Course description
Course structure
Modules include The Social Control of Drugs, Issues in Contemporary Drug Use, Introduction to Quantitative Analysis and Introduction to the Philosophy and Practice of Qualitative Research. In the final part of the course you'll complete a dissertation on a topic negotiated between you and your tutor which could be work related, if appropriate.
Careers
Opportunities include working with drug agencies, such as Addictive Behaviour Services, and working in related fields such as the criminal justice system. This programme is also ideal if you're interested in an academic career in either research or teaching.
This programme has been designed to develop professional practice in complex contexts and promote advanced vocational capabilities based upon DANOS (Drugs and National Occupational Standards) criteria.
More information
Core modules
Issues in Contemporary Drug Use - 20 credits
This module focuses on developing your sociological and criminological knowledge about drug use and drug users. You will examine a range of contemporary issues such as binge drinking, using crystal methamphetamine, using anabolic steroids and dual diagnosis. The exact issues covered may change, to ensure the module remains contemporary and is reflective of the group’s interests. You will be assessed by a web-based assignment and a presentation.
Research Methods - 40 credits
This module covers two broad areas of research methods. It introduces different styles of research and also basic approaches to analysing quantitative and qualitative data. You will be assessed by two assignments. Please note that you will need access to a personal computer with sufficient power to run SPSS v10 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences).
Option modules
Contemporary Criminal Justice - 40 credits
This module addresses a number of important areas within a conceptual framework that is underpinned by procedures, processes, power and politics. You will assessed by two essays.
Enquiring into practice - 40 credits
This module enables you to operate in a work-based environment, such as a drug or alcohol agency. Your practice will consist of an 80-hour placement at a relevant place of work, organised by negotiation. You will have an appointed practice supervisor to oversee your practice and will be assessed through your portfolio.
The Social Control of Drugs - 20 credits
This module focuses on the way that drugs are controlled in the UK. You will study national and international drug strategies and critically examine the justifications, strengths, weaknesses and realities of these strategies. You will be assessed on this module by an essay.
Advanced Personal Effectiveness in Leadership - 20 credits
The module is suitable if you are a health, social care or related professional seeking to develop your leadership capability. The module is designed to integrate the NHS Leadership Qualities Framework and uses leadership diagnostic tools to help your self-assessment and to develop a personal action plan to enhance your leadership capability. You will be assessed by developing and implementing a personal action plan and a reflective essay.
Dissertation - 60 credits
During this module, you will demonstrate your awareness and skills in research and evaluation. You will also develop your ability to integrate, synthesise and critique criminological and sociological content, concepts and research methodologies by producing a 20,000-word research dissertation.
Learning and Teaching
Learning throughout your modules incorporates taught sessions, practical seminars and problem-based learning sessions. However, our main emphasis is to encourage and actively support independent self-directed learning to help develop your problem-solving and critical analysis skills. You are encouraged to actively participate and engage in all structured sessions.
