Paediatric Medicine
Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Medicine
(GradCertPaed) KG021
Graduate Diploma in Paediatric Medicine
(GradDipPaed) KF064
Master of Medicine (Paediatric Medicine)
(MMed(Paed)) KC073
| Course | Credit points for award | Duration full-time | Duration part-time |
|---|---|---|---|
| GradCertPaed | 24 | 0.5 year | 1 to 2 years |
| GradDipPaed | 36 | 1 year | 1.5 to 3 years |
| MMed (Paed) | 48 | 1 year | 1.5 to 4 years |
Overview
The Master of Medicine (Paediatric Medicine) is designed for practitioners who wish to advance their knowledge and application of paediatric medicine.
Each unit of study stands alone with no prerequisites, offering maximum flexibility in an adult learning environment. The units are designed to update students' core knowledge in the relevant subject area and to enhance clinical practice with case-based scenarios that focus on current evidence-based best practice.
A series of carefully chosen practical, relevant topics, presented in a case-based interactive online format taught by expert clinicians, will challenge and stimulate participants.
Active discussion among students and course conveners is key to the learning process, with a focus on recent advances and controversial topics. Each unit consists of a combination of case-based interactive clinical scenarios, weekly discussion forums and self-directed learning and is designed to provide the latest practical and theoretical knowledge.
Paediatric units of study offered in this course are:
Group A
- PAED5004 Independent Studies
- PMED5100 Paediatric Infectious Diseases
- PMED5102 Paediatric Nutrition and Obesity
- PMED5103 Paediatric Gastroenterology
AND
Group B
- PAED5000 Neonatal Medicine
- PAED5001 Paediatric Immunisation
- PAED5002 Adolescent Medicine
- PAED5003 General & Developmental Paediatrics
- PAED5004 Independent Studies
- PMED5101 Asthma & Allergy
Group A and Group B units of study are generally offered in alternating years.
Course outcomes
As a result of completing this course, graduates will have:
- an enhanced knowledge of the basic science and recent literature in the specialty areas covered
- an approach to the management of important clinical problems in a range of sub-specialty paediatric medicine, using best available evidence
- an understanding of new and emerging clinical problems in paediatric medicine
Further information
The program is offered in the form of online distance education. Enrolled students are provided with a user name and password that allows them to access a protected course website. The website provides the interactive platform for both the clinical scenarios and the facilitated discussion forums.
Assessment is by performance and participation in discussion forums and by written assignment.
All six-credit-point units of study offered by the Sydney Medical School are suitable for elective units. Approved elective units of study are listed below. Other units of study, including those offered by other faculties, require the approval of both the paediatric medicine course coordinator and the coordinator of the units of study.
Students are encouraged to undertake PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses or equivalent in order to be best equipped to undertake evidence based learning activities in the paediatric units of study.
Degree resolutions
Sydney Medical School resolutions and the printed handbook are the official statement of faculty policy. The resolutions contained in the printed handbook are accurate as at August 2011. If a conflict is perceived between the content of the printed handbook and information available elsewhere, Sydney Medical School resolutions and the information available in the handbook online shall always take precedence. See the handbook online website:
sydney.edu.au/handbooks/medicine/
See the Policy Online website: sydney.edu.au/policy, for copies of University policies.
Master of Medicine (Paediatric Medicine)
These resolutions must be read in conjunction with applicable University By-laws, Rules and policies including (but not limited to) the University of Sydney (Coursework) Rule 2000 (the 'Coursework Rule'), the Resolutions of the Faculty, the University of Sydney (Student Appeals against Academic Decisions) Rule 2006 (as amended) and the Academic Board policies on Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism.
Course resolutions
1 Course codes
| Code | Course and stream title |
|---|---|
| KG021 |
Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Medicine |
| KF064 | Graduate Diploma in Paediatric Medicine |
| KC073 | Master of Medicine (Paediatric Medicine) |
2 Attendance pattern
3 Master's type
0.
The master's degree in these resolutions is a professional master's course, as defined by the Coursework Rule.
4 Embedded courses in this sequence
(2)
Providing candidates satisfy the admission requirements for each stage, a candidate may progress to the award of any of the courses in this sequence. Only the longest award completed will be conferred.
5 Admission to candidature
(1)
Available places will be offered to qualified applicants based on merit, according to the following admissions criteria. In exceptional circumstances the Dean may admit applicants without these qualifications who, in the opinion of the Faculty, have qualifications, evidence of experience and achievement sufficient to successfully undertake the award.
