Duration of programme: 3 years part-time
Start date: October
Part-time / Distance learning available: All teaching and learning materials are hosted on Blackboard as this is a blended learning programme. Students are on campus for 3 weeks in the first term and then attend for one week at the start of each academic year. They are then at Aston 3 days a term for the remainder of the year.
Intake: 20
Fees: This course is funded by the NHS
How to Apply:
Information for applicants about the Scientist Training Programme (STP) 2013 intake and how to apply is available on the NHS Careers website.
More information:
Potential students interested in this course are advised to visit the pages below for more information:
The Department of Health has introduced a new career pathway for Healthcare Scientists. This includes clinical science training to provide an appropriately trained workforce to work in the NHS. This requires the education and training of practitioners in the division of neurosensory science. This division is made up of 3 pathways:
- Audiology
- Neurophysiology
- Ophthalmic & Vision Sciences.
Students undertake common learning throughout the programme but also have specialist topics in year two and three. Students are employed within NHS Departments and released to undertake academic study.
First year modules:
- NS1HS1 Introduction to Healthcare Science (15 credits)
- NS1PP1 Professional Practice (15 credits)
- NS1NS1 Introduction to Neurosensory Sciences (15 credits)
- NS1CS1 Clinical Science (15 credits).
Second year modules:
- NS2RM1 Research Methods (10 credits)
- NS2EB1 Evidence Based Practice (10 credits)
- NS2RP1 Research Project (20 credits)
Audiology pathway - NS2AR1 Adult Rehabilitation (20 credits)
Vision Science pathway - NS2VS1 Ophthalmic & Vision Science (20 credits)
Neurophysiology pathway - NS2NE1 Evoked Potentials (20 credits).
Third year module:
Neurophysiology pathway
- Neurophysiology Practice (30 credits)
Jump to:
Please note that offers are not based purely on the qualifications outlined below. Your personal statement and references also influence whether an offer is made. This programme is subject to the University’s Fitness to Practice regulations.
Graduates
A first or upper second class honours degree or equivalent in a in a life Sciences based subject e.g., chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacy, pharmaceutical technology, chemical engineering, pharmacology, physiology, physical science subject is required or, when outside the UK, a degree or qualification deemed to be at least of equivalent standing.
English Language
- IELTS. Minimum requirement - 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each area.
- TOEFL IBT. Minimum requirement - 100 overall, (21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking).
- Pearson Academic. Minimum requirement - 61 overall, 59 in each area.
The majority of the teaching and learning material is delivered via the virtual learning environment (Blackboard 9). Students are provided with a study guide for each module which ensures they are aware of what material needs covering when. The first year is mostly assessed via coursework so students are able to benchmark their abilities early on and to develop their skills in managing their learning.
In the second and third years of the programme students undertake a research project with an associated research methods module to develop their skills in this area.
Students are on campus for short periods each term when they have the opportunity to participate in group activities, tutorials, skills laboratories and seminars.
The programme is accredited by the Department of Health via the Modernising Scientific Careers programme.
This programme sits within the Department of Health’s vision for the Healthcare Science workforce. The aim is to develop practitioners who can improve the scientific profile within healthcare and who have the requisite skills to enhance both the diagnosis and treatment of patients in the NHS. As such it is predominantly aimed at graduates employed within the Scientist Training Programme. It is also aimed at NHS practitioners within the disciplines who wish to undertake an academic qualification as part of their professional development. Individual modules can be undertaken as part of the School’s flexible credit accumulation system leading to a post-graduate certificate, diploma or masters qualification.
The ageing population means that demand for assessment and treatment services is set to rise substantially over the coming years. Our Graduates will be well placed to enter careers in hospitals, community-based practice and also relate research areas.
The programme is designed to formally meet the requirements of the NHS and builds on Aston’s established links and extensive experience of health education.
Students will develop a wide range of skills to support personal development. These include presentation skills, team working, report writing, negotiation and IT skills.
Students are primarily taught in recently refurbished lecture theatres, which make use of latest AV technology.
The virtual learning environment, Blackboard, is used throughout the course in all areas of teaching from revision to assessment.
Students can obtain course texts and relevant journals from the library either electronically or in book form.
Main University navigation links
