Semester ABC

This module is for MSK Physiotherapists and involves 150 hours of Mentored Clinical Practice (initial introduction on Thursday 9th October 2025, 9.30-12.30 (online) facilitated by the University followed by a period of clinical mentorship in practice - dates will vary (the University works with the student to find a suitable placement). This module is one of the compulsory modules which leads to full membership of the Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP),

You are advised to speak with the Module Lead (Andrea Moulson), before registering for this module.

Course aims

Effectively and holistically manage patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction in the practice setting, demonstrating advanced problem solving, expert clinical reasoning and technical mastery of practical skills, underpinned by a critical understanding of current evidence.

Content

7HSK0333 builds on existing knowledge and skills gained from the successful completion of 7HSK0331/0075 (Lower Quadrant) and 7HSK0332/0076 (Upper Quadrant). AMCP consists of two elements; preparation for clinical practice and a period of clinical mentorship in practice. The clinical placement will typically place in an NHS musculoskeletal setting under the supervision of a clinical mentor for no less than 50% of the placement time; the lead mentor will be a full member of the Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP). There will be emphasis on advanced clinical reasoning and examination of patients with simple and complex musculoskeletal dysfunction, to select, justify, evaluate and implement transformative evidence-informed management strategies. Students work with the university to locate suitable clinical mentorship. A variety of patterns of delivery of the clinical hours are permissible encompassing full-time (minimum four weeks) and part time (variable). E-mentoring may be used to augment learning. The course forms part of a broader CPD framework that can lead to the award of Postgraduate Diploma, or Master's degree.

This course is taught via directed on-line activities facilitated by the university (requiring access to a PC & internet connection) and during a period of mentored clinical practice.  Placements are coordinated by the course team and/or the student (in collaboration with the University team). There is a national shortage of placements and it is essential that you are as flexible as possible in terms of your requests. Agreement from your place of work needs to be implemented before registering for this course.

All applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Once the module is full the application portal will close, so early application is advised.

Learning Outcomes

Successful students will typically:

 

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Demonstrate a critical understanding of theories, principles and concepts underpinning professional activity in order to support evidence-informed, transformative musculoskeletal practice.

 Intellectual\Practical\Transferable Skills:

• Autonomously manage simple and complex musculoskeletal presentations in practice demonstrating initiative, originality and technical expertise, taking into account issues governing professional practice and drawing on the expertise of others where appropriate.
• Use advanced clinical reasoning to critically analyse simple and complex musculoskeletal presentations in practice and to evaluate management approaches used, either justifying their use or providing a rational for alternative methods.
• Engage effectively in academic and professional communication, demonstrating a range of communication skills that are appropriate to their professional activity.

Assessment details

Students are required to undertake all elements of the assessment and achieve a minimum pass mark (50%) in all summative assessments. Compensation between elements is not permitted.

Summative assessment:

1. Log of 150 hours mentored clinical practice (Pass/Fail)
2. 1 new patient examination & professional discussion
3. 1 follow up patient examination & professional discussion

Who Teaches the course

Andrea Moulson MSc MA MMACP (Programme Lead for MSc Advanced Physiotherapy). Clinical supervisor/s in practice (led by a full MACP member).

What our students say

“This module has been absolutely transformative for my practice."

"Brilliant placement with plenty of support.”

“A rich opportunity to learn and improve my patient care.”

“The placement is a challenging experience but one that has given me the opportunity to reflect on my practice and improve my clinical skills.”

“I am so pleased that I completed this module as it was so valuable.”