Working with people with a diagnosis of personality disorder (degree and masters level) (HEAD353/APP709)

Develop effective capabilities in working with people labelled as ‘personality disordered’
CPD for healthcare professionals
Emotions - image courtesy of Shutterstock 324484541

Key features

This 20 credit module can be studied at degree or masters level and seeks to underpin mental health practice in working with people whose personality difficulties lead them to come into conflict with others, harm themselves or to be labelled as ‘personality disordered’. 

You will specifically address the base practical and theoretical elements required in the care and treatment of this challenging and often marginalised group of persons. 

The main aim of the module is to raise awareness and increase effective skills, attitudes and knowledge of evidence-based practice in working with this complex client group.

This module has been designed to develop evidence-based interventions in a range of settings and there will be a focus on reflective practice and workplace-based cases to ensure clinical relevance. 

Module code

HEAD353/APP709

Credits

20

FHEQ level

Level 6 – bachelors degree

Level 7 – masters degree

Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery in Plymouth

Emotions - image courtesy of Shutterstock 324484541

HEAD353 course details (degree level)

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:
  • critically analyse the concept of personality disorder and demonstrate a systematic understanding of its epidemiology
  • demonstrate a critical understanding of the definition and diagnosis of personality disorder within the context of current literature relating to personality disorder policy, practice and legislation
  • demonstrate critical understanding of collaborative and evidence-based risk assessment and effective management of people with a diagnosis of personality disorder
  • demonstrate a critical understanding of current treatment options and evidence base for treatment of specific personality disorders
  • demonstrate an ability to explore and reflect upon the students own personality, understanding and response to issues raised when working with this client group.
Assessment
The assessment for this module is a written case study.
(Please note that these assessment details are provisional – if you require further information please contact the module lead or the Professional Development Unit).

APP709 course details (masters level)

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:
  • provide an advanced critical analysis of the concept of personality disorder and demonstrate an in depth understanding of its epidemiology
  • demonstrate an advanced critical understanding of the definition and diagnosis of personality disorder within the context of current literature relating to personality disorder policy, practice and legislation
  • demonstrate an advanced critical understanding of collaborative and evidence based risk assessment and management of people with a diagnosis of personality disorder
  • demonstrate an advanced critical understanding of treatment options for specific personality disorders
  • demonstrate an advanced ability to explore and reflect upon your own personality, understanding and response to issues raised when working with this client group.
Assessment
The assessment for this module is a written case study.
(Please note that these assessment details are provisional – if you require further information please contact the module lead or the Professional Development Unit).

Admissions information

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
  • Application forms.
  • Change of name forms.
  • Pre-course information.
  • Downloadable guides.
  • Student card.
Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.

Module dates

22 (face to face), 29 January, 5, 19, 26 February and 5, 12, and 19 (face to face) March 2025.
(Occasionally delivery dates might be subject to change – always check with the module lead or Professional Development Unit).
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers.
In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date.
Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.

What programmes can these modules count towards?

The degree-level module can be studied as a standalone module or as an optional module towards the BSc (Hons) Professional Development in Mental Health and BSc (Hons) Professional Development in Health and Social Care .
The masters-level module can be studied as a standalone module, as a pathway specific optional module towards the MSc Advanced Clinical Practitioner in Mental Health or as an optional module towards some other MSc Advanced Professional Practice pathways .
For further information please contact the Professional Development Unit.

Entry requirements

These modules are open to applicants from a range of settings within health and social care as well as other agencies. To undertake these modules you must be:
  • currently working with clients with a diagnosis of personality disorder to enable you to meet the module outcomes
  • in possession of previous study at level 5 (Diploma of Higher Education) or a foundation degree to study the module at degree level
  • in possession of previous study at degree level to study the module at masters level.

Fees