Health and Social Care Undergraduate and Postgraduate Prospectus 2015/2016
Self-belief that s what the OU gives you. KERRY PACE, OU GRADUATE
1 Life-changing Learning Everything you need to know to start your journey with The Open University is right here. 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 (Hons) Health and Social Care. The qualification you choose will usually be related to your undergraduate studies or professional expertise. For more information, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug. For more information, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/pg. 2 3 4 5 Register To secure your place, you need to register don t worry, there s nothing to pay at this stage. Register online at www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug or call +44 (0)300 303 5303 once you ve registered, we ll send you an email with login details so you can move on to the next step. Choose your first module Next, we ll ask you to select your first module(s) some of the modules in your chosen qualification will be compulsory, others may be optional. Sort out your funding 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 fund your studies. Find out more on pages 64 67. Complete your registration Finally, we ll need your payment method, for example, your student loan reference number or information about your approved financial support application. And that s it, you re a fully fledged OU student and ready to get going. 2 3 Contents 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 www.openuniversity.co.uk/pg or call +44 (0)300 303 5303. Complete your registration Register for your module online at www.openuniversity.co.uk/pg or call +44 (0)300 303 5303. 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 up front or paying by instalments. And that s it you re ready to start your postgraduate studies. Wherever you re going, it starts here 2 There s nothing distant about us 4 Why choose us for health and social care? 6 Get the kind of CV employers are looking for 8 Undergraduate study 10 Postgraduate study 56 Transforming care short courses 62 Fees and financial support 64 What else you should know 68 Ordering other prospectuses 69 Any questions about studying with us? Back cover
2 Wherever you re going, it starts here The launch of The Open University (OU) 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 experts in part-time study and why more adults choose the OU than any other university.
Wherever you re going, it starts here 3 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. 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 leading expert in flexible higher education. 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 0.4 seconds that s 1.5m every week. 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 recruit OU graduates. With us, you don t have to put your life on hold to get the qualification you need. Around three-quarters 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 www.openuniversity.co.uk/careers-subjects. 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 360,000 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. We re one of the world s finest universities Everything we do is grounded in the research we re internationally famous for OU research changes the world. It s this combination of world-class teaching and research that makes our qualifications so highly respected and our study materials so sought after. We re more local than you think Many people are surprised to learn that there are 400 study locations right across the UK. We also have around 1100 local events each year so why not come and talk to us? You can find your nearest event at www.openuniversity.co.uk/events. 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 Recruitment Team on +44 (0)300 303 5303. Students love us It s great to know we re doing things right in the eyes of the people that matter most our students. That s why we re proud that we have achieved over 90 per cent for student satisfaction year in, year out, in the National Student Survey. We think it s a reflection of the unique study experience that we offer. FACT The OU is the first UK university to make all of its undergraduate study materials accessible by mobile phone. The OU not only gave me the chance to better myself, it helped me achieve my dreams. LISA WHENHAM-BOSSY, OU GRADUATE
4 There s nothing distant about us We ve taken distance learning to a whole new level helping thousands of ordinary people achieve extraordinary things.
There s nothing distant about us 5 Our unique method of Supported Open Learning is different to 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 email, 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? 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 biggest 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. We also have an active Students Association, so whether you see yourself being able to influence how the University is run or you d like to socialise or volunteer, there s something for everyone. To find out more about the OU Students Association, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ousa. Our world-class library is open all hours As an OU student you ll have exclusive access to the OU s world-class online library to help you research and complete your assignments. There are thousands of online resources available including academic books, journals, magazine articles, newspapers, encyclopaedias and dictionaries. You can tap into these quality-assured and trusted resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever you need them and wherever you are. Support on how to find and use information is available through our online training sessions, and we have services to guide you in today s increasingly digital world. For example, our Being digital activities are designed to provide advice and guidance on how to be more confident using the internet. Library helpdesk staff are also on hand seven days a week to give help and support whenever you might need it. Support that continues when your studies end Once you ve achieved your qualification, you ll be invited to join the OU Alumni Association. With 360,000 members, it s a vibrant community and a great way to connect and network with people like you. Employer sponsorship When it comes to managing the cost of your study, you ve got options see pages 64 68 but did you know that over 80 per cent of FTSE 100 companies have funded their staff to study at the OU? 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 Recruitment Team on +44 (0)300 303 5303. 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. We also believe that the grades you got at school aren t the only measure of ability, which is why you don t need any previous academic qualifications to study with us. You may even 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. To find out more, call our Student Recruitment Team on +44 (0)300 303 5303 or click www.openuniversity.co.uk/disability. Free tasters The free taster courses at www.open.edu/openlearn 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. Our expertise also powers FutureLearn, the UK s largest provider of free online courses. Click www.futurelearn.com for more information. Find out more about our online library at www.openuniversity.co.uk/library. The unrivalled online access to journals and materials was instrumental to the success of my studies. STEPHEN MCGANN, OU GRADUATE