0.0
a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification.
0.0
a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification.
0.0
a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of the University of Sydney or equivalent qualification.
6 Requirements for award
(1)
The units of study that may be taken for the course are set out in the Table of Units of Study: Paediatric Medicine.
(2)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Certificate in Paediatric Medicine a candidate must successfully complete 24 credit points from the Paediatric Medicine table of units of study, including:
(3)
To qualify for the award of the Graduate Diploma in Paediatric Medicine a candidate must successfully complete 36 credit points from the Paediatric Medicine table of units of study, including:
(4)
To qualify for the award of the Master of Medicine (Paediatric Medicine) a candidate must successfully complete 48 credit points from the Paediatric Medicine table of units of study, including:
(5)
Other postgraduate units of study, not listed in the Paediatric Medicine table of units of study, may be included but require the approval of the Course Coordinator and Unit of Study Coordinator.
7 Transitional provisions
Table of units of study: Paediatric Medicine
| Unit of study | Credit points | A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition | Session |
|---|---|---|---|
Part 1 |
|||
Group A - units of study are offered in odd years |
|||
| PAED5004 Independent Studies |
6 | A Students negotiate with the Course Coordinator to agree on suitability of nominated supervisor and proposed project. Note: Department permission required for enrolment A candidate must have obtained approval from the Course Coordinator to enrol in this unit of study. |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| PMED5100 Paediatric Infectious Diseases |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PMED5102 Paediatric Nutrition and Obesity |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PMED5103 Paediatric Gastroenterology |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
Group B - units of study are offered in even years |
|||
| PAED5000 Neonatal Medicine |
6 |
This unit of study is only offered in even numbered years |
Semester 1 |
| PAED5001 Paediatric Immunisation |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PAED5002 Adolescent Medicine |
6 |
This unit of study is only available in even numbered years |
Semester 2 |
| PAED5003 General and Developmental Paediatrics |
6 |
The unit of study is on offer in even numbered years |
Semester 1 |
| PAED5004 Independent Studies |
6 | A Students negotiate with the Course Coordinator to agree on suitability of nominated supervisor and proposed project. Note: Department permission required for enrolment A candidate must have obtained approval from the Course Coordinator to enrol in this unit of study. |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
| PMED5101 Paediatric Asthma and Allergy |
6 |
This unit of study is only available in even numbered years |
Semester 2 |
Part 2 |
|||
| CEPI5200 Quality and Safety in Health Care |
6 | A clinical experience strongly recommended |
Semester 1 |
| PAIN5001 Introduction to Pain Management |
6 | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5002 Pain Mechanisms and Contributors |
6 | Semester 1b Semester 2b |
|
| PAIN5003 Pain Treatment and Management Principles |
6 | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5004 Pain Conditions |
6 | Semester 1b Semester 2b |
|
| PAIN5005 Orofacial Pain |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5006 Independent Studies in Pain |
6 | Semester 1 Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5010 Clinical Aspects of Neurobiology |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PAIN5011 Psychology of Pain |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PAIN5012 Concepts of Pain |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PAIN5013 Musculoskeletal Pain |
6 | Semester 1 |
|
| PAIN5014 Cancer Pain |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5015 Pharmacology of Pain Medicine |
6 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment |
Semester 1 |
| PAIN5016 Psychological Approaches in Pain Mgmt |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5017 Disability and Pain Rehabilitation |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5018 Pain in Children |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PAIN5020 Complementary Therapies: Pain Management |
6 |
Note: Department permission required for enrolment |
Semester 1 |
| PMED5051 Leadership in Medicine |
6 | Semester 2 |
|
| PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses |
6 | N BSTA5011 |
Semester 1 |
| PUBH5117 Communicable Disease Control |
6 | P PUBH5010 (or equivalent) |
Semester 2 |
Further enquiries
Postgraduate Administrative Officer
Ph: +61 2 9845 3370
Fax: +61 2 9845 3389
Email:
Website:sydney.edu.au/medicine/chw/
Units of study descriptions for 2012
Part 1
Group A - offered in odd years
PAED5004 Independent Studies
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Morris, Dr Joceline Branson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: face to face meetings with supervisor Assumed knowledge: Students negotiate with the Course Coordinator to agree on suitability of nominated supervisor and proposed project. Assessment: mid semester progress report with final report submission online Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: A candidate must have obtained approval from the Course Coordinator to enrol in this unit of study.
