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Graduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health

Introduction

Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) was given an international consensus def­inition at the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in 1994. At its core is the promotion of healthy, voluntary and safe sexual and reproductive choices for individuals and couples, including decisions on family size and timing of marriage, that are fundamental to human well-being. Sexual­ity and reproduction are vital aspects of personal identity and key to creating fulfilling personal and social relationships within diverse cultural contexts.

SRH does not only involve the reproductive years but emphasizes the need for a life-cycle approach to health. It touches on sensitive, yet important, issues for individuals, couples and communities, such as sexuality, gender discrimi­nation and male/female power relations. Attainment of SRH depends vitally on the protection of reproductive rights, a set of long-standing accepted norms found in various internationally agreed human rights instruments.

The current situation

A lack of access to SRH is a major public health concern, especially in develop­ing countries. For example, death and disability due to SRH accounted for 18 percent of the total disease burden globally and 32 percent of the disease burden among women of reproductive age (15–44) in 2005

Aims of the Course

1.      The College of Venereal Disease Prevention has adopted the goal of providing skill training and contributing to the universal access to reproduc­tive health by 2015 as part of its framework for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Sexual and reproductive health is crucial for the achievement of the MDGs.

2.      To develop the capacity of students to fulfill their responsibilities within management positions in health and health-related organisations.

3.      To provide and update students with information and skills in current reproductive and sexual health issues. In addition to improving knowledge and understanding of Access to family planning services; safe motherhood; prevention efforts as well as treatment of sexual transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS; and the elimination of gender violence.

The programme will also provide skills directly related to development management and communication for developing countries. It will increase the ability to give safe, compassionate and holistic care.

Career destinations

Hospitals, management, advocacy and policy positions in healthcare institutions, sexual & reproductive health departments, international development agencies, government health departments, consultancy firms, charity and civil society organisations.

Who will benefit from this course?

It is particularly aimed at mid-management professionals from reproductive health, sexual health, health promotion & education and related areas who wish to improve their conceptual and operational kills in reproductive health management.  The course is also suitable for students wishing to enter into this important field in healthcare.

Course Credits & Level

This course carries 120 academic credits. The course is studied and assessed at level 6 of the UK qualifications scale (i.e. final year of a UK degree course).

Modules Studied

1.        Principles of Reproductive Health (15 credits)

2.        Prevention strategies and Management of Sexually Transmitted Infections (15 credits)

3.        Gender in Reproductive Health (15 credits)

4.        Family planning promotion and counselling(15 credits)

5.        Research Methods (15 credits)

6.        Dissertation (45 credits)

Assessment

Assessment is by way of continuous essays and written assignments, group work, presentations and research project.

Duration

1 year (by full-time study)

Tuition Fees

£4,250

Entry Requirements

Applicants should have:-

a)     Completed a degree course from an accredited university; or

b)     Completed an HND/HND course (or equivalent qualification) at an accredited institution; or

c)      Worked in management or supervisory level in a mental health, healthcare or health promotion capacity for 2 years or more; or

d)     Not met the requirements above, but are 25 years with 3 or more years management experience; and

All applicants must meet the English Language requirements below.

English Language Requirements

To be considered for admission, you must show competence in spoken and written English, in addition to meeting the entry requirements above.

Commencement Date

September, January & May each year

 
©2006 College of Venereal Disease Prevention