MSc in Dementia
Critically challenge common perceptions of dementia as a diagnosis solely of loss and despair. Focus on human rights, dignity and care provision. Learn what it means to live well with dementia.
Course details
MSc in Dementia
Next start date: 23 September 2019
Application deadline: 16 September 2019
Duration: two years (part-time)
Format: online, with optional face-to-face events
Total fees for the two-year course: £10,300
Why this MSc?
Dementia is a condition which is taking centre stage in all our lives but continues to be understood primarily as one of deficit and dysfunction.
Taking a person-centred approach, informed by experiences of people with dementia, their families and supporters, this multi-disciplinary masters degree critically challenges common perceptions of dementia as a diagnosis solely of loss and despair.
Taught by experts and focusing on a human rights approach, you will learn how to maintain the wellbeing and dignity of people living with dementia, while promoting the philosophy and practice of living, as well as possible, with dementia.
Apply your learning to your current profession to create a positive impact within the field of dementia today.
What you learn
Designed to give you a critical understanding of dementia, this course will provide you with a deep insight into the experience of those living with dementia and their families. You will develop new critical thinking, giving you practical tools and mindset to lead positive change.
- Study the effects of social exclusion, the relevance of participation and diversity. Critically challenge taken for granted models of care in order to promote an holistic, relationship-centred approach
- Explore biological, psychological and sociological frameworks which seek to explain the experience of dementia and develop a multi-disciplinary research perspective
- Create care plans focusing on the human rights and specific needs of people with dementia and put your new knowledge to practical use in real life situations
- Discover and share global perspectives which underpin the diagnosis with your peers online. Join a network of likeminded professionals shaping change around the world.
Hear from Programme Directors Emma Wolverson and Liz Price about what sets this masters degree apart:
Course modules
This course takes a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to the study of dementia. Providing you with a relationship-centred insight, it focuses on experience, quality of care and how to live and die well with dementia. You study the following compulsory modules.
Dementia: Critical Starting Points (30 credits)
A critical approach to historical and contemporary understandings of dementia. Throughout this module you will explore the multi-disciplinary frameworks and discourses which seek to explain the experience of dementia.
Living Well with Dementia (30 credits)
Develop strategies and plans to create meaningful activities which support life enhancement and wellness. You will also develop a critical understanding of what it means to ‘live well’.
Systems and Ecologies (30 credits)
This module takes account of the wider social systems and ecologies which can both support and undermine the experience of living well with dementia. It will provide you with a systems-based appreciation of the experience of living well with dementia. The module examines the relationships of people diagnosed with the condition exploring interactions and perceptions of family, care-givers, community and society in general. You will focus on methods and approaches which enable partnerships and collaboration within wider social systems.
Dying Well with Dementia (30 credits)
Developed in collaboration with end of life care specialists, this module will help you gain an understanding of palliative and supportive care in dementia. Study the legal and ethical issues, advanced care planning and the professional interventions which mitigate for and against a good death in the context of dementia.
Dissertation (60 credits)
Your dissertation (15,000 words) will help you to develop arguments which demonstrate alternative perspectives, challenge common perception and pave the way for new areas of enquiry in the dementia field.
Dr Emma Wolverson
Programme Director
A clinical psychologist specialising in working with people living with dementia and their families, Emma's clinical work has spanned the dementia care pathway from early assessment and diagnosis to end of life care. Her research is aimed at supporting people with dementia to live well by promoting wellbeing, reducing stigma and improving care.
Dr Liz Price
Programme Director
A specialist social worker for people living with dementia, Liz worked for many years with people living with enduring mental health problems. Both her teaching and research focus is on developing creative approaches to mental and physical wellbeing.
How you're assessed
All assessment for the course is based on coursework and submitted online. Your performance on the course will be assessed through a range of methods including
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ongoing tutor and peer feedback
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practical work, including group projects and discussion forums
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written work, including case studies, care plans, reports and essays
Latest Dementia news
Entry requirements
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A minimum 2.2 Honours degree or international equivalent in a related subject (such as nursing, social work, psychology, occupational therapy, or similar)
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Equivalent professional qualifications (such as a Diploma in Nursing) will be considered
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CV including a current professional or voluntary role which requires regular direct contact with people with dementia
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Two references, one of which must be an academic reference
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An IELTS 6.0 score (with minimum 5.5 in each skill) if your first language isn't English.
Applicants without the required formal qualifications, but with significant relevant experience, are also encouraged to apply.
If you're unsure whether you're eligible to apply, please contact our Course Advisers on +44 (0)1482 235569 or email enquiries-online@hull.ac.uk.
Career prospects
Successful completion of this distance learning degree offers health, social work and social care professionals the potential to specialise in the field of dementia. We are also keen to help develop specialist knowledge and skills in people who currently volunteer in the field.
Gaining an insight into care provision and policy-making, from an explicitly ethical and human-rights perspective, will equip you with the knowledge you need to lead positive change and improve existing services for those living with dementia in your community.
Ready to apply?
Request more information
Complete the form below or telephone +44 (0)1482 235569 to speak to a course adviser.