6 Why choose us for health and social care? 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.
Why choose us for health and social care? 7 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 carefocused 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 (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, 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. Research at the OU The agenda-setting research in the Faculty of Health & Social Care is addressing the major challenges of today, to make a difference to health and social care practice in the UK and internationally. The Faculty s research seeks to find original solutions to important questions, through research methods that are innovative and inclusive, ensuring that the voices of those who are the most vulnerable in society are represented. Making a difference: Our academic expertise and research activity spans and impacts important areas across the life course: from the development of national guidelines that improved end-of-life care in residential homes, and influencing the design of kitchens for older people, to understanding how people with learning disabilities make decisions about contraception to ensure that their rights can be upheld, and advising on policy development and reform around children protection. Research informing curriculum: The OU curriculum is underpinned and developed by these same experts, who are engaged in world-leading and internationally excellent, multidisciplinary research that seeks to improve society s wellbeing and experiences of health and social care.
8 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 multiskilled 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. Studying health and social care will develop skills valued by employers including the ability to: draw together, analyse and critically evaluate information communicate effectively think logically and propose reasoned solutions manage time, learn independently and use IT effectively work as part of a team and take responsibility write concisely, clearly and accurately interpret, use and evaluate data. Where could your health and social care qualification take you? There is 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 practice managers registered nurses and midwives social workers and social work assistants specialist practitioners sports coaches youth workers and youth justice workers ward managers, unit managers and team leaders.
Get the kind of CV employers are looking for 9 To find out more about career opportunities relating to health and social care, or to see what previous graduates are doing now, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/hsc-careers. 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. FACT Over 90 per cent of our student nurses and social work graduates go on to secure roles as registered practitioners on qualifying. We don t just teach people we help them get on Our Careers Advisory Service website www.openuniversity.co.uk/careers 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. 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 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. Live outside the UK? Students based outside the UK can use the full range of resources available on the careers website, including the facility to contact a careers adviser and access to job information and online forums. In addition, we provide links to information for specific countries about the job market, applying for jobs, vacancy sources, and gaining work experience. 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. 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 there is more information on our website. To find out about why people choose further study, how employers view postgraduate qualifications, the different types of postgraduate study to choose from and sources of funding, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/exploring-further-study.
10 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. To find out more about a qualification that interests you and to register, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug. How you study with us 11 Getting started with an Access module Undergraduate qualifications in a named subject Health and social care 14 16 BA (Hons) Health and Social Care (Q18) 16 NEW BSc (Hons) Healthcare and Health Science (Q96) Diploma of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (W31) Certificate of Higher Education in Adult Health and Social Care (T23) NEW Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare with Health Science (T28) Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (England) (T02) Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (Scotland) (T03) Certificate of Higher Education in Social Care (Wales) (T04) 20 21 23 23 24 25 26 Certificate in End-of-Life Care (S30) 26 Certificate in Health and Social Care (S31) 27 Certificate in Promoting Public Health (S13) 27 Healthcare practice Foundation Degree in Healthcare Practice (X16)/Diploma of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (W16) Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice (T01) Pre-registration nursing 28 29 BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing (Q73) 30 BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing (Q74) 30 Post-qualifying nursing BSc (Hons) Nursing Practice (Q53) 32 Social work BA (Hons) Social Work (England) (Q32) 34 BA (Hons) Social Work (Scotland) (Q41) 36 Graduate entry route (Q50) 37 BA (Hons) Social Work (Wales) (Q42) 37 Health sciences BSc (Hons) Health Sciences (Q71) 38 Diploma of Higher Education in Health Sciences (W44) Certificate of Higher Education in Health Sciences (T18) 40 40 Certificate in Health Sciences (S19) 40 Children, young people and families BA (Hons) Youth Justice Studies (England and Wales) (Q63) Certificate of Higher Education in Children and Families (T24) Certificate in Working Together for Children (S23) Sport and fitness 41 42 43 BSc (Hons) Sport, Fitness and Coaching (Q76) 43 Foundation Degree in Sport and Fitness with either Exercise Instruction or Coaching (X07)/ Diploma of Higher Education in Sport and Fitness with either Exercise Instruction or Coaching (W07) Certificate of Higher Education in Sport, Fitness and Management (T05) 45 45 Open qualifications 46 Undergraduate modules 48
Undergraduate study 11 How you study with us The best thing about the OU 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 up front. 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 (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.
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 are available at www.openuniversity.co.uk/englishlanguage. 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 14 15 or click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-access. 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 Total Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 credits required Degree with honours 120 120 120 360 Foundation degree/ Diploma 120 120 240 of higher education Certificate of higher 120 120 education OU certificate 60 60 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.
Undergraduate study 13 Planning your time 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 fulltime 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 Time required to complete Studying part time 60 credits a year Studying full time 120 credits a year Degree with honours 6 years 3 years Foundation degree/diploma of 4 years 2 years higher education Certificate of higher education 2 years 1 year OU certificate 1 year For further information about specific qualifications, click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug. Counting previous study 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 www.openuniversity.co.uk/credit-transfer call an adviser on +44 (0)300 303 5303 or email 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 www.openuniversity.co.uk/modules.
