Nursing and Healthcare 2013/2014

Transcription

1 Nursing and Healthcare 2013/2014 Undergraduate and Postgraduate study INSPIRING LEARNING

2 2 A world apart from any other way of learning Welcome to The Open University (OU), the UK s largest university with over 250,000 students and the world s leading provider of high quality, flexible learning. Achieve your ambitions We help ordinary people achieve extraordinary things, so if you want to improve your prospects through getting a qualification then we ll support you every step of the way. And if you have a disability or additional requirements you will find a range of support services designed with you in mind. Whatever your ambitions, make this the year you start to achieve them. We re more local than you think Not only are we the UK s largest university, but with an exceptional UK network of 7000 tutors, 350 tutorial venues and 13 national and regional centres, we re more local than you may think. If you d like to speak with us in person, why not attend one of our regional events; these can be found at Students love studying with us That s why they keep rating us so highly in the National Student Survey and has put us in the top three UK universities for student satisfaction since the survey began in Open access: other ways to read this publication You may find it easier to access information from our website at If you would like this publication electronically, please call +44 (0) or us from our website at Other alternative formats are available on request.

3 1 Contents Why study nursing and healthcare with The Open University? 2 Getting started with an Access module 3 Healthcare practice for healthcare support workers 5 Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (T01) 5 Foundation Degree in Healthcare Practice (X16)/ Diploma of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (W16) 6 Pre-registration nursing 7 BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing (Q73) 7 BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing (Q74) 7 Post-qualifying nursing 12 BSc (Hons) Nursing Practice (Q53) 12 Mentorship and assessment in health and social care settings (K320) 13 Dementia and end-of-life care 14 Certificate in End-of-Life Care (S30) 14 Transforming care short courses 14 Undergraduate modules 15 Postgraduate qualifications 20 Postgraduate Certificate in Advancing Healthcare Practice (C92) 20 Postgraduate Diploma in Advancing Healthcare Practice (E46) 20 MSc in Advancing Healthcare Practice (F52) 20 Postgraduate modules 21 The Open University national/ regional centres Back cover The OU made me realise what I can achieve. During my five years of studying I ve been promoted three times and have become a really confident person. Gerry McMurtrie, OU student

4 2 Why study nursing and healthcare with The Open University? Why study nursing and healthcare with The Open University? Whether you are looking to study for professional or personal development, or are an employer considering the development of your workforce, there are many reasons to consider studying with The Open University. Our qualifications are designed so you can fit studying around work and other commitments so they re ideal for busy people who want to enhance their work prospects and careers. They re also rated among the best in the country for teaching quality and are highly regarded by employers. With a record of excellence in teaching and research, we are a leading provider of part-time education for anyone working in or interested in nursing and healthcare. 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 healthcare and nursing sectors. Compassionate, person-centred care, skills development, improving patient/ service user outcomes and employability are all at the heart of our thinking. By studying with us, you can make a real difference to nursing and healthcare practice. We ll support you on to the next level Whether you re just starting out, want to enhance your skills, or are looking for a recognised qualification, we can help you get ahead in nursing and healthcare. Our qualifications draw on the experience of practising professionals, service users and carers; everything you learn is relevant and can be immediately applied at work which is why so many NHS, independent sector and local authority organisations choose the OU for their staff development. An Open University course in the workplace is good for everyone. It is the perfect way for our trusts to develop their staff. Lindsay Turton, Macmillan Lead Nurse for Palliative Care for Hull and East Riding Reasons why you can trust us with your career We re the UK s largest provider of part-time healthcare education. We re the UK s only provider of a part-time, practice-based, pre-registration nursing programme delivered through flexible learning. Our study method is designed to fit around your work, home and family commitments. As well as building your confidence, our qualifications could also help enhance your career prospects. With multimedia learning materials, high quality tutor support and a community of students behind you, you can achieve your goals without putting your life on hold. We help more people get on in nursing and healthcare than anyone else Each year, more than 17,000 people, like you, study with us to enhance the patient/service user experience and develop their career. Whatever level you re at, and wherever you want to go, we can help. Get back into learning If you haven t studied at higher-education level before, or it s been a while since you last studied, it can be a bit daunting. Our introductory modules help get you back into learning, enabling you to rediscover learning skills and prepare for further study. This was my first module with The Open University. My tutor was really great and very supportive, the module was well laid out and it gave me a good grounding for future study. OU student If you are a healthcare support worker wanting to enhance your practice or have aspirations to be a registered nurse, or if you are a registered nurse interested in developing your knowledge and skills and completing a degree or postgraduate qualification then we can help you achieve your ambitions. This prospectus provides information about a range of our qualifications and modules that will help you make a real difference to your practice and the patient/service users for whom you care.

