Project design for research (ADV715/ADV715DL)
Develop research knowledge and skills to plan and design an appropriate research project related to your individual practice
CPD for healthcare professionals
Key features
This 20-credit masters-level module will enable you to explore the methodology and methods relevant to the development of a research project.
You'll learn how to define and refine a research question, select and appraise methodology, address ethical considerations, and select and appraise data collection and analysis techniques to formulate your own research proposal by the end of the module.
This module may be used as a standalone option as formal training in research methods to support personal fellowships, e.g., those offered by , PCAFs and internship schemes.
Module code
ADV715 / ADV715DL
Credits
20
FHEQ level
Level 7 ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ masters degree
Location
Blended learning approach with face-to-face delivery at ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ or via distance learning
Course details
At the end of the module you will be able to:
- conduct an advanced literature review and write a critical and analytical review of relevant related research literature
- define and refine a research question appropriate to the award title and the literature
- identify and justify appropriate research design, methods and analysis techniques for your proposed research
- outline and discuss critically ethical issues for the proposed research
- formulate and critically discuss a research proposal in line with the above outcomes.
Assessment
The assessment for this module is a 4,000-word research proposal inclusive of a literature review, methodology, aim and objectives, method, anticipated results and an additional considerations section relevant to the proposed research.
The assessment for this module is a 4,000-word research proposal inclusive of a literature review, methodology, aim and objectives, method, anticipated results and an additional considerations section relevant to the proposed research.
Module dates
ADV715/ADV715DL
Delivery 1
Provisional dates for 2026-27: 6, 7 October, 9, 10, 11 November 2026
Provisional dates for 2026-27: 6, 7 October, 9, 10, 11 November 2026
Delivery 2
Provisional dates for 2026-27: 11, 12 January, 15, 16, 17 February 2027
Provisional dates for 2026-27: 11, 12 January, 15, 16, 17 February 2027
(Occasionally, delivery dates might be subject to change ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ always check with the module lead or Professional Development Unit.)
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers. If numbers are low, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date. Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ for further information, please contact the Professional Development Unit.
The module is a core module for all
pathways of the
MSc Advanced Professional Practice programme within the School of Health Professions and the
MClinRes Clinical Research programme.
Admissions information
Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
- Application forms.
- Change of name forms.
- Pre-course information.
- Downloadable guides.
- Student card.
Visit
Professional Development Unit (PDU) admissions for full details.
Project design for research ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ distance learning (ADV715DL)
It is also possible to undertake this module via distance learning. Module content is the same as the taught version but will be delivered by webinars, interactive teaching resources, Skype tutorials and other digital learning tools.
For further information on the distance learning module please contact the Professional Development Unit or module lead.
Entry requirements
To be considered for a place on this module:
- You must have previously studied to graduate level.
- You must be a health or social care professional enrolled on the MSc Advanced Professional Practice (Health and Social Care Professions) programme or one of the pathways within the School of Health Professions.
You'll be considered and advised individually (where required) by the programme team and Professional Development Unit.
Please contact the PDU or programme lead if you have any queries regarding your situation.
Fees and funding
Fees
Please see our professional development module fees page.
Funding
Funding for this module may be available through your employing trust. To apply please contact your TrustÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s Educational Co-ordinator who will guide you through the application process.
If you work in the private, independent and voluntary sector, please contact your employer who will advise you.
Module lead
The module lead is Dr Asma Zahidi
Please see our professional development module fees page.
Funding
Funding for this module may be available through your employing trust. To apply please contact your TrustÂÌñ»»ÆÞ™s Educational Co-ordinator who will guide you through the application process.
If you work in the private, independent and voluntary sector, please contact your employer who will advise you.
Module lead
The module lead is Dr Asma Zahidi
You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries
Prospective student enquiries:
Email: PDUAdmissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Phone: +44 1752 586951
Current student enquiries:
Email: pdu@plymouth.ac.uk
Professional Development Unit, Floor 9, InterCity Place, Faculty of Health, ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ, ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ PL4 6AB
Monday ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“ Thursday 08:30ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“17:00 and Friday 08:30ÂÌñ»»ÆÞ“16:30