What’s it all about?

Health Research is about so much more than running trials for new drugs. It’s about improving healthcare – and we will cover numerous ways in which this can be done.

We’ve designed this dynamic course to take students through the journey of designing and carrying out a piece of research. It goes all the way from developing your research aim/question, choosing the appropriate method to investigate that aim, to delivering the results of the study. During all of this, you will supported by academics with a wealth of research experience from across the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at Bournemouth University.

What’s special about this course?

BU has a strong track record of involving members of the public in our research. This is becoming increasingly important to bodies such as research funders and ethics committees for the very good reason that it helps us develop better research. With public involvement, studies are more applicable to patients and are designed by taking the participants into account. Working with experts in this area, you will discover some of the ways members of the public can contribute to a study, as well as gain practical experience in how to conduct and document this type of consultation.

Who can apply for the course?

Anyone who is interested in learning more about the processes of conducting health and social care research.

The course is particularly relevant for those working in a healthcare profession, such as; GPs, nurses, midwives and allied healthcare professionals, but also anyone with relevant qualifications can apply – further details can be found on the course website.

How will I benefit from the course?

The course is more than lectures telling you about research methods, you’ll be supported through each stage to work in an area of research that interests you and is applicable to your professional practice. We want to personalise your research experience to make it real and relevant to your practice.

It’s ideal for those who would like to go on to do their own research such as a PhD, but equally those who are working as part of a team conducting research, who want to understand more, for example; a Research Nurse.

By successfully completing the course, not only will you have a postgraduate qualification but also a portfolio of your research achievements that has been built up throughout the course units. You can then use this to evidence your journey as a researcher for future career prospects.

Any funding?

Yes there is annual funding available from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).

How can I find out more about the course?

Please visit one of our Postgraduate Open Days. The upcoming date is Wednesday 30 June 2021.

If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to send me an email.

Dr Sharon Docherty, MSc Health Research Course Leader.