MSc, Postgraduate Diploma & Certificate in Palliative Care Enquiry booklet 2021
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MSc, Postgraduate Diploma
& Certificate in Palliative Care
Enquiry booklet
2021
1
Contents
Welcome to the MSc, Postgraduate Diploma & Post- Page 3
graduate Certficiate in Palliative Care
Cicely Saunders Institute & St Christopher’s Hospice Page 4
Learning Outcomes Page 5
Delivery of the MSc, Postgraduate Diploma & Postgrad- Page 6
uate Certficiate in Palliative Care
Study Routes Page 7
Module content: Page 8
Research Methods & Statistics
Assessment and Management of Symptoms in Ad-
vanced Diseases
Applying Psychosocial, Cultural, Ethical and Spiritual Is- Page 9
sues to Palliative and End of Life Care
Service Development and Policy
Applying Epidmeiology in Palliative Care Page 10
Research Study Project
Support during your studies Page 11
How to apply Page 12
Admissions
Visa
English Requirement
Calendar 2021 Page 13
Assessments for modules
Fees
Testominals from our Alumni Page 14
Frequently asked questions Page 15
Contacts and events Page 16
2
Welcome to the MSc, Postgraduate Diploma
& Postgraduate Certificate programme in Palliative Care
The King’s College London MSc, Postgraduate Diplo- The MSc Palliative Care will support students’ ca-
ma, Postgraduate Certificate in Palliative Care is one reer development, positioning them to be the fu-
of the world’s most acclaimed programmes in palli- ture global leaders in palliative care, and advancing
ative care . This multi-professional course, jointly the speciality.
developed by King's College London and St Chris-
topher's Hospice has supported the career develop-
ment of hundreds of healthcare professionals
across the globe. .
The underpinning philosophy of our MSc, Postgrad-
uate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate is to
enable students to develop essential skills to ap-
praise palliative care evidence , conduct high quali-
ty palliative care research, improve clinical practice,
and develop palliative care services across the
world. Students will gain an enhanced understand-
ing of physical, psychosocial, spiritual and ethical Dr Clare Ellis-Smith
issues in palliative and end of life care, and their as-
MSc Course Director
sessment and effective management.
& Lecturer in Palliative Care
The international and multi-professional pro-
gramme provides a rich learning environment,
where students from all multiple professions and
cultures are enabled and facilitated to share their
experiences and support each other’s learning
through groupwork, seminars, online forums and
classroom discussions.
3
Cicely Saunders Institute
Built in 2010, The Cicely Saunders Institute is a world-
leading centre for palliative care research and an offi-
cial collaborating centre of the World Health Organi-
sation. The Institute’s breakthrough research projects
not only influence clinical practice, but also have an
impact on national and international policies for palli-
ative care. The Institute’s multidisciplinary environ-
ment combines social science, psychology, therapies,
nursing, medical and health services research.
We’ve been developing leaders in palliative care
across the world for over two decades. Helping stu-
dents build on their existing knowledge and learning
how to apply best practice with our faculty of experts
and cutting-edge research.
Dr Eve Namisango, Uganda
Testimonial
St Christopher’s Hospice I really enjoyed this international
course with teaching from world
experts in palliative care. The modu-
The MSc programme is run in collaboration with St
lar approach allowed me to contin-
Christopher’s Hospice. Dame Cicely Saunders found-
ue in my current job, and put into
ed St Christopher’s Hospice in 1967. From its incep-
action the best practice that I
tion, St. Christopher's linked education and research
learnt; this was the perfect blend!
to clinical care, which defined it as the first of the
The course covers best practice for
'modern' hospices and a forerunner of the modern
both resource rich and resource lim-
hospice movement. St. Christopher's Hospice has a
ited settings preparing students to
national and international reputation. The mission
deliver person-centered evidence-
of the Hospice is 'to promote and to provide skilled
based care anywhere in the world.
and compassionate palliative care of the highest
quality’.
4
Learning outcomes of the MSc, Diploma and Certificate
Our primary aim is to improve your ability, competence and confidence to care for patients with
advanced disease, and for their families. This requires you to be able to critically evaluate evi-
dence of the effectiveness, appropriateness and acceptability of existing interventions and ser-
vices, both medical and psychosocial.
