Distance learning CPD/masters

[FruitCider]

Hi all, so sorry if this is in the wrong place but thought this might be the best place to ask!

I've just finished my undergraduate (mental health nursing) and I've luckily got myself a role in substance misuse, it's pretty much my dream job. It's going to be a very long time before I can start my job due to security clearance (assuming I pass my dissertation!) so I'm currently working part time as a bank associate practitioner.

I really want to utilise my time well so can anyone point me in the direction of distance learning modules in clinical substance misuse/dual diagnosis? I don't know where to start looking so any guidance would be appreciated!

[isthistoonosy]

I don't know your subject area (as I'm in another field of work completely) but I start by looking at what higher up.jobs look for and go through my professional body and see the type of courses recommended esp those needed to advance in the profession / higher w levels. Also look at related areas of work, professions I will work along side and look at basic quals in their field as it helps make conversations etc more productive.

I wouldn't just pick a module on any related masters degree.

Hope that helps and if not at least its a bump

[FruitCider]

It does help, ideally I want to be a senior practitioner in my field in the future rather than a manager, and in many years to come (I'm currently 30 so thinking a good 20 years ahead) I would like to be a lecturer. I'm thinking a PHD would stand me in good steed for all of this but simply don't have the finances to do it right now. To be honest the job I have isn't for newly qualifieds, and I'm going to be the only RMN in the team. It said minimum 2 years experience and CPD in that area on the job spec, but I went for a pre application visit and specified how I could benefit the team due to prior experience before starting my training. I'm very fortunate to have been offered the job and this stage I just want to focus on getting more clinical knowledge of substance misuse as to support worker experience. So maybe CPD is the way forward? I don't know

[isthistoonosy]

So experience you cant shortcut so that's a wait and do it but still look a few roles up, what's asked for?

Do you want to be a lecturer or get a PhD - again don't know your area bit not all lecturers have phds, lots of people with phds hate teaching, its what they do while looking for research money. Hard to know so early in your career i suppose but hopefully you can research both tracks and find a common starting point

[googlepoodle]

What about a short counselling course or CBT course. Well done on getting the job. Sounds really interesting.