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MSc Advanced Clinical Practice
Key information
Course Leader: Laura Eccott & Eleanor Squires
Level: 7
Start date: September 2024
Mode of delivery: Blended
School: Health & Social Work
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for the MSc ACP programme are:
· Normally a first degree in a health-related discipline.
· Applicants with evidence of equivalent professional development or academic proficiency will be considered.
· Applicants with non-European academic qualifications will need to supply evidence of equivalency through ENIC
· Current registration with one of the statutory regulators of health and care professions
· Employment as a health care professional in an appropriate setting
· Evidence of employer support to undertake the programme including the provision of a mentor with ‘occupational competence’ and the availability of appropriate clinical supervision
· Normally a minimum of 3 years post-qualification experience.
· Evidence of their employer’s recommendation for their application for a programme of study leading to an Advanced Practice role including a formal reference from the employer confirming;
§ the applicant demonstrates professional values and behaviours, respecting people’s diversity, beliefs, culture, needs, values and preferences and shows respect and empathy acting as a role model for others
§ the applicants ‘clinical readiness’ to undertake the programme
We do not accept self funding students onto this programme, so funding would need to be agreed with your employer prior to application.
This MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice has been developed in collaboration with experienced health practitioners and NHS organisations to enable registered health professionals, who are working at higher levels of practice, to develop their career to achieve the capabilities of advanced practice as set out in the multi-professional framework for Advanced Practice (Health Education England 2017).
This is a multi-professional programme, open to nurses, midwives, paramedics, dietitians, pharmacists, physiotherapists, radiographers radiotherapists, podiatrists and occupational therapists. It will provide opportunities to challenge and critically analyse your professional practice and to achieve the learning and development required for you to achieve your scope of practice as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.
The programme involves a significant level of work based learning in the practice setting where you will develop your scope of practice across the 4 pillars of advanced practice – advanced clinical practice, education, research and leadership (HEE 2017).
In order to undertake either pathway you will need a supervisor with appropriate skills to support you to become an advanced clinical practitioner.
Course structure
The MSc Advanced Clinical Practice is a structured pathway. However accreditation of prior learning is accepted and reviewed on application.
Completion of core modules at an undergraduate level may offer opportunities for optional modules to be chosen from a range of modules relevant to your scope of advanced practice.
The MSc Advanced Clinical Practice award is available as a Master’s award only, which requires 180 credits. Although there are stepping off points if required they do not permit you to use the title Advanced Practitioner.
Programme Pathway for students starting in September 2024
|
Semester |
Module |
Credits |
Year 1 (2024/25) |
A A |
Advanced Clinical Practice (Core) Integrated Research with Contemporary Practice (Core) |
15 15 |
B |
Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Indicators (Core) |
15 |
|
C |
Advanced Work Based Skills - Diagnostic Interpretation (Core) |
15 |
|
|
|||
Year 2 (2025/26) |
A
A |
Optional module(s)
Or alternatively choose Non-Medical Prescribing |
15 or 30 30 |
B |
Leadership, Education and Developing Others (Core)m |
30 |
|
C |
Advanced Work Based Skills - Therapeutic Interventions (Core) |
15 |
|
|
|||
Year 3 (2026/27) |
AB |
Practice Development Project (Core) |
30 |
Semester A September – January
Semester B January – May
Semester C May - September
Teaching Methods
Modules are facilitated by a variety of experienced lecturers from the University as well as external expert lecturers.
Modules are assessed by a variety of methods for example essays, presentations, reports, written and practical examinations.
Modules
- Integrating Research with Contemporary Practice
This module will examine the epistemology of research, the principles of ethical research and a critical analysis of how it is used in practice. Key aspects of content will address data collection and analysis methods and concepts of validity, reliability, rigour and trustworthiness. It will also incorporate other forms of evidence including audit and service evaluation. The emphasis throughout this module will be on the use and relevance of research skills to practitioners seeking to assess, improve or evaluate services. The module will harness students existing personal and life skills and knowledge of care as a basis for developing learning that is relevant and focussed on their practice needs and stage of professional development.
- Leadership Education and Developing Others
The aim of this module is to enable students to continue to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills of leadership, education and professional development.
The module enables students to critically review leadership within the context of the advanced practice role, to understand the leaning and teaching approaches that support clinical development and to evaluate strategies to support and develop themselves and others.
The module will normally address:
• Leadership theories and application to practice and understanding self as a leader.
• Conceptual frameworks relating to leading and following, power and control, compliance and subversion.
• Strategies for developing a learning culture within organisations.
• Examination and application of skills to support leadership at an advanced practice level.
• Evaluation of the role of the advanced clinical practitioner as a leader
- Musculoskeletal Trauma: Image Recognition for Healthcare ProfessionalsThis module is designed for healthcare professionals in providing an overview of the pathophysiological processes that affect the musculoskeletal system. It will develop knowledge in areas of patient presentation in relation to the traumatic processes occurring, with emphasis on the radiographic image appearances of normal and traumatic processes within the musculoskeletal system. Knowledge of general radiographic technique utilised to obtain diagnostic images will be developed. It will also review imaging modalities and radiographic technique in relation to relevant legislation.