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 study materials and study support we re famous for. FACT Students who prepare by taking an Access module are more likely to be successful in their future studies. 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. You could even study for free If you meet certain criteria you could be eligible to study an Access module for free, for more information see opposite. 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 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 offer one further Access module which is more relevant to other subject areas: Arts and languages Access module (Y031).
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 materials, 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 and 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. If you choose to study the module as part of a qualification, the credit gained will be in addition to the other credit required for the qualification. What if I don t meet the criteria? The fee you pay is determined by where you are ordinarily resident: If you live in England, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man the fee is 675. If you live in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales the fee is 230. How can I pay? If you don t meet the criteria for a free place set out below left, there is a range of ways you can pay. Can I pay by student loan? If you live in England or Wales, you may be able to cover the cost of your studies with a Part-Time Tuition Fee Loan if you study an Access module as an additional preparatory stage towards an OU qualification (see pages 64 and 66 for further information). What if I want to pay by instalments? You can spread the cost of your studies and pay as you go. Find out more about an account with Open University Student Budget Accounts Ltd (OUSBA) and the option of paying for your study in instalments as you go at www.openuniversity.co.uk/ousba. You must be at least 18 years of age and credit is subject to your financial circumstances and status. Are there any other ways to pay? You can pay up front and in full by debit/credit card or by bank transfer. How much will it cost? You could be eligible to study your module for free if you meet the criteria set out below. In order to qualify you must: be resident in the UK or have a BFPO address outside the UK (excludes the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man) be studying an Access module as an additional preparatory stage towards an OU qualification (doesn t apply if you live in Scotland) have a household income (personal income if you live in Scotland) of less than 25,000 (or be in receipt of qualifying benefits) have not completed any more than one year on a full-time undergraduate programme at NQF Level 4/SCQF Level 7 or above, or completed 30 credits or more of OU study. Your next step Click www.openuniversity.co.uk/ug-access Call our Student Recruitment Team on +44 (0)300 303 0069 Request a copy of our Access Module Certificates prospectus see page 69
16 Undergraduate qualifications in a named subject 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, see pages 28 29. BA (Hons) Health and Social Care (Q18) Credits: 360 Start: Oct 2015 (registration closes 10 Sep 2015) Feb 2016 (registration closes 07 Jan 2016) Registration for the 2015/2016 academic year opens for all undergraduate qualifications on 12 March 2015. 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 Choose a topic-based route 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 (e.g. 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.
Health and social care 17 What you will study A choice of four 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; or work with children, young people and families. Stage 1 120 credits You will commence your 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 Stage 1 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 everyone; health and wellbeing, mental health and ageing and later life, introducing some of the key concepts, issues and debates, such as how to respond to mental health and the impact of ageism. Work with children, young people and families: You will choose between two modules. 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. Foundations for effective practice in youth justice (K115) examines the two goals of youth justice work to support children and young people who are in trouble and address their troubling behaviour. Stage 2 120 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. You will learn about how adult health and social care is organised, delivered and experienced across a range of sectors. 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 end-of-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. Mental health: You will study Mental health and community (K240) which 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. Stage 3 120 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. It will provide you with an overview of the organisational, legal and policy contexts within which managers operate. Older adults: The compulsory module is Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319). You ll also choose between Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311) and Leadership and management in health and social care (K313) see Health and wellbeing route for details. Mental health: The compulsory module is Exploring mental health practice (K314) (planned for October 2017) 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. Continued on page 18.
18 Health and social care Qualification structure Study order as listed. Modules marked * can be taken in any order. Choose a topic-based route: Health and wellbeing Stage 1 module summary Compulsory modules 120 credits Credits Page An introduction to health and social care (K101) Perspectives in health and social care (K118) Stage 2 module summary c 60 48 c 60 50 Compulsory modules 120 credits Credits Page Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217)* c 60 51 Health and illness (K213)* c 60 52 Stage 3 module summary Compulsory module 60 credits Credits Page Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311)* c 60 55 Optional module 60 credits Select one from: Credits Page Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319)* Leadership and management in health and social care (K313)* Module availability is subject to change. o 60 54 o 60 55 Older adults Stage 1 module summary Compulsory modules 120 credits Credits Page An introduction to health and social care (K101) Perspectives in health and social care (K118) Stage 2 module summary c 60 48 c 60 50 Compulsory modules 60 credits Credits Page Death and dying (K260)* c 30 51 Dementia care (K235)* c 30 51 Optional module 60 credits Select one from: Credits Page Adult health, social care and wellbeing (K217)* o 60 51 Health and illness (K213)* o 60 52 Stage 3 module summary Compulsory module 60 credits Credits Page Adulthood, ageing and the life course (K319)* c 60 54 Optional module 60 credits Select one from: Credits Page Leadership and management in health and social care (K313)* Promoting public health: skills, perspectives and practice (K311)* Module availability is subject to change. o 60 55 o 60 55