Candidates may contract to undertake independent studies or research in a particular field of interest in paediatrics. Students undertaking a research project will be required to nominate an appropriate supervisor relevant to their field of research. The project is negotiated with your supervisor and based on a written Learning Contract which you will provide to the unit coordinator. Your supervisor will help you select a topic and define the research questions. You are encouraged to select a project that is directly relevant to your own work setting. As part of the Independent Study you will develop your own learning outcomes. The project can be undertaken in either Semester One or Two (6 credit points). You will produce a scholarly piece of work that is suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
PMED5100 Paediatric Infectious Diseases
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Cheryl Jones, Dr Dianne Campbell, Dr Anne Morris Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x2000-3000 word project (or its equivalent) (40%), MCQ exam (10%), and participation in online discussion forum (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit investigates in-depth the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of paediatric infectious diseases. Modules of study within this unit will include: worldwide patterns of infectious disease, including assessment of scope of problem and burden of disease; common paediatric infectious diseases; current evidenced based practice for diagnosis and treatment of common childhood infectious diseases; infectious diseases in special populations such as immunocompromised, malnourished and indigenous populations; issues of policy and public health; emerging infectious diseases in paediatric settings.
PMED5102 Paediatric Nutrition and Obesity
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Louise Baur, Dr Anne Morris Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x1000word essay (40%), MCQ exam (10%), and participation in online forum (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit examines the worldwide status and trends in child and adolescent obesity, incorporating a focus on paediatric nutrition. It explores the determinants, clinical assessment, medical complications, management and prevention of this important public health problem. There is a close integration of epidemiology, basic science and best available evidence in management and prevention into clinically based scenarios. Our aim is to provide you with a broad knowledge base and ability to apply scientific theory and clinical evidence to the diagnosis and management of obesity in childhood. This will include grounding in the complex social, cultural and environmental factors contributing to the continuance of childhood obesity throughout the world.
PMED5103 Paediatric Gastroenterology
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Shoma Dutt Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x2000word project (or its equivalent) (40%), MCQ exam (10%), and participation in online discussion forum (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit closely examines current principle and practice of paediatric gastroenterology. Modules of study within this unit will include: worldwide patterns of paediatric gastroenterological disorders; disorders of oesophagus and stomach, focusing on evidence based evaluation and treatment of Gastroesophageal reflux, helicobacter disease; evidence based evaluation and treatment of acute and chronic liver disease, and pancreatic disorders; evidence based evaluation and treatment of enteropathies; recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases; emerging paediatric gastroenterological disorders.
Group B - offered in even years
PAED5000 Neonatal Medicine
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr John Sinn, Dr Anne Morris Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x1000word essay (35%), MCQ exam (15%), and participation in online forum (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: This unit of study is only offered in even numbered years
This unit of study will cover the latest advances in critical care of the newborn. Modules of study will include perinatal medicine, neonatal resuscitation and newborn transport. The unit will explore the clinical manifestations of important respiratory, cardiac, metabolic and neurological disorders presenting in the newborn. Changing patterns of neuro-developmental outcome in preterm and critically unwell neonates will be examined. The latest neonatal resuscitation guidelines will be critically appraised and current evidence for best practice in critical care of the newborn will be applied to a series of clinical scenarios involving neonatal common and life-threatening conditions. This unit is designed to encompass a range of likely neonatal clinical scenarios and disorders which clinicians may face in rural, remote, primary and tertiary level settings.
PAED5001 Paediatric Immunisation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Dianne Campbell, Dr Anne Morris Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x1000wd essays (40%), MCQ exam (10%) and participation in online discussion forum (50%). Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit of study will cover the important and latest aspects of immunisation in childhood. Basic science aspects covered will include the immunology of immunisation, the process of development of new vaccines and latest research developments in new vaccines. The clinical features of the currently vaccine preventable conditions of childhood will be covered through clinical scenarios, integrating the epidemiology, basic science and current immunisation schedule.
Immunisation in special populations and situations will be covered and the social and philosophical implications of immunisation will be explored.
Immunisation in special populations and situations will be covered and the social and philosophical implications of immunisation will be explored.
