Entry year
2023
2023
Entry requirements
2.2
2.2
Duration
1 year (Part Time)
1 year (Part Time)
Places available
30 (Part Time)
30 (Part Time)
This multi-disciplinary programme is designed to enable substance use professionals, mental health workers, social workers, nurses and workers from allied health and social care sectors to gain an understanding of substance use disorders, including definitions, UK and international contexts and the application of theory in practice.
The overarching aims of the PG Cert, PG Dip and Masters in Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders is to enable professionals from a range of sectors working in substance use, mental health and related fields to build on their existing knowledge and skills and to use them effectively within their current work environment. It also aims to develop the participants’ understanding of the range of theories informing substance use, and to assist workers to translate these theories into effective practice.
The programme will have a pragmatic focus and this will enable practitioners to learn about a range of multi-disciplinary assessment tools, methods of interventions and the necessary skills to work with substance use across a range of settings. Substance use problems permeate work with a range of service user groups, from the more obvious groups, i.e. working with substance use and mental health, to working with children and families, learning disability offenders and older people.
You can study flexibly by working around your professional duties. These programmes have been accredited by the Northern Ireland Professional in Practice Education and Training Partnership.
Candidates will be afforded the opportunity to take each of the three modules of the programme of study as a stand-alone module (20 credits) or collectively to obtain the PG Cert in Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders (SUDs).
These will include:
Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders: Prevalence, Legislation and Theoretical Concepts
Substance use Disorders and Co-morbid mental health disorders
Substance use and Substance Use Disorders: International Contexts.
Please note that this course is not eligible for a Tier 4 visa.
Closing date for applications: Monday 31 July 2023 at 4pm. Late applications may be considered.
Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders highlights
The Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders programme responds to the needs of its students with updated, current and evidence-based information which will enhance their PG educational experience through vibrant and interactive learning programmes.
Career Development
- Professional Development For multi-disciplinary students. the programmes offer relevant CPD opportunities as well as recognised qualifications accredited by the University which will augment their professional development and enhance the development of further opportunities in their chosen field of practice. For Social Work students only, the Certificate meets all six of the professional requirements in the ‘Specialist’ category in the Professional in Practice framework, and on completion candidates will be conferred with the Specialist Award. For all students, the programme provides the opportunity to enhance special substance use and substance use disorders skills within a multi-disciplinary teaching environment.
Internationally Renowned Experts
- Over 88% of research submitted by colleagues from Criminology, Social Policy, Sociology and Social Work to the Social Policy and Social Work Unit of Assessment was similarly judged to be World Leading or Internationally Excellent. An endorsement of the quality of our research and its impacts in areas such as the penal system, mental health and trauma; work once again achieved through work undertaken in partnership with the health, social care and criminal justice sectors.
Student Experience
- The PG Cert programme is taught by a number of highly skilled academics and practitioners who are currently working or researching and teaching in substance use disorder settings. This marriage of pragmatic skills-based knowledge with corollary evidence-based learning will greatly enhance the student learning experience.
“The PG Cert in substance Use and substance user disorders provides graduates form a range of social and health care professions with a variety of opportunities to develop their specific areas of learning and skills in practice. Increasingly, our graduates operate within teams which consist of workers from a range of professional backgrounds and there is a need to hone skills and knowledge which are relevant to the multi-disciplinary environment."
Dr Anne Campbell, Programme Director
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Course content
Course Structure
The MSc in Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders is a module Masters programme whereby students can complete the PG Cert in Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders and then have the option to enrol on the PG Dip and subsequently to enrol on a Masters by thesis module.
The Pg Cert in Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders is awarded to students who successfully complete three 20 credit taught modules.
| Core Modules (20 CATS points each) Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders: Prevalence, Legislation and Theoretical Concepts The module will provide candidates with the opportunity to explore current trends in alcohol and drug misuse, the nature and prevalence of substance use in general and treatment populations, a range of theories which underpin practice and the fluid landscape of policy and legislative changes influencing work in this sector. Substance use Disorders and Co-morbid mental health disorders It is recognised that a more knowledgeable workforce will be better equipped to deal with dual diagnosis in a range of health, social care settings in tiers 1-4 of the care provision spectrum. The online module will enable addiction workers, mental health workers and employees from allied health and social care sectors to gain an understanding of dual diagnosis, including definitions, UK and regional contexts and the application of theory in practice. It will examine substance types and effects, prevalence, poly drug use and alcohol use and will consider the reciprocal relationship between substance misuse and a range of psychiatric symptoms and disorders. The online format will enable candidates to access the information and participate in the online fora outside work hours whilst experiencing minimal disruption to their work time and practice. The online platform for learning will also enhance candidate experiential learning and facilitate the multi-disciplinary interaction between a range of allied health and social care professionals which is a core requirement of successful working in dual diagnosis. Substance use and Substance Use Disorders: International Contexts. Practitioners in substance use settings must have local regional and national knowledge of trends in drugs and patterns of drug use behaviours. In addition, it is also important to consider the wider international context of substance and substance use disorders and relevant new and emerging treatment options which will better inform practice at local and regional levels. The module will incorporate the knowledge and expertise of a number of world leaders in the field of substances use and addictions. The body of publications generated by the international experts is widely regarded as an excellent source of peer reviewed research and expert commentary in their respective specific areas of expertise. The students will benefit greatly from this knowledge and will subsequently be encouraged to consider how this world class learning impacts on their own respective areas of practice. |
Teaching Times
| Teaching will take place in four day blocks for each module. These are usually timetabled for a Friday/Saturday, 10am –4pm, over a two week period. |
Career Prospects
Introduction
Continuing professional registration in all areas of health and social care is predicated on continuing professional development.
