Advanced Dementia Studies MSc/PGDip/PGCert
City Campus, United Kingdom
Advanced Dementia Studies MSc/PGDip/PGCert
University of Bradford
Dementia Studies / Health Sciences
Program Overview: Advanced Dementia Studies at the University of Bradford
The MSc Advanced Dementia Studies is a part-time distance learning programme designed to equip health and social care practitioners with the knowledge and skills required to become leaders and to influence evidence-based changes within their field of dementia care practice. Delivered by the Centre for Applied Dementia Studies at the University of Bradford, this was the first postgraduate programme of its kind in England and celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024.
The programme adopts a human rights perspective to understanding the experience of people living with dementia and encourages multidisciplinary team-working and service user engagement. Modules are underpinned by cutting-edge research and delivered by academics who are actively involved in dementia research and practice development, with input from Experts by Experience — people living with dementia and carers.
You can study online from anywhere in the world, with the flexibility to fit your studies around your working life. The course encourages collaborative learning, enabling you to learn from and with students from around the world who share your passion for improving dementia care.
Key Program Highlights
- First postgraduate dementia studies programme of its kind in England, with over 20 years of expertise in dementia education
- Fully online distance learning — no campus attendance required at any point during your studies
- Delivered by the Centre for Applied Dementia Studies, awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize for excellence in dementia education
- Flexible exit awards: PGCert (1 year), PGDip (2 years), or full MSc (3 years) to suit your career goals
Curriculum and Modules
The programme is structured across three years, with each year building on the previous one. You can exit with a PGCert after Year 1, a PGDip after Year 2, or complete the full MSc in Year 3 with a dissertation project. Each module is delivered over 16 weeks with 12 teaching weeks and four assessment weeks, using the University's Canvas learning platform.
Critical Perspectives on Dementia: A Rights-Based Approach
30 CreditsExplores dementia through a human rights lens, examining critical perspectives on the lived experience of people with dementia and the ethical frameworks guiding care practice.
Evidence Appraisal and Synthesis
30 CreditsDevelops your ability to evaluate different types of evidence including research, clinical experience, and narrative accounts from people with dementia, and formulate evidence-based recommendations for practice change.
Advancing Practice: Skills and Methods
30 CreditsBuilds advanced skills in dementia care practice, equipping you with methods to lead improvements and implement evidence-based approaches in your professional setting.
Post Diagnostic Support Pathways for People with Dementia
30 CreditsExamines the support pathways available to people following a dementia diagnosis, focusing on person-centred approaches and multidisciplinary collaboration to improve post-diagnostic care.
Evaluating Dementia Practice
30 CreditsCovers different approaches to evaluating dementia care practice, including ethical issues, participatory evaluation, and involving people living with dementia in evaluating and improving services.
Service Evaluation in Dementia Care for Advanced Practice (Dissertation)
60 CreditsThe final-year dissertation involves implementing a small-scale change project in your workplace under individual supervision from a member of the Centre for Applied Dementia Studies.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
This programme is intended for UK and international students who are health and social care professionals or voluntary workers with regular, direct contact with people who have dementia. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our advisors can guide you through the process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationA first degree with 2:2 or above in a relevant subject area. Applicants with prior successful study at undergraduate or postgraduate level may also apply with supporting evidence.
- Non-Standard EntryApplicants without a first degree may be asked to complete a portfolio of evidence, achieving a mark of at least 60% at FHEQ Level 6.
- Alternative QualificationFHEQ Level 5 qualification (DipHE, Foundation Degree, NVQ) plus a minimum of two years' experience in dementia care or dementia services, with a successful entry assignment.
- Practice RequirementRegular, direct, ongoing contact with people who have dementia — minimum 2 hours per week during the academic year (September to June). This must be maintained throughout your studies.
- Technical RequirementAccess to a computer with internet connection and willingness to dedicate an average of 15 hours per week to studies.
English Language Requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current IELTS score requirements for this programme.
- Pre-Sessional EnglishIf you do not meet the IELTS requirement and hold a UKVI-approved IELTS, a pre-sessional English course is available through the University of Bradford Language Centre.
- Alternative TestsContact Uni4Edu for details on accepted alternative English language qualifications.
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Bradford offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for postgraduate students. Availability may vary for part-time and distance learning programmes, so contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding options suitable for this programme.
Global Scholar Award
A tuition fee reduction scholarship offered to all self-funding international fee-paying students based on nationality. Note: this award typically applies to full-time, campus-based courses — contact Uni4Edu to confirm eligibility for distance learning programmes.
GREAT Scholarships
GBP 10,000Funded by the UK government's GREAT Britain Campaign and the University of Bradford, these scholarships are available for full-time postgraduate taught master's programmes. Contact Uni4Edu to check eligibility for this specific programme.
Health Education England Funding
VariesHealthcare staff providing NHS services may be eligible for funded places on health-related modules through Health Education England, subject to organisational training priorities. Contact Uni4Edu for further details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
A Dementia Studies qualification is a strong career development move if you are already working in the dementia field and wish to specialise at an advanced level. Expectations about the quality of dementia care are increasing, creating growing demand for qualified professionals who can lead evidence-based practice improvements.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employing Organisations
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Bradford is recognised nationally and internationally for its commitment to social mobility, inclusive education, and impactful research. The Centre for Applied Dementia Studies has earned particular distinction for its pioneering work in dementia education and research.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Mobility | HEPI Social Mobility Index | #1 in England (2021–2024) |
| Dementia Education | Queen's Anniversary Prize | Prize Winner |
| Research Impact | REF (Research Excellence Framework) | 77% Excellent or World Leading |
| Social Inclusion | Daily Mail University Guide | University of the Year 2026 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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