Course fees
£1,050.00
For fees and funding info please refer to the FAQs
05 Oct 2026 (Available)
Apply by: 24 Aug 2026
Oct 2026
Face to face: 9am-4pm & Online 1-4pm (Days 1-3 face to face, Days 4-5 Online)
Attendance dates: 05 Oct 2026, 19 Oct 2026, 02 Nov 2026, 16 Nov 2026, 30 Nov 2026
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Course overview
The aim of the unit is to develop your analytic skills in the context of evidence-based practice.
Intended learning outcomes (ILOs)
Having successfully completed this unit the student is expected to:
- Critically appraise and contrast the difference between qualitative and quantitative research methods
- Identify and explicitly define a problem arising from their professional practice
- Construct an effective search strategy in relation to the problem identified
- Utilising appropriate tools(s) for critical appraisal of evidence, present a critical evaluation of the literature in relation to the problem identified
This is a core unit of the BSc (Hons) Professional Practice course, but can also be taken as a CPD unit on a standalone basis.
Learning and teaching methods
Units adopt a blended approach, with face-to-face teaching, additional online resources via the VLE, and online tutorials. Some seminars where appropriate can be delivered online.
This unit will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, discussions, student group work and student managed learning.
This course requires 100% attendance.
Assessment
- Coursework 1: A best evidence topic report where the student identifies an issue from professional practice and implement a literature review to address that issue. . (2000-word equivalent). 50%
- Coursework 2: Lightning talk summary of best evidence report (5 minutes) followed by questions (10 minutes) (1000 words equivalent) 50%
Course details
Course leader
Jonny Branney (jbranney@bournemouth.ac.uk)
Course delivery
Face to face: 9am-4pm & Online 1-4pm (Days 1-3 face to face, Days 4-5 Online)
Downloads
Prerequisites
All qualified health & social care professionals. This is a mandatory unit for the BSc (Hons) Professional Practice course.
Entry requirements
Normally students may enter Level 6 study if they have been awarded:
- An Advanced Diploma, HND, Dip HE or Foundation Degree (awarded by a UK HEI or Edexcel or SQA)
- An equivalent qualification (the learning outcome of which are demonstrably appropriate in terms of knowledge, understanding and skills) equivalent to 120 credits at Level 5.
Why choose BU?
Bournemouth Gateway Building is the home of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. Its 10,000 square metres of space has created a unified base for the faculty’s education, research and office activities, which previously took place across several buildings in the Lansdowne area. It is open and accessible to all BU students, staff and the community.
We have a long and close association with health and social care practice partners across the region and enjoy close relationships with Dorset Healthcare University Foundation Trust, University Hospitals Dorset and District Hospitals (Yeovil and Salisbury) and Dorset County Hospital.
We are an established, vibrant and supportive academic community of staff, clinical practitioners, students and service users. Our team of highly qualified nursing staff and social scientists are committed to developing the next generation of outstanding, skilled and compassionate practitioners, having been engaged in developing the nursing workforce for over 25 years.


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