The Department of Health has highlighted that health, social care workers and social workers demonstrate their competence covered in the curricula of the Social Work postgraduate programmes.
Learning and Teaching
Learning opportunities available with this course are outlined below:
Cognitive Skills
Teaching and learning methods to achieve Cognitive Skills are commensurate with adult learning theory and entail formal lecturing, student led learning, online interaction, seminars and workshops.
Assessment
Assessments associated with this course are outlined below:
Assessment methods include written assignments case study material based on candidates’ practice.
A variety of assessment methods for the Certificate will be used including written assignments, a reflective analysis on how the student applies relevant theory to their practice in two different cases and an assignment critically reflecting on how the student has enhanced the practice of colleagues drawing on the knowledge in this module.
Facilities
The School is situated across a suite of three buildings in Belfast's Queen's Quarter. We provide student and staff common rooms, computer suites and designated study spaces.
Explore the teaching and social spaces in our School through our 360 Virtual Tour:
https://youtu.be/vB0jafwkgd0
The Graduate School
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJ_BwOtjXAE
Resources
You can watch a recent course webinar at the link below:
https://youtu.be/oSTnU8157Iw
Modules
The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2022/23). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.
- Year 1
Core Modules
International Contexts : Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders
Overview
Practitioners in substance use settings must have local regional and national knowledge of trends in drugs and patterns of drug use behaviours. In addition, it is also important to consider the wider international context of substance and substance use disorders and relevant new and emerging treatment options which will better inform practice at local and regional levels.
The module will incorporate the knowledge and expertise of a number of world leaders in the field of substances use and addictions. The body of publications generated by the international experts is widely regarded as an excellent source of peer reviewed research and expert commentary in their respective specific areas of expertise. The students will benefit greatly from this knowledge and will subsequently be encouraged to consider how this world class learning impacts on their own respective areas of practice.Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of international perspectives on substance use and substance use disorders.
Convey knowledge of a number of treatment models within international contexts.
Critically appraise the evidence base relevant to the specific geographical areas.
Indicate knowledge and understanding of working with groups and individuals.
Show awareness of service user experiences om an international basis.
Convey understanding of partnership working across a number of nations which are addressing substance use disorder epidemics.
Convey own professional opinion via written analysis and verbal communication.Skills
Use reflective analysis skills and apply successfully in work with substance use and substance use disorders.
Utilise communication skills relevant to the application of international models in practice.
Engage effectively with groups and use relevant group work skills to enhance practice,
Use skills of critical appraisal of evidence to better inform practice.
Enhance multi-disciplinary skills though working with colleagues from a range of disciplines including social work, nursing, psychology and community based service providers.Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
SWK7012
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Substance Use Disorders and Co-Morbid Mental Health Disorders
Overview
In Northern Ireland co morbid substance use and mental health illness was found in 1 in 4 patient suicides in 2016/2017 and clinicians have agreed that knowledge informed and integrated service provision for dual diagnosis is an important step in reducing risk.
In addition, it is recognised that a more knowledgeable workforce will be better equipped to deal with dual diagnosis in a range of health, social care settings in tiers 1-4 of the care provision spectrum. The online module will enable addiction workers, mental health workers and employees from allied health and social care sectors to gain an understanding of dual diagnosis, including definitions, UK and regional contexts and the application of theory in practice. It will examine substance types and effects, prevalence, poly drug use and alcohol use and will consider the reciprocal relationship between substance misuse and a range of psychiatric symptoms and disorders.
The online format will enable candidates to access the information and participate in the online fora outside work hours whilst experiencing minimal disruption to their work time and practice. The online platform for learning will also enhance candidate experiential learning and facilitate the multi-disciplinary interaction between a range of allied health and social care professionals which is a core requirement of successful working in dual diagnosis.Learning Outcomes
On completion of the module participants will be able to demonstrate the following learning outcomes:
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of co morbidities – substance use and mental health disorders, the typology of definitions and their relevance to current practice in a range of settings.
