New opportunities to build on success in dementia education and training at Worcester.
The Association for Dementia Studies has been providing accredited training in person-centred dementia since 2012. Delivering in line with our ethos of being person-centred, we offer the option to sign up for one module that meets learners’ needs and interest, (however be warned you could become hooked on learning once you join us), studying for a Postgraduate Award or Certificate, and now you can go for a Masters (MSc).
On the Postgraduate Award in Professional Development (PG Award), students working in care settings with people with dementia who may have complex needs and distressed behaviour can complete the award in one year, gaining 30 credits and becoming a Dementia Practice Development Coach. This enables them to deliver focused, evidence-based interventions in their workplace, cascading best practice in supporting people living with dementia. Our 2022 Hennell Award winner Stu is a prime example of the impact the PG Award can have, as illustrated in a recent social media post.
In the Postgraduate Certificate in Person-Centred Dementia Studies (PGCert), students work through four research-informed modules over a two-year period. With live online support sessions every two weeks, students are enabled to not only meet and discuss with the tutors but also meet others studying on the same module and share ideas across the UK. If you want to find out more about the PGCert, why not join us at one of our open events for an informal discussion – see the image below for dates. By completing four PGCert modules, students can achieve 60 credits at a postgraduate level and the great news is these credits can be used towards a MSc, reducing the time and effort to complete the MSc by a third.
The recently launched Professional Development Masters requires 180 credits in total, so our alumni from the PGCert are well on the way with their 60 credits. They can choose from a range of taught modules or build projects that are relevant to their workplace before progressing to the dissertation. This enables learners to build on existing academic skills, applying them to improve the support provided for those affected by dementia.
If you have been looking for a MSc that will help you develop your ideas further and want to build on the excellent support and experience provided as a Worcester student, get in touch with our Senior Lecturer Dr Catrin Hedd Jones for an informal meeting to discuss how we could work with you to support your professional development in dementia. Send us an email (dementia@worc.ac.uk) and we will arrange a time that suits you to meet on Teams or to call.
FAQ
Where can I find out more info about the Masters?
How do I apply?
I completed the PGCert or PG Award a couple of years ago, can I still use those credits?
- Yes, you can request to carry over relevant credits for up to six years.
Are all the other modules online?
- All the Award and PG Cert in dementia is delivered online. Further options modules are available in the MSc with a range of online and on campus here at the University of Worcester. More details of the module options are available here
How much does is cost?
- The fees are calculated based on the new credits that you will need to achieve, so it depends how many credits you already have. The fees are detailed here
Finally, we want to acknowledge the inspirational work of our students. Kelly has been one of our amazing Course Representatives for the PGCert and as she submitted her last assignment she reflected on the experience here.
It highlights the value of investing in your education to not only develop on a personal level but also to benefit the organisation they work for and those that they aim to support living with dementia.
If you’re not quite ready for a Masters, why not take a look at our website and see what other education and training options we can offer you.
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