A detailed knowledge and understanding of research methods and statistics applied to pal-
liative care.
The skills necessary to appraise existing research and develop and execute methodological-
ly robust projects in your own work setting or country (often in collaboration with others)
An advanced knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of palliative care,
the contribution of different disciplines and biological, ethical, and cultural issues.
Enhanced skills in evidenced-based clinical practice, teaching and service development in
palliative care.
The attitudes and knowledge to take palliative care forward.
100% Student Satisfaction
The MSc in palliative care is one of the
highest rated programmes in the Faculty
and College by students and has received
this accolade two years consecutively .
The survey — Postgraduate Taught Experi-
ence Survey (PTES) is run in partnership
between the university and Advanced
Higher Education. A nation-wide survey.
5
Delivery of the MSc, Diploma and Certificate programme
The blended MSc, Diploma and Cer-
tificate programme in Palliative Care
will combine online educational re-
sources and opportunities for inter-
action online with classroom teach-
ing. This means that you will have
the option of classroom teaching, or
accessing our teaching remotely to
ensure that you can fully engage in
your studies, no matter what the cir-
cumstances or where you are in the
world.
If you wish to attend the teaching ses-
sions at the Cicely Saunders Institute,
they will take place on the ground floor
of the Institute, in a large seminar room
We have designed the course to fit around your
with a number of breakout rooms for
commitments at home and at work. Each of our
group work. The Institute is located next
modules is delivered in two week blocks
to the Weston Education Centre and
throughout the year, with time for self-directed
King’s College Hospital on the Denmark
learning in between.
Hill Campus, King’s College London.
You’ll be taught by academics and professionals
at the cutting-edge of palliative care research
and practice. We work closely with St Chris-
topher’s Hospice to deliver the modules and we
bring in experts from around the world to teach
on different subjects. We want you to receive
Professor Fliss Murtagh, UK
the most current thinking on all aspects of palli-
Testimonial ative care.
Since undertaking the MSc, and subse-
quently my PhD, I have gone on to – 16
years later – to become a Professor of
Palliative Care at Hull York Medical
School.
The MSc was a great first step, and it led
me in an unexpected direction; it helped
to transform what I could achieve, and
the direction of my career.
6
Study Routes for the MSc, Diploma
and Certificate in Palliative Care
We offer a range of qualifications in our palliative care pro-
gramme, from standalone modules to an MSc. There are
various modules available to suit your interests or learning
needs.
Research and evidence are central to every module on this
course. The Cicely Saunders Institute has an extensive pro-
gramme of research, and you can get involved with these
larger projects. We also support you to publish the findings
of your research and contribute to the evidence base.
The course is flexible so you can register to study full time (1 year) or part time (2 years). That means
you can study at your own pace whilst continuing to work. We also offer the option to change your reg-
istration (for example from PG Diploma to MSc) as you progress through your studies and your learning
needs evolve.
Qualifications options:
MSc – modules totalling 180 credits
PG Diploma – modules totalling 120
credits
PG Cert – modules totalling 60 cred-
its
Standalone modules
Required modules
MSc and PG Diploma students are required to take 4 modules, and PG Certificate students are required
to take 2 modules from the following:
Research Methods and Statistics in Palliative Care: (30 credits) (Compulsory for MSc and Diploma
students)
Assessment and Management of Symptoms in Advanced Diseases (30 credits)
Service Management and Policy (30 credits)
Applying Psychosocial, Cultural, Ethical and Spiritual Issues to Palliative and End of Life Care (30
credits)
Applying Epidemiology in Palliative Care (30 credits)
MSc student are also required to take:
Research Study Project (60 credits)
7
Module Content
Research Methods & Statistics in Palliative Care
Module leads
Professor Richard Harding Professor Wei Gao Dr Deokhee Yi
Summary:
This module aims to describe and illustrate the methods available for research in palliative care, leaving
students able to understand, appraise and develop research studies. Common research methods in pallia-
tive care are reviewed, including systematic literature reviews, clinical trials, epidemiological methods,
survey research design (including questionnaire design), qualitative research methods, economic analysis,
and integration of methods In palliative care research. Statistical and measurement issues in palliative
care are also covered including analysis of data, statistical interpretation, validity, reliability, appropriate-
ness and responsiveness of measures. Other issues involved in designing and executing successful studies
are also covered; these include hypotheses generation, protocol development, ethical issues, presenta-
tion of results, writing reports and papers, dissemination and implementation of results.
