How do we influence conversations through our body language and non-verbal communication? What do we need to bear in mind to ensure that the person we are speaking to receives the message we intend to convey? And what are the differences between Advisory, (psycho)therapy, and everyday and professional communication?
In ouruniversity certificate course in Communication and Advisory in Nursing and Social Work, we’ll teach you which communication methods and handy tips you can use, and how to structure one-to-one conversations with patients or parents, as well as group discussions and team meetings, in a targeted manner.
And the best bit? Not only can you use the certificate as a professional development programme with numerous benefits for your professional practice – it also counts as a module towards our degree programmes in Social Work, Medical Education and Applied Therapeutic Sciences!
Everything you need to know about the Higher Education Certificate in Communication and Advisory in Nursing and Social Work
Organisation and structure
The specialisation of the certificate programme focuses on closely integrating theory and practice, which is why it involves a relatively high proportion of face-to-face sessions. During these sessions, participants practise various methods, such as transactional analysis, client-centred communication/theme-centred interaction and peer advisory. These practical sessions are supplemented by online sessions, (self-organised) study groups and a comprehensive set of lecture notes.
Module content
1.1 Introduction to Communication and Advisory in Nursing and Social Work
- Introduction: What is communication? What is advisory? What is (psycho)therapy?
- Target groups for communication and advisory in nursing and social work
- Communication tailored to the audience in individual and team settings
- Gender and diversity in communication practice
- Basic characteristics of communication: overview and exercises, body language and non-verbal communication, the four aspects of a message
- Communication in groups: Group dynamic processes and phases
- Reflection on one’s own communication behaviour
- Dysfunctional communication – recognising and responding to communication problems
- Giving feedback – receiving feedback (techniques and practice)
1.2 Advanced Communication and Advisory in Nursing and Social Work
- Methodology training: Introduction to transactional analysis and related exercises
- Communication models for counselling situations in individual and group settings
- Introduction to peer advisory, exercises
- Intercultural communication and gender in communication settings
- Practical work: Presentations by participants and feedback on these
The university certificate is primarily aimed at experienced professionals in the social and healthcare sectors who either wish to undertake further professional development or are already considering starting a degree course:
- Physiotherapists
- Childcare workers
- Healthcare and nursing staff
- Social care assistants
- Speech and language therapists
- Paediatric nurses
- Midwives / Childbirth assistants
- Occupational therapists
- Care workers for the elderly
- Early years educators
Evidence of relevant vocational training or a university degree (in the field of health and social care) and at least one year’s professional experience in this field.
Language of instruction: German
Type of continuing education: University certificate
Duration: 1 semester
Qualification: University certificate worth 5 ECTS
Number of students: maximum 30 per semester
Organisation: The certificate course consists of three to four seminar days at weekends (Saturdays/Sundays, both face-to-face and online) as well as several digital learning modules and study assignments
- 30 hours of contact time (three to four seminar days)
- 15 hours of virtual teaching (synchronous and asynchronous)
- 20 hours of study assignments
- 25 hours of exam preparation
- 35 hours of self-study for preparation and follow-up
The finalexamination consists of a video-recorded presentation lasting approximately ten to fifteen minutes, for which a handout must be prepared. Upon passing, participants will receive a university certificate and a Transcript of Records detailing the course content, ECTS credits and mark.
Course fee: €680. This
fee includes participation in all sessions, access to the comprehensive seminar materials, the examination fee and support from experienced university lecturers.
If you have any questions regarding fees, discounts, funding or financing, please feel free to contact our Financial advisory serviceat any time.
