Introduction
Performing Arts Medicine at UCL offers a unique programme as an MSc, PGDip (Blended Online & Campus Delivery) or PGCert (Distance Learning). It provides specialised training to those interested or already involved in health services or health education to this very special sector of instrumental musicians, singers, dancers, actors, circus artists and other performing artists.
About this degree
The MSc and Diploma cover musculoskeletal injury, performance psychology, pain management, assessment and rehabilitation, disability, travelling and touring, dance and music performance science, management of the professional voice and research methodology. MSc students also engage in a research project and dissertation. The Certificate is a limited curriculum version for non-clinicians or clinicians who wish to upgrade to MSc or Diploma at a later time.
The PGCert is offered by distance learning only.
Students undertake modules up to the value of 180 credits depending on their course.
The MSc programme consists of eight core taught modules (120 credits) and the research project (60 credits).
The Postgraduate Diploma consists of eight core taught modules (120 credits).
The Postgraduate Certificate consists of four core taught modules (60 credits).
Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MSc in Performing Arts Medicine. Upon successful completion of 120 credits, you will be awarded a PG Dip in Performing Arts Medicine. Upon successful completion of 60 credits, you will be awarded a PG Cert in Performing Arts Medicine.
Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.
Compulsory modules
Research Project and Dissertation - 60 credits (MSc)
Musculoskeletal and Neuromuscular Performance Related Injury - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip)
Clinical Assessment and Rehabilitation of the Performing Artists - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip)
Pain and Disability Management within the Performing Arts World - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip)
Research Methodology - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip)
Clinical Management of the Professional Voice - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip, PGCert)
Environmental & Lifestyle Issues for the Performing Artist - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip, PGCert)
Performance Psychology - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip, PGCert)
Science of Dance and Music Performance - 15 credits (MSc, PGDip, PGCert)
Optional modules
There are no optional modules for this programme.
Dissertation/research project
All MSc students undertake a research project which culminates in a written dissertation of approximately 7,000 words and an oral presentation and viva. The dissertation consists of a literature review and an original paper, both parts ready for publication submission and written according to the authors’ guidelines of a chosen peer-reviewed journal. A third 1000-word article is also included in the dissertation and targeting lay readership.
Teaching and learning
The delivery of the programme is through online lectures, tutorials and discussion forums. Our Virtual Learning Environment provides a wealth of E-Resources and guides the student to our taught and self-learning activities. Clinical examination practical sessions and observed clinics are scheduled during our two residential weeks in Term 3 (April/May) of the final year of MSc/PGDip. Assessment is mainly through coursework and online examinations. A variety of assessment formats is used such as essays, blogs, infographics or oral presentations. For our clinical module, we use objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) that take place during the residential weeks.
Our tutors are experts in specific areas of Performing Arts Medicine and the students have the opportunity to meet a number of specialists who will cover a variety of topics on the extensive curriculum.
Full-time (1 year) MSc and PGDip in Semester 1 and Semester 2 - approximately 12 hours teaching & 10 hours independent learning per week
Part-time (2 years) MSc and PGDip in Semester 1 and Semester 2 - approximately 6 hours teaching & 4 hours independent learning per week
PGCert (1 year) in Semester 1 and Semester 2 - approximately 6 hours teaching & 4 hours independent learning per week
PGCert (2 years) in Semester 1 and Semester 2 - approximately 3 hours teaching & 2 hours independent learning per week
Additional costs
The core textbooks for all modules are available in the UCL Libraries and journal articles in your reading lists are also mostly available electronically from E-resources @ UCL. MSc students will be required to print and bind two copies of their Dissertation at approximately £25-£50.
Some students like to purchase their own textbooks or print course documents and we suggest allowing approximately £200 per year for this.
In addition, students will be required to pay for their travel costs to teaching, clinic observations or project locations when necessary during residential weeks or research study.
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Careers
Graduates gain in-depth knowledge of the diverse field of Performing Arts Medicine (PAM). Their specialised skills can be incorporated in their own professional practice or they can participate in performing arts clinics in various settings e.g. conservatories, orchestras, music or dance colleges.Graduates' knowledge and experience is valued and they may be invited as educators and trainers in Performing Arts Medicine and will become members of an ever-growing medical community with a common interest in the wellbeing of the performer. Graduates who have aspirations for further academic study and research activity, such as progressing to a PhD, will receive appropriate guidance.
Employability
Assessing a performing artist requires specialised skills and the ability to associate health issues with a particular artistic activity. The programme provides its students with a broad knowledge of the art forms and their demands on the performer and how these impact on their wellbeing.
With focused tutorials and real-life scenarios, the MSc or PGDip student builds the confidence to assess and diagnose or refer appropriately as well as to monitor rehabilitation and return to performance. The privileged position of the health professional in helping performers overcome often career-threatening adversity is the most rewarding experience that enriches this type of work.
Why study this degree at UCL?
No other MSc programme currently exists that brings together all elements of Performing Arts Medicine. This unique programme has been designed for health professionals entering this diverse field.
Applications
Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.
There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications.
Who can apply?
We welcome students from diverse healthcare backgrounds including medicine, physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic medicine, manual medicine, nursing, sports therapy, athletic training or biomedical sciences. For the PG Cert, we also welcome students from a psychology, speech therapy or performance science background. For other professions, we review applications on an individual basis.
Application Enquiries
We offer Zoom or Skype chats for prospective applicants. If you wish to meet with us, email dsis.performingarts@ucl.ac.uk and we will arrange a convenient time to talk to you.
Application deadlines
All applicants 30 July 2021