Assessment and Management of Symptoms in Advanced Diseases
Module leads
Dr Sabrina Bajwah Dr Matthew Maddocks
Summary:
This module reviews the epidemiology and pathophysiology of progressive incurable illnesses, which are
relevant to specialists in palliative care. It then reviews the aetiology, mechanisms and management of
common symptoms in palliative care leaving participants with the skills to assess and manage symptoms
and appraise new therapies appropriate to their professional group. Pharmacological and non-
pharmacological interventions are also considered.
8
Applying Psychosocial, Cultural, Ethical and Spiritual Issues to Pallia-
tive and End of Life Care
Module leads
Dr Jonathan Koffman Revd Dr Andrew Goodhead
Summary:
This module focuses on the psychosocial, cultural, ethical and spiritual issues concerning patients and
families/carers in palliative and end of life care. Students will become confident in relation to each ele-
ment of the module and be able to communicate these skills to colleagues and practically employ them
for the benefit of patients, family members and internal/external stakeholders.
Students will develop confidence in communication skills, enabling complex/difficult conversations to be-
held with patients and family members and communicate these to colleagues and others clearly and
effectively. Recognition of cultural issues at the end of life, which draws upon issues of ethics, spirituality,
communication and psychosocial needs will be integrated across the module to develop the learning for
students around culture as an important driver and consideration for patient decision-making at the end
of life.
Service Development and Policy
Module leads
Dr Catherine Evans Dr Katherine Sleeman Dr Lesley Thoms
Summary:
This module considers the development and management of palliative care services, drawing on interna-
tional evidence underlying palliative care practice and policy. It reviews the evidence underpinning ser-
vice development, the adaptation of such evidence to local needs, working within existing communities
and cultures and detailed aspects of management including strategy, clinical governance and business
planning. It will provide you with an overview of ways that services have developed and how this is influ-
enced by culture, population needs, resources and national and international policies.
9
Applying Epidemiology in Palliative Care
Module leads
Professor Wei Gao Dr Deokhee Yi Professor Irene Higginson
Summary:
The module considers the application of epidemiological principles in the investigation of palliative
care problems. The epidemiology of cancers and other progressive diseases will be reviewed along
with the use of epidemiological approaches to study patients and family needs and to evaluate ser-
vices.
Research Study Project
Module leads
Dr Emeka Chukwusa Dr Kennedy Nkhoma
Summary:
The research study project is required for MSc students only.
As a student, you will be expected to design and complete a substantial piece of work that provides
an original contribution in the field of palliative care. You will be overseen by a Research Project Su-
pervisor during this process. This is an important opportunity to develop your particular area of inter-
est and have time to investigate it. The department offers a wide range of topics to choose from,
which contributes to larger projects led by senior researchers.
Our students have a strong track record of publishing their findings from their research study pro-
jects, in peer-reviewed scientific journals. These have included for example Lancet Infectious Diseas-
es, British Medical Journal, Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, Palliative Medicine, Journal of
Palliative Care, BMC Public Health and Social Science and Medicine.
10Support during your studies
Every MSc, PG Diploma and PG Certificate in Palliative Care stu-
dent will be allocated a personal tutor at the beginning of the
course. The primary role of your tutor is to provide pastoral sup-
port and guidance throughout the course. Dr Laura Tupper Satt, Chile
MSc students will also be allocated a Research Project Supervi- Testimonial
sor who will guide your planning and advise you as you complete
I learned not only about pallia-
your project.
tive care but also about differ-
Alongside your personal tutor and supervisor, the course coor- ent ways to see life, care and
dinator will also be on hand to assist, and support you through health. Meeting my peers
your studies. broaden my horizon, my heart
and my sense of purpose. This
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT MSc changed my perspective
and now I have the tools to
ENGLISH SUPPORT AND STUDY SKILLS - King’s Foundations
help my country in order to
offers support to native English speakers or those with near-
care for patients the way they
native proficiency who want more academic skills training, such
deserve.
