University of Derby

Advancing Communication Skills

University of DerbyDerby, United Kingdom

Course overview

Development of communications skills for healthcare professionals has been identified as 'a continuing process throughout (their) professional careers particularly when moving into specialist areas' (DoH, 2003). To be able to perform at the forefront of professional practice expertise is required in a range of communications strategies, where they are often utilised in complex, sensitive or contentious situations. This module will provide the opportunity for you to assess your individual communication skills needs and evaluate relevant theoretical principles and your application to practice.

The module will be structured around a needs analysis leading to a negotiated learning contract. Initially a 'needs analysis' of communications skills will be undertaken. You will then be able to select three specific areas of communications for further study.

All health professionals, all health and social care professionals, nursing and paramedic, occupational therapy, pharmacists, ultrasonography.

Key highlights

  • Individual needs analysis of your communication skills at the outset
  • Negotiated learning contract shapes your personal programme of study
  • Choose three specific communication areas for in-depth study
  • Focus on complex, sensitive or contentious practice situations
  • Evaluates communication theory and its application to your practice
  • Open to nurses, paramedics, occupational therapists, pharmacists and sonographers

Scholarships

  • 10% Alumni Discount

    All other alumni will receive a 10% discount.

    Up to 10% of fees
  • 25% Alumni Discount

    The 25% alumni discount is available if you graduated in the academic years 2023/24 or 2024/25 and are fully enrolled on a postgraduate programme by July 2026.

  • Biomedical Science Excellence Scholarship

    Two awards of £1,000 are available, and will be awarded as a tuition fee reduction in the second semester. Each recipient will also be allocated up to £500 to use to attend a conference.

    Up to £1,000
  • Full Payment Discount

    If you pay your annual tuition fee in full ahead of enrolment, you will benefit from a £1,000 discount.

    Up to £1,000
  • Sports Scholarships - Individual and Team Sport Scholar

    Up to £3,000 fee subsidy and support services.

  • Sports Scholarships - Performance Team Sports Scholar

    Up to £3,000 fee subsidy and support services.

  • Talented Athlete Award

    Please contact the provider.

  • Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships

    Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarships - £2,000

    Up to £2,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Advanced Paramedic Practitioner
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Clinical Pharmacist
  • Sonographer
  • Advanced Clinical Practitioner

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Derby, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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