PART 1 BSc HEALTH AND EXERCISE (HES) SCIENCE PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION 1 Awarding St Mary s University, Twickenham institution 2 Partner N/A institution and location of teaching (if applicable) 3 Type of N/A collaborative arrangement (if applicable) 4 Award title Health and Exercise Science (HES) (Community or Clinical Exercise pathway) 5 Final award BSc 6 Interim award(s) with award titles Certificate of Higher Education (CertHE) Diploma of Higher Education (DipHE) (if specific titles have been designated) 7 School with Sport, Health & Applied Science responsibility for the programme 8 Language of study English 9 Joint Honours combinations Single Honours BA/BSc Degree Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway and Clinical Exercise Pathway) Combined Honours BA/BSc Degree Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway only) BA/BSc Health and Exercise Science (HES) may be taken as a single or combined honours programme of study. When combined with another subject, it is available in the following combinations. Health and Exercise Science with subject B (majoring in Health and Exercise Science) Health and Exercise Science and subject B (Health and Exercise Science and another equal subject) Subject B with Health and Exercise Science (Health and Exercise Science as a minor subject) 10 UCAS code B900 11 JACS code B110, B120, B160, B400, B990, C191, C600, C840 12 Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body (PSRB) The Single Honours students will have attained the standards required by Skills Active for all compulsory and some of the additional units. Additionally students will be eligible to sit the RSPH (Royal Society for Public Health) Understanding Health Improvement Training Award (level 2). 1
accreditation / recognition 13 QAA subject benchmark or other relevant external reference point 14 Normal completion time and maximum duration of study The programme has been derived with reference to the FHEQ of UK Degree Awarding Bodies (2014) and the QAA Benchmarking Statement for Sport Leisure and Tourism (main) and Health Studies (some benchmarks). Normal completion time: Full-time study 3 years Part-time study 6 years The overall duration of an undergraduate honours degree programme of study from initial registration to completion shall be no less than three years of full-time study. BA/BSc degrees shall not exceed 4 consecutive semesters for FHEQ Level 4, 5 consecutive semesters for FHEQ Level 5, and 5 consecutive semesters for Year 3 (FHEQ Level 6). 15 Mode of study Full-time, part-time or a mix of both modes of study. 16 Mode of delivery Face to face 17 Date approved Summer 2017 by SHAS STLQEC and name of authorised body 18 Applies to students commencing study in (month/year) September 2017 PART 2 CURRICULUM SPECIFIC DETAILS 19 Summary of the programme Health and exercise science addresses the causes, prevention and management of chronic diseases using physical activity and health promotion strategies as tools to improve health and wellbeing. The programme includes added exercise and health related vocational qualifications. There are currently two pathways offered on this programme, a community or clinical pathway. The importance of maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle is increasingly calling for highly skilled and practically adept graduates in the health sector. The knowledge and skills gained from this degree, which has an emphasis on practical learning, will prepare students to enter a wide array of career pathways in vocational areas. 20 Aims of the programme Main Educational Aims of the Programmes The aims of the programme are informed by the University aims laid out in the University Mission Statement. The aims are as follows: To provide a balanced, stimulating and academically sound education within the broad area of health which allows students to develop their academic and professional potential. To provide students with the opportunity of studying health and physical 2
activity from a broad perspective, ranging from biological principles to social policy and political agendas. To develop students' knowledge and critical understanding of some of the issues facing specific population groups in society. To enable students to participate effectively within society, through the development of transferable, practical and cognitive skills in dedicated skills modules and other modules in which skill acquisition is fostered and assessed. 21 Criteria for admission Criteria for Admission Applicants must satisfy the general admissions requirements of St Mary's University outlined in the Admissions Policy. Standard offers will normally be made at two C grades at GCE A-Level (one of which should be in a science subject) or the equivalent including Vocational A-Levels (VCEs), AS Levels, BTEC or Access. Candidates must have at least one 6-unit qualification. Students whose first language is not English must have achieved an overall score of 6.0 in IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with no less than 5.5 in any section. Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Accreditation of Prior Learning Students who have undertaken study or learning elsewhere may apply for exemption from a proportion of a University programme of study and be given entry with advanced standing (e.g. at a point beyond the beginning of FHEQ Level 4) and exemption from parts of their programme. The learning which may merit advanced standing is as follows: o o Relevant credits, i.e. credits at an appropriate level and in an appropriate subject, earned in another institution or in other institutions; Relevant certificated prior learning. The relevance, status and currency of the prior learning will be considered by the Academic Registrar on the advice of the Programme Director. The University will accept applications for accreditation of prior experiential or uncertificated learning for entry to Masters or other professional programmes as determined by the Programme Director on the advice of the Academic Registrar. The University will accept applications for the accreditation of prior uncertificated learning for particular modules as outlined in the regulations for programmes of study. 22 Scheduled learning time (the number of guided learning hours (GLH) is 10 hours per 1 credit Type of learning time Number of Expressed as % hours Contact time 630 21% Placement/workbased learning hours 70 2% 3
http://www.qaa.ac.uk/en/publication s/documents/cont act-hoursstudent.pdf) 23 Programme learning outcomes Guided learning 0 0% hours Independent study 2310 77% time TOTAL 3010 100% The programme provides opportunities for students to achieve and demonstrate the following learning and educational outcomes: Knowledge and Understanding 1. A core knowledge at levels 4 and 5 which allows progression for further indepth and specialist study at level 6. 2. An understanding of the various aspects of human health. This involves study from the biological level through to social influences. 3. Ability to apply empirical scientific knowledge to current developments in health research and their applications. 4. An understanding of the ethical issues in relating health prescription to individuals. Cognitive Skills 5. Apply theory to practical concepts. 6. Think logically and in increasingly abstract terms when addressing particular issues, and solving problems, associated with health issues. 7. A critical approach to the collection and analysis of data involving the proper choice of methods in the recording, presentation and evaluation of data. 8. Critical analysis and evaluation of a broad range of literature in the field of health and health related issues. Practical (subject-specific) Skills 9. Carry out practical activities using appropriate laboratory and experimental skills. 10. Undertake assignments/ investigations/ practicals/ client interaction with due regard for safety and risk assessment. 11. Recognise and respond to ethical/moral issues relating to studies in health related areas. 12. Plan, design, execute and communicate a sustained piece of independent research work using appropriate media and techniques. (Major Joint Honours Student and Single Honours Students ONLY Personal Enabling Skills 4
13. Communicate ideas on paper in a fluent, articulate and confident manner. 14. Effective oral communication skills through individual and group presentations and client handling. 15. The skills necessary to plan and manage learning, either independently or as part of a team. 16. The ability to collect, record and analyse numerical information. 17. The appropriate use of information technology in carrying out tasks associated with studies 24 Programme structure and module requirements BSc Single Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway) FHEQ Level 4 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/Exercise Prescription Strand 4 Health/Health Promotion social/political aspects Code Title No. of credits Sem of delivery Module status HEP4009 Introduction to Research (Strand 1) HEP4010 Introduction to Nutrition and Health (Strand 2) HEP4007 Health Skills 20 2 Core (Strand 2) HEP4004 Physical Activity Instructor CORE 20 2 Core (Strand 2) HEP4008 Physiology and Anatomy (Strand 3) HEP4002 Introduction to Health 20 2 Core (Strand 4) BSc Single Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway) FHEQ Level 5 Strand 1 -Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/Exercise Prescription Strand 4 Health/Health Promotion social/political aspects Code Title No. of credits Sem of delivery Module status HEP5006 Research Methods 20 2 Core HEP5007 Nutrition for Health and Exercise 20 2 Core 5
HEP5005 Aetiology of Chronic Disease HEP5014 Exercise Physiology & Physical Activity across Lifespan HEP5013 Health Psychology 20 2 Core (Strand 3) HEP5004 Health Promotion (Strand 4) BSc Single Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway) FHEQ Level 6 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/Exercise Prescription Strand 4 Health/Health Promotion social/political aspects Code Title No. of credits Sem of deliver y Module status HEP6011 Research Project 40 1&2 Core HEP6002 Weight Management for Health HEP6003 Physical Activity for Cardiovascular Disease 20 2 Option HEP6009 Anthropometry 20 2 Option HEP6001 Behaviour Change 20 1 Option (Strand 3) HEP6010 Applied Health Promotion 2 Core (Strand 4) HEP6008 Health in the Developing World 20 2 Option (Strand 4) WPL6010 WPL6010 Managing in the Workplace 20 2 Option WPL6020 WPL6020 The Enterprising Workplace 20 1 Option BSc Single Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Clinical Exercise Pathway) FHEQ Level 5 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/Exercise Prescription Code Title No. of credits Sem of delivery Module status HEP5006 Research Methods 20 2 Core 6