5 Getting started with an Access module 3 Getting started with an Access module Increase your confidence, improve your study 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 of a subject area, develop your study skills, and build your confidence. 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. They re also fascinating and fun to do. The selection of Access modules available to you will vary according to where you live: If you live in England We offer a choice of interdisciplinary Access modules designed to prepare you for study towards a nationally recognised qualification with the OU. Successful completion of one of these modules will earn you an Open University Access Module Certificate. People, work and society Access module (Y032) Fee: 625 ( 25 if studied as part of the Access to Success Route) This excellent introductory module covers a broad range of subject areas, including 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 subject-specific perspective or point of view of each discipline allowing you to develop both your subject knowledge and your study skills. This Access module is linked to one or more of the qualifications we offer in nursing and healthcare. We offer two further Access modules, Arts and languages Access module (Y031) and Science, technology and maths Access module (Y033), which are more relevant to other subject areas. Your study options You can study an Access module as an additional preparatory stage of your chosen qualification, or on a standalone basis. Studying an Access module as part of a qualification If you have an annual household income of less than 25,000 or you are on certain benefits, you may be successful in gaining a place on our Access to Success Route. The Access to Success Route is a two-step process which will allow you to begin your studies for just 25. If you are not eligible for a place on the Access to Success Route, you may be able to cover the fees with a Tuition Fee Loan, which means you won t have to start paying anything back until up to four years after the start of the module and only if you re earning 21,000 or above. You can also pay for your Access module either upfront or by instalments. Studying an Access module on a standalone basis If you don t feel confident enough to register on a qualification, you may want to consider studying an Access module on a standalone basis. This is a great option if you want to try out higher education and see what studying with the OU is like before you commit to a longer study programme. Tuition Fee Loans are not available for standalone modules but you have the option of paying the fees either in one lump sum or by instalments. Start dates and availability Access modules start in October and February. However, if you intend to apply for a place on our Access to Success Route we advise you to apply early. Our Access modules are only available to students living in England, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or those who have a British Forces Post Office (BFPO) address. Support and assessment We aim to ensure your success. As an Access student you will enjoy significant support. Your tutor will provide regular one-to-one tutorials over the phone throughout your studies. You will also be supported by a dedicated Access support team who can help with any general queries about your studies with the OU. There are four written assignments and a number of online activities. The study materials offer lots of support to help you feel confident enough to submit them and your tutor will give you detailed feedback on your assignments and help in developing your study skills and confidence. Continued on page 4.

6 4 Getting started with an Access module Time 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 yourself and your tutor. If you live in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales We offer the following Access modules called Openings. Successful completion of one of these modules will equip you with the study skills you need to continue your studies towards a nationally recognised qualification with the OU. Starting with maths (Y182) Fee: 200 Mathematics, as well as being a fascinating subject, underpins practically every aspect of modern life. Whether you re keeping tabs on a budget, tackling a DIY project or devising a formula for a spreadsheet, you ll need to understand maths. This module introduces a range of key ideas to help you tackle everyday mathematical problems. We offer four further Openings Access modules which are more relevant to other subject areas: Making sense of the arts (Y180), Starting with psychology (Y183), Understanding children and young people (Y176) and Understanding management (Y179). Your study options You can study an Openings Access module as an additional preparatory stage of your chosen qualification, or on a standalone basis. Studying an Openings Access module as part of a qualification Starting your qualification with an Openings Access module could increase your chances of success, especially if you feel you need to develop your study skills and build your confidence. And if you re on a low income or are on certain benefits, you may be eligible for financial support to cover the full cost of your fees. Studying an Openings Access module on a standalone basis If you don t feel confident enough to register on a qualification, you may want to consider studying an Openings Access module on a standalone basis. This is a great option if you want to try out higher education and see what studying with the OU is like before you commit to a longer study programme. And if you re on a low income or are on certain benefits, you may be eligible for financial support to cover the full cost of your fees. Start dates and availability Openings Access modules start on 1 March and 1 November each year. You can normally register up to two weeks before the start of the module. However, if you are applying for financial support we advise you to apply early. Our Openings Access modules are only available to students living in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales. Support and assessment We want you to succeed. As an Openings Access student you ll enjoy significant support. Your tutor will provide regular one-to-one tutorials over the phone throughout your studies; you ll get detailed feedback on your assignments as well as help in developing your study skills and confidence. You will also be supported by a dedicated Access support team who can help with any general queries about your studies with the OU. You will be asked to submit three short pieces of written work including an end-of-module assessment (EMA). You will also submit a short interactive computer-marked assignment (icma), which will test your knowledge of the online chapters you ll study towards the end of the module. Time to study These modules are studied over a period of 20 weeks and during that time you should expect to spend approximately seven 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 yourself and your tutor. Your next step Click Call our Student Registration & Enquiry Service on +44 (0)