Students will be encouraged to develop their image recognition skills of musculoskeletal radiographs within clinical practice. Delivery of this module will be by university staff and may include relevant external lecturers. It will incorporate blended learning which aims to combine e-learning opportunities and traditional campus-based learning to enhance the student learning experience.
Course Dates
- Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th September 2024 - 10.00am (Both these days will be delivered on campus at UH College Lane campus)
- Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st October 2024 (Face to face - on campus)
- Thursday 12th December 2024 (Face to face - on campus)
- Assessment: Wednesday 8th January 2025 (10.00am)
- Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th September 2024 - 10.00am (Both these days will be delivered on campus at UH College Lane campus)
- Musculoskeletal Pathologies: Image Recognition for Healthcare Professionals
This module is designed for healthcare professionals in providing an overview of the pathophysiological processes that affect the musculoskeletal system. It will develop knowledge in areas of patient presentation in relation to the pathological processes occurring. Knowledge of imaging modalities utilised within patient management of pathological processes will be developed. It will also review imaging modalities and radiographic technique in relation to relevant legislation.
There will be an emphasis on the radiographic appearances of normal, normal variants and pathological disease processes within the musculoskeletal system.
Students will be encouraged to develop their image recognition skills of musculoskeletal radiographs within clinical practice. Delivery of this module will be by university staff and may include relevant external lecturers. It will incorporate blended learning which aims to combine e-learning opportunities and traditional campus-based learning to enhance the student learning experience.
- Lower Quadrant - Musculoskeletal PhysiotherapyCourse content
Lower Quadrant is designed for qualified physiotherapists who want to further develop their skills in the assessment and management of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction of the lumbopelvic spine and lower limb. The module will focus on research informed patient centred care of acute and chronic musculoskeletal dysfunction resulting from disease, trauma and surgery. There will be an emphasis on advanced clinical reasoning and examination, to select, justify and evaluate management strategies.
It is an expectation that you will have MSK experience and an existing caseload of patients with lower quadrant dysfunction, to facilitate consolidation and application of learning for the assessment process. You will be encouraged to utilise self-evaluation and reflection of your own and others practice, to actively engage in evaluation of relevant research and facilitate transformative practice.
The aim of this module is to build on your existing knowledge and skills, to facilitate a critical approach to musculoskeletal physiotherapy theory and practice, from an evidence-informed perspective and to apply advanced clinical reasoning and practical skills to the assessment and management of lower quadrant dysfunction.
Teaching will be a blend of on-line delivery requiring access to a reliable PC & internet connection, plus practical classes that will take place in a newly refurbished lab at College Lane Campus, Hatfield.
Module content
Anatomy, biomechanics, pathology & pathophysiology
Advanced clinical reasoning
Skilled practical assessment and management of lower limb and lumbopelvic MSK conditions
Critical consideration of evidence to enhance practice
Patient centred care within a biopsychosocial model
Holistic practical assessment and management of articular, neural and muscle dysfunction
This module is equivalent to 300 hours of student effort including 11 taught days and 1 assessment day. All applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Once the module is full the application portal will close, so early application is advised.
Attendance dates:
All teaching days are normally 9am – 5pm, students are expected to attend all teaching dates
Day 1 - Monday 23rd September 2024, (Online)
Day 2 - Tuesday 24th September 2024, (Online)
Day 3 - Thursday 31st October 2024, (in person, on campus)
Day 4 - Friday 1st November 2024, (in person, on campus)
Day 5 - Monday 18th November 2024, (in person, on campus)
Day 6 - Tuesday 19th November 2024, (in person, on campus)
Day 7 - Monday 6th January 2025, (in person, on campus)
Day 8 - Tuesday 7th January 2025, (in person, on campus)
Day 9 - Wednesday 8th January 2025, (in person, on campus)
Day 10 - Thursday 20th February 2025, (in person, on campus)
Day 11 - Friday 21st February 2025, (in person, on campus)
ASSESSMENT - Thursday 13th March 2025 - narrated presentation (submitted online)
ASSESSMENT - Tuesday 8th April 2025 - OCSE (in person, on campus)
- Advanced Decision Making
This module is aimed at all registered and practicing nurses or midwives, and allied health and social care professionals.
This module evaluates and applies established theories and models relevant to decision making in the context of health and social care. These are drawn from a wide variety of disciplines including clinical reasoning, philosophy and ethics, legal frameworks, Service User involvement, Inter-professional and Values Based Decision Making. Throughout, students will develop their critical thinking skills, with an emphasis on applying their learning to decision making in the students’ own health and social care context.
- Managing Minor Injuries (Can only be studied after completing 7HSK2087 or equivalent)
This module is designed for experienced health professionals to develop skills for autonomous/advanced practice.