as in using sources effectively, presentation skills and writing
critically. kcl.ac.uk/foundations
CHAPLAINCY—The Dean’s Office and Chaplaincy are part of the pastoral provision and are available to
students of all beliefs and backgrounds. King’s has chapels and quiet rooms that are open to everyone
for private prayer and reflection. Male and female Muslim prayer rooms are available on all campus-
es. A full-time Anglican Chaplain heads the Chaplaincy, which also includes Roman Catholic, Orthodox
and Free Church Chaplains, and two part-time Muslim Chaplain. The Rabbi to Jewish students in Lon-
don works as an associate of the Chaplaincy. kcl.ac.uk/chaplaincy
KCLSU ADVICE —is independent from the university and therefore offers impartial, confidential advice
relating to your rights and responsibilities as a student. kclsu.org/advice
11How to apply
If you would like to apply for the MSc, PG Diploma or PG Cer-
tificate please apply online at:
apply.kcl.ac.uk
Deadline for applications
23rd October for International students
23rd November for Home & EU students
Entry requirement
A degree in medicine, nursing or dentistry or a 2:1 degree or
equivalent in life sciences or social sciences from a UK or
overseas university. A 2:2 degree may be considered only
where applicants also offer a Masters degree with Merit or
above. You should also be able to demonstrate experience of
working in palliative care or palliative medicine - clinical or
social care, or from a research point of view, and evidence of
being able to study to the standard required.
Admissions
To apply, you'll need to first of all register on our online
application system "King's Apply" where you can submit
your application online.
Please ensure that you send in all relevant documentation
with your online application. Typically this includes:
• transcripts of your previous qualifications (with offi-
UK STUDENT VISA If you require a UK
cial English translations if not originally in English)
student visa and are applying to one
• two academic references of our academic preparation courses
• any English language qualifications that you have (if please note that we can only accept
your first language is not English). UKVI-approved IELTS tests.
English requirements
To study at King’s, it is essential that you can communicate in English effectively in an academic
environment. You are usually required to provide certification of your competence in English
before starting your studies. The exception is if the university is satisfied that your previous
academic record shows that you can study and be examined in the English language. Click this
link to direct you to the English requirements for postgraduate courses. The level of English
language you are required to demonstrate is dependent upon the programme for which you
have applied. Please check carefully.
12Calendar 2021
Module Date Assessment Type
Research Methods and Statistics in 11th – 22nd January 3,000 word assignment
Palliative Care
Assessment and Management of 8th – 19th February 3,000 word assignment
Symptoms in Advanced Diseases
Applying Psychosocial, Cultural, Ethical 19th – 30th April 3,000 word assignment
and Spiritual Issues to Palliative and End
of Life Care
Service Management and Policy 28th June - 9th July 3,000 word assignment
Applying Epidemiology in Palliative Care 6th – 17th September 2,500 word assignment and
presentation
Research Study project N/A 15,000 word dissertation
Fees
Please find the link below which will direct you to the
fees for the course:
https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-
courses/palliative-care-msc-pg-dip-pg-cert
How to apply for a standalone module ?
If you would like to apply for a standalone module,
please apply through:
https://apply.kcl.ac.uk/
13Testimonials from our Alumni
Since the MSc course was established in 1998, students have included doctors in palliative medicine,
general practitioners, social workers, radiographers, psychologists, physiotherapists, pharmacists, mu-
sic therapists and chaplains. We have had students from all over the world too, including: UK, Europe,
North and South America, Africa, Asia and Australasia.
It was a great opportunity to meet each of
course lecturers and be inspired by what
they do. I feel empowered and ready for a
turning point in my life regarding the field
of Palliative Care.
Lucy Fettes
Dr Nahla Gafer
Physiotherapist & PhD student,
Clinical Oncologist, Sudan
UK
I would recommend the course
to anyone who wants to broaden
their clinical understanding and
research knowledge of palliative
care. Pursuing research was
never my intention but the Reverend Dr Andrew Goodhead
course and lecturers inspired Chaplin, UK
me to move my career in a
different direction and I am now The MSc was genuinely eye open-
hoping to progress towards a ing. I came to understand in depth
clinical academic career. the challenges and opportunities Shoko Yamada
to every profession engaging in
Nurse, Japan
caring for people at the end of life
and those who care for them.
