Health & Social Care

This course provides postgraduate training for doctors specialising in orthopaedics and is delivered in collaboration with consultant orthopaedic surgeons from South Tees NHS Foundation Trust. During the course you study the underpinning principles of evidence-based trauma and orthopaedics. The course focuses on developing your clinical knowledge and understanding of trauma and orthopaedic practice and the research skills necessary to be able to practise evidence-based orthopaedics. You also have the opportunity to undertake a research study within the specialist field of trauma and orthopaedics and to prepare your research for publication

• programme open to UK students only in 2011
• programme will not run in 2012
• programme open to UK and MTI (Medical Training Initiative) students in 2013.

The course enables you to:

• develop an understanding of the principles and clinical concepts underpinning practice in trauma and orthopaedics
• develop the skills and attitudes necessary to perform evidence-based trauma and orthopaedic practice and research within trauma and orthopaedics
• foster a commitment to lifelong learning and an inquisitive approach to clinical practice

A flexible approach to course delivery has been used, and for the majority of modules you can choose to study by attending taught sessions or by distance learning.

What you study

In Year 1 of the programme you study a number of modules which develop your understanding of the principles underpinning clinical practice in trauma and orthopaedics and develop your skills in evidence-based practice, research methods and statistics. In Year 2 you undertake either an 80-credit dissertation which involves planning, managing and writing up a small-scale research project, alongside preparing the write-up for publication in a peer-reviewed journal; alternatively you undertake a 60-credit dissertation which involves planning, managing and writing up the small-scale research project, plus a 20-credit option module.

How you learn

A range of learning and teaching methods are used throughout the course. For most modules you can choose to study either by attending taught classes or by distance learning. Taught classes utilise a range of learning and teaching methods such as key lectures, group discussions, practical activities, clinical lab sessions and computer lab sessions. Distance learning is support through the virtual learning environment where learning materials are available in a variety forms, including written materials, narrated powerpoint presentations, interactive materials. Distance learning is also supported though the use of electronic discussion forums. Supervision and support are provided by your personal tutor, programme leader, module leaders, academic supervisors and clinical mentors. You are also expected to undertake some self study to support your learning.

How you are assessed

A range of assessment methods is used throughout the course. These include formative assessment, written reports, statistical analysis, written and oral exams, and a research project.

Career opportunities

Successful completion of the course improves your career prospects by giving you specialist knowledge in trauma and orthopaedics to postgraduate level and by enhancing your research and evidence-based practice skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a recognised medical degree and be working within orthopaedics. International students will be required to have IELTS level 6.5 or above.

For additional information please see the undergraduate and postgraduate entry requirements in our admissions section

More information

• Health & Social Care
  More information and courses in Health & Social Care