7 Healthcare practice for healthcare support workers 5 Healthcare practice for healthcare support workers If you are employed as a healthcare support worker and are interested in taking on greater responsibility or a more substantial role, we offer a work-based Certificate of Higher Education and a Foundation Degree/Diploma of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice. Our flexible approach allows you to step on and off at different points to develop your skills and gain qualifications according to your learning needs and career aspirations. As your role evolves, it will help you get ahead by developing the knowledge and skills needed to deliver high quality, safe and compassionate care. You will then be well positioned to take advantage of any new career opportunities that arise. These work-based qualifications integrate theory with practice and meet the needs of support staff working in diverse settings. You will need the support of your employer to study the practice-focused modules: one for the certificate of higher education and two for the foundation degree/ diploma of higher education. Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (T01) Credits: 120 Start: Sep 2013 (registration closes 15 Aug 2013) Oct 2013 (registration closes 05 Sep 2013) Feb 2014 (registration closes 09 Jan 2014) This work-based certificate is perfect if you are a healthcare assistant, healthcare support worker or assistant practitioner who is looking for the next step on your learning journey, particularly if you have completed a NVQ/SVQ qualification or an advanced apprenticeship and are wondering what to do next. The certificate consists of two compulsory, 60-credit modules: An introduction to health and social care (K101) and Enhancing your healthcare practice (K117). You ll be introduced to the study of health and social care and some of the underpinning knowledge, understanding and competencies necessary for contemporary healthcare practice. You ll consider health and social care in a variety of settings for example, family and community, GP surgeries and hospitals alongside practice-focused study of factors influencing health in different service user groups. There is a strong emphasis on person-centred, safe and compassionate care and the development of practice-based skills. The certificate of higher education is a qualification in its own right and is also the first year of the Foundation Degree/ Diploma of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice and the pre-registration BSc (Hons) Nursing programme. Stage 1 modules summary 120 credits from the following compulsory Level 1 modules: Module title and code Credits Page An introduction to health and social care (K101) Enhancing your healthcare practice (K117) 60 15

8 6 Healthcare practice for healthcare support workers Foundation Degree in Healthcare Practice (X16)/ Diploma of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (W16) Credits: 240 Start: Sep 2013 (registration closes 15 Aug 2013) Oct 2013 (registration closes 05 Sep 2013) Feb 2014 (registration closes 09 Jan 2014) The role of the healthcare support worker is increasingly complex, and there are some exciting new roles emerging particularly if you have the right qualifications and experience. This qualification will help you get ahead by developing the knowledge and skills needed to deliver high quality, safe and compassionate care. You should then be in a prime position to take advantage of new opportunities as they arise. This qualification integrates theory with practice and meets the needs of healthcare support staff working in diverse settings. You ll have the opportunity to select from study themes such as health and wellbeing, mental health, long-term conditions, children and young people, and end-of-life-care all with a strong emphasis on enhancing the experience of patients/ service users. You must have the support of your employer to study this qualification as you ll have to undertake the two practicefocused modules in your own workplace. What you will study Stage 1 (120 credits) For Stage 1 you will follow the same curriculum as described for the Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (see page 5). Stage 1 modules summary 120 credits from the following compulsory Level 1 modules: Module title and code Credits Page An introduction to health and social care (K101) Enhancing your healthcare practice (K117) Stage 2 (120 credits) Stage 2 of the foundation degree consists of a compulsory 60-credit, practice-focused module Extending your contribution to healthcare practice (K236) and 60 credits from a choice of modules addressing topics such as health and wellbeing, mental health, children and young people, long-term conditions and end-of-life care, enabling you to focus on areas that are most relevant to your practice. The practice-focused module uses online activities to explore case studies that integrate relevant research, policy and practice. Throughout Stage 2 you will continue to learn about the diversity and complexity of people s lives, examining their experience of care in different settings. Stage 2 modules summary 60 credits from the following optional modules: Module title and code Credits Page Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217) Challenging ideas in mental health (K272) Change, strategy and projects at work (T227) Child development (ED209) Death and dying (K260) Dementia care (K235) Diverse perspectives on mental health (K225) Human biology (SK277) The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SDK228) Working with children, young people and families (K218) + 60 credits of compulsory practice-focused learning: Extending your contribution to healthcare practice (K236) You can progress to a BA/BSc Open degree with or without honours. Studying K101 has helped me stand back and think about what I m doing and why. I now see things from the patient s perspective and am more sensitive to their needs. Paula Shaw, Assistant Practitioner

9 Pre-registration nursing 7 Pre-registration nursing The pre-registration nursing programme 1 is a flexible, practice-based learning route leading to eligibility to apply for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and the award of a nursing degree. The programme takes an innovative approach where students learn through a balanced mix of theory and practice, focusing on either adult or mental health nursing. BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing (Q73) BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing (Q74) Credits: 360 Start: Sep 2013 (registration closes 15 Aug 2013) Oct 2013 (registration closes 19 Sep 2013) The programme addresses the NMC requirements for entry to the nursing professional register. It is available to students who are sponsored by their employers and employed in healthcare practice. It provides a unique opportunity to become a registered nurse while remaining employed in the workplace. You ll study the essential concepts underpinning nursing practice and demonstrate the required competencies in practice-based contexts. You ll also gain wide-ranging transferable skills, including the ability to use information effectively. For example, you ll develop the critical skills you need to evaluate and apply evidence-based practice, and to analyse and understand nursing practice from both person-centred and multidisciplinary perspectives. With the focus on person, and family-centred care, you ll develop and demonstrate effective interpersonal skills that meet service users rights to dignity and privacy in a compassionate and caring manner. You ll also explore the professional context of nursing and healthcare practice; the promotion of healthy lifestyles; applied physiology across the life course; evidence-based practice; management and leadership and service improvement. The OU pre-registration nursing programme has meant we can tap into the talent of our healthcare support workers and develop them. This is a life-changing opportunity that maximises people s potential by helping them develop personally and progress professionally. The OU s pre-registration nursing programme is an excellent and effective way for us to support professional development for our staff, it works out well for everyone. Helen Wisdom, Employer, NHS Shetland 1 The programme is available in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

