoned solutions put together coherent arguments and question assumptions manage time, learn independently and use IT effectively. Where could your health and social care qualification take you? There are a wide range of different careers within the health and social care sector depending on your qualifications, skills and experience. Some of our students include: care managers healthcare assistants and healthcare support workers health educators health scientists paramedics practice managers registered nurses and midwives social workers and social work assistants specialist practitioners sports coach youth workers and youth justice workers ward managers, unit managers and team leaders. To find out more about career opportunities related to health and social care click We advise you to explore your career choices as early as possible to clarify specific qualification and experience requirements and to identify opportunities available within your own locality. Many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline. Given the current economic climate and the increased competition for jobs, it is important to consider a variety of occupational areas. Bear in mind that many careers require further study, training and/or work experience beyond a degree.

10 8 Where have our previous graduates ended up? All UK graduates are invited to complete the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education Survey six months after they have graduated. Of OU Health and Social Care graduates who responded to the latest survey: 87 per cent were in work, including those both working and studying. 14 per cent were doing further study (whether working or not) with almost half studying social studies. Other subjects studied included education; veterinary sciences, agriculture and related subjects; and linguistics, classics and related subjects. Those who changed employer and whose qualification was a requirement or an advantage, gained roles such as support worker, social care worker, local council family champion, and adult social care business support administrator. FACT Over 90% of our student nurses and social work graduates go on to secure roles as registered practitioners on qualifying. Thinking about postgraduate study? Postgraduate study can develop valuable transferable skills such as project management, research skills and critical thinking. Some qualifications may also allow you to take a more vocational/ professional direction and add additional skills to improve your employability in your target area. Postgraduate study in health and social care can bring opportunities to shape and influence future policy and practice within different fields in the sector as a manager, senior clinician, consultant or educator. Our postgraduate study options are designed to make students better placed to take on the leadership and practice development roles increasingly available within health and social care. If you are considering taking a postgraduate qualification and would like more information on the reasons why people choose further study, how employers view postgraduate qualifications, the different types of postgraduate study to choose from and sources of funding, click Professional recognition The Open University Social Work degree is approved in England by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), in Scotland by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and in Wales by the Care Council for Wales (CCW). On successful completion of the degree, you will be eligible to apply to the relevant body for registration as a qualified social worker. The pre-registration nursing programme, leading to the award of a BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing (Q73) or BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing (Q74) will, on successful completion, lead to eligibility to apply to enter the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) professional register as a registered nurse. The Foundation Degree in Paramedic Sciences (X08) is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). On successful completion of the qualification, you will be eligible to apply to the HCPC for professional registration as a paramedic.

11 9 We don t just teach people. We help them get on Our Careers Advisory Service website provides information on all aspects of career planning, from deciding on the right career for you, to help with writing CVs, making effective applications and advice on interview techniques. You can also read real stories from OU students about the ways OU study changed or helped progress their career. Our publication OU Study and Your Career looks at reasons why people study with the OU, the value of OU qualifications and how to explore your career ideas. You can request a copy from our Student Registration & Enquiry Service or view it on the Careers Advisory Service website. As an OU student (or if you have studied with the OU within the last three years) you will have access to the full range of support offered by the Careers Advisory Service, including: Online forums where you can ask careers advisers. questions and share experiences with other OU students. Individual careers consultations with careers advisers. Employer Showcase where you can see profiles of employers who are keen to recruit OU graduates. Online vacancy service to help you find paid and voluntary job opportunities. Advice on gaining work experience/internships. Online resources to help enhance your employability. Click for information about all of the above. Live outside the UK? Our Careers Advisory Service is UK and Ireland based, but if you are a student based outside the UK we can help in providing: Sources of career information and guidance. General information and guidance on career planning and job-seeking skills and strategies. Students based overseas and studying through our partner organisations should check with their host organisation what services are available to them. I ve used the OU s Careers Advisory Service to work out where I m going to go next. The career advice is fantastic. Emma Percy, OU student It is a brilliant service, very prompt response to my initial enquiry, and the careers adviser was great and very helpful and friendly. I would recommend this service to any OU student. Student feedback

12 10 Undergraduate Study Undergraduate study. OU qualifications are designed so you can fit studying around work and other commitments so they re ideal for busy, ambitious people who want to move on in their lives. They re also rated among the best in the country for quality of teaching and are highly regarded by employers. How you study with us 11 Getting started with an Access module 14 Health and social care 16 Nursing and healthcare practice 28 Social work 38 Health sciences 66 Children, young people and families 72 Sport and fitness 76 Open qualifications 80 Undergraduate modules 82 There s more online To find out more about a qualification that interests you and to register, enter the qualification code in the search box at