PAED5002 Adolescent Medicine
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Morris Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2 x 1000word project (or its equivalent) (50%), and participation in online discussion forum (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: This unit of study is only available in even numbered years
This unit examines the medical and psychosocial issues affecting the adolescent age group. Modules include eating disorders, chronic illness, drugs and alcohol and adolescent gynaecology, sexual health and adolescent mental health. There will be a focus on the approach to the adolescent patient, the clinical issues related to the most commonly encountered diseases affecting adolescents as well as consideration of public health policy as it relates to adolescents.
PAED5003 General and Developmental Paediatrics
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Morris, Dr Joceline Branson Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks)
engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case
scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular
access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x 1000 word project (or its equivalent) (50%) and participation in online discussion forum (50%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: The unit of study is on offer in even numbered years
This unit examines some of the common medical and developmental conditions encountered in paediatric practice. There will be a focus on the approach to the child with a developmental disability and behavioural disorders, as well as latest evidence for diagnosis, investigation, prognosis and management of other common and important medical conditions. Specific modules include developmental disability, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, child protection, enuresis, feeding disorders of infancy and common neurological and renal conditions.
PAED5004 Independent Studies
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Morris, Dr Joceline Branson Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: face to face meetings with supervisor Assumed knowledge: Students negotiate with the Course Coordinator to agree on suitability of nominated supervisor and proposed project. Assessment: mid semester progress report with final report submission online Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: A candidate must have obtained approval from the Course Coordinator to enrol in this unit of study.
Candidates may contract to undertake independent studies or research in a particular field of interest in paediatrics. Students undertaking a research project will be required to nominate an appropriate supervisor relevant to their field of research. The project is negotiated with your supervisor and based on a written Learning Contract which you will provide to the unit coordinator. Your supervisor will help you select a topic and define the research questions. You are encouraged to select a project that is directly relevant to your own work setting. As part of the Independent Study you will develop your own learning outcomes. The project can be undertaken in either Semester One or Two (6 credit points). You will produce a scholarly piece of work that is suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
PMED5101 Paediatric Asthma and Allergy
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anne Morris, Dr Dianne Campbell Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in case-based learning, incl. online discussion of case scenarios, self-directed case reviews and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 2x1000word essay (40%), MCQ exam (10%), and participation in online forum (50%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: This unit of study is only available in even numbered years
This unit examines the worldwide status and trends in child and adolescent asthma and allergic disease. It explores the determinants, clinical assessment, medical complications, management and prevention of these important public health problems. Our aim is to inspect the current clinical practice and principles that underlie the diagnosis and management of paediatric asthma and allergic disorders. There is a close integration of epidemiology; basic science and best available evidence in management that are revealed through clinically based scenarios. Important cutting edge and controversial concepts and treatments are explored.
Part 2
CEPI5200 Quality and Safety in Health Care
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Professor Merrilyn Walton, Professor George Rubin Session: Semester 1 Classes: offered online Assumed knowledge: clinical experience strongly recommended Assessment: online participation (40%) and 1x4500word assignment (60%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
The unit has six major content areas delivered as four modules; Module 1 Understanding Q&S in Healthcare; Module 2 Professional and ethical practice; Module 3 Clinical governance; Module 4 Improving Healthcare. At the end of the unit students will: understand the background to quality and safety in health care, from Australian and international perspectives; understand the nature of health care error including the methods of error detection and monitoring, and quality indicators; understand the role of good communication and other professional responsibilities in quality and safety in healthcare; have developed an understanding of clinical governance, accountability and systems management; have considered methods for improving healthcare such as getting research into practice, clinical practice guidelines and clinical practice improvement. This unit consists of online discussions and activities based around key provided readings and other resources.
Textbooks
Online readings and other learning resources will be provided.
PAIN5001 Introduction to Pain Management
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Michael Nicholas Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignment/s or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
To introduce participants to the problem of pain within a multidisciplinary team framework and the extent of the problem in the community. The unit provides an overview of historical and philosophical models of pain and its management methods over time. Current classifications of pain are examined and the interrelationship between various paradigms of health and illness are outlined. Participants also begin to consider the principles of research design and biostatistics, and explore professional and ethical issues.
PAIN5002 Pain Mechanisms and Contributors
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Michael Nicholas and Professor Janet Keast Session: Semester 1b,Semester 2b Classes: Online, approximately 20 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignment/s or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
To introduce and develop participants understanding about the basic neuroscience of pain and the interrelationship between psychological, physiological and environmental processes in pain. Neuro-anatomical, physiological, pharmacological, and biochemical mechanisms involved in nociception, including peripheral and central sensitisation are discussed. Theoretical bases are introduced and the ways in which psychological and environmental factors modify or maintain pain perception and behaviour are explored.
