01 Oct 2026 (Available)
Apply by: 24 Sep 2026
Semester A All dates are provisional and may be subject to change. All teaching days are normally 9-5pm unless stated. Students are expected to attend all teaching dates
01 Oct 2026 (Online ), 02 Oct 2026 (On Campus), 12 Oct 2026 (On Campus), 13 Oct 2026 (On Campus), 16 Nov 2026 (On Campus), 17 Nov 2026 (On Campus), 08 Dec 2026 (On Campus), 14 Jan 2027 (On Campus), 15 Jan 2027 (On Campus), 22 Feb 2027 (On Campus), 23 Feb 2027 (On Campus), 01 Apr 2027 (Coursework Essay), 27 Apr 2027 (OSCE On Campus)
Course overview
THIIS PAGE IS CURRENTLY BEING UPDATED FOR 2026/27. APPLICATIONS ARE NOT YET OPEN.
Course description/details
This module builds on existing knowledge and skills to develop an enhanced evidence-informed systematic and critical approach to musculoskeletal physiotherapy, theory and practice, and apply advanced clinical reasoning and practical skills relevant to the biopsychosocial assessment and management of upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction.
The module focuses on research informed assessment and management of patients with upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction. There is emphasis on advanced clinically reasoned biopsychosocial assessment and management, to develop holistic, patient-centred care. The learner is expected to undertake independent study both to supplement their learning and to broaden their individual knowledge and understanding of the subject. Students will be encouraged to utilise self-evaluation and reflection on their own and others' practice, and actively engage in evaluation of relevant research, to facilitate transformative physiotherapy practice.
This module may be studied as a stand-alone module for the purposes of Continuing Professional Development or as part of a programme of study.
This module is equivalent to 300 hours of student effort including 11 taught days and an assessment day. All applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Once the module is full the application portal will close, so early application is advised.
Course dates (All dates are provisional and may be subject to change)
Thursday 1st October 2026, 9-5pm (Online)
Friday 2nd October 2026, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Monday 12th October 2026, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Tuesday 13th October 2026, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Monday 16th November 2026, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Tuesday 17th November 2026, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Tuesday 8th December 2026, 9-6pm (On-campus)
Thursday 14th January 2027, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Friday 15th January 2027, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Monday 22nd February 2027. 9-5pm (On-campus)
Tuesday 23rd February 2027, 9-5pm (On-campus)
Assessment dates
Coursework: Essay Thursday 1st April 2027 (submitted online)
OSCE: On campus required for 9-5pm on Tuesday 27th April 2027
Assessment details
Essay on a student selected patient case study.
Practical: The practical is an in-person three station OSCE. Each OSCE station must be passed there is no compensation between stations.
Compensation is not permitted between Coursework and the Practical.
Learning Outcomes
Successful students will typically:
Knowledge and understanding:
KU1: Demonstrate critical understanding of theories, principles and concepts underpinning upper quadrant musculoskeletal practice within a biopsychosocial framework of care.
Intellectual, practical and transferable skills:
IPT1: Demonstrate enhanced professional expertise, technical mastery and adaptability in assessment and management skills appropriate for patients with upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction.
IPT2: Critically synthesise and evaluate current evidence to demonstrate advanced problem solving and clinical reasoning skills relevant to upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction.
IPT3: Utilise self-evaluation and reflection on their own and others' practice to develop advanced clinical reasoning skills, taking into account the evolving evidence-base and current legal, ethical and professional issues relating to upper quadrant musculoskeletal practice.
IPT4: Engage effectively in academic and professional communication, using a range of communication skills which demonstrate application of critical understanding of theories, principals and concepts appropriate to the management of patients with upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction.
What our students say
"Excellent calibre of experienced speakers and variety of opinions” “Really interesting and lots to take away and put into practice”
“Up to date evidence-based practice”
“Interesting and learnt a lot of new information”
“Highly recommend”
“Excellent translation to clinical practice”
“Lecturers are friendly, approachable and keen to provide knowledge”
“all the teaching has been great. I feel well prepared for the assessments as we get lots of practice”
This module can contribute to the following programme(s)
Accredited by
Funding
£1,890.00
The price quoted above is for a 30 credit module in the 2026/27 academic year and applies to students who are assessed as Home fee payers ONLY. Fees will differ for students assessed as Overseas fee payers. Fee assessment decisions follow UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs) guidance, which is based on UK law and government regulations. Further information on who will pay Home or Overseas tuition fees can be found here: https://ask.herts.ac.uk/will-i-pay-home-or-international-tuition-fees
Once confirmed, a student’s fee status will normally remain the same for the duration of their course. However, information regarding fee reassessment is available here: https://ask.herts.ac.uk/will-i-pay-home-or-international-tuition-fees#FeeReassessment
Eligible students may be able to apply for a Postgraduate Student Loan. Please note that to access this funding, you must enrol on the full MSc programme; funding is not available for individual modules or interim awards (for example, a Postgraduate Diploma). Further information is available at: https://www.gov.uk/masters-loan
Further details, including tuition fee amounts, fee policy and payment deadlines, can be found here: https://www.herts.ac.uk/study/fees-and-funding/fee-information/fees-and-finance-policy-documents
If you require further information or have any questions regarding fees, please contact: cpdhealth@herts.ac.uk
Why Choose HERTS?
Excellent sector connections: we have extensive links with eight NHS Trusts and Local Authorities in Hertfordshire.
Links with over 98 NHS Trusts and Local Authorities in East Anglia and London regions.
Flexibility: we provide flexible study options to ensure you can fit CPD study around your busy professional and personal lives.
Location: the main University of Hertfordshire campus is 25 minutes from London with easy access by both road and rail services.
Course details
Course leader
Andrea Moulson MScAdvPhysio@herts.ac.uk
Administrator
Julie Porter
Telephone
01707 284800
Course delivery
Blended. Number of Learner Hours: Scheduled 88; Independent 112
Downloads
Prerequisites
- Qualified Physiotherapists with BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy or equivalent physiotherapy qualification with current HCPC (or equivalent) registration.
- Have at least one year's post-qualification experience in a musculoskeletal physiotherapy setting and have a relevant caseload of patients.
- Normally Upper Quadrant – Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (7HSK2227) can only be studied on successful completion of Lower Quadrant - Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy (7HSK2226/7HSK0331).
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