10 8 Pre-registration nursing How the programme works The programme offers a part-time, high quality opportunity to develop the skills of healthcare support workers and enhance practice competencies and strengthen multi-professional practice; improve the quality of service delivery and meet future workforce needs; boost staff morale and recruitment and retention; invest in the workforce; widen participation in higher education; and make a real difference to the lives of service users. The pre-registration nursing programme is a balance of theory and practice. We work in partnership with healthcare organisations and, as well as being a national provider of nurse education, the OU is also a local provider through its national/regional offices. The programme commences in September every year. The teaching is provided through learning resources and an online learning environment, and students are supported by a network of tutors in both academic and practice settings. In addition to support from tutors, while undertaking practice-based learning students are supported by registered nurse mentors and other registered practitioners. I would encourage any trust to take on board the opportunity to train students through the OU. Gillian Ashworth, Clinical Placement Facilitator, Northampton General Hospital Adult Nursing Mental Health Nursing Stage 1 (120 credits) Enhancing your healthcare practice (KYN117) An introduction to health and social care (KYN101) Stage 1 (120 credits) Enhancing your healthcare practice (KYN117) An introduction to health and social care (KYN101) NMC: Progression point 1 Stage 2 (120 credits) Principles and skills for nursing practice (KYN237) Human biology (SKYN277) Exploring perspectives on health and illness (KYN238) Stage 2 (120 credits) Principles and skills for nursing practice (KYN237) The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SKYN228) Exploring perspectives on health and illness (KYN238) NMC: Progression point 2 Stage 3 (120 credits) Preparing for graduate practice (KYN317) Exploring practice (KYN316) Stage 3 (120 credits) Preparing for graduate practice (KYN317) Exploring practice (KYN316) BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing NMC: Eligibility to apply for NMC registration

11 Pre-registration nursing 9 What you will study Stage 1 (120 credits) Stage 1 is common to both degrees and consists of two compulsory 60-credit modules, Enhancing your healthcare practice (KYN117) and An introduction to health and social care (KYN101). Together they provide you with appropriate preparation in healthcare practice and the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to reach progression point 1 (NMC requirement). Stage 1 modules summary 120 credits from the following compulsory Level 1 modules: Module title and code Credits Page Enhancing your healthcare practice (KYN117) An introduction to health and social care (KYN101) Stage 2 (120 credits) For the degree in adult nursing Stage 2 includes more specialist study in Human biology (SKYN277). For the degree in mental health nursing this stage includes more specialist study in The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SKYN228). For both degrees you ll study Principles and skills for nursing practice (KYN237) and Exploring perspectives on health and illness (KYN238) at Stage 2. These modules will provide you with the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills to extend your healthcare practice across different service user groups and within diverse healthcare settings. By the end of this stage, you ll be at progression point 2 (NMC requirement). Stage 2 modules summary 30 credits from one of the following Level 2 modules: Module title and code Credits Page Adult nursing Human biology (SKYN277) Mental health nursing The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SKYN228) + (for both degrees) 90 credits from the following compulsory Level 2 modules: Exploring perspectives on health and illness (KYN238) Principles and skills for nursing practice (KYN237) Stage 3 (120 credits) At this stage your studies will be common to both degrees and provide you with the knowledge, understanding and skills to confidently manage, innovate, lead and critically review practice through the combination of Exploring practice (KYN316) and Preparing for graduate practice (KYN317). You ll contribute significantly to the work of the multidisciplinary team, and ensure that service users receive compassionate, person-centred and evidence-based care. Stage 3 modules summary 120 credits from the following compulsory Level 3 modules: Module title and code Credits Page Exploring practice (KYN316) (planned for October 2015) Preparing for graduate practice (KYN317) (planned for May 2015) The pre-registration nursing programme has been a life-changing experience for me. It has enabled me to grow as an individual and as a professional by developing new skills, knowledge and confidence. Although it has been challenging, the ongoing support and guidance offered by The Open University staff and my practice-based mentors has given me the opportunity of realising my goal of becoming a registered mental health practitioner. Barry Magee, Mental Health Nursing student

