Page last updated 24 September 2024
This framework is really flexible and allows you to use the credit for courses you have already completed towards a recognised qualification.
The Professional Development Award (PDA) is a unique award - you set out the learning pathway, designing a bespoke academic qualification to suit your career and learning aspirations.
This award is flexible as you can:
The Professional Development Award (PDA) has only one compulsory module, Evidencing Work Based Learning (EWBL), which can be done at distance, and on a reflective practice if you wish (see our EWBL pages which demonstrate how this module can benefit both you and your employer).
The PDA can be started at any time; there are no limitations on how long you would like to spend completing the award.
The award descriptor you attain will be e.g. MSc Professional Development.
The benefits of obtaining a PDA for employers and employees are that the Award can:
The table below demonstrates the way credit can make up the award:
Primary Target | Total credits required for Award | Minimum compulsory EWBL credits | Maximum imported credit | Imported credits from levels |
Postgraduate Certificate Professional Development | 60 | 15 level 7 | 45 | This can consist of up to 20 credits at level 6 (degree level), and further level 7 (Masters level) credits to a total of 45. Or, up to 45 credits at level 7 (Masters level). |
Postgraduate Diploma Professional Development | 120 | 15 level 7 | 105 | This can consist of up to 40 credits at level 6 (degree level), and further level 7 (Masters level) credits to a total of 105. Or, up to 105 credits at level 7 (Masters level). |
MA/MSc Professional Development | 180 | 40 credits level 7 research or EWBL | 120 | This can consist of up to 60 credits at level 6 (degree level), and further level 7 (Masters level) credits to a total of 120. Or, up to 120 credits at level 7 (Masters level). |
Find out more about the PDA
In the following videos, meet our Masters graduates from the College of Health, Science and Society, and find out how the UWE Bristol Professional Development (PDA) course and Work-Based Learning have enhanced their careers:
In order to be eligible to study the PDA, you should:
Learners will be considered for entry to pursue the most appropriate level of study based on qualifications and/or their personal, professional or educational experience following guidance provided in line with UWE Bristol's entry requirements and admissions policies.
For postgraduate qualifications, applicants should normally have a first degree and/or at least two years professional experience. Possession of knowledge and skills needed for admission to the University may be demonstrated by means other than via the usual entrance requirements.
The College of Health, Science and Society has an excellent reputation for the quality of its teaching and the facilities it provides.
There is a £200.00 registration fee payable upon registering for the award (if you have sponsorship for your fees you will be able to state this in the application).
For information about fees and funding for courses please see our fees and funding pages.
Additional costs
This refers to items you could need during your studies that are not covered by the standard tuition fee. These could be materials, textbooks, travel, clothing, software or printing.