Fundamentals of Diving Practice – EMM713

This module provides the student with a comprehensive and critical understanding of the fundamental principles which underpin contemporary diving medicine

CPD for healthcare professionals

Diver underwater coming to the surface in a quarry.

Key features

This module equips students with the foundations of knowledge and skills that underpin diving medicine. They will gain understanding of the characteristics of gases relevant to diving and the physiological principles of immersion and exposure to pressure.

Students will learn how these principles translate into modern diving practice and the relevant technical, operational and legal framework of how this is practised safely, in a commercial and recreational settings.

In the design of this module, the University has teamed up with world leading experts in diving medicine from the Diving Diseases Research Centre (DDRC) from where the module will be delivered.

Divers from the Marine Centre with the DSV Wavedancer in the background

Module code

EMM713

Credits

20

FHEQ Level

Level 7 – masters degree

Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery at Plymouth

Module details

This module is suitable for any healthcare professional looking to gain an understanding of diving medicine and safe diving practices, when working as a clinician in a commercial or recreational setting.

Learning outcomes

To display a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of the gases relevant to diving and the physics of pressure.
Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge regarding the physiological changes that occur in humans exposed to an altered pressure and/or altered breathing gas mixture.
To demonstrate an awareness of common diving procedures and equipment, and critically evaluate their use in various environments.
To critically appraise contemporary evidence relevant to diving and hyperbaric medicine.

Summary of module content

Introduction to basic diving procedures and equipment.
Gases and pressure: units of pressure and characteristics of individual gases relevant to diving.
Pressure exposure and immersion: physiological effects of immersion, cardiorespiratory changes, gas toxicity.
Dive planning – critically appraise contemporary evidence relating to decompression.
Diving equipment: personal equipment, breathing systems (including SCUBA, rebreather, surface supply), emergency systems.
Diving procedures: recreational, military and commercial procedures including practical training in chamber operations.

This module is taught through a mixture of practical sessions, lectures and interactive seminars. This is supplemented through self-directed learning, supported tutorials and completion of a written assignment.

Admissions information

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.

Application forms.
Change of name forms.
Pre-course information.
Downloadable guides.
Student card.

Visit Professional Development Unit (PDU) admissions for full details.

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

It is run across two week blocks in the autumn term, between October and November. The first block is a short introduction to the theory of the module and the second block is taught face to-face at DDRC on the Plymouth Science Park.

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. In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date. 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 2:1 or above, or European first cycle equivalent. Clinicians who achieved a lower grade from their first degree or without a degree but with appropriate experience may still be eligible to apply. Overseas students require IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent required.