12 10 Pre-registration nursing Learning in practice Learning in practice environments is a compulsory element of the degree and is undertaken within a framework of inter-professional and cross-agency working. A key priority is that your practice learning reflects fully the diverse settings in which service users, and their families, experience care. You will have an identified core practice base, usually in your employing organisation. Practice learning pathways, across a diverse range of care contexts and service user groups in both community and in-patient settings, ensure that you are exposed to the breadth and depth of experience required by the NMC. At Stage 1 of the programme, the overarching theme is concerned with developing essential care skills within your intended field of practice. Learning for practice and learning in practice are integrated. At Stage 1 you will practise safely under direct supervision. At Stage 2, you will move to applying person-centred skills across the lifespan and contexts of care, and your level of competence increases to that of practising safely under indirect supervision. And at Stage 3, you will move to demonstrating critical practice with a diverse range of people and communities and move to a level of competence of practising safely independently. Stage 1 Practice module Practising safely under direct supervision Stage 2 Practice module Practising safely under indirect supervision Stage 3 Practice module Practising safely independently Core practice base and complementary/contrasting experiences Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 NMC curriculum hours The programme normally takes just over four years to complete, or three years for students who enter the programme at NMC progression point 1. The programme must be completed within seven years to meet the NMC s part-time study requirements. In order to achieve the NMC standards of education and be eligible to apply for entry to the professional register, the programme is made up of of 4750 hours 1 split between theory and practice learning. A variety of health and social care settings is used for practice learning and include the NHS, private, voluntary and independent sectors. The table below outlines the distribution of hours across the programme. Distribution of theory and practice hours Part of programme Modules Theory (hours) Supernumerary practice (hours) Stage 1 Enhancing your healthcare practice (KYN117) An introduction to health and social care (KYN101) 600 Stage 2 Principles and skills for nursing practice (KYN237) Human biology (SKYN277) or 300 The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SKYN228) Exploring perspectives on health and illness (KYN238) 300 Stage 3 Preparing for graduate practice (KYN317) Exploring practice (KYN316) 600 Total hours NMC minimum 4600 hours (2300 hours practice, 2300 hours theory) The programme hours are used for: Learning for practice: tutorials, completing module reading and activities, watching DVDs and other audio-visual resources, completing assignments and personal study. This work may be completed in your own home, in a library or wherever you find it best to study. Learning in practice: sustained learning in practice in a range of settings as part of a team, which includes client follow through and following care pathways, and formative and summative assessment of achievement in practice. Your practice hours and assessed achievement in practice must be evidenced in your portfolio submitted at each of the three stages of the programme or at the end of each of the practice modules.

13 Pre-registration nursing 11 Recruitment and selection of students The programme is only open to individuals who are supported by employers working in partnership with the OU. You cannot self-fund your studies on this programme and you must be working in healthcare practice in a caring role. You must meet the NMC minimum entry requirements for pre-registration nursing programmes, which include numeracy, literacy and good character and health (see below). Following a review of your application, you will be offered an interview if you meet the entry requirements and are shortlisted. The interview process includes one or more representatives from the OU and your employing organisation. Service users are involved in the recruitment and selection process. Entry requirements The current NMC entry requirements include: literacy key skills level 2 or equivalent, e.g. GCSE Grade C or above/scqf level 5 in English) numeracy key skills level 2 or equivalent, e.g. GCSE Grade C or above/scqf level 5 in maths) good character evidenced through self-declaration and an enhanced disclosure and barring check good health evidenced through self-declaration of health status, occupational health screening, review of previous sickness and absence record two references, one of which must be from your current employer. Frequently asked questions Do I need a computer? Yes. The module materials are a dynamic mix of text, audio and online resources, so you will need basic computing literacy and access to a computer with a regular and reliable internet connection. You will have the opportunity to develop your IT skills during the early part of the programme. The OU s dedicated helpdesk provides IT support. Is there a minimum number of students? Employers register their students as part of a group either with colleagues from within the same organisation, or with staff from another organisation. If your organisation cannot support groups of students, The Open University will create mixed groups from other organisations where possible. How long does the programme take? It typically takes four years and two months to complete the programme. You will need to agree a timetable with employers, taking into account factors such as previous study, experience of distance learning and other work and family/home commitments. Get credit for previous study If you ve successfully completed higher education study elsewhere that is relevant to pre-registration nursing, you may be able to gain credit that could lead to a shortened programme. For more information, click What are the arrangements for study leave? Support for study leave is individually negotiated with your employer. What support do you provide for students with disabilities? We have a wide range of assistive technology and enabling services, so students with additional requirements can participate fully in their chosen programme. It s a good idea to discuss your needs as early as possible contact us for more information. How much does the programme cost? You must be sponsored by your employer to join the programme, so if you re interested in becoming a student, please share this information with your line manager and encourage them to get in touch with the University. Who pays for the programme, and how? The employer or sponsoring organisation pays the fees. This is not always your direct employer (for example, a Local Education and Training Board, The Scottish Government or The Northern Ireland Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety can pay rather than a specific hospital or Trust/Health Board). Students cannot self-fund their study on the pre-registration nursing programme. What if I need time out of the programme? Open University study is flexible, so if you need a break from studying it may be possible to arrange this in agreement with your employer, as long as you complete your studies within the seven years stipulated by the NMC. If you do have to leave the programme altogether, you ll still have credit for successfully completed study as every stage carries its own academic credit. What to do next Employers To find out more, please contact your national or regional centre (see back cover). We would welcome the opportunity to visit your organisation and answer any questions you might have about the programme. Prospective students If your employer isn t involved in the programme already, you could get things moving by sharing this information with them.