It will provide participants with the knowledge and skills to assess, examine, diagnose, and treat a range of minor injury presentations.
The module will support students to learn the practical skills required in this setting such as; x ray interpretation, wound closure (including suturing), immobilising and minor procedures.
- Minor Illness-Diagnostics and Interventions (Can only be studied after completing 7HSK2087 or equivalent)
The module will focus on a specific assessment with attendant, interventions, patient management, health advice and health promotion for patients presenting with minor illness. You will consider your approaches in caring for adults and/or children drawing on advanced communication skills and techniques. The course requires you to develop both knowledge and skills, with practical clinical skills being developed in a minor illness field.
Learners are required to secure an appropriate clinical field of practice and have access to a supervisor or practice assessor.
- Coaching Skills for Leading
The module will comprise of theoretical lectures, workshops, tutorials and seminar sessions to facilitate the development of the fundamental knowledge, understanding and skills underpinning the roles and responsibilities of coaching and its application within leadership.
The development of knowledge, skills, confidence and competence to select and apply a range of coaching skills within leadership practice.
Emphasis will be placed on how the skills of the professional leader may be utilised to coach peer practitioners to help them reach their full professional potential.
A key learning activity for this module is practical work in which students practise their coaching skills and through peer group learning develop a functional, supportive community of coaching practice.
The whole student group are required to participate in a collaborative, facilitative and supportive manner at each study day.
- Imaging Modalities for Healthcare Professionals
This module is designed for health care professionals with an interest in radiological imaging as part of their practice. The module provides an overview of the role of a variety of imaging modalities in the investigation of pathophysiological processes that affect the musculoskeletal system. It will develop knowledge of patient presentation and aid the referral to appropriate imaging modalities. There will be an emphasis on the image appearances for each imaging modality of normal and the pathological processes upon the musculoskeletal system. The course aims to provide health care professionals with a practical problem-solving approach to making the best use of radiology investigations. The imaging modalities considered include MRI, CT, Nuclear Medicine and Ultrasound.
Teaching is based on a combination of face to face and on-line lectures, tutorials and small group seminars/workshops. Sessions are both online and at the College Lane Campus and are facilitated by Phillip Regelous.
- Leg Ulcer Management Theory and Practice: A Competency Based Course
This module introduces the student to the complex aetiology and epidemiology of leg ulceration. It focuses on the holistic assessment and management of people with lower limb ulcers and discusses the controversies and evidence base surrounding effective leg ulcer management services. In addition, the student will have the opportunity to demonstrate competence in skills to effectively clinically assess and manage a person who has a leg ulcer, or is at risk of developing one.
- Paediatric Urgent and Emergency Care
This course aims to enhance the students’ knowledge, understanding and confidence in approaching a range of Paediatric Urgent and Emergency Care presentations. The course will look in detail at effective assessment and clinical management of minor and major illness and injury.
The course will use a blend of online and face-to-face teaching, workshops and discussion forums to explore the theory underpinning paediatric practice. Practical simulation activity will allow the student to gain additional exposure to this complex group of patients.
Course content includes:
Anatomy, physiology and development of the child
Evidence based practice
Medical emergencies
Pathophysiology of common paediatric conditions
Clinical decision making
Trauma emergencies
Effective assessment of the child
Advanced life support
Palliative care and long-term conditions
Minor illness and minor injury
Recognising the seriously ill child
Human factors in urgent and emergency care
- Advanced Clinical Practice
The aims of the module are to gain understanding and skills in the legal, professional and ethical issues that inform advanced clinical practice.
This module introduces learners to the role of the Advanced Clinical Practitioner and the content is mapped to the Multiprofessional framework for Advanced Clinical Practice and the 4 pillars: Clinical, Education, Research and Leadership.
You will review and consider:
· national and international drivers informing advanced practice;
· examine risk and governance systems in advanced practice;
· evaluate decision making and communication strategies that inform your practice.
The module requires you to develop both knowledge and skills, with a focus on interpersonal skills, multi-professional relationships and critical awareness of learning for self and others being demonstrated through module activities.
Students must be able to access supervision in practice over the duration of the module, in order to develop and apply their knowledge, understanding, and skills.
This module is a core element of the MSc Advanced Clinical Practice programme.
- Advanced Health Assessment and Diagnostic Indicators
The aim of this module is to enable students to develop the knowledge and skills required in undertaking advanced health assessment and clinical examination, including diagnostic indicators, of patients & families in a wide range of clinical healthcare environments.
- Advanced Work Based Skills - Diagnostic Interpretation
The aims of this module are to enable students to develop clinical and evaluative skills for the competent performance of a prescribed area of clinical practice and evaluate the effectiveness of diagnostic indicators and diagnostic interpretation.
Knowledge and Understanding:
Successful students will typically:
1. Independently explore and critically evaluate the knowledge base pertaining to the scope of clinical skills which supports the development of advanced clinical practice.
