What our students say

The following are comments from students who studied the MSc in Primary Care on-campus so although online learning will involve a different experience the overarching aims and learning outcomes of the programme remain the same and involve the same members of academic staff.

Why did you undertake the degree?

• To increase my understanding of primary care, multidisciplinary working and research.
• At the time of starting, I was new to primary care, having worked in acute for over 20 years. The course helped me gain confidence and theoretical knowledge for my post.
• For interest, and to broaden my horizons on the job front.

How well did it meet your expectations?

• The degree gave me theoretical information but, more importantly, it provided the opportunity to discuss real live issues with colleagues from a range of backgrounds - fantastic!
• Enjoyed the opportunity to listen, reflect, learn and be inspired.
• Each course achieved its aims and objectives. The department was supportive in every way and my research supervisor was exceptional.

How relevant did you find it to your professional/educational needs?

• The range and depth of subjects has equipped me with skills and ideas to develop within my own practice.
• Having this degree has helped reinforce my CV and has been noted in interviews.
• Enjoyed the emphasis on applying theory/research findings to the workplace. The research project in particular allows students to explore their own interests in more detail.
• It addressed broader themes than I would otherwise have the opportunity to study in such depth.

In what ways do you consider that your employer has benefited from your undertaking this degree?

• Improved application of theory to practice, especially in population health and inequalities.
• Skills gained have been utilised in carrying out job as prescribing advisor and in teaching of students and GPs.
• I can offer more "academic" solutions/contributions to organisational challenges.
• Having masters-level education is gold standard in the NHS! I think this should be mandatory for primary care staff involved in strategic decision-making!

In what ways has this degree changed the way you approach your practice?

• I now approach patient care, and encourage staff to do so, from a much broader perspective.
• I now take a more considered approach to problem solving. I more readily seek evidence to support practice because I can rapidly search for and appraise available evidence.
• Much more likely to look at latest research around the relevant area of work, and feel confident about processing various strands of evidence and from various disciplines.
• Improved consideration of inequalities and addressing widening gap when reviewing and redesigning services.
• Gained a broader perspective. Helped with communication with colleagues and patients. Completing the research project has improved my skills in report writing.
• Able to consider the true holistic needs of patients and families, and the wider requirements from a social and healthcare perspective.
• It has put ethical issues to the forefront of all thoughts.

What did you like best about this degree?

• Access to brilliant thinkers and the opportunity not just to be taught, but to engage with them and discuss issues in a non-threatening environment.
• Networking and time out from work to reflect.
• Different teaching methods held my interest and standards of teaching very high.
• The reading, the learning, the sharing...all of it!

What about the organisation/administration of the programme?

• Most impressed by the support and warmth of the "team".
• Well organised with excellent online support making participation for part-time students as accessible as possible.
• I have nothing but praise for the organisation, helpfulness and patience of the staff.

In what ways may this degree help to further your career?

• Promotion on the back of master’s work.
• It has given me the confidence to pursue further career opportunities.
• May consider a PhD.
• Has clarified my passions, and put me on a steady and defined course for career progression.

What was your overall experience/impression of this degree?

• The knowledge of the academic staff was exceptional and overall the culture within the department was open, friendly, and approachable.
• A well-balanced programme with a good choice of course and taste of doing some original research.
• Excellent - without doubt the most exciting and challenging course I have ever undertaken.

Have you recommended/would you recommend this degree to colleagues?

• Yes, and frequently do!
• All the time!
• I would recommend this degree to anyone who has a true interest in primary care and personal development.