FdSc Complementary Healthcare Foundation Degree

This is a unique programme of study offered by East Sussex College campus in partnership with the University of Brighton. The course aims to produce informed and skilled practitioners with the knowledge and skills to enter the health care arena with confidence. The programme has been carefully designed to cover many different aspects of health care in such a way that practical skills are balanced with a comprehensive training in the underpinning knowledge relating to the therapy being studied. Students must have the time, energy and commitment to cope with the demands of this programme. Mature applicants are welcomed.

The programme runs over two days a week It includes a weekly clinic to practise your skills in a clinical setting at the Evolve Salons. The program will focus on three main therapies body massage, reflexology and aromatherapy. You will also study a variety of subjects to support your work as a complementary therapist including nutrition, business, and professional practice. In the second year there is a 50-hour work placement based in a health care setting.

Year 1 Study Skills Research Methods Personal & Professional Development Communication Skills Science for Complementary Therapists Structure and functions of the Human Body Therapeutic massage Reflexology Aromatherapy Perspectives of Holistic living Nutritional implications for Complementary Therapy

Year 2 Business Management Philosophies of Oriental Medicine Clinical placement Processes of Disease Advanced therapeutic Massage Clinical reflexology Clinical Aromatherapy Professional Practice Applied Clinical Nutrition

You will need to have a minimum of a Level 3 Qualification (including NVQs) to 50 UCAS points or more plus GCSE English a 4(C) or above.

You will be expected to develop a portfolio of reflective practise over the two years of the course. Subjects are assessed through a variety of methods both practically and written. These include case studies, exams, poster presentations and essay writing.

A Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Complementary Healthcare.

The course will equip you with a range of experiences, qualifications and practical skills sought by employers or required for successful self-employment. Graduates may have the option to progress their training by undertaking a further full time top-up honours degree programme in Health studies.

You will be required to buy 4 text books, uniforms and Evolve work wear which must be worn for all practical sessions, information will be given at interview. Students will also be required to become members of the Federation of Holistic Therapies to gain professional indemnity and be subject to a disclosure and barring check. All short listed applicants will be interviewed.

You will be working on members of the public and you may be required to provide models for your practical work. You will also need to get a DBS check (Disclosure and barring service previously CRB.

This foundation degree course is eligible for an HE student loan.