Gemma Sinead Ryan, Senior Lecturer in Health (Nursing) at the University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL)

Online learning can be daunting for many, working with technology and studying alone are frequently discussed as both weaknesses and challenges of online learning. I challenge you to take the opportunities and emphasise the strengths of online learning with the University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL).

In the current [and rapidly changing] international, social and economic climate, working with tutors and peers from across the globe, from different backgrounds, cultures & countries develops a wealth of knowledge and understanding. UDOL provides the opportunity for rich, flexible and diverse learning experiences that can enhance your practice; exposing you to a wealth of wisdom, through shared learning with peers and academic staff from a range of health and social care professions. This student centred, international and interprofessional approach to learning is a rare, yet valuable opportunity.

Take the opportunity to:
• Start your studies at three points during the year
• Improve your social and professional mobility with international & interprofessional learning experiences
• Learn with purpose, confidence and enthusiasm to confidently improve care quality and practices
• Improve and enhance your professional practice in the care of a diverse and changing society

Working in health and social care is a physical, emotional and lifelong profession. We are committed, compassionate and genuinely want to be the best at what we do; providing high quality and effective care to those we work with. In order to do this we need to remain current, employ evidence based practice and understand the processes by which to do this effectively. Our range of short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are designed to help you in your personal development, whether that’s for your CPD or as part of your training and development plan.

The strengths of online learning include:
• Study at the right time, the right place and for the right reasons
• Develop your practice while sharing your wealth of experiences with peers around the world
• Enhance your knowledge, skills and experience through learning opportunities that assimilate theoretical knowledge with your practice

We must strive to challenge, improve, innovate and have outward facing confidence in our essential role that can make an impact on so many lives. 
Embrace the opportunities and overcome the challenges, give yourself the confidence and competence to improve yourself, your practice and the health & social care sector. Take heed of the opportunities and strengths of online learning and let UDOL support your enhancement.

Deliver impact within your chosen healthcare profession through part-time, online learning. Our courses equip you with the skills, knowledge and support needed for a rewarding career in healthcare, allowing you to practice transferable skills effectively so you can focus on what matters: making a difference in people’s lives.

If you need additional qualifications to advance your career as a health and social care professional but are struggling to find the time to study, online learning offers you the flexibility to study alongside your work and personal commitments.

Our online degrees meet the same rigorous quality standards as on-campus courses, and our certificates make no reference to the mode of study, meaning no distinction between studying on-campus or online.
Health and social care courses to suit your needs

We offer a wide range of health and social care qualifications to suit all levels, ranging from short course to Masters Degrees. Subject areas include:
• Nursing Studies
• Perioperative Practice
• Clinical Supervision
• Dementia Care
• Integrative Health and Social Care
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapies
• Counselling Studies
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health
• Social Pedagogy
• Health Psychology
• Leadership and Management in Health and Social Care

Gemma Ryan is a Senior Lecturer in Health for University of Derby Online Learning as well as an honorary research fellow for Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, UK. Prior to this she has worked to help set up a college research centre at the University of Derby and was also a Senior Lecturer in Nursing. Gemma is a qualified teacher with QTLS/QTS and a registered adult nurse and recorded nurse teacher. Her experience includes post-16, work-based and higher education, research management, private and NHS healthcare (community, endoscopy, elderly care and surgical settings).

Visit our website at www.derby.ac.uk/care to try a free course taster and to learn more about our part-time, online courses. We are now accepting applications for September.