The philosophy of the course encompasses the notion of the 'reflective practitioner' and incorporates a learning strategy based on 'reflection in action'. The course emphasises action learning, live projects and research. Future opportunities include management, advanced practice and research roles related to community care in the public, private and voluntary sectors. Community care is an expanding discipline and the curriculum is flexible and negotiated around the learning needs of student groups. The second year includes project inquiry in community care and primary care organisations and change methods of evaluation and research research workshop Students progressing on to the Master's programme will have tutorial support, research seminars and workshops.
Teaching involves lectures, groupwork and seminars.
One particular feature is the special area of study, where the learning process is a microcosm of collaboration, the outcomes of which can be used as exemplars for future practice. Students and their managers should be aware of the commitment required by a course of this level. A flexible attendance mode can be discussed. Open learning modules are part of the course. The course is in keeping with proposals for Advanced Awards in Social Work and Nursing through portfolio submission, and is accredited towards the Advanced Award in Social Work.