Courses at University of East Anglia In partnership with Suffolk Drug Action Team and the University of East Anglia NORCAS is working to provide top quality academic qualifications in Drug and Alcohol work. The courses are suitable for those with a professional interest in understanding substance misuse. We are running a highly successful 10 credit introductory course called "Drug Use in Context" From January '05 to April '06 we will be running our first certificate course - this is work in progress but some details appear below. For more information on these course contact UEA school of Continuing Education on 01603 593266, or follow the Hyperlink above. Certificate in Substance Use [60 credits level one] - further details to be posted shortly. Draft outline Introduction The certificate course is aimed at professionals who come into contact with substance use and misuse as part of their work and who wish to deepen their understanding of the major issues. It is also suitable for those who wish to go on to further training with a view to working in the drug and alcohol field. If currently working in this area, prospective students should be willing to look at their current practice and be willing to examine their roles and develop working practices as a result of the learning from the course. Students should expect to spend 4-6 hours a week on private study. This may include such activities as reading, reflection, journal keeping and completing assignments. Duration The curse consists of 120 hours tutor contact time [20 x 6 hour days] and a further 380 hours private study. Aim The course aims to provide an in-depth understanding of substance use and its implications. Students will develop knowledge and self-awareness around drugs and alcohol in order to respond appropriately and confidently to drug use and drug users with an emphasis on the reduction of harm to individuals and communities. Teaching Methods A variety of approaches will be used including: structured and unstructured group work; skills practice; presentations; guest speakers; role play; tutorials; and written analysis and reflection. There will also be an expectation that students will keep a learning journal which will be integral to the assessment process. Course Structure The course will split into four modules - one to be taught per term. The details of the modules are as follows: MODULE ONE - Foundation Aim To give students a solid grounding in the context in which current thought surrounding drugs issues operates. Module content Introduction Terminology and definitions History and legality Mythology, discrimination and stigma Global context The principles and practicalities of a harm reduction approach Learning outcomes Students will be able to demonstrate: An ability to define and use terminology accurately An understanding of the history of drug use and attempts to legislate around drug issues An awareness of the global context in which drug use occurs An ability to express the principles of harm reduction as a response to drug use and how such principles can be put into practice Developing self awareness including an insight into their own prejudices, boundaries and limitations MODULE TWO - The Substances Aim To give students a working knowledge of the main psychoactive substances, their use, effects and the possible complications Module content Stimulant drugs Depressant drugs Hallucinogenic drugs Other drugs including over-the-counter and prescription medication Poly-drug use Psychopharmacology Methods of administration Factors contributing to effects, risks and the development of tolerance and dependency Current and past trends Risks Learning outcomes Students will be able to demonstrate: An in depth knowledge of psychoactive substances, their effects and uses An appreciation of the various physical, mental and social risks that may be caused by the use of these substances An awareness of the changing trends in the use of these substances in the UK and within a European and global context An understanding of the various routes of administration including the injecting process An overview of the psychopharmacological processes behind the development of craving, dependency and tolerance MODULE THREE- Intervention Aim To give students an understanding of the modalities of intervention operating in the field and the specific treatments and services available. Module content Treatment modalities Models of service Assessment and referral Pharmacological interventions Non- pharmacological interventions Criminal justice approaches Screening and non-specialist settings Learning outcomes Students will be able to demonstrate: Increased understanding of the variety of approaches to problematic drug use An overview of the fields of assessment and how these may be used to determine the appropriateness of the intervention A working knowledge of the current treatments being used in the field, both clinical and non-clinical An understanding of referral procedures to and from intervention services A sound appreciation of how this knowledge can underpin and enhance their current professional practice MODULE FOUR - The Bigger Picture Aim To give students an awareness of current issues in the field, broadening further their understanding of the complex nature of drug using behaviour and our response to this phenomenon. Module Content Prevention Strategies The political landscape and current emphasis User involvement issues Future developments Learning outcomes Students will be able to demonstrate: An ability to outline current UK strategy and the political landscape that informs drug policy An understanding of preventative strategies and latest research on their effectiveness An awareness of the latest research and possible developments in the field including wider recognition of diversity and user involvement in service and policy development An overview of differing approaches and attitudes to drug use and treatment in other countries Course assessment Students will be required to complete a 3000 word assignment for each course module. In addition student will need to produce evidence of relating the course work to their current professional practice by the keeping of a course learning log. This will be seen by the tutors 3 times during the course of the study and will form the basis of tutorials. For more information contact NORCAS Training and Consultancy Service at or telephone 01603 621116 NORCAS - a leading provider of drug and alcohol services in East Anglia. Our service is multi-disciplinary, professional, non-discriminatory and non-judgemental Everyone is treated as an individual: what we offer depends on each client's needs Website conceptualised and built by On1.com