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The FdSc Assistant Practitioner (Direct Entry) program at the University of Chester is designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in healthcare without the need for a traditional degree. This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an assistant practitioner in healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Students will learn about the basic principles of pharmacology, physiology, and pathophysiology, as well as how to apply these principles in real-world scenarios. The program is designed to be completed in 12 months and consists of both theoretical and practical components.
This course is ideal for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare but do not have the necessary academic qualifications. It provides an alternative pathway to becoming an assistant practitioner and can lead to further opportunities in healthcare management, research, or education.
The University of Chester is a leading institution for healthcare education in the UK. Our faculty consists of experienced professionals who are passionate about teaching and mentoring students. We have state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that provide students with a realistic learning environment. Our location in Chester also provides easy access to a range of healthcare settings for practical placements.
The University of Chester has been successfully delivering the Assistant Practitioner Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care since 2004. The course is delivered by experienced registered nurses and healthcare professionals who have expertise in both teaching and research and a variety of clinical specialties from an acute hospital, community, and social care. We work closely with local acute and community providers to ensure that the course remains contemporary and that it prepares you for the future workforce. We offer placements covering a large geographical area that can include Cheshire, Merseyside, and Shropshire. As a student on the course, you will have the option to be placed in a geographical area, subject to availability, to develop a sense of belonging and community.
The course’s shared delivery approach with the Nursing Associate Foundation Degree offers an enhanced a trans-professional learning experience for all students; while ensuring a broad insight across health and social care provision to support the delivery of integrated care.
Extra Information / General Entry Requirements:
Entry requirements will be one of the following (or equivalent):
NVQ Level 3 in Care or a related subject.
Two A/S Levels, one of which must be in an appropriate subject area.
One A Level
AVCE or BTEC National Diploma.
Access: A pass from an appropriate kite-marked access course.
5 GCSEs at Grade C/4 or above, including the English Language.
Portfolio of evidence which demonstrates ability/ potential to work and study at Level 4.
It is part of the essential entry requirements that applicants have GCSE Maths and English with minimum Grade C/4, or a Level 2 functional skills or equivalent qualification upon commencement of the course.
20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.
Compulsory Modules:
Applied Anatomy, Physiology, and Integrated Pharmacology
Holistic Assessment - Assistant Practitioner
Introducing Professional and Academic Lifelong Learning
Practice Learning 1 - Assistant Practitioner
Promoting Health and Preventing Ill Health across the Age Continuum
Providing and Monitoring Person Centred Care
Enhancing Professional and Academic Learning
Integrated Care
Practice Learning 2 - Assistant Practitioner
Trans-professional Research & Innovation
Working in Teams
Optional Modules:
Medicines Management
Open: Work-based module
IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
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