Course Details
Contact(s):
for more information or to be notified when applications are open.
Brief Description
Research that includes the voices of patients and the public leads to more meaningful and impactful outcomes. This 6-week, Level 9 micro-credential offers a practical introduction to participatory health research (PHR) and public and patient involvement (PPI) in health and social care.
You will explore the values and principles that underpin participatory approaches and learn how to plan and deliver inclusive research with non-academic partners.
The module also addresses ethics, global PPI practice, and strategies for collaborative design and dissemination.
Whether you are supporting research in a professional role or undertaking postgraduate study, this module is ideal if you are looking for a practical, practice-based foundation in participatory research.
This module is associated with the Professional Diploma in Participatory Health Research. It can be taken as a standalone University Certificate of Study (UCOS) module or as part of a pathway to a larger award.
During this module, you will:
Learn practical skills to engage non-academic partners in research, from proposal to dissemination
Explore global approaches to PPI and how participatory research translates evidence into action
Build confidence in developing agreements and navigating challenges in research partnerships
Gain practical skills in co-designing projects with patients, communities or service users
Key Information
This micro-credential will be delivered online over 12 weeks.
You will be assessed using continuous skill-based assignments provided by your lecturer and tutor with no final exam.
Part-time considerations:     
Designed for working professionals    
Recorded lectures    
Additional prep and group work time  
Timetable provided after registration
To help you to be successful on this course:
Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree ( Level 8) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2) in a health-related or other relevant discipline.
If applicants have a lower result or an unrelated qualification, they may be considered on a case-by-case basis if they can provide evidence of 5 or more years of relevant work experience (Recognised Prior Learning).
Guidelines for your applications:
When applying, be sure to include the Module Code BM5053. We can’t process your application without it. You can apply for more than one module using the same application.
By applying, you confirm that you meet the entry requirements and can take part in the course and its assessments.
This course will go ahead if it meets minimum enrolment number.
Completing this module doesn’t guarantee you a place in a full programme. If you want to apply for a full programme, you must meet the specific entry requirements for that programme.
EU - €800
Non EU - €1,200
Further information on fees and payment of fees is available from the website. All fee related queries should be directed to the Student Fees Office (Phone: +353 61 213 007 or email student.fees.office@ul.ie).
Other funding
Find further information on funding and scholarships.
This micro-credential can lead to the following sectors and careers:
Health and social care professionals involved in patient-led research
Researchers and academics seeking to embed inclusive practice
Community workers and advocates working on collaborative projects
Progression to further study or participatory research in health, wellbeing, or social care
Industry PPI managers seeking skills to meaningfully engage with patients and the public
Graduate and Professional Studies
+353 (0)61 234377
¾ÅÉ«ÊÓÆµ, Limerick, Ireland