PAIN5003 Pain Treatment and Management Principles
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Charles Brooker Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignment/s or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
To introduce participants to the core principles of pain assessment, treatment and management. Participants consider the biopsychosocial model and the scientific basis for assessment, diagnosis and treatment. They explore principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, together with routes of drug administration. The role of physiotherapy and rehabilitation management, and the use of procedures such as neural blockade, simulation techniques and surgery are also considered.
PAIN5004 Pain Conditions
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Philip Siddall Session: Semester 1b,Semester 2b Classes: On line, approximately 20 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignment/s or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
The unit provides an introduction to a range of pain conditions. Participants are encouraged to integrate and apply previous learning to specific pain problems, acute, chronic and cancer pain. Recent advances in pain relief techniques are introduced and specific issues in the management of pain in children and older people are considered.
PAIN5005 Orofacial Pain
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Russell Vickers Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%) 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Orofacial pain is frequently reported in the general population and is severe. It encompasses several conditions that involve medical, dental and psychological variables such as neuralgia, neuropathic pain, and temporomandibular disorder and related headache syndromes. The purpose of this unit is to explore the principles of orofacial pain mechanisms, symptomatology and treatments. Topics include orofacial pain assessment, diagnostic tests including local anaesthetic blocks, specific pharmacology for orofacial pain, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches.
PAIN5006 Independent Studies in Pain
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Ms Grace Tague Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: learning contract (10%), 5000 word written assignments (or equivalent) (90%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
In this unit participants undertake independent study in a specific area of interest within the field of pain management. The learning goals, methodology, resources and outcomes are negotiated with a supervisor via a learning contract. This negotiation process enables participants to tailor their learning to a specific need and/or area of interest around a clinical, scientific, educational, managerial or administrative topic.
PAIN5010 Clinical Aspects of Neurobiology
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Philip Siddall Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit aims to build on information acquired from previous units and explore in more detail the assessment, mechanisms and management of several pain conditions. In addition, it aims to explore the concepts, neurobiology and clinical application of two approaches to pain management (lesioning and stimulation analgesia) as well as the placebo effects.
PAIN5011 Psychology of Pain
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sarah Overton Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit aims to provide a comprehensive study of current psychological perspectives and research on the experience and impact of pain. Theoretical models are introduced and the ways in which psychological processes might modify and/or maintain pain experience are explored. The processes explored include the roles of attention, learning, affect/mood, beliefs, self-talk, coping strategies, and interactions with environmental factors such as significant others, social contingencies and contexts (including culture, gender, workplace, etc.). Attention is given to incorporating psychosocial assessment within a biopsychosocial framework.
PAIN5012 Concepts of Pain
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Mr Timothy Austin Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit provides an overview of different aspects of pain. These aspects include philosophical, narrative, placebo, evolutionary and biopyschosocial approaches to understanding pain. The aim is to deepen students' appreciation of the context in which pain management takes place.
PAIN5013 Musculoskeletal Pain
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Mr Damien Finniss Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit explores aspects of the assessment and management of musculoskeletal pain. Topics include anatomical/physiological mechanisms, medical and non-medical assessment and management, together with regional pain syndromes.
PAIN5014 Cancer Pain
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Ghauri Aggarwal Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit addresses the biopsychosocial assessment and management of pain associated with cancer. Recent advances in pain relief techniques including delivery systems for patient control of pain are reviewed, together with appropriate assessment and treatment approaches for psychological factors such as depression, grief and stress.
PAIN5015 Pharmacology of Pain Medicine
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Beata Bajorek and Dr Christopher Vaughan Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit introduces students to the preclinical pharmacology of analgesic drugs. The ethics in laboratory research, drug testing models, and some of the confounding factors in such research are also covered.
PAIN5016 Psychological Approaches in Pain Mgmt
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Sarah Overton Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit is primarily focused on the influence of psychological variables in the implementation of all treatments, both somatic and psychological. The bio-psychosocial model of chronic pain is revisited and the implications for interdisciplinary interventions are discussed. The evidence for interventions based on psychological principles is critically examined and implementation of these interventions in a range of clinical settings is explored.
