Drugs & Alcohol Studies
Programme Structure
The Master of Science in Drug and Alcohol Services comprises of four core-courses, two option courses and a dissertation, which will total 180 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF).
Core courses
Drug and Alcohol Theory and Policy
Credits: 20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
The aim of this course is to facilitate and promote a critical appraisal of contemporary knowledge and practice in the substance misuse field. There is an emphasis throughout this course on the analysis and application of research, evidence based practice and national policy.
Drug and Alcohol Assessment and Interventions
Credits: 20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
The aim of this course is to further develop and enhance knowledge, skills, and attitudes that facilitate effective assessment and enhance the use of effective, evidence-based practice in a wide range of service settings. The importance of assessment in the application and ongoing development of evidence-based practice is emphasised. Critical awareness is developed to assess the evidence base and research for interventions.
Drug and Alcohol Integrated Practice Study
Credits: 20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
The aim of this course is to enhance the use of reflection and critique of the theory and research regarding contemporary Drug and Alcohol issues, in relation to working practice. The course will build upon and expand the experiences of students working practice and link to the academic work in the other two courses in the postgraduate certificate programme.
Introduction to Educational and Social Research
20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
This course is an introduction to educational and social research. The overall aim of the course is to provide students with a fundamental level of research literacy. The aims of the course are:
- introduce students to current concerns in the philosophy and political economy of research
- provide students with experience in reading and critically reviewing research
- prepare students to conduct a research project of appropriate scope
- inform students about the intersections between method, methodology and approaches to enquiry
- ensure that students have the preparation they need for further study of research methods and methodology
- develop understanding of applying enquiry methods to a specific problem
Option Courses
Students have the choice of two of the following options. Please note that these electives are dependent on numbers and are subject to change.
Leading People
20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
This course aims to assist students to understand professional identity, self-preparation and transformation, and their nurturance of individuals through this process. This course is offered through three modules. The first module of the course will consider the various theories and approaches to leadership. The second will consider various styles of leadership associated with working with others and the third will provide students with the opportunity to also consider the issues associated with working in an adult environment. It will consider issues associated with the factors that impact on leaders, adult and self-directed learning and brain research and intelligence.
Leading Organisations
20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
This course aims to assist students to: understand the culture of the organisation, understand the change process and understand the management strategies that will lead to positive change. The course will have three modules, the first will consider issues associated with the culture of the organisation and the people within it. The second will consider organisational change and development, the third will focus on the various issues confronting educational leaders when managing their organisations, the key workplace processes on which they rely to accomplish their responsibilities.
Mental Health and Substance Use
Credits: 20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
The purpose of this course is to offer students a critical understanding of the theories and concepts regarding the integration of drug and alcohol misuse in relation with mental health issues. The course will address and critically evaluate the principles, skills and interventions involved in responding to mental health combined with substance use and consider implications for practice.
The Impact of Drug and Alcohol Misuse on Children and Families
Credits: 20 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
This course considers the impact of drug and alcohol misuse on children and families by reviewing the complex issues involved in this topic and exploring the evidence for interventions and responses.
Dissertation
60 credits at masters level 11 (SCQF)
The purpose of the dissertation is to provide students with an opportunity to undertake a supervised research exercise, involving the collection and analysis of data about a subject relevant to the study of the field of drug and alcohol services.