14 12 Post-qualifying nursing Post-qualifying nursing BSc (Hons) Nursing Practice (Q53) Credits: 360 Start: Oct 2013 (registration closes 05 Sep 2013) As nursing becomes a graduate-entry profession, the BSc (Hons) Nursing Practice enables registered nurses to enhance their career prospects by topping up their existing qualification to an honours degree. If you re a registered nurse, the BSc (Hons) Nursing Practice offers a practical way to take your career forward enabling you to achieve an honours degree while continuing to work. Its flexible, modular approach is designed to meet the needs of nurses working across a range of settings and specialities in both the NHS and independent sectors. Study options focus on key areas for contemporary nursing leadership and management; ageing and the life course; and public health. As you study, you ll reflect critically on your own practice, cultivate a personcentred approach to working with service users, their carers and families, and explore how your learning can contribute to evidence-based service improvement. By the end of your studies, you ll have enhanced your professional expertise to meet the complex challenges of contemporary healthcare practice. Through studying this qualification you will develop your understanding of the nursing role and strengthen your future employability, building on your current knowledge and experience in the setting in which you work. You ll gain the skills needed to lead practice development and innovation in your chosen area of nursing, improve your IT skills particularly in relation to searching for and analysing the evidence base for practice and collaborate with others to enhance your continuing professional development. What you will study Your study pathway for this degree will depend on the amount of credit transfer you receive for your previous nursing qualification and any other study you may have completed. If you receive 240 transferred credits for your previous qualification you will start at Stage 3 and study 120 credits to complete your degree. If you receive fewer than 240 transferred credits, you will need to complete up to 120 credits at Stage 2, as well as 120 credits at Stage 3. Stage 2 (up to 120 credits) Your study at Stage 2 provides a varied and wide-ranging choice of topic areas depending on your interest and professional background. For example, you could choose to explore health and wellbeing, including mental health and child development. Or, if your interest is in management, you could study leadership, influence and change. Alternatively, you could explore psychology, human biology or the law. Stage 3 (up to 120 credits) This stage gives you a choice of three 60-credit modules. In Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) you could explore diverse individual, environmental, policy and practice perspectives on adulthood and the impact of an ageing society. If your interest is public health, you could develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of multidisciplinary public health across the UK and internationally by studying Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311). Alternatively, Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) will enable you to explore key contemporary leadership debates and approaches, applying these in a critically evaluative way to your individual professional practice. The compulsory module Exploring practice (K316) enables you to undertake a project of direct relevance to your practice. You will critically explore your practice and focus on practice innovation and improvement. You ll identify an idea for practice improvement and develop this into a practice-based project that can be implemented in your workplace. Stage 3 modules summary 60 credits from the following optional Level 3 modules: Module title and code Credits Page Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311) + 60 credits from the following compulsory Level 3 module: Exploring practice (K316) I have enjoyed all my study with the OU and would recommend the OU to everyone. I have had so much support and guidance that I do not feel like I am completing distance learning at all. I have also been awarded a secondment for professional development due to the OU work I have completed and continue to do. Clare Woolley, OU student, BSc (Hons) Nursing Practice

15 Post-qualifying nursing 13 Mentorship and assessment in health and social care settings (K320) Mentorship and assessment in health and social care settings (K320), an inter-professional module approved by the NMC, is for any practitioner who facilitates learning and/or assesses learner achievement in a health and social care setting. The module embraces a range of innovative approaches to learning, assessment and supporting students that is grounded in, and informed by the integration of theory and practice supported by evidence and research. It is designed to give you the knowledge and skills to practice as a competent and confident mentor in an increasingly complex health and social care environment. During the module, you are facilitated to critically appraise your practice environments, identify and examine opportunities to support learners, and develop your professional and educational skills that support effective mentorship and assessment of learners in practice. Emphasis is placed on real, everyday situations which help you to apply the principles and methods of assessment to practice-based learning and analyse how much mentorship and assessment is influenced by context. For further information please see page 19 and for the full module description click I thoroughly enjoy being a mentor to students. These are the nurses of the future and we need to make sure they have the right skills to look after patients. Alison Romanin, Ward Manager and Mentor, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

16 14 Dementia and end-of-life care Dementia and end-of-life care Certificate in End-of-Life Care (S30) Credits: 60 Start: Oct 2013 (registration closes 05 Sep 2013) This certificate introduces a range of issues relating to death, dying and dementia care. It consists of two, 30-credit Level 2 modules: Death and dying (K260) and Dementia care (K235). Drawing on real case studies and acted scenarios, you ll see and hear from people living with dementia, and from dying people and their carers. You ll learn how bereaved people manage grief and explore the social and ethical context of death, dying and end-of-life care. You ll also explore the incidence and pathology of dementia; ethical dilemmas associated with dementia; and care at home and in care settings. The emphasis throughout is on the reality of end-of-life care and how it can be improved. This certificate will be relevant if you work in health and social care (especially in the area of life-limiting conditions), in a hospice, as a paid or unpaid carer; in the NHS (in the acute sector or community), or in the voluntary sector. Stage 1 modules summary 60 credits from the following compulsory Level 2 modules: Module title and code Credits Page Death and dying (K260) Dementia care (K235) The Death and dying module is excellent, and we have now made it a desirable baseline qualification on our job specifications in relation to posts where palliative care is a core component of the post. Lindsay Turton, Macmillan Lead Nurse for Palliative Care for Hull and East Riding Transforming care short courses Education and training can play a vital role in transforming care in equipping staff with the knowledge, skills and confidence to provide high quality, person-centred, compassionate care. Our transforming care short courses focus on improving care and practice in health and social care. Whether you receive care or provide care, OU short courses play a valued role in supporting high quality care in sharing good practice, addressing culture change and improving confidence. These non-credit bearing short courses offer: high-quality learning that you can apply right from the start a strong focus on improving practice, quality of care and service user experience flexibility and accessibility you can study whenever you want, wherever you have access to a computer or mobile device and you don t have to be away from your work or caring responsibilities. These courses are not formally assessed and they do not provide credits towards an Open University qualification. Improving dementia care (KG002) Credits: Start: This is a non-credit-bearing course Anytime This 40-hour online course is aimed at anyone with an interest in, or responsibility for the care of people with dementia. Your studies will help you develop an understanding of the medical and physiological dimensions of dementia including symptoms, changes in the brain and medication; the experience of dementia in relation to memory, identity and social relationships; care needs and person-centred care; the impact of the design of the physical environment; decision making, capacity, consent and risk; and of how organisational cultures shape care quality. Improving end-of-life care (KG001) Credits: Start: This is a non-credit-bearing course Anytime This 40-hour multimedia online course is focused on improving end-of-life care for adults. It covers different understandings of and support for a good death, effective communication, grief and bereavement and ethics in end of life care. Written assuming no prior knowledge, the online learning guides support you in building your understanding of end-of-life care by working step-by-step through audio and video accounts from practice and written case studies, as well as accessible discussions of up-to-date research and theory. Future developments There are two new courses planned that will focus on improving diabetes management and improving health and wellbeing.