HEP5007 Nutrition for Health and Exercise 20 2 Core HEP5005 Aetiology of Chronic Disease HEP5008 Personal Trainer 20 1&2 Core HEP5014 Exercise Physiology & Physical Activity across Lifespan HEP5013 Health Psychology 20 2 Core (Strand 3) BSc Single Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Clinical Exercise Pathway) FHEQ Level 6 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/Exercise Prescription Code Title No. of credits Sem of deliver y Module status HEP6011 Research Project 40 1&2 Core (Strand1) WPL6060 Clinical Observation Placement 20 1&2 Option HEP6002 Weight Management for Health 20 1 Option HEP6007 Clinical Exercise Physiology 20 2 Core HEP6006 Exercise Referral HEP6009 Anthropometry 20 2 Option HEP6001 Behaviour Change 20 1 Option (Strand 3) Structure Joint Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway) FHEQ Level 4 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/ Exercise Prescription Strand 4 Health/Health Promotion Social / political aspects Code Title No. of Sem of Module credits delivery status HEP4009 Introduction to 7
Research HEP4010 Introduction to Nutrition and Health HEP4007 Health Skills 20 2 Core HEP4004 Physical Activity Instructor 20 2 Core HEP4008 Physiology and Anatomy HEP4002 Introduction to Health 20 2 Core (Strand 4) Structure Joint Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway) FHEQ Level 5 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/ Exercise Prescription Strand 4 Health/Health Promotion Social / political aspects Code Title No. of credits Sem of delivery Module status HEP5006 Research Methods 20 2 Core (Strand1) HEP5005 Aetiology of Chronic Disease HEP5014 Exercise Physiology & Physical Activity across Lifespan HEP5013 Health Psychology 20 2 Core (Strand 3) HEP5004 Health Promotion (Strand 4) Structure Joint Honours: Health and Exercise Science (Community Pathway) FHEQ Level 6 Strand 1 Skills Strand 2 Relationship between Exercise & Health/ Exercise Prescription Strand 4 Health/Health Promotion Social / political aspects Code Title No. of credits Sem of delivery Module status HEP6011 Research Project 40 1&2 Major only (Strand1) HEP6005 Directed Study 20 2 Equal only HEP6002 Weight Management 20 1 Option 8
for Health HEP6003 Physical Activity for Cardiovascular Disease 20 2 Option HEP6009 Anthropometry 20 2 Option HEP6001 Behaviour Change 20 1 Option (Strand 3) HEP6010 Applied Health Promotion 2 Option (Strand 4) HEP6008 Health in the Developing World 20 2 Option (Strand 4) WPL6010 Managing in the Workplace 20 2 Option WPL6020 The Enterprising Workplace 20 1 Option Module combinations at level 4 for Joint Honours Students with Nutrition, Sports Science, Psychology, Coaching Semester 1 Semester 2 Intro to Research (core) ( other subject) HEP4002 Introduction to Health (core) HEP4005 Physiology & Anatomy (core) HEP4004 Physical Activity Instructor Module other subject Module other subject Module combinations at level 4 for Joint Honours Students with subjects that don t have research module at level 4 25 Work placements or study abroad Semester 1 Semester 2 HEP4009 Introduction to Research HEP4002 Introduction to Health (core) (core) HEP4008 Physiology & Anatomy 2 modules other subject or 1 in other (core) subject and HEP4004 Module other subject Single and Joint Honours students on the Community Pathway may choose one 20 credit work based learning module at FHEQ level 6 (WPL6010 Managing in the Workplace or WPL6020 The Enterprising Workplace). Single Honours students on the Clinical Exercise Pathway may choose one 20 credit work based learning module at FHEQ level 6 (WPL6060 Clinical Observation Placement). 26 Links to industry and employability Skills Acquisition The programme team recognises the importance of providing students with opportunities for skills acquisition and also recognises that the level of transferable skills on student entry varies. The curriculum addresses these issues with core dedicated skills modules for both Joint and Single Honours: Introduction to Research in Level 4 and Research Methods in Level 5. Further client handling skills are available to Single Honours students in a range of 9
