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MSc Pain, Science & Practice

Welcome to the exciting course at the School of Medicine, Dentistry & Bio-medical Sciences, Queens University Belfast in collaboration with multidisciplinary professions working within the field of Pain Management.

The aim of the PGCert/Diploma/MSc in Pain Science and Practice is to promote a multidimensional understanding of pain management through the use of modules, assignments, lectures and a dissertation.

The course aims to prepare students for independent life long learning by encouraging self-directed study. It will provide learning tools that will equip students for further study and/or careers in the NHS or related areas.

The Diploma/MSc takes place over 2 - 3 years part-time. In year 1 and 2 students will complete 4 modules per year. Successful completion of 8 modules can lead to the award of a Diploma in Pain Science and Practice. Students who successfully complete 8 modules and submit a 20,000 word Dissertation in year 3 are eligible to be awarded the MSc in Pain Science and Practice.

The PgCert takes place over 1 - 2 years depending on module choice by the student. The first module Physiology and Pharmacology of pain is compulsory. The student can then chose 3 modules from the remaining seven. Successful completion of 4 modules over 1 - 2 years can lead to the award of PgCert in Pain Science and Practice.

The course is aimed at professionals largely from the NHS with an interest in Pain Management. Students will have a background in Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, or similar disciplines.

Programme Delivery

A varied approach to programme delivery will be used.  Both contact teaching in the form of lectures and group discussion will complement the Queens on-line learning environment.

Learning will be supported by a study guide. The study guide will include aims and objectives of each session with recommended revision and reading.

Classes for the modules will take place on two weekends per module:

  • Friday evening        6 pm -    9 pm
  • Saturday morning    9 am – 12 pm

Entrance Requirements

A good honours degree in a health related subject (e.g. Medicine/Dentistry, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychology).

Persons not being graduates who hold a recognized qualification or equivalent professional experience which is approved by this university as being a suitable alternative to a primary degree may be considered.

Candidates may be required to undertake an interview prior to acceptance for the course.

Additional Information for International Students

International Applicants must satisfy one of the following:

  • IELTS score of 7
  • TOEFL score 600 TWE 6.0
  • Primary degree taught in UK or Republic of Ireland or other suitably quality assured location where the medium of instruction is English

International candidates should refer to the International Postgraduate pages for further information about studying at Queen’s as an International Student.

How to Apply

Deadline Friday 10 August 2011 (late applications will be accepted if places are available).

Candidates should make applications through the Universities Online Admissions portal.  Guidance is available on the University’s Prospective Student pages.

Tuition Fees

£1,500 (To be confirmed)

Scholarships

NAPP Pharmaceuticals Ltd have agreed to award three scholarships to support three healthcare professionals from Northern Ireland to undertake the MSc in Pain, Science & Practice.  Each Scholarship will be tenable for two years of study commencing September 2011.  The Scholarship awarded to a student per year will be £1,335.  Please refer to the following 'Scholarships for the MSc in Pain, Science & Practice' document for further information on how to apply. 

Further Information  

For further information on programme content, provisional timetables and the course content please refer to the Course Information for 2011-12

Postgraduate & Professional Development Office
Queens University of Belfast
School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Sciences
General Office, Ground Floor,
Health Sciences Building
97 Lisburn Road
BELFAST
BT9 7BL
Telephone:  +44 (0)28 9097 2615
Email:  pgoffice.smdb@qub.ac.uk

or any member of the course team