This module covers skills in literature searching, information retrieval, and provides the opportunity to use electronic search databases and critical appraisal of evidence. You will be expected to challenge current practice by conducting a literature search and producing critique of a published study. These skills will inform your clinical decision making. This course is a compulsory module for all postgraduate medicine master’s degrees and postgraduate diplomas. 

Dates: (Semester A) 5 Online teaching sessions (2 hrs) on Thursday lunchtime (12.30 - 14.30 pm)

16th October 2025
23rd October 2025     
20th November 2025 
4th  December 2025 
11th December 2025

OR

Dates: (Semester B) 5 Online teaching sessions (2 hrs) on Thursday lunchtime (12.30 - 14.30 pm)
12th February 2026
19th February 2026
19th March 2026
26th March 2026
16th April 2026

Venue:

No attendance at the University is required. This is an online module. You will need to have access to a computer on each of the above dates to access live online taught sessions by academic staff. These sessions will be recorded for repeat viewing but it is better if you participate in person as there will be opportunity to ask questions. 

Content:
Includes the following:

• Understanding of the importance of evidence to inform practice and the impact of the hierarchy of evidence.
• Efficient & systematic searching of appropriately identified databases.
• Retrieval of research evidence to answer an agreed research question relevant to the student’s programme of study.
• Development of critical appraisal skills
• Applying the evidence identified to the student’s own area of practice. 

Full time students should have had relevant and recent work experience.

Study Route: This is a compulsory module for students studying a clinical master’s programme.

Assessment: 
Information Retrieval / Research Critique (5000 words). 100% Coursework.

Further information: 
Rebecca Penzer-Hick (Module & Programme Leader)  r.penzer-hick@herts.ac.uk
Madeleine Flanagan (Admissions)  m.flanagan@herts.ac.uk
 

This module can contribute to the following programme(s)

HHMPHYMSC: MSc Advanced Physiotherapy

HSAPPM: MSc Advanced Paramedic Practice

HSMIRSM: MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences – Advanced Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice

LMCDMSC: MSc Clinical Dermatology

LMHMEMSC: MSc/PG Cert Health and Medical Education

LMHMSIMSC: MSc Health and Medical Simulation/PG Cert in Health and Medical Simulation

LMPPPGD: PgDip Pharmacy Practice (Top-up to MSc)

LMSIWMSC: MSc Skin Integrity and Wound Management

LMSLMSC: MSc Skin Lesion Management