Communicate understanding of the legislative and policy context for work with dual diagnosis in Northern Ireland and the UK.
Express knowledge of relevant theories which will inform and illuminate their current practice.
Demonstrate knowledge of the complexity of the issues relevant to joint working between mental health and substance misuse service provision.
Understand the needs and perceptions of service users and recognise the importance of integrating the views of service users in practice.Skills
A successful student will be able to demonstrate that he/she can:
Recognise links between theory and practice,
Appraise evidence in support of theory / models of good practice,
articulate own professional opinion via written analysis and verbal communication,
Transfer skills across a wide range of work context,
Engage effectively with service users,
Work in a multi-disciplinary environment.
Successfully navigate an online learning environmentCoursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
SWK7011
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
Substance Use Disorders: Prevalence, Legislation and Theoretical Concepts
Overview
Candidates who have recent academic experience and /or work experience in substance use settings are required to update their knowledge and skills base to ensure their practice is current and augmented with relevant research findings and recent policy developments. The module will provide candidates with the opportunity to explore current trends in alcohol and drug misuse, the nature and prevalence of substance use in general and treatment populations, a range of theories which underpin practice and the fluid landscape of policy and legislative changes influencing work in this sector.
Learning Outcomes
Indicate awareness and understanding of the range of legal and illegal substances used by services users. They will also comprehend the interaction between use of drugs, misuse of prescribed medication and alcohol.
Communicate understanding of the legislative and policy context for work with dual diagnosis in Northern Ireland and the UK.
Express knowledge of a range of theories which will inform and illuminate their current practice.
Demonstrate knowledge of the complexity of the issues relevant to multi-disciplinary working between substance use services and allied health and social care services.
Understand the needs and perceptions of service users and recognise the importance of integrating the views of service users in practice.Skills
Develop meaningful partnership working skills with service users.
Use communication skills effectively in a multi-disciplinary environment.
Utilise research findings and relevant literature to substantiate points made in written work.
Revisit existing analytical skills and further develop critically reflective skills at PG level.Coursework
100%
Examination
0%
Practical
0%
Credits
20
Module Code
SWK7010
Teaching Period
Autumn
Duration
12 weeks
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Entry Requirements
Entrance requirements
Graduate
Normally a 2.2 Honours degree or above or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in a relevant subject. Equivalent qualifications include the Pre-2007 Post-Qualifying Award in Social Work.
Social workers seeking entry to the programme must:
a) Be registered with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC);
b) Hold an Honours Degree in Social Work (2.2 or equivalent), Diploma in Social Work, CSS, CQSW or predecessor equivalent. Social Workers trained outside of NISCC jurisdiction must produce a letter of comparability with these awards or a letter of verification issued by NISCC;
c) Have completed the Assessed Year in Practice or have at least one year post- qualifying experience if graduated prior to the AYE implementation.
All non-social workers seeking entry to the programme must have two years’ experience of working with clients who have experienced substance use or mental health issues.
Applicants who do not satisfy the degree qualification as specified above must demonstrate their ability to study at postgraduate level by producing a reflective assignment on their practice in this area (2,000 words). These candidates will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Application deadline: Monday 31 July 2023 at 4pm
Late applications may be considered.
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.
International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.
English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.
International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.
For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.
If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.
- Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
- Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.
INTO - English Language Course(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)
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Modules
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Fees and Funding
Career Prospects
Introduction
Continuing professional registration in all areas of health and social care is predicated on continuing professional development.
The Department of Health has highlighted that health, social care workers and social workers demonstrate their competence covered in the curricula of the Social Work postgraduate programmes.
Additional Awards Gained
There are no specific additional course costs associated with this programme.
Prizes and Awards(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)
Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
| Northern Ireland (NI) 1 | £2,327 |
| Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 | £2,327 |
| England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 | £2,787 |
| EU Other 3 | £6,367 |
| International | £6,367 |
1 EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.
2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.
3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.
All tuition fees quoted are for the academic year 2023-24, and relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
More information on postgraduate tuition fees.
Additional course costs
All Students
Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.
Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.
Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.
If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.
Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.
There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.
Substance Use and Substance Use Disorders costs
How do I fund my study?
The Department for the Economy will provide a tuition fee loan of up to £6,500 per NI / EU student for postgraduate study. Tuition fee loan information.
A postgraduate loans system in the UK offers government-backed student loans of up to £11,836 for taught and research Masters courses in all subject areas. Criteria, eligibility, repayment and application information are available on the UK government website.
More information on funding options and financial assistance.
International Scholarships
Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships/.
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Apply
How to Apply
Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.
When to Apply
The deadline for applications is normally 30th June 2021. In the event that any programme receives a high volume of applications, the university reserves the right to close the application portal earlier than 30th June deadline. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Entry Portal (DAP) against the programme application page.
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.
Download Postgraduate Prospectus
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Fees and Funding