13 Undergraduate study 11 How you study with us The best thing about The Open University is that, within reason, you call the shots. When you study, where you study it s all up to you. Here s how it works To achieve your chosen qualification, you need to build up a set number of credits. You get credits by successfully completing a series of modules, each teaching specific skills some modules are worth more credits than others. Some modules will be compulsory, others may be optional. It is not necessary to plan your entire qualification upfront. When you register on your qualification, we ll only ask you to choose the module(s) you intend to study in your first year. Choosing your qualification At the OU you can register for either a qualification in a named subject, such as our BA or BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care, or for an Open qualification that lets you build a qualification that is tailored to your needs and interests. Degrees 360 credits An undergraduate or bachelors degree is a widely recognised higher-education qualification that can help you progress in your career. While you are studying for your degree you will learn about your chosen subject(s) and develop your analytical, intellectual and writing skills. Degree-level study will demonstrate that you can understand complex information, meet deadlines, work independently and in a team, solve problems, and communicate with others effectively. All our degrees are honours degrees. Like all universities based in the UK, we ll grade your degree into one of four classes: 1 (first the highest level), 2.1 (upper second), 2.2 (lower second) or 3 (third). Foundation degrees 240 credits Foundation degrees are equivalent to two thirds of an honours degree and focus on a particular job or profession; they combine workplace learning with academic study. Designed and developed with external partners, you must be working as an employee in a work related setting. They aim to enhance the professional and technical skills of staff within a profession or those intending to go into that profession. Most of our foundation degrees are also offered as diplomas of higher education for those living and working in Scotland. Diplomas of higher education (DipHEs) 240 credits DipHEs are equivalent to two thirds of an honours degree and focus either on a particular job or profession, or academic study. DipHEs are designed to increase the professional and technical skills of staff within a profession or extend your knowledge and understanding of a particular subject. Like a foundation degree, a DipHE shows that you are capable of extended study at university level. Certificates of higher education (CertHEs) 120 credits CertHEs are equivalent to the first year of an honours degree and focus either on a particular job or profession, or academic study. A CertHE is a basic-level qualification and shows that you are capable of studying successfully at university level. OU certificates 60 credits We also offer a series of vocational OU certificates in the field of health and social care which are designed to help you work more effectively, develop and progress in your role and deepen your knowledge and understanding of the subject area. Continued on page 12.

14 12 Undergraduate Study There are no entry requirements for most qualifications but you do need: A computer and reliable internet access they re an essential part of our study programmes. Depending on where you live and how much you earn, you could receive financial help to buy a computer. A good grasp of the English language our modules are taught in English and you need to be a competent user of the English language to study at higher-education level. If you re not sure, help and guidance is available at There are specific entry criteria for nursing and social work see the relevant section of the prospectus for further details. Feeling a bit rusty when it comes to studying? If you re lacking confidence or haven t studied for a while, you may want to consider starting your studies with one of our introductory Access modules. These modules are designed to help you build confidence, develop study skills and prepare you for further study. To find out more, see pages or click Choosing your modules one stage at a time Most qualifications have one, two or three stages. The modules that make up each stage are set at different levels, according to their relative complexity and/or depth of learning. Qualification Credits required at each stage Degree with honours Diploma of higher education Certificate of higher education Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Total credits required OU certificate So, for a typical three-stage honours degree requiring 360 credits, you would study: 120 credits at Stage 1, studying OU level 1 modules worth 30 or 60 credits 120 credits at Stage 2, studying OU level 2 modules worth 30 or 60 credits 120 credits at Stage 3, studying OU level 3 modules worth 30 or 60 credits.

