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MSc Substance Use (Online)

Different course options

Online | University of Stirling | 24 months | SEP-25

Study mode

Online

Duration

24 months

Start date

SEP-25

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MSc - Master of Science

Subject areas

Substance Abuse: Awareness

Course type

Taught

Course Summary

Overview

The number of people affected by substance use in the UK is rising, and there's a distinct and growing need for professionals in this field who can contribute to research and support.

Our MSc Substance Use is ideal for current practitioners looking to develop/further their career in the field of substance use, as well as for individuals looking to build on their undergraduate studies. The online course syllabus explores how current practice and policy affects people who use drugs and/or alcohol, affected family members, practitioners, communities, and wider society.

You will have the opportunity to expand your knowledge on alcohol and drug theory, related policies, and interventions at local, national (Scotland and UK), and international levels. You will also learn about social research methods and how these are used to inform research in the field. Additionally, in recognition of the complexity of the needs of people who use substances, and the necessity of holistic support, the course offers a unique interdisciplinary focus through its suite of optional modules.

With elective modules in specialist subjects such as housing, public health, and rehabilitation and criminal justice work, you will develop a range of skills which will significantly enhance your confidence and employability in the field of substance use.

Course objectives

On successful completion of this course, you should be able to achieve the following objectives.

  • Evaluate and criticise theories and concepts expressed to account for substance use and assess how these have informed the development of substance use policies and intervention.
  • Apply critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis to forefront and current issues of UK and international policy approaches to substance use.
  • Appraise and critically evaluate major international and local approaches to practice with a focus on partnership working to address the complexity of substance-related problems.
  • Critically review approaches to working with different groups of substance affected individuals and families and the implications these may have on individuals and communities.
  • Use up-to-date evidence-based practice and policy research in the field of substance use and appraise information to formulate new understandings and creative solutions to the substance problem.
  • Demonstrate independent critical and reflective thinking in relation to the use of evidence in shaping and developing research.
  • Assess and reflect on the ethical underpinnings of research, policy and practice.

Modules

This module aims to give a critical overview of policy and practice responses to alcohol use. You’re provided with the opportunity to develop and enhance skills in critically reflecting on current issues and up-to-date evidence-based practice research in the field.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£4,150

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£6,050

Entry requirements

A minimum of a second class honours degree or equivalent. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with significant appropriate/relevant work/life experience are encouraged to apply.