2. Understand the importance of validity and reliability of diagnostic tests.
Skills and Attributes:
Successful students will typically:
1. Demonstrate advanced critical thinking and clinical reasoning based on judgements made from analysing and evaluating pathophysiology and relevant patient information in informing diagnostic interpretation.
2. Provide evidence of their skills in advanced practice, and person−centred care, and reflect on development and application of skills within their chosen area of practice.
3. Effectively promote learning within the practice environment through the presentation of clinical information.
- Leading Service Change
In these challenging times Health and Care services need to be developed to meet growing demands but with decreasing resources. This course explores models, theories and the evidence base to enable you to identify how to lead change within your service.
Content
The course covers three main themes: the external context and health policy influencing change; service development and redesign; working with change and leadership.
The course explores questions such as: How do you involve service users and other stakeholders in service development? How to identify what to change? How do you prepare for the future? How can you facilitate change through people and process, creating a sense of urgency and commitment? What is leadership and how do you lead? What types of leaders are required in challenging times? How can leadership styles influence team motivation and outcomes?
Attendance dates and times
20/01/2025 - 10am-4pm - on campus UH
03/02/2025 - 9.30am-12 noon - online via Zoom
17/02/2025 - 9.30am-12 noon - online via Zoom
03/03/2025 - 10am-4pm - on campus UH
17/03/2025 - 9.30am-1pm - online via Zoom
31/03/2025 - 10.30am-11.30am - online via Zoom
07/04/2025 - 9.30am-1pm - online via Zoom
- Cardiology for Urgent and Emergency Care
This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills required for the assessment and management of patients presenting with cardiovascular conditions in the urgent and emergency care environment.
The course will use a blend of online and face-to-face teaching, workshops and discussion forums to explore the theory underpinning cardiology in urgent and emergency care. Practical simulation will develop your skills to manage this group of patients.
Course content includes:
The module content will include fundamental physiological principles and processes including:
-
Cardiovascular physiology of the heart and circulation, including autonomic control, structure and function.
-
Regulation of a homeostatic environment within the cardiovascular system.
Applied pathophysiology will examine cardiovascular conditions such as:
-
Acute coronary syndromes
-
Heart Failure
-
Hypertension
-
Vascular Disease
-
Heart Valve Disease
-
Structural Heart Disease
Clinical assessment and examination skills developed will include:
-
Advanced ECG interpretation
-
Auscultation of heart sounds and murmurs
-
Cardiorespiratory systems-based examination
-
Monitoring within the context of hemodynamic instability
-
Pharmacological management of cardiovascular conditions
-
- Advanced Work Based Skills - Therapeutic Interventions
The aim of this module is to enable students to continue to develop advanced knowledge, understanding and skills in advanced clinical practice relevant to the students’ scope of practice. The student will continue to develop person centred skills of consultation, diagnosis and care management with a focus on therapeutic interventions, caring for complex presentations and health promotion.
The module will normally address:
- Validity & reliability of therapeutic interventions
- Shared decision making
- Development of advanced clinical skills
- Caring for patients with complex and unpredictable presentations
- Promoting health promotion in clinical practice
- Practice Development Project
The aim of this module is to enable students to continue to demonstrate the use of appropriate and systematic methods of inquiry and skills to critically analyse, develop and evaluate current practice and /or service through the process of undertaking a project in clinical practice.
The module will normally address:
- Quality improvement frameworks.
- Change management strategies.
- Analysis of research, evidence and the context of practice to inform improvement, development and change in practice.
- The role of the advanced practitioner in instigating, supporting and informing improvement and development in practice.
It is recommended that this module is studied alone to aid time management and self-directed study.
- Musculoskeletal Injection Therapy
Please ensure that you also complete the pre-requisite checklist and submit with your application.
All templates are to be found under "downloads" to the right of this page.
This module is for experienced physiotherapists who wish to include injection therapy as a part of their management of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction involving the peripheral joints. The aim of this course is to enable students to develop the appropriate knowledge, understanding and skills to perform musculoskeletal injection therapy safely and competently. The module will include lectures, tutorials, workshops, practical sessions and work-based learning in order for students to develop the knowledge and skills to be able to perform injection therapy safely and competently.
Course content
Review of anatomy & relevant musculoskeletal pathologies
Pharmacological, ethical and medico-legal frameworks
Advanced clinical reasoning & advanced musculoskeletal assessment procedures including palpation of soft tissues & relevant structures
Skilled practical application of musculoskeletal injection therapy including indications, contra-indications, precautions, possible side-effects, identification and management of adverse events
Development and enhancement of communication skills with the patient and the wider health professional team
Documentation of injection therapy procedures including evaluation of outcome
This module is equivalent to 150 hours of student effort including 5 taught days and takes place online (day 1) and at College Lane Campus, Hatfield (days 2-5).
All applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Once the module is full the application portal will close, so early application is advised.