modules. Further acquisition of relevant key, cognitive and practical skills is embedded in the other modules of the programme and the team will carry out annual audits to ensure an appropriate distribution and development of skills. 27 Programme awards This programme conforms to the University Academic Regulations. In order to qualify for the degree of Bachelor of Science students will be required to accumulate 360 credits, 120 at each of HE Level four, five and six. Requirements for BA/BSc Joint Honours Programmes of Study Students must take sufficient credit at FHEQ Level 5 (Year 2) and FHEQ Level 6 (Year 3) for the routes that they have chosen as follows: 'Majoring' in Health and Exercise Science (HES Community) Students wishing to follow the combined honours programme leading towards the degree of HES with another subject ('majoring') must take at least 40 HES credits at Level 5 and no fewer than 80 HES credits at Level 6. 'Equalling' in Health and Exercise Science (HES Community) Students wishing to follow a combined honours programme leading towards the degree of HES and another subject ('equalling') must acquire no fewer than 80 HES credits at Levels 5 and 6, of which no fewer than 40 HE credits are at Level 5 and 40 credits are at Level 6. 'Minoring' in Health and Exercise Science (HES Community) Students wishing to follow a combined honours programme leading towards the degree of another subject with HES ('minoring') must take no fewer than 40 HES credits at Level 5. A further 20 credits must be taken at either Level 5 or Level 6 such that students have at least 60 credits combined overall at levels 5 and 6. The 60 credits may all be at level 5. There is no requirement for the student to have credits at level 6 in the minor subject. For further clarification, see Academic Regulations, St Mary s University. The above specifications for module credit requirements must include the core modules, as outlined in this programme specification. 28 Programme teaching and learning strategies PART 3 TEACHING, LEARNING & ASSESSMENT Lectures, seminars, practical sessions, oral presentations, directed independent work and coursework and written examination assessments encompass mechanisms for achieving learning outcomes 1-4. Cognitive skills are developed in the various modes of teaching and assessment. (5-8) Progression through levels 4,5, & 6 ensure that knowledge and understanding progresses from a broad understanding and appreciation of the subject matter ( level 4), to more detailed current knowledge ( level 5),to deeper more critical knowledge base and understanding of methods of knowledge acquisition (level 6). 10
Progression through levels 4, 5 & 6 encourages familiarisation of principal concepts and theories at level 4 study. Level 5 study allows for critical approach and identification of congruent and dissonant theories and ideas. At level 6 students engage in critical analysis and evaluation of published and unpublished data and knowledge. Relevant practical sessions both laboratory and gym-based are both taught and assessed within the remit of the degree and Skills Active requirements (levels 4, 5, 6). Health and safety, client interaction and ethics are embedded in both practical and theory based sessions and assessments over a wide variety of modules, where appropriate (levels 4, 5, 6). An independent research project is required of both Major Joint Honours and Single Honours students (level 6). Training & assessment in all aspects of project execution is embedded in both level 4 and 5 core modules. Formative feedback during the module in order to feedforward into the next piece of work is part of the overall strategy within the programme. Writing skills (e.g. essays) are embedded in levels 4, 5 & 6. Oral presentation skills, group discussions & assessed vivas enable students to articulate researched knowledge at levels 4, 5, 6. Data handling is core to the programme and embedded in most modules with emphasis given in the research methods modules (levels 4 & 5) & research project at level 6. Appropriate use of computers, databases, information sources are integral to the teaching and assessment in levels 4, 5, 6. 29 Programme assessment strategy Strategy of Assessment In line with the School's Teaching and Learning Action Plan the intention is to ensure that students are exposed to a range of assessment methods no matter which selection of modules is studied. To this end, the Teaching Team reviews the assessment pattern for all modules. The teaching team worked to agreed general guidelines with regards to the length and timing of various assessments. The work undertaken needs to reflect both the time and size as well as the level of depth and nature of the module subject. For these reasons the team agreed to some movement with regards the weighting at each level. Assessment for the programme is either through a combination of examination and coursework with the most common weighting being a 60%:40% or 50%:50% split respectively or 100% coursework. The assessment components of the modules have been considered in relation to the general aims of the 11
