An artistic graphic of the human brain.

Neuroscience

Micro-credential
Physiotherapy

Course details

The field of clinical neuroscience has expanded rapidly and opened new frontiers in our understanding of the nervous system – in particular, how it develops, ages and recovers from injury.

This module will develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of contemporary clinical neuroscience. Learners will apply this knowledge to their work with people with neurological conditions through clinical reasoning and a case-based approach. The module will focus primarily on neuroscience related to motor function and behaviour, and on the interplay with cognitive and sensory functions. 

This course is for healthcare professionals working in clinical neurology and/or neurological rehabilitation in hospital, community or private practice settings. Professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and nurses may apply for this course.

The programme will be delivered with online material for participants to access in their own time and prior to workshops/classes. This is followed by scheduled in-person workshops and classes in RCSI’s St Stephen's Green campus.

Students who successfully complete this module and pass the assessment will receive a certificate detailing the academic award and credits received. This is a postgraduate programme and those who complete this course will gain 10 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) at level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications (equivalent to level 7 on the European Framework of Qualifications).

Course leaders: Dr Ailish Malone, Professor Frances Horgan

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate advanced understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system motor and sensory functions. 
  2. Demonstrate critical understanding of current concepts of neuroplasticity, motor control and motor learning; and apply this knowledge to clinical practice.  
  3. Demonstrate critical understanding of pain neuroscience, and apply this knowledge to the assessment and management of pain for people with neurological conditions. 
  4. Explain the pathophysiology of disorders of tone; evaluate the impact of hypertonia on the control of sensorimotor function, activity and participation in people with neurological conditions; and apply this understanding to practice. 
  5. Analyse and explain the neuroscience and biomechanics of normal gait and balance, and critically evaluate gait and balance dysfunction in people with neurological conditions. 
  6. Explain the neuroscientific basis of cognitive and perceptual disorders following central nervous system injury, and demonstrate understanding of how they affect function.