15 Undergraduate study 13 Planning your time Counting previous study Most OU students study part time and how long it takes depends on how many credits you study in a year. It takes about 9 hours of study a week to gain 30 credits a year. You need to study around 18 hours a week to gain 60 credits a year. It takes 36 hours of study a week to gain 120 credits, the maximum you can study each year. This is equivalent to full-time study at a campus-based university. If you re thinking of studying full time, you need to plan carefully as it involves studying more than one module at a time we don t recommend you take on more than two simultaneously. You also need to bear in mind that, depending on your chosen qualification, the modules for a given stage of study may not all be available within your study year or may not be studied together for academic reasons. If this is the case, you won t be able to study full time. The table below gives you an idea of how long it will take to complete a qualification. Qualification Degree with honours Foundation degree/diploma of higher education Certificate of higher education Time required to complete Studying part time 60 credits a year Studying full time 120 credits a year 6 years 3 years 4 years 2 years 2 years 1 year OU certificate 1 year For further information about specific qualifications, click Can previous study count towards an OU qualification? You may be able to count credit from previous higher education towards an OU qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to complete. If you d like to apply to transfer credit you need to let us know as soon as possible, and certainly before you register for your chosen qualification. Contact us to find out whether your previous study counts. To find out more, click call an adviser on +44 (0) or credit-transfer@open.ac.uk. If you have a vocational qualification If you have an NVQ, SVQ, CQFW or QCF vocational qualification at Level 4 or above, you may be able to count it towards an OU qualification (see above). If you have an NVQ, SVQ, CQFW or QCF vocational qualification at Levels 1, 2 or 3 you can still study with us but you won t be able to count it towards an OU qualification. If you hold an SVQ in care at Levels 3 or 4 you may be able to gain credit towards our BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) (Q41/Q50) or Diploma of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (W31). What if you don t want to commit to a full qualification? If you re not yet ready to commit to registering for a qualification, you can still study with us. Most of our modules are available on a standalone basis, and for each module you successfully complete, you ll earn credits that you could count towards an OU qualification. Many of our students choose standalone modules for continuing professional development. To find out more click or request a copy of our Undergraduate Modules Prospectus (see page 105).

16 14 Undergraduate Study Getting started with an Access module. Increase your confidence, improve your skills, and prepare yourself for further study. The OU offers a range of Access modules that have been specially designed to help you find out what it s like to study with the OU, get a taste for the subjects we offer, develop your study skills, build your confidence, and prepare you for further study towards a nationally recognised qualification. They are perfect for new learners with little or no knowledge or experience of studying and use the same high-quality teaching materials and study support we re famous for. Is an Access module right for me? Do you have little or no experience of university-level study? Do you want to develop or refresh your study skills? Do you want to increase your confidence about studying? Are you unsure about studying with The Open University? If you answered yes to any of the questions above, and you live in the UK, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or have a BFPO address, an Access module may be the ideal starting point for you. What kind of support will I receive? You ll have your own personal tutor who will provide regular one-to-one telephone tutorials and support throughout your study, along with providing written feedback on your work. Our dedicated Access support team will help with any general queries about your studies and you ll be able to exchange ideas with other students using our active online forums. How will I be assessed? There aren t any examinations to sit. Instead, there are four short written assignments and a number of online quizzes to complete. What can I study? The following Access modules are linked to one or more of the qualifications we offer in health and social care: People, work and society Access module (Y032) This module draws from a range of subject areas: children and young people; health; law; management; psychology; and social science. The module is divided into four blocks, each of which deals with a specific theme: Individuals; Families and relationships; Organisations and communities; and Society. Within each block, you will explore the theme from the perspective or point of view of each subject area allowing you to develop both your knowledge and your study skills. As a student you will be well prepared for further study on a wide variety of Open University qualifications. Science, technology and maths Access module (Y033) This module introduces a range of subjects, including science; engineering and design; environment; mathematics; and computing and IT. There are three blocks. In Life you ll explore biology, ecology and how humans interact with and change the environment. In Water you ll investigate how water has shaped our planet and our lives. And in Home you ll be introduced to design, engineering and computing. Throughout each block you ll develop your understanding of the key mathematical ideas and techniques that underpin the study of science and technology. We also offer one further Access module which is more relevant to other subject areas: Arts and languages Access module (Y031).