Module Dates
Day 1 - Wednesday 29th January 2025, 9am-5pm (online)
Day 2 - Tuesday 4th February 2025, 9am-5pm - in person (on campus)
Day 3 - Wednesday 5th February 2025, 9am-5pm - in person (on campus)
Day 4 - Tuesday 13th May 2025, 9am-5pm - in person (on campus)
Day 5 - Wednesday 14th May 2025, 9am-5pm - in person (on campus)
Assessment Dates
Monday 9th June 2025 - Essay (submitted online)
Monday 30th June 2025 - Portfolio of Injections undertaken in practice (submitted online)
- Psychology of Cancer
This module is suitable for all heath care professionals involved in the care of patients with a cancer diagnosis. Using an inquiry−based approach, students will gather a wide range of evidence and information in order to thoroughly explore the module topics. Through critical evaluation and analysis of the evidence base, they will consolidate their knowledge and understanding of the psychological conditions, methods of assessment and interventions of patients with cancer.
The module aims to raise awareness of the psychological experience of cancer so that professionals in diverse cancer care settings can work within their scope of practice to better support patients.
This is an ONLINE module that requires no attendance on UH Campus
- Upper Quadrant - Musculoskeletal PhysiotherapyCourse content includes:
The Upper Quadrant module is designed for qualified physiotherapists who have already successfully completed 7HSK0331/0075 (Lower Quadrant – Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy) and want to further develop their skills in the management of patients with musculoskeletal dysfunction of the cervicothoracic spine and upper limb. It is an expectation that you will have MSK experience (and an existing caseload) of patients with upper quadrant dysfunction to facilitate application and consolidation of learning and for the assessment process. You will be expected to work together to explore and share your clinical experience.
Module aims
The aim of this module is to build on your existing knowledge and skills, to facilitate a critical approach to musculoskeletal physiotherapy theory and practice, from an evidence-informed perspective and to apply advanced clinical reasoning and practical skills to the assessment and management of upper quadrant dysfunction.
Content
On this course you will explore, debate and share your clinical experiences to illustrate issues of patient assessment and management in the following areas:
- The theoretical basis and practical application of advanced clinical reasoning in upper quadrant musculoskeletal dysfunction, set within a biopsychosocial model of care.
- Anatomy, biomechanics, pathology and pathophysiology affecting the cervico-thoracic spine and upper limb
- The assessment and appropriate management of articular, neural and myofascial dysfunction in upper quadrant neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
- Critical use of the available evidence to enhance practice
Course Notes
Teaching will be a blend of on-line delivery requiring access to a reliable PC & internet connection, plus practical classes that will take place in a newly refurbished laboratory at College Lane Campus, Hatfield. This module is equivalent to 300 hours of student effort including 11 taught days and 1 assessment day.
All applications are considered on a first come, first served basis. Once the module is full the application portal will close, so early application is advised.
Attendance Dates:
All teaching days are normally 9am – 5pm. Students are expected to attend all teaching dates.
Day 1 - Tuesday 8th October 2024, 9am-5pm (on-line) (TBC)
Day 2 - Wednesday 9th October 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 3 - Tuesday 5th November 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 4 - Wednesday 6th November 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 5 - Tuesday 3rd December 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 6 - Wednesday 4th December 2024, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 7 - Tuesday 14th January 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 8 - Wednesday 15th January 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 9 - Tuesday 18th February 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 10 - Wednesday 19th February 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Day 11 - Tuesday 11th March 2025, 9am-5pm (in-person, on campus) (TBC)
Assessment Dates:
Essay hand-in date – Wednesday 9th April 2025 on-line (TBC)
OSCE assessment date – Tuesday 29th April 2025, in person on campus (9am to 6pm) (TBC)
Refer/Defer Assessment Dates:
Essay hand-in date Wednesday 21st July 2025 (TBC)
On campus practical assessment date - Monday 29th July 2025, in person on campus (TBC)
- Non Medical Prescribing Programme (NMP) for Nurses, Midwives, Pharmacists and Allied Health Professionals
Applications are open for 2024/25.