17 Undergraduate modules 15 Undergraduate modules Assessment key EMA End-of-module assessment icma Interactive computer-marked assignment TMA Tutor-marked assignment Level 1 An introduction to health and social care (K101 or KYN101) Credits: 60 at Level 1 Length: 9 months Assessment: 6 TMAs, 5 icmas, 1 examination 08 Feb 2014 enrol by 09 Jan 2014 We all depend on care services at some time in our lives at home; in hospitals, clinics or GP surgeries; in community and residential settings. This key introductory Level 1 module provides an up-to-date, overview with real-life case studies taking you deep into the experience of receiving care and working in care services. Whether you re involved in care work (paid or unpaid), use services yourself, or simply have a general interest, this module will help you to build knowledge and understanding, develop practical skills, and prepare for further study. KYN101 is a version of this module for pre-registration nursing students. Enhancing your healthcare practice (K117 or KYN117) Credits: 60 at Level 1 Length: 12 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 2 icmas, 1 EMA Start: 07 Sep 2013 enrol by 15 Aug 2013 This online, work-based module is designed for healthcare assistants working across healthcare settings. You will start by focusing on the differing roles of members of the healthcare team and explore the importance of promoting health. Through supervised practice and studying the module materials you will have the opportunity to reflect on the context of healthcare practice and to develop your knowledge, understanding and skills to meet patient/service user needs. Your knowledge, skills and competence will be assessed through written assignments and in practice. Level 2 Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217) Credits: 60 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 5 TMAs, 1 EMA Health and social care is everyone s business. Whether using a service or being cared for by family or friends, we want skilled and understanding people who can work in partnership with us to meet our needs. Using online activities to explore real-life case material with up-to-date research, policy and practice you ll learn about how adult health and social care is organised, delivered, and experienced across a range of sectors. Whether you re involved in paid or unpaid work, use health and social care services yourself, or simply have a general interest, this module is designed to deepen your understanding and develop your practice. Challenging ideas in mental health (K272) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 examination Ideas about the concept of mental health are hotly contested, and often personally and intellectually challenging. This module invites you to think differently about life s dilemmas by considering the views of all concerned, especially people experiencing mental distress. Using a holistic framework, it explores ideas and practice in mental health encouraging you to review your own beliefs and experiences and to challenge yourself and others on a more informed footing. The module will appeal to a wide range of people workers in health and social care, service users/survivors, friends and families, and anyone with a general interest in this complex and challenging topic. KYN117 is a version of this module for pre-registration nursing students.

18 16 Undergraduate modules Change, strategy and projects at work (T227) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 EMA We live in a changing world. Being able to anticipate, make sense of, and manage change is vital to our wellbeing in both our personal and working lives. This is true whether or not you perceive yourself as a manager in the usual sense, because we all need to manage our lives to ensure we benefit from change rather than be disadvantaged by it. This module will improve your understanding of the origins, nature and consequences of change, and help you to plan a change project associated with your workplace. This will develop your project working skills skills highly valued by employers. Child development (ED209) Credits: 60 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 6 TMAs, 1 examination This module shows how psychological enquiry can help us to improve our understanding of the development of children and young people. It s organised in four parts: Psychological development and early childhood introduces children s early development from a psychological perspective; Children s personal and social development follows development in a social context; and Cognitive and language development in children explores the development of cognitive and linguistic understanding and the developing child as an active agent. Finally, Developmental psychology in action presents areas in which developmental psychology plays a part in education, remediation, health psychology and the legal system with children of all ages. Death and dying (K260) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 EMA This is an exciting and revolutionary module in which you ll engage with real issues based on the experiences of dying people, bereaved people, those who work with them, and their carers, both lay and professional. This module will be of interest to anyone who works with dying people and their families or students who want to find out more about death, dying and bereavement, and what these mean in different contexts. Dementia care (K235) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 examination The rising number of people with dementia and the issue of how care is delivered make this module relevant to anyone involved in caring for people with dementia. You will study the impact of this increase; the importance of understanding diversity; current thinking about possible causes and cures; how care is delivered in a residential setting; and what it means to improve the management of care. You will also consider ethical dilemmas raised by caring for people with dementia including end-of-life decisions. Real accounts from people affected by dementia, their family members and carers, enrich this highly interactive module. Diverse perspectives on mental health (K225) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 examination What causes mental distress and what can be done about it? What aspects of the external environment affect mental health? This module examines how social, environmental, economic and political factors shape and constrain our understandings and experiences of mental health and distress. It explores the wide range of diverse and frequently competing perspectives that characterise the world of mental health and looks at the impact of these perspectives on mental health practice and service provision. The module will appeal to anyone lay or professional who seeks greater understanding of this fascinating and complex area of service provision.

