• The Programme
• Content
• Assessment
• Entry Requirements

The Programme

This Professional Diploma reflects a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare and is designed to meet everyday practice needs and continuing professional development.  It is suitable for all qualified health professionals working with people who have epilepsy. It will also appeal to those working in care support services and the voluntary sector.

This course was developed in collaboration with Epilepsy Action and the York Hospitals (NHS) Trust through its specialist unit, NeuroEducation. It is a key route for professionals to gain knowledge and skills based on best available evidence to enhance their everyday practice.

It has been running for more than a decade and over 300 health, social and voluntary sector professionals have already obtained the Diploma.  It is becoming an essential qualification for those who want to specialize in or lead epilepsy services.  

A principle aim of the course is to enable people to gain knowledge and skills in epilepsy practice.  However, the key aim is to apply the knowledge gained from the course into professional practice.  The outcome will be enhanced clinical practice; this in turn should result in an enhanced quality of life for people with epilepsy.

Content

The modular format comprises:

• Diagnosis and Assessment of Epilepsy
  This module addresses: Processes of diagnosis and assessment, and delivery of multi-disciplinary care; Role of the MDT members in providing diagnosis and assessment; Seizure types and syndromes; Clinical guidelines and outcome measures; Theory and research underpinning practice.
• Management of Epilepsy
  This module addresses: Theory and research underpinning current practice in the management of people affected by epilepsy; Treatment options; Guidelines and implications for practice; Role of the MDT within the process of the management of the person with epilepsy.
• Psychosocial Issues in Epilepsy
  This module addresses: The psychological and social impact of epilepsy; Theory and research of psychological changes and the evidence for effective management; Role of the MDT within the process of the management of psychological symptoms.

The award of the Professional Diploma in Epilepsy Care is based on successful completion of all three modules. Each module carries 15 credits at undergraduate level 3. 

All modules are taught by distance learning, in part-time mode, and operate over a 15-week semester. The course begins with an induction workshop.  Please apply to the University for details of workshop dates.

Assessment

Assignments reflect not only knowledge, but also the ability to apply it to practice. All the modules offer choice of topic within a framework that requires demonstration and communication of knowledge, particularly through evaluation of the evidence-base and reflection on the implications for practice.  Assessment types include case studies, reflective practice and critical incident analysis.

Entry Requirements

This course is suitable for health or social care professionals who are in full or part time employment relevant to epilepsy practice. All participants will normally have completed an appropriate course equivalent to the first year of a university degree course, e.g. Cert/Dip HE, HNC/D or completed a course at a lower level but have sufficient health or social work experience.

Acceptance to study for the award is at the discretion of the University.

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