Quality Improvement

Primarily this is a part-time distance learning programme (minimum of three years) enabling participation from national and international students.

This programme can be delivered entirely in a distance learning format, depending on choice of modules. All core modules are delivered in distance learning format. Some option modules are delivered in a blended approach for local students.

We deliver the online programme using the Blackboard Learning System, the University's virtual learning environment (also referred to as MyDundee). The programme is intended to be interactive and supportive, giving you the opportunity to share ideas, knowledge and experience and to discuss and debate issues. Access to journal articles will be available as part of the resource provided for each module.

Module information

Each module attracts 30 credit points at SCQF level 11:

Quality Improvement in Action (distance learning)
This module gives the student the opportunity to critically evaluate the theoretical background to the concept of improvement science and to develop critical awareness .of quality improvement principles, approaches and application to service delivery.

Leadership, Change and Organisational Development (distance learning)
This module introduces students to the concept of leadership for change. It examines key issues in the improvement of service delivery with a focus on effective leadership of services undergoing change. Optional workshops will be available for local participants.

Developing Research and Evaluation Skills (distance learning)
This module enables the student to develop their knowledge of a variety of research and evaluation approaches and develop a rigorous proposal which they can then implement at dissertation stage.

Option modules
Students are required to complete an option module from the following portfolio:

• Measuring Quality (distance learning)
• Coaching in a Systemic Context (blended approach)
• Safety in Clinical Communication* (blended approach)
• Clinical Skills and Simulation for Education and Practice* (blended approach)
• Practice Development: Independent Study (distance learning)

(*Candidates will be required to take both of these 15 credit modules to gain the necessary 30 credit points.)

Dissertation (Quality Improvement)
(distance learning)
Students are also required to complete a double-weighted dissertation/project attracting 60 credit points. The dissertation/project provides students with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate, under supervision, their academic, organisational and technical skills in the formulation, execution and writing-up of a research project investigating a topic pertaining to quality improvement.

Pathways

There are three exit points to this programme. Modules required for each are listed below:

Postgraduate Certificate in Quality Improvement (PGCert)
Quality Improvement in Action
Leadership, Change and Organisational Culture.

Postgraduate Diploma in Quality Improvement (PGDip)
Quality Improvement in Action
Leadership, Change and Organisational Culture
Developing Research and Evaluation Skills
One option module (30 credit points)

Masters in Quality Improvement (MSc)
Quality Improvement in Action
Leadership, Change and Organisational Culture
Developing Research and Evaluation Skills
One option module (30 credit points)
Dissertation

• For 30 credit modules, assessment will normally be via one written piece of work of 4,500 words or equivalent to this
• For 15 credit modules, assessment will normally be via one written piece of work of 2,500 words or equivalent to this
• At dissertation stage, students are required to complete a 20,000 word study