The best part of the MSc
I can recommend joining this course was to have
course. It is genuinely multi- amazing colleagues from
professional and every participant around the world. I
Alejandra Domínguez is a learner on a journey. would like to interact
with my patients and
Doctor, Mexico
their families with love
Changing the way you care for your patients is sometimes hard to do, and care just like how
changing the way you think, act, do is even harder. I’m thankful that the my colleagues supported
past year, allowed me to think beyond the physical and helped me real- me.
ised that mind, body and spirit are truly indivisible and we should treat
our patients as such.
14Frequently asked questions
Does the multi-professional approach make a
difference to the learning experience on the
MSc, Diploma and Certificate?
It's been increasingly argued that sound palliative care
requires a multi-professional team approach, recognis-
ing that all health and social care professionals and,
importantly, volunteers have vital roles to play in the
care of patients and their families. It is only through a
team approach that it becomes possible to fully assess
patients’ and their families’ needs, supervise the appli-
cation of treatment decisions, and anticipate and sup-
port the dying and grieving process.
We strongly believe that learning alongside other
health and social care professionals allows students to
explore similarities and differences in roles, skills,
knowledge and ideologies and to recognise the comple-
mentary skills and resources of different provisions.
Students are also placed in a position whereby they can
learn to acknowledge parity of esteem of their respec-
tive contributions to the care of patients and
their carers. Lastly, we feel the multi-professional ap-
proach provides greater scope for open communication
between all members of the group. This alleviates fu-
ture hesitancy of single disciplines sharing knowledge
with other professionals and non-professionals.
I want to attend on a part-time basis over two years.
What is the best way of organising my time?
If you wish to attend the MSc or Diploma on a part-time ba-
sis, we suggest you complete two modules in your first year .
With two modules to complete in your second year you will
have much more time to devote to your research project.
There are a number of different combinations for choosing
modules and we suggest you discuss this with the Course Co-
ordinator.
15I am very interested in the MSc, Diploma and
Certificate but may need financial assistance.
Can you recommend any sources of funding for
this programme?
Here is a list of different avenues you could explore:
KCL scholarships website
We recommend overseas students seeking finan-
cial support contact their nearest British Council
office, which has local details of available grants.
The Chevening programme for international stu-
dents.
Employer
Nightingale foundation for nurses
Postgraduate Master’s Loan (UK students)
Can I change from Diploma to
MSc whilst on the course?
We like to provide our students
flexibility when on the course. If
you are taking the Certificate or Di-
ploma and wish to upgrade to the
MSc whilst on the course, you can.
Sometimes, students will leave
with a Diploma, and return to the
course several years later to com-
plete their research project to gain
their MSc.
Will the programme run in 2021? And what will happen if COVID-19 prevents
travel?
We are committed to delivering the MSc, Diploma and Certificate programme in Pallia-
tive Care for January 2021. We are actively planning to provide campus-based teaching
where possible as well as online teaching and digital services to ensure that you will re-
ceive the highest quality education, no matter what the circumstances or where you are
in the world. This means that you will have the option of classroom teaching, distance
learning or blended learning to ensure that you can fully engage in your studies whether
you are a new or current student.
16Contact details:
Please do not hesitate to contact the MSc Administrator of the course if you have any queries.
Please email at: mscpallcare@kcl.ac.uk
If you have queries about the Admissions process, please contact: +44 (0)20 7848 7000
Events
Come along to our live information and Q&A session with our MSc Course Director and stu-
dents from our Alumni. The virtual event is your opportunity to meet your department and ask
questions about the course.
This event is designed for those interested in undertaking postgraduate studies in palliative
care.
This event will take place on Microsoft Teams and a link to join will be sent to you via email be-
fore the event.
Check out our flyer for more details and how to sign up below:
https://www.kcl.ac.uk/cicelysaunders/attachments/msc-online-event-advert-v2.pdf
17You can also read
