Brighton and Sussex Medical School
The MSc in Dementia Studies offers state-of-the-art and cutting-edge research into dementia and a comprehensive understanding of the ways in which we can best assess, diagnose, treat, and support people affected by the condition. The course has been designed within a multi-disciplinary and multi-professional, modular framework that draws on a wide range of disciplines. Clinical knowledge is blended with developing skills in communication for health and social care, research, and leadership learning.
The course comprises a unique set of educational initiatives designed to enable healthcare professionals to improve the quality of life for people with dementia by building expertise in generating and delivering better care. It provides a comprehensive and holistic theoretical and practical framework for understanding dementia and enables a broad understanding of the impact of dementia on the individual and society.
The course combines a set of three compulsory core modules (Understanding Dementia, Assessment and Treatment of Dementia, Psychological and Social Perspectives of Dementia) with a range of optional modules (e.g., Research Methods and Critical Appraisal, Communication, Learning and Teaching in Health and Social Care, Leadership and Change Management in Clinical Services, Quality, Safety and Service Improvement in Clinical Services etc.) which allows students to focus and build on professional interests and areas relevant to their work. The research dissertation module provides an excellent opportunity to integrate study-based learning with a work-based research project, improving students’ competencies and skills to enhance their long-term careers either as Dementia Researchers, Psychiatrists, GPs, Mental Health Nurses, or Public Health Practitioners.
The course delivers a solid base for understanding the underlying mechanisms and risk factors associated with dementia, as well as the assessment, diagnosis protocols, treatment, and practical support for the individual and their families or informal carers. Successful completion of the course will provide specialised knowledge and expertise, which will be invaluable in improving the prospect of employment in the field and will enhance the likelihood of career progression. Ultimately, students will be
empowered to deliver significant improvements in the quality of services provided to people living with dementia.
Teaching sessions are delivered by academics and practitioners who are active in Old Age Psychiatry and Neurology. The inter-professional background of the course participants fosters an environment in which occupational experiences are shared and a wider understanding of biological mechanisms and up-to-date dementia treatments.
Entry requirements
Successful completion of at least three years’ basic medical science at a UK medical school (having gained at least 360 credits) with a guaranteed place to continue medical studies on completion of the MSc.
International applicants who meet the above entry criteria and have IELTS (minimum score of 7.0 with no less than 6.5 in each section and no less than 7 in writing) are welcome to apply.
Closing date
Applications are made through the University of Brighton online portal. Applications for 2023/24 entry are now open. Please contact the course provider here.