Course description
The philosophy which underpins the programmes is that all alcohol/drug use and problems, involve an interaction between the drug, the individual and the environment. Therefore, the course provides a broad critical perspective on alcohol and other drugs, including addictive behaviour. Inputs relate to pharmacology, psychology, sociology and research methodology as well as relevant criminal, health and social policy.
Students will gain an appreciation of the processes involved in an individual becoming a problem alcohol or drug user and will examine the various factors that can influence behaviour change, including legal, educational or criminal-justice based interventions. The social, political, legal and health issues concerning alcohol and drug problems and harm reduction, including blood-borne viruses and mental health, will be considered.
It is important that students are able to recognise the similarities and differences between alcohol and other drugs in terms of understanding their use, related problems, change processes and intervention strategies, including policy initiatives. Overall there is a strong ethos of encouraging evidence-based practice.
Students will have the opportunity to rehearse intervention methods and complete a placement in either a research setting or a practice/ service setting. Throughout the programme of study, emphasis is placed on the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding and responding to alcohol and drug issues.
This modular programme is offered on a taught basis at the Paisley Campus. It is also available in a distance/e-learning format and is supported by written learning materials, open access to tutors, including live lectures and tutorials via the web-based learning resource Blackboard. A “blended learning” approach is operated whereby modules are available to both campus and distance learning students simultaneously and in turn enhancing communication in the student group.
Course Contents
The course offers a range of modular study options designed to meet the needs and interests of a varied student group from a wide range of professional and vocational backgrounds.
Postgraduate Certificate Alcohol & Drug Studies
* Understanding Substance Use and Addiction
* Responding to Substance Use and Addiction
* Placement
Postgraduate Diploma Alcohol & Drug Studies
– in addition to PG Certificate modules, students cover modules in:
* Research Methods
* Practice of Change or Research Philosophy
* Applied Theory Review
MSc Alcohol and Drug Studies
* Research Project (equivalent to 3 modules)
On successful completion of the Diploma (6 modules) students will be considered for progression to MSc. Students will undertake independent research, in an area of their choice, which will be submitted as a dissertation. The MSc is a further 3 modules.
Career Prospects
UWS qualifications in alcohol and drug studies are sought after and a high proportion of full-time students gain employment quite soon after graduation. Many part-time and distance learning students are currently employed and use their qualification as a means to career enhancement and confirmation of a specialist role.
