Shutterstock: arts research image. Splashes of bright colours.

Key features

This 20 credit module focuses on the appraisal and synthesis of evidence from research literature and documentary sources. Participants gain hands-on experience using JBI software (SUMARI). You will learn more about the systematic review methodology, critically analyse research and text or opinion papers as part of the review process and use software to perform a meta-analysis and meta-synthesis of selected studies. 
This module may be used as a standalone option as formal training in research methods to support personal fellowships eg. those offered by , PCAFs and internship schemes. 
Module code 

MCR706

Credits 

20

FHEQ Level 

Level 7 – masters degree

Location 

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ 

Courtesy of Shutterstock. papers paperwork paper

MCR706 module details (masters level) 

Increase your knowledge of systematic review methodology to improve healthcare practice. 
You will consider valid evidence from research, the context in which care is delivered, client preference and professional judgment of the health professional. The core of evidence synthesis is the systematic review of the literature of a particular intervention, condition, or phenomenon of interest. 
With this module, you will gain further knowledge of the methods and tools used to appraise and synthesise evidence from research literature and documentary sources. 
This module will:
  • Examine the nature of evidence and its role in healthcare so you can better understand how evidence transfers into practice
  • enable you to gain hands-on experience using JBI software (SUMARI) to perform a meta-analysis and meta-synthesis of selected studies
  • analyse sample quantitative and qualitative research and expert opinion papers as part of the review process
  • provide you with the opportunity to register as a Joanna Briggs (JBI) accredited systematic reviewer upon successful completion. 
Upon completion, the learner will be expected to be able to: 
  • Evaluate the role of systematic reviews in improving healthcare practice
  • critically synthesise evidence from various sources using JBI software
  • identify a relevant review question and develop a protocol for a systematic review
  • utilise the JBI software to facilitate the systematic review process. 

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

Provisional 26/27 dates: 23, 24 November, 14, 15 December 2026
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.  If there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date or cancelled.
Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.

Entry requirements

You will normally be a healthcare professional with a first degree or a related academic degree. BSc (Hons) at 2:2 or above, or European first cycle equivalent. Clinicians without a degree but with appropriate experience may be eligible to apply. Overseas students require IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent required. 

Fees 

Module lead

The lead for this module is  Dr Keith Walker 
Green figure with heartbeat image

You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries

Prospective student enquiries:
Current student enquiries:
Professional Development Unit, Floor 9, InterCity Place, Faculty of Health, Â鶹Æƽâ°æ, Â鶹Æƽâ°æ PL4 6AB
Monday – Thursday 08:30–17:00 and Friday 08:30–16:30