19 Undergraduate modules 17 Exploring perspectives on health and illness (KYN238) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 6 months Assessment: 2 TMAs, 1 EMA Start: 12 Apr 2014 enrol by 28 Mar 2014 This online module provides you with the opportunity to explore and critically engage with a variety of perspectives on health and illness biological, psychological and sociological. You will draw on your own experience of practice to explore these in relation to health promotion and health care; physical and mental health; and different transitional periods across the life course. You will examine how different perspectives might affect healthcare professionals, practitioners, service users, patients, people who are cared for and their carers. In addition, throughout the module you ll investigate the question of gender, ethnicity, ability, sexuality and social class. KYN238 is for pre-registration nursing students. Extending your contribution to healthcare practice (K236) Credits: 60 at Level 2 Length: 11 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 2 icmas, 1 EMA Start: 02 Nov 2013 enrol by 10 Oct 2013 This online, practice-based module is designed for healthcare assistants working across a range of healthcare settings. You start by focusing on your role in promoting healthy lifestyles before exploring the challenges of caring for people with acute and long-term conditions, including end-of-life care. Investigating a range of case studies will enable you to reflect on your practice and develop the knowledge, understanding and skills required to meet patient/service users needs and enhance your professional development. Throughout the module you will apply your learning to practice where your competence will be assessed. Human biology (SK277 or SKYN277) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 examination This module presents human biology in a way that connects it directly with health and disease. It starts with the concept of a healthy body and explores the mechanisms that enable it to maintain its integrity. Although you ll deal with the physiology of each body system separately, the overall emphasis is on interaction and coordination. You ll acquire sufficient background to appreciate how systems can fail and which medical interventions can be successful. SKYN277 is a version of this module for pre-registration nursing students. Principles and skills for nursing practice (KYN237) Credits: 60 at Level 2 Length: 18 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 2 icmas, 1 EMA Start: 19 Oct 2013 enrol by 15 Aug 2013 This online module is the second of three practice-based modules in the Pre-Registration Nursing Programme leading to the award of the BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing or BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing. The emphasis within this module is in the development of your knowledge and skills in the adult and mental health fields that will enable you to achieve the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) competencies for pre registration nursing. Using a range of study materials you ll explore in depth the complexities of healthcare practice. KYN237 is for pre-registration nursing students.

20 18 Undergraduate modules The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SDK228 or SKYN228) Credits: 30 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 EMA To what extent can we understand mental wellbeing and treat mental health conditions such as depression and dementia by focusing on the brain and its functioning? This module presents and challenges the medical model of mental health with its reliance on drug treatment, contrasting it with ideas in the field of health psychology. You will learn from case reports of those who have a mental health condition and those who care for them, as well as from relevant research studies. The module has an emphasis on understanding different approaches within psychology, as well as the nature of evidence for and against these approaches. SKYN228 is a version of this module for pre-registration nursing students. Working with children, young people and families (K218) Credits: 60 at Level 2 Length: 9 months Assessment: 5 TMAs, 1 examination Would you like to learn more about work with children, young people or families? This module is about the diversity and complexity of children and young people s (0 18) lives. It examines their experience of the places and spaces in which they live family, community and a range of health, education and care services. Taught primarily through online activities, you ll develop an understanding of contemporary debates and key skills relating to safeguarding, health and wellbeing, development, disability, multi-agency working, social pedagogy, youth justice, working with parents, foster care, education, and play. You will examine practice approaches and values, policy, and legal and rights frameworks from across the UK and elsewhere in Europe. Level 3 Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319) Credits: 60 at Level 3 Length: 9 months Assessment: 4 TMAs, 1 examination In the twenty-first century many more adults will live for longer than in previous generations. The emergence of an ageing society can be celebrated, but it also poses many challenges. As workers, carers, or as people receiving health or social care support, this module will enable you to explore diverse individual, environmental, policy, and practice perspectives for adults and for adulthood. It will focus on later life, mental health, long-term conditions, learning disability, and drug and alcohol use. The module incorporates a rich blend of multimedia learning resources, including stimulating case material and opportunities for online collaborative learning. Exploring practice (K316 or KYN316) Credits: 60 at Level 3 Length: 9 months Assessment: 4 TMAs, 1 EMA Do you regularly find yourself asking questions of your work setting? Have you ever reflected on how effective aspects of your practice provision are? Exploring practice enables you to examine in detail a project theme pertinent to your practice. This unique opportunity promotes development of personal and professional learning in evidence-based practice and culminates in detailed action planning, exploring implications for change and improvements in practice. This module is readily accessible to busy practitioners through its online learning and teaching strategies, which seek to facilitate and support your exploration of practice. It is open to an inter-professional audience, including youth justice workers, nurses and allied health professionals and social workers. KYN316 is a version of this module for pre-registration nursing students.