- For all enquiries relating to the application process and finance, please email the CPD Health Team at cpdhealth@herts.ac.uk
- For all enquiries relating to the delivery and assessment of the Programme, please email the teaching team at nmp@herts.ac.uk
- For all enquiries relating to NHSe funded Pharmacists please contact NHScontracts@herts.ac.uk
Programmes that this module can contribute towards:
· MSc Specialist Community Public Health Nursing - Health Visiting / School Nursing
· MSc Specialist Community Nursing - Community Children’s Nursing/ Community District Nursing/General Practice Nursing
· MSc Advanced Paramedic Practice
· MSc Contemporary Nursing
· PgDip Pharmacy Practice
· MSc Advanced Physiotherapy
· MSc Advanced Midwifery
· MSc Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences – Advanced Radiotherapy and Oncology Practice
NHS ENGLAND FUNDED PHARMACY APPLICANTS PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING (We are not accepting Self-funded or sponsored pharmacist applications):
Please see below for eligibility criteria
Group 1 (Pharmacy Integration Programme – PhIP)
- Community pharmacists (including locum pharmacists) – To Prove Eligibility for funding you will need an email from your employer confirming you are working as a Community Pharmacist
- Pharmacists employed in General Practice who are not eligible for, or enrolled on, the Primary Care Pharmacy Education Programme (PCPEP) To Prove Eligibility for funding you will need an email from your employer confirming you are working as a Pharmacist in General Practice
- Pharmacists working to provide primary care services (e.g., working in primary care) who are not employed in ARRS roles - To Prove Eligibility for funding you will need an email from your employer confirming you are working as a Pharmacist in Primary Care and not employed in an ARRS Role
- Health and Justice pharmacists - To Prove Eligibility for funding you will need an email from your employer confirming you are working as a Pharmacist in Health an Justice related role
If you are unsure if you are employed via the ARRS please contact your employer. Further information on ARRS roles can be found here.
Group 2 - PCPEP
- You need to be enrolled on CPPE’s Primary Care Pharmacy Education Pathway (PCPEP) and meet the PCPEP criteria to enrol on an Independent Prescribing Course. – to prove eligibility, you will need to apply for a funding certificate through CPPE site and upload this with your application. www.cppe.ac.uk/career/pcpep/independent-prescribing
*Please note that the University of Hertfordshire is not an approved supplier for the NHS Managed Sector*
Our Interprofessional Programme for qualified Nurses, Midwives, Pharmacists, and Allied Health Professionals is designed to develop the skills, knowledge and attributes required for safe, appropriate, and cost-effective prescribing practice within the context of their specialist professional roles and the legislative and professional frameworks that govern their specific role. Our Programme involves blended learning strategies to facilitate effective inter-professional learning and the sharing of differing professional perspectives and expertise. Reflective discussions and prescribing analyses are held to enable students to integrate their learning within the context of their professional practice and to ensure that the specific requirements of the professional and statutory regulatory body (GPhC, HCPC and NMC) are fully addressed.
The Programme Certificate in Independent or Supplementary Prescribing Programme (Non-medical Prescribing (NMP)) consists of four 30 credit modules (students’ study one of the available four modules dependent upon their discipline) which have been accredited by either the GPhC, HCPC or NMC, they are:
• AHP Independent Prescribing Module (Physiotherapists, Paramedics, Podiatrists & Therapeutic Radiographers)
• AHP Supplementary Prescribing (Dietitians & Diagnostic Radiographers)
• Nurse and Midwife Independent Prescribng (V300)
• Pharmacist Independent Prescribing
Currently Diagnostic Radiographers and Dietitians can only prescribe as a Supplementary Prescriber.
In accordance with regulatory body requirements students are required to complete 26 mandatory days of blended theoretical learning incorporating a combination of:
• 3-4 interprofessional taught days either on-campus or online (Hybrid) at either our College Lane or De Havilland Campuses in Hatfield, Hertfordshire
• 10 live online interprofessional days delivered between 09.30-16.00 on Wednesdays (September 24 and March 25 Cohorts) or Thursdays (January 25 Cohort)
• Monthly online small group tutorials led by an identified Personal Tutor
• 1 live online assessment and diagnostic development day (Pharmacist students only)**
• 1 on-campus physical skills development day in a simulation laboratory on our College Lane Campus (Pharmacist and Supplementary AHP NMP students only)**
• Guided study days
* Requirements of at least 85% monitored attendance at live sessions which amounts to a maximum of 2 permitted absence days.
** Pharmacist students are required to attend the mandatory assessment and diagnostic skills day, and students will not be able to complete the programme unless these days have been attended.
Assessment
In accordance with regulatory body requirements students are required to successfully complete the following five assessments to complete the programme:
• Online Numeracy assessment (pass or fail with a minimum pass mark 100%).
• Direct observation of practice assessed in practice by your PA/PE/DPP and write up of this consultation with an example FP10 (pass or fail).
• Prescribing Essay written assignment, (minimum pass mark 50 (level 7) - the mark for this element determines the overall grade for this module.
• Unseen 1 hour Applied Pharmacology Examination (pass or fail with a minimum pass mark 80%).
• Prescribing Practice Portfolio (incorporating demonstration of the student’s achievement of the competences outlined in the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) A Competency Framework for All Prescribers) (pass or fail)
The length of registration for this module is normally one year and therefore each of the five assessments should be completed by this point other than in exceptional circumstances.
Prescribing Practice, Practice Supervision and Assessment
Alongside theoretical sessions students are also required to complete an additional compulsory additional period of 90 hours of supervised prescribing practice learning supported by a:
PE
AHP Students
PS and PA
Nurse and Midwife Students
DPP
Pharmacist Students
The amount of virtual consultation (telephone or video) allowed in supervised practice are limited.