PAIN5017 Disability and Pain Rehabilitation
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Mr Matthew Forster Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
The interface between pain assessment and treatment and the system of compensation for workplace-related injury and disability is the focus of this subject. Accordingly the role of pain management in rehabilitation following occupational injury or illness is addressed, together with the medical, legal, insurer, employer, trade union and rehabilitation provider perspectives and roles in providing protection, advocacy, compensation and treatment. Legislative and attitudinal changes in the social environment relating to occupational injury and treatment are considered together with challenges for pain management arising from dysfunction in the system of rehabilitation following injury.
PAIN5018 Pain in Children
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Jane Thomas Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit provides an opportunity for students to understand the developmental physiology and psychology of infants and children, together with the pharmacology (particularly with reference to dose and route of administration) of pain management in children. Particular attention is given to management of acute pain in children, both post-operative and procedure-related pain, to methods of pain assessment in children of various ages, to non-pharmacological pain management strategies and to chronic pain presentations in children.
PAIN5020 Complementary Therapies: Pain Management
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Russell Vickers Session: Semester 1 Classes: Online, approximately 10 hours of study per week (equals 140 hours in total) Assessment: participation in online discussion (20%), 4000-5000 word written assignments or equivalent (80%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
This unit explores complementary therapies that may accompany conventional medical approaches in the management of pain. The evidence base is discussed, as well as the implications, costs and side effects of these therapies. The historical basis of each therapy is considered, together with current knowledge about their application and potential interactions with conventional medicines and treatments. Topics include: acupuncture, herbalism, homeopathy, hypnosis and relaxation techniques, yoga and meditation, osteopathy and chiropractic.
PMED5051 Leadership in Medicine
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Mr Hudson Birden Session: Semester 2 Classes: Online. Students will spend approx 10 hours/week (x 13 weeks) engaging in online discussions, self-directed learning activities and literature appraisal. Regular access to an internet connected computer is vital. Assessment: 4 x 500 word assignments (20%), 2 x 1000 word essays (50%) and participation in online discussion forum (30%) Campus: Westmead Mode of delivery: On-line
This unit is an introduction to current concepts of leadership valuable to medical practice. Our focus will be on the personal skills and knowledge necessary for effective leaders in clinical practice and in the larger policy-setting realm. This unit is designed to introduce you to current concepts of leadership that will be valuable in the context of medical practice and to develop within you the personal skills and understanding necessary to be an effective leader in clinical practice and in the larger policy-setting realm.
PUBH5010 Epidemiology Methods and Uses
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Associate Professor Tim Driscoll Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1x 1hr lecture and 1x 2hr tutorial per week for 13 weeks - lectures and tutorials may be completed online Prohibitions: BSTA5011 Assessment: 1x 4page assignment (30%) and 1x 2.5hr open-book exam (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: Normal (lecture/lab/tutorial) Day or On-line
This unit provides students with core skills in epidemiology, particularly the ability to critically appraise public health and clinical epidemiological research literature. This unit covers: study types; measures of frequency and association; measurement bias; confounding/effect modification; randomized trials; systematic reviews; screening and test evaluation; infectious disease outbreaks; measuring public health impact and use and interpretation of population health data. It is expected that students spend an additional 2-3 hours preparing for their tutorials.
Textbooks
Webb, PW. Bain, CJ. and Pirozzo, SL. Essential Epidemiology: An Introduction for Students and Health Professionals Second Edition: Cambridge University Press 2011.
PUBH5117 Communicable Disease Control
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Anna Ralph Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 x 2hr online lecture and 2hrs online group discussion per week for 12 weeks Prerequisites: PUBH5010 (or equivalent) Assessment: online discussion and other online activities (20%), online quiz (10%), and 2 x 2000 word written assignments (70%) Campus: Camperdown/Darlington Mode of delivery: On-line
This fully online unit aims to provide students with an understanding of the burden of communicable diseases of public health significance in Australia, as well as the biology, epidemiology and surveillance for and control of those communicable diseases. By the end of this unit, the student will have the theoretical background to take up a position as a member of a Communicable Diseases section of a Commonwealth or State Health Department or Public Health Unit. It is expected that the students undertake an extra hour per week of reading, research and preparation for discussion.
Textbooks
Recommended: Heymann. David L. (2008): Control of communicable diseases manual. American Public Health Association. Other readings provided on the course eLearning site.