programmes and the more specific aims and learning outcomes of modules, particularly to reflect the practical and investigative nature of some modules. Feedback to students on coursework is provided by means of a standard coursework feedback sheet. All coursework is submitted by means of a secure system for handing in. The School places great emphasis on the monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of assessment strategies and module convenors review the assessment pattern annually. The assessment sheet, which includes a section for student self-evaluation, has been repeatedly commended by the External Examiner. Turnitin software is used. Assessment Methods The programme uses a variety of teaching and assessment methods. This is to ensure that the student learning experience caters for a wide variety of learning preferences. Lectures normally are given to class numbers of about 60 to 70. The students are expected to regard the information gained in lectures as a guideline and basis for further reading and study, to be done in non-contact time. Seminar groups are smaller (i.e. maximum 10 students). Students are expected to read and prepare for a class discussion based on chosen scientific publications. This tests comprehension and teaches scientific debate. Practical sessions are limited to 40 students (maximum). The sessions mainly involve laboratory work or may be conducted in the form of external field work. The aim is to allow students to acquire laboratory/field work skills. They are then expected to develop their analytical, data handling and scientific report skills. In each of these sessions students are made aware of and expected to follow health and safety regulations. Practical Report Students are required to gather data, analyse and discuss. This tests observation, numerical and statistical ability and deductive reasoning. Oral Presentations Students are required to present reached information in the form of an oral presentation. Audiovisual aids are usually used. Poster Presentations Students are required to gather information from a wide range of material, presenting it concisely in the form of a poster and oral presentation. This tests information gathering, comprehension, synthesis of material and communication skills. This is important in conveying scientific information and data. Timed Essay Students are required to prepare a topic in depth and produce a comprehensive essay under strict examinations. This tests information gathering, synthesis and also written communication skills. 12
Statistical Coursework Students are required to understand the principles and application of statistical analysis to data. This tests the understanding of theory and necessity of application for appropriate scientific data presentation. The facility to use computers and relevant software is integral to this assessment. Seminar Worksheets Students are required to read and analyse the contents of selected published articles. This tests comprehension of scientific writing and the appreciation of scientific paper formats. Review and leaflet production Students are required to research the literature on a specific topic and produce a review of the information. The leaflet involves the synthesis of this information into a readable form designed for a target audience. This tests understanding and communication of scientific knowledge. This is particularly important in the case of conveying information to people who may not have any basic scientific knowledge, e.g. nutritional advice to pregnant women or the elderly. Case Study Students are given a problem scenario and must provide analysis, conclusions and recommendations. Review Article Students are required to read extensively around a particular topic and present in the form of a scientific review. This tests students' ability to critically evaluate the current scientific published data and to present in a review format. Professional Portfolio Students are required to maintain data, information collection, case notes and analysis and meetings with clients and other health professionals as well as any other pertinent documentation. The range of skills tested is the maintenance of a fully complete record of all professional contact, analysis and recommendations. Viva voce Students participate in an inquisitorial debate with tutors relating to the project submission. The main aim is to test the student s cognitive ability and understanding of the research area. 30 Student support and guidance PART 4 UNIVERSITY SUPPORT We have a dedicated Student Centre in the heart of the University. Our aim is to assist, guide and support students throughout their period of study. The Student Wellbeing Service provides personal 1-1 Counselling in addition to group workshops such as mindfulness. The Disability Service includes both physical disabilities and learning support such as Dyslexia. Mental Health Advisors and Mentors together with an on-site Health Centre. Our Student Life and Guidance Team includes; the Accommodation Services, Student Funding, Pastoral Care & Advice & Guidance. Each student is allocated a Personal Tutor who can assist 13
with any academic advice and support with any personal issues. 31 Quality management arrangements This programme aligns with the quality assurance requirements of St Mary s University through the following processes: Five yearly cycle of revalidation Ongoing monitoring through the Programme Review process Programme Boards Consideration of marks and graduate profiles at Exam Boards Engagement with programme student representatives Engagement with approved external examiners 14