To be eligible to undertake these roles supporting professionals must meet the following criteria:
• Hold current registration with their professional regulator (NMC, HCPC, GPhC or GMC)
• Have been qualified as an independent or supplementary prescriber for a minimum period of 3 years within the student’s intended field of prescribing practice and prescribe regularly
• Meet all competencies within the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) A Competency Framework for All Prescribers and Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) A Competency Framework for all Designated Prescribing Practitioners
• Have experience or training in teaching, assessing and/or supervising in practice.
• Engage in on-going professional development to reflect and develop in my role
• Have the support of their employing organisation to act as the PE, DPP or PA for the student.
In undertaking this role supporting professionals agree to:
• Support the student/apprentice in their development of the competencies outlined in the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) A Competency Framework for All Prescribers and to collaborate effectively with the Students Practice Supervisor (nursing and midwifery students/apprentices only) and Personal Tutor and/or Academic Assessor to enable a valid assessment of the competencies achieved.
• Supervise, support, and assess the student/apprentice, facilitating them to spend a minimum of 25 of the required 90 hours of period of learning in practice with them during the programme.
• Appropriately raise to the Personal Tutor and/or Academic Assessor at the earliest opportunity and respond to any concerns regarding student/apprentice conduct, competence, and achievement, and understand I will be supported by the University of Hertfordshire in doing so.
• Not to support more than 2 Non-medical prescribing students undertaking a prescribing programme at any UK university at the same time.
To allow the student to be sufficiently supported in practice, the Designated Prescribing Practitioner is required to be within a 30-mile radius from the student.
Community Pharmacists: Designated prescribing practitioners for community pharmacists must work either in primary or secondary care. This is to enable community pharmacists to gain the breadth and depth of experience to develop assessment and diagnostic skills relevant to their scope of intended prescribing practice.
Prerequisites and Admissions Process
Admission to the NMP Programme is achieved through a comprehensive process, that meets all GPhC, HCPC or NMC standards as applicable. As part of this process, applicants are required to complete an online application and to submit an additional Supporting Admissions Form (SAF) (Downloaded from section - 'Non-Medical Prescribing' within application) that provides the team with the evidence that applicants have:
• met the essential entry criteria for the programme required by their regulatory body (GPhC, HCPC or NMC) outlined below
• identified an intended scope of prescribing practice
• the appropriate and required support available to enable them, to successfully develop as safe and appropriate prescribers within their intended scope of prescribing practice.
The SAF needs to be downloaded and completed and signed with handwritten signatures. Your application will be rejected without a fully completed SAF.
The following documents are critical to your application:
- Supporting Admissions Form (SAF) signed with handwritten signatures (please clearly name the uploaded document)
- Copy of your passport (please clearly name the uploaded document)
- Copies of your professional qualification(s) (please clearly name the uploaded document(s)
- Current Enhanced DBS (dated within the last 3 years)
Applications will not be progressed until applicants have completed their online application and submitted their fully completed and signed SAF.
Please ensure that the correct sections have been completed and signed with handwritten signatures.
If you are a Pharmacist, complete these sections
If you are a Nurse, complete these sections
If you are a AHP, complete these sections
Section 1 (page 1)
Section 1 (page 1)
Section 1 (page 1)
Section 2a (pages 2 to 5)
Section 2a (pages 2 to 5)
Section 2a (pages 2 to 5)
Section 2b (page 6)
Section 3 (pages 7 & 8)
Section 3 (pages 7 & 8)
Section 3 (pages 7 & 8)
Section 4 if Reference is required (page 9)
Section 4 if Reference is required (page 9)
Section 4 if Reference is required (page 9)
Criteria for Entry to the NMP Programme for Allied Health Professionals
1. Registration with the HCPC in one of the relevant allied health professions.
2. Professionally practising in an environment where there is an identified need for the individual to regularly use independent /supplementary prescribing (physiotherapists, podiatrists, and therapeutic radiographers only) or supplementary prescribing (diagnostic radiographers and dietitians).
3. Ability to demonstrate support from their employer/sponsor including confirmation that the entrant will have appropriate supervised practice in the clinical area in which they are expected to prescribe.
4. Ability to demonstrate medicines and clinical governance arrangements are in place to support safe and effective supplementary and / or independent prescribing.
5. Practice Educators must be a qualified prescriber, on the register of their statutory regulator with annotation(s) for prescribing where applicable and with the relevant skills, knowledge, and experience to support safe and effective learning. Practice Educators for Supplementary prescribing students (dietitians and diagnostic radiographers) must be a Doctor.
Criteria for Entry to the NMP Programme for Nurses & Midwives
1. Current registration as a first level nurse, midwife and/or specialist community public health nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. The applicant’s registration status must not be subject to any cautions or interim suspension orders.