17 Undergraduate study 15 When can I start? Access modules start in October and February each year. How much time will I need to study? These modules are studied over a period of 30 weeks and during that time you should expect to spend approximately nine hours per week on your studies. You don t need to attend face-to-face tutorials and can fit your studies around your work and family life. You fix your telephone tutorials at times that are mutually convenient to you and your tutor. What do I need to begin my studies? You ll receive a complete set of study materials in the post. There will be study books and other printed material, as well as a DVD. All of these materials are included in the fee. You will require access to equipment that plays DVDs, a phone and the use of a computer with internet access. You don t need to rush out and buy a computer as you could use one at a library or drop-in centre. What will I get at the end? On successful completion of an Access module you ll gain an OU Access Module Certificate. Although an Access module does not earn you credit towards our qualifications, you will be well prepared to continue your studies with us. You ll gain valuable knowledge and skills you can apply straight away, at the same time as developing your confidence and giving your CV a real boost. How much will it cost? The arrangements for the funding of higher education are different across the four nations of the UK. The fees and funding available to you are based on where you are ordinarily resident: If you live in England the fee is 660. If you live in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales the fee is 225. How can I pay? There are a range of ways you can pay, and you may even be able to study for free. How can I study for free? If you study an Access module as an additional preparatory stage towards an OU qualification 1 you could be entitled to study your module for free. In order to qualify for a free place you must: be resident in the UK (or have a BFPO address outside the UK) have a household income (personal income if you live in Scotland) of less than 25,000 (or be in receipt of qualifying benefits) have no previous experience of study with The Open University have not completed a higher education qualification at NQF level 4/SCQF level 7 or above. 1 If you are ordinarily resident in Scotland you do not need to be studying towards a qualification in order to qualify for a free place. Can I pay by student loan? If you don t meet the criteria set out above, and you live in England or Wales, you may be able to cover the cost of your studies with a Tuition Fee Loan (see pages for further information). What if I want to pay by monthly instalments? If you don t qualify for a Tuition Fee Loan, or would rather not apply for one, you can pay your tuition fees by setting up an Open University Student Budget Account (OUSBA) and pay in monthly instalments. See for more information. Are there any other ways to pay? You can pay upfront and in full by debit/credit card or by bank transfer. If you live in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man You won t be eligible to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan or for a free place if you live in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. You can, however, pay for your module by instalments with an Open University Student Budget Account, upfront with a debit/credit card, or by bank transfer. Your next step. Click Call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0) Request a copy of our Access Module Certificates brochure see page 105

18 16 Health and social care Health and social care. Working in health and social care can be incredibly rewarding, personally and professionally, but it is also challenging. Services and roles are changing and there are more and more demands on staff to deliver high quality, safe and compassionate care and to develop new skills and keep up to date. Staff development plays a crucial role in supporting the delivery of high-quality care. Our curriculum focuses on meeting the needs of the health and social care sector by providing professionally relevant learning and developing high calibre practitioners. If you are employed as a healthcare support worker and are interested in gaining a qualification to progress in your career, we offer a work-based Certificate of Higher Education and a Foundation Degree/Diploma of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice. To find out more about our healthcare practice qualifications, go to page 28. Health and social care qualifications 17 BA or BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care (Q18) 17 Diploma of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (W31) 21 NEW Certificate of Higher Education in Adult Health and Social Care (T23) 23 Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (England) (T02) 24 Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (T03) 25 Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (Wales) (T04) 26 Certificate in End-of-Life Care (S30) 26 Certificate in Health and Social Care (S31) 27 Certificate in Promoting Public Health (S13) 27 There s more online To find out more about a qualification that interests you and to register, enter the qualification code in the search box at

19 Health and social care 17 Health and social care qualifications Registration for the 2014/2015 academic year opens for all undergraduate qualifications on 24 April Qualification start dates are based on the start dates of the first applicable module(s) you can study as part of your qualification. The qualification descriptions in this prospectus list the modules that are currently available for study. However, as we review our curriculum on a regular basis, the exact selection may change over time. Key C O Compulsory module Optional module BA or BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care (Q18) Credits: 360 Start: Oct 2014 (registration closes 11 Sep 2014) Feb 2015 (registration closes 08 Jan 2015) In the fast-changing world of today s care sector, staff at all levels need to be proactive and flexible to succeed. This degree provides a sound and critical understanding of health and social care policy, theory and practice, and will help you to develop as an independent and reflective learner. You ll examine the context and processes of change in yourself, in groups and in services, including new ways of working across agencies and professional boundaries. By the end of your studies you ll be able to evaluate your own and others roles in the context of policy developments; evaluate emerging strategic solutions; and recognise and value diversity and difference. You ll also understand how ethical, legal, social, economic and political factors influence the provision and development of services; and gain the essential critical and analytical skills needed to engage in the development of evidence-based practice. Career relevance and employability This degree will be of interest to anyone who works or has a particular interest in health, social work or social care in the statutory, voluntary or private sectors. It emphasises crossprofessional boundaries and the service user s perspective, and is closely attuned to care sector priorities and the NHS modernisation agenda. You ll acquire a strong set of highly-valued transferable skills, including skills in written communication (including report and essay writing); presentation and oral communication; problem-solving; time management; research and data analysis. You ll learn to work independently and as part of a team, and gain a good understanding of information technology. What you will study A choice of five routes through this degree enables you to focus on aspects of health and social care that are of particular relevance to you: health and wellbeing; older adults; mental health; work with children, young people and families; or healthcare and health science. Stage credits All students will commence their studies with An introduction to health and social care (K101), where you ll examine the experience of giving and receiving care in hospitals, clinics or GP surgeries; within the family and community; and in residential settings. You can then continue your studies with one of the following choices: Health and wellbeing, Older adults, and Mental health: Perspectives in health and social care (K118) focuses on three important areas which affect us all; health and wellbeing, mental health and ageing and later life, introducing some of the key concepts, issues and debates. Work with children, young people and families: Introduction to childhood studies and child psychology (E102) will give you a broad general knowledge of interdisciplinary childhood studies, and an understanding of the fundamentals of child psychology. Healthcare and health science: Introducing health sciences: a case study approach (SDK125) investigates major health concerns and the science behind these, and the social aspects of disease and disability in a global context. Topics in health sciences (SK143) will develop your skills in evaluating evidence; understanding and using key scientific terms and concepts; handling numbers; and interpreting graphs and tables. Stage credits Health and wellbeing: Health and illness (K213) examines health policy and practice relating to different models of health and illness care including those associated with long-term conditions and uses case studies to consider contemporary and emerging debates about health. Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217) considers how health and social care is everyone s business not just that of care sector professionals. Older adults: Dementia care (K235) investigates the prevalence, types and causes of dementia; its impact on identity, emotions and family life; transitions between care at home and residential care, and end-of-life decisions. Death and dying (K260) examines, through the perspectives of everyone involved, the diversity of responses to death; the rhetoric and reality of endof-life care; the limitations of care resources; the medicalisation and professionalisation of death; and the ethics of end-of-life decisions. You ll also choose between Health and illness (K213) and Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217) see Health and wellbeing route for details. Continued on page 18.

