MSc in Surgical Science and Practice

Student four. This student takes all six taught modules in year one and carries out the research project in year two. This pattern of study is rare, but can work for students in some limited circumstances such as (i) ability to work part-time over the first year of the course, (ii) ability to take a sabbatical or extended study leave for part or all of the first year or (iii) clinicians with a large degree of control over their own schedule, perhaps because they run an independent clinical practice. 

Periods of leave from study. In certain circumstances it is possible to take a period of leave from the programme where there are clear grounds for doing so.  For example, a student might complete the taught modules in two years, be granted a period of study leave for a year to care for a new-born, then return to carry out the supervised research project in a final year.  The student would be counted as having been enrolled in the course for three years, although chronologically the student would take four years (including the period of leave). 

Learning during the taught modules 

The taught week of each of the six modules is full-time for five days and is an intense, immersive in-person learning experience.  Teaching modalities include seminar style faculty-led talks, student group work, class discussions, practical skill development activities, guest lectures and informal interaction with tutors and lecturers after the teaching sessions and over lunch.  

The taught weeks include practical activities to develop skills at University facilities, such as the Simulation Centre at the University-affiliated John Radcliffe Hospital. Optional evening social activities are organised by students. 

Students on the Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Patient Safety and Quality Improvement attend some of the MSc modules, in particular the Quality Improvement Science and Systems Analysis and Human Factors, Teamwork, and Communication modules. PGCert students have a range of backgrounds including nurses, allied healthcare professionals and managers as well as doctors. This mix reflects the healthcare workplace and enriches classroom discussion. 

Prior to the taught week. In the four weeks running up to each taught week you will access the module’s dedicated virtual learning environment (VLE) which contains materials for guided preparatory study in the run up to the in-person taught week.  This preparatory study requires 4-6 hours per week for four weeks and enables you to get the most from the in-person week. 

Following the taught week. In the five weeks following each taught week you will further explore the topics covered in the module through wider reading, research and guided activities requiring 10-15 hours per week over this five week period.  Your focus during this period is partly guided by the recommendations of the module faculty and partly self-directed as you explore areas of particular interest and relevance to you in more depth. At the end of these five weeks you submit your written assignment.  Most module assignments involve applying what you have learned to your work setting, offering an opportunity to test theory against practice.  You will receive written feedback on your assignment, supporting development of your academic writing skills over the course. 

Module virtual learning environments. Each module has a dedicated website or virtual learning environment. As well as preparatory materials for the weeks leading up to the module, the website hosts presentations given over the taught week and supplementary materials.  Most of the faculty-led teaching sessions are recorded, and the website gives exclusive access to these recordings to the students attending that week. 

Oxford’s Bodleian Library. The University of Oxford’s system of libraries is a valuable resource for our students. As well as access to virtually every published information source and journal, specialised Librarians give personalised support in finding what you need and in learning how to use research databases. And for the times you are in Oxford, your University Card gives you access to the historic library buildings themselves – a wonderful place to study. 

Optional additional learning courses. The University has a range of learning opportunities for students enrolled on postgraduate courses. Examples include information search strategies, refreshers on academic writing skills and language courses for non-native English speakers. Learning formats include guides, on-demand video tutorials and live short-courses, both in-person and online. 

Learning during the final year research project 

Choosing your topic. Defining a research question, identifying relevant conceptual models and best-fit research methods is in itself a significant learning experience.  You will develop your proposed area of research through discussions with course faculty and the Course Director, as well as colleagues in your organisation if it is a work-based project.  Alongside this you will conduct targeted literature searches to understand what is known, and not known, about the topic. 

Personalised training. The University has a range of learning opportunities for students carrying out research.  Examples include information search strategies, how to design and conduct a systematic review, how to use interview techniques in qualitative research. Learning formats include guides, on-demand video tutorials and live short-courses, both in-person and online. Many of these courses are available at no additional cost for our students. 

Bodleian Library and Librarians. In addition to the benefits described in the Taught Modules section, University of Oxford librarians offer specific support to students carrying out research, such as designing a systematic review.  

Research supervisor. Your supervisor will have the specialised expertise to support you in your chosen area of research.  They will help you refine your research plan, respond to questions and challenges, and offer feedback as you draft your dissertation. 

Learning enrichment during your time with the University 

Throughout your time at Oxford University, you are able to draw on a range of learning support resources.  In addition to those described in the preceding sections on learning during the taught modules and during your final year research project, your learning is enriched through:  

Academic supervisor. Throughout your time on the course you will have an academic supervisor.  Your supervisor is available when needed for advice and guidance.  Besides responding to ad hoc requests, your supervisor will check in with you periodically offering a perspective on your academic progress and offering suggestions to help you maximise your opportunities for learning, development and building connections during your time at the University. 

College membership.  s a full member of the University of Oxford, you are also a member of an Oxford College. College life is an integral and unique part of the academic experience, making you part of a community of fellow students, scholars, academics and researchers with whom you can eat, discuss ideas, find common interests and often, build lifelong connections and friendships.  Some will share a healthcare background while others will have entirely different academic interests.  Colleges act as interdisciplinary melting pots.  The most interesting new ideas and initiatives often emerge from interactions at the boundaries of different disciplines. 

College tutor. As part of your College membership, you will have a College tutor with whom you will meet periodically, typically arranged during your stays in Oxford for the taught modules. The College tutor’s role is to support your overall well-being and help you get the most from your time at the university and as a member of the College. 

Assessment 

Module assignments. Each module is assessed through a written assignment. Assignments are designed to be as relevant and practical as possible, rather than a purely academic essay. The assignments assess understanding and ability to apply the content covered in the taught week. 

Dissertation based on your final year research project. A longer submission which will include a literature review of the area you worked in, a description of the methodology employed, your findings and a discussion of the findings in relation to your original research question and the work of others in the field.   

Weightings. The mark awarded for each module assignment makes up 1/9th of the final mark. In total the six taught modules assignments therefore make up 6/9th, two thirds, of the final mark. The dissertation is weighted as equivalent to three taught module assignments, so comprises 3/9th, one third, of the final mark. 

Final award. Successful completion of the six module assignments and the dissertation leads to the award of the University of Oxford MSc in Surgical Science and Practice. Excellent performance is recognised by Merit and Distinction designations.