FdSc (Hons) Integrated Complementary Healthcare

During your first year you will complete 6 modules, each one enabling you to build on the knowledge and skills you explored in the previous one. Modules include a mix of practical and theory and include Body Massage, Reflexology, Clinical Aromatherapy, Nature of Health and Structure and Function of the Human Body. Additionally, a Professional Development module will help keep you focused on your career aims and ambitions.

Year 1 modules include;

• Therapeutic Body Massage • Personal Development and Communication • Reflexology • Nature of Health • Structure and Function of the Human Body • Clinical Aromatherapy

In year 2 you will be introduced to Philosophies of Oriental Diagnosis, Process and Prevention of Disease, Remedial and Sports massage as well as the important research module where you will begin to specialise in the area of healthcare that particularly appeals to you.

Year 2 modules include;

• Philosophies of Oriental Diagnosis • Remedial and Sports Massage • Research • Process and Prevention of Disease • Professional Practice and Development

In your third year you will become an expert practitioner, advancing your therapeutic modalities including Micro System Acupuncture, Meridian Cupping, Advanced Clinical Massage and Nutrition. Finishing with a Research project of your own design focusing on your chosen modality from previous study.

Year 3 modules include;

• Advancing therapeutic modalities • Advanced Clinical Massage • Research Project

The modules focused on massage, aromatherapy and reflexology are organised around small group work. In Year 1, these groups will be focused on developing skills in these areas. Students will be working with members of the public each year in the college clinic and with their own case studies. There is an emphasis on research and evidence-based practice each year and students will be encouraged to partake in and explore other complementary therapies for future professional development.

Assessments come in many forms from academic posters to podcasts and practical skills assessment to research projects all designed to appeal to every kind of learner, both formative and summative assessments for each module supporting students development at key stages.

The course aims are

• To educate students to be skilled and competent complementary therapy practitioners who are required to practice on an evidence-based basis. • To engender an elevated level of personal and professional standards adhering to National Occupational Standards. • To develop the students’ ability to integrate their practical skills and theoretical understanding in their everyday working environment. • To encourage critical evaluation and reflective practice during the course through personal and professional development. • To understand codes of ethics and practice and their application to practice within the scope of complementary healthcare • To encourage students in development of transferable skills. • To develop commitment to lifelong learning

Each assessment seeks to build your confidence as an independent learner, providing a scaffolding and framework for all aspects of your study experience.

You will be awarded a FdSc in Integrated Complementary Therapies by the University of East Anglia, subject to validation.

Graduates typically work in healthcare settings or as self-employed clinical practitioners either on their own or as part of a team. Recent graduates have won the Federation of Holistic Therapies Student of the Year Award 2023, and are working as integrated therapists.

Students will need to be equipped with relevant study materials and clothing, and there will be additional expenses for trips and visits.

The course places special emphasis on the processes of reflective learning, through a range of embedded methods within the skills clinics and theory-based projects. This approach aims to develop self-motivated and self-critical students, equipped with practical and professional skills vital to Professional body membership, future employment prospects and development as ethical complementary healthcare practitioners. Throughout the course, you will reflect upon your own learning development and practice, through dialogue and structured guidance in relation to practice and theory. Feedback from clients, models, formative self & peer assessments, tutorials, and written feedback will support your understanding of your own working practice.

Entry requirements; Applicants should meet the following criteria:

Minimum of 64 UCAS points from one of the following:

• VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Complementary Therapies PASS • BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in an appropriate subject • A Levels in an appropriate subject • Access Diploma in related subject • An equivalent overseas qualification together with a proven ability in spoken and written English (IELTS 6 overall - an overall score of 6.5 is required for all the sub-skills elements, with a minimum score of 6.0 or above for the reading and writing element)

Mature students without formal qualifications but with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.

If applicants have studied before or have relevant experience, a qualification, HE credits or relevant experience, it may count towards the application, and result in a different entry point.

It is strongly advised that all Higher Education applicants will have successfully achieved an A*- C or 4-9 grade in both GCSE Science and English (or equivalent qualification), to enable them to successfully complete their studies at ESC and enhance their future career prospects.