20 18 Health and social care Mental health: You will study Mental health and community (K240) (planned for October 2015) that will provide you with knowledge and understanding of the theories and concepts that influence contemporary practice in mental health. You will also choose between Health and illness (K213) and Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217) see Health and wellbeing route for details. Work with children, young people and families: Working with children, young people and families (K218) examines the diverse experiences of children in the places and spaces in which they live including family, community and a range of health, education, and care settings. Topics include contemporary debates relating to health and wellbeing, child development, disability, social pedagogy, youth justice, work with parents, foster care, education and play. You ll also choose between two options: Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217) see Health and wellbeing route for details, or Youth justice: theory, research and practice (K209). K209 focuses on young people in conflict with the law, exploring how theory influences policy and practice in the youth justice system in England and Wales. Healthcare and health science: At Stage 2 you will study Health and illness (K213) see Health and wellbeing route for details, and Human biology (SK277) which examines how a healthy body maintains its integrity. You ll study each body system separately but the overall emphasis is on interaction and coordination, and the relationship between health and disease. You will also study The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SDK228) where you will explore how mental health conditions like depression and dementia can be treated by focusing on the brain and its functioning. The medical model of mental health with its reliance on drug treatment is contrasted with ideas in the field of health psychology. Stage credits Health and wellbeing: Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311) will deepen your knowledge and critical analysis of the promotion of public health, and the vital contribution of local authorities, education, social care, families, police, prisons, business and voluntary organisations. You ll also choose between two options. Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) explores the challenges posed by the emergence of an ageing society, including mental health, longterm conditions, learning disability, and drug and alcohol use. Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) provides an excellent grounding in the knowledge and skills needed for front line management roles. Older adults: The compulsory module is Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) see Health and wellbeing route for details. You ll also choose between Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311) and Leadership and management in health and social care (K313). Mental health: The compulsory module is Exploring mental health practice (K314) (planned for October 2016) where you will further your knowledge and understanding of the theories and concepts that influence contemporary practice in mental health. You will also choose between two options: Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) or Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) see Health and wellbeing route for details. Work with children, young people and families: Working together for children (KE312) critically explores the knowledge, skills, and values required to work with children in a wide range of settings. It examines issues such as communication, transitions, relationships, health, play, participation, early intervention, risk and safeguarding. This is taught in the context of current law and social policy with a particular emphasis on the need for different agencies to work together. Issues in research with children and young people (EK313) will teach you how to design your own research project. You ll learn how to undertake research with children and young people, the different methods and theories you might use, and the special challenges posed by working with and researching children s lives. Healthcare and health science: At Stage 3 you ll study three compulsory modules. See the Health and wellbeing route for details of Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311). Infectious disease and public health (SK320) explores the underlying biology, epidemiology, ecology and evolution of pathogens in relation to our immune defences. You ll learn how infections are diagnosed, how to study changes in the incidence of disease and investigate strategies for treatment and control. Researching biology and health science (SLX390) will give you the opportunity to plan and conduct literature-based investigations and project work in healthcare and health science.