CPD Understanding Addictions

Why is addiction a public health issue? This module explores how and why society perceives some forms of behaviour as addiction and not others. The different ways in which society attempts to manage the various forms of addiction; including a public health approach.

This module identifies the main explanations for addiction and addictive behaviour from a biopsychosocial perspective.You will assess different models of addiction, and the mediators and moderators of addiction.

Your studies will focus around drug and alcohol addiction as this constitutes the major public health risk. However, you will also consider other addictive behaviours, such as gambling.You will identify key risk factors for addiction, particularly the relationship between addiction and inequalities.

This course is currently undergoing its scheduled programme review, which may impact the advertised modules. Programme review is a standard part of the University’s approach to quality assurance and enhancement, enabling us to ensure that our courses remain up to date and maintain their high standard and relevancy.

Once the review is completed, this course website page will be updated to reflect any approved changes to the advertised course. These approved changes will also be communicated to those who apply for the course to ensure they wish to proceed with their application.

During this course, you will:

• evaluate the meaning of addiction
• examine historical and cultural perspectives
• study models of addiction, encompassing biological, social, cultural, psychological and economic aspects
• explore drug, alcohol, tobacco and gambling addiction
• evaluate addiction intelligence, from epidemiology to clinical assessment
• assess the impact of addiction on children, family and society
• study addiction, risk and inequalities

The course is delivered over approximately 12 weeks for one half day per week. It normally runs from September to January. Sessions include lectures, seminars and workshops.

This is based on classroom attendance one half day a week at LJMU. All classroom-based activities will be supported with additional online CANVAS (VLE) based activity and learning.

Qualification requirements

• Alternative qualifications considered
  • You will normally be expected to have a first degree in order to enrol on this course
  • Evidence of equivalent learning gained through work may also be considered if you lack the above qualifications.
  • The Programme Leader must also be satisfied that you have the potential to study successfully at Level 7 and will benefit from the programme
  • Consideration will be given for prior education and experience

To apply for this programme, you are required to complete an LJMU CPD application form. You will need to provide details of your qualifications and curent employment.

Please apply using the online application form selecting Postgraduate Taught from the Level of Entry drop down.

Assessment for Understanding Addictions will take the form of an essay and a 15 minute presentation.

This Continuing Professional Development course can be studied within the MSc Public Health (Addictions) award framework or as a single CPD.