2. A minimum of one years’ experience (or equivalent in part time employment) as a practising nurse/midwife/specialist community public health nurse
3. Evidence of the ability to study at the academic level of the module to be studied i.e. level 7, (postgraduate level)
4. Evidence of current DBS clearance (enhanced disclosure) i.e., obtained within the last three years
5. Applicants must also provide:
• Written confirmation of support to undertake the prescribing programme from their employer, including NHS and non-NHS employers. The support available must include time to attend scheduled study days at the University, access to appropriate learning opportunities in practice and protected time to engage in practice development activities with an identified practice supervisor and practice assessor.
• Written confirmation from their employer that the applicant can demonstrate safe and effective practice within their intended field of prescribing practice in relation to:
• Clinical/health assessment
• Diagnostics/care management
• Planning and evaluation of care
• If the applicant is self-employed a comprehensive professional reference must be provided which details the applicant’s level of proficiency in practice. A separate statement must be provided by the applicant confirming the arrangements made for practice supervision and assessment.
• Written confirmation from the practice supervisor and assessor, providing evidence that they meet the required eligibility criteria and that they agree to collaborate to provide the required term of supervised practice and its assessment.
Criteria for Entry to the NMP Programme for Pharmacists
1. Current registration as a pharmacist with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) or, in Northern Ireland, with the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
2. Demonstration of good standing with the GPhC and/or PSNI and any other healthcare regulator with which they are registered.
3. Applicants must have relevant experience in a UK pharmacy setting and be able to recognise, understand and articulate the skills and attributes required by a prescriber. This experience and awareness will act as the basis of their prescribing practice whilst training.
4. For the purposes of developing their independent prescribing practice, applicants must identify an area of clinical or therapeutic practice on which to base their learning.
5. A Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) who has agreed to supervise their learning in practice. The DPP must:
• be a registered healthcare professional in Great Britain or Northern Ireland with legal independent prescribing rights who has been prescribing regularly for a minimum period of three years.
• be suitably experienced and qualified to carry out this supervisory role as defined in Royal Pharmaceutical Society (2021) A Competency Framework for Designated Prescribing Practitioners and have demonstrated CPD or revalidation relevant to this role.
6. Evidence of current DBS clearance (enhanced disclosure) i.e., obtained within the last three years.
Additional Entry Criteria Information Required for Nurses and Pharmacists working exclusively in Aesthetic Practice
We accept applicants onto the Programme who are Registered Nurses or Pharmacists working exclusively within the field of aesthetics providing that they meet the appropriate criteria above and can also demonstrate:
1. active and compliant membership of a Professional Standards Register (related to cosmetic/aesthetic medicine) or practice from a private healthcare environment that is regulated by the CQC
2. applicants are working full time within the field of aesthetic medicine for least 2 years (or part time equivalent)
3. applicants have completed an accredited level 7 Post Graduate Certificate in cosmetic and/or aesthetic medicine
Venue
Blended with the opportunity for online, hybrid and or/on campus learning and assessment at one of our Hatfield campuses as detailed above.
Learning Outcomes
• To prescribe safely, appropriately and cost effectively and to prescribe medications within your field of competence.
• On successful completion you will be awarded a Practice Certificate and be recommended to the relevant Professional Board as an independent or supplementary prescriber.
Additional expenses
Description
Year
Mandatory
Estimated cost
Access to a laptop or PC type device that can be used to access online sessions, learning resources and complete assessments using software inclusive of the free version of Microsoft Office 365 provided by UH.
1
Y
Variable
Access to a camera and headset that can be used during online sessions and assessments.
1
Y
£25-50
Access to adequate broadband, Wi-Fi, 3G and/or 4G that facilitates attendance at online sessions, engagement with learning resources and assessments
1
Y
Variable
Printing and scanning of a number of pages from the Practice Portfolio that require wet signatures as per regulatory body requirements.
1
Y
£5
Students are encouraged to consider purchasing the core textbooks associated with this Programme (https://www.wiley.com/en-gb/The+Textbook+of+Non+Medical+Prescribing,+3rd+Edition-p-9781119520474). A free e-version of the textbooks if preferred are also available from our Online Library.
1
N
£60
Students may face additional travelling costs associated with travelling to differing areas to complete the required clinical practice hours.
1
N
Variable
Pharmacist Prescribing Students who will be attending the on-campus physical skills training days will be required to source or alternatively purchase a suitable stethoscope (3m Littman or equivalent recommended) to be used to support the development of physical assessment skills.
1
Y
Variable (£80)
- Therapeutics of Skin Conditions
This module aims to develop and consolidate understanding of the skills, knowledge and attributes required for safe, and effective treatment of dermatological conditions. Successful completion will provide a deeper knowledge and understanding of the pharmacokinetics of topical and systemic treatments used to treat skin disease. Students will gain an increased understanding of key factors to consider when choosing treatment options including risk, cost, evidence about efficacy, disease severity and patient's response to treatment, inlcuding potential adverse.
The module will develop and enhance patient consultation skills to formulate effective patient centred treatment options for a range of dermatology conditions whilst focusing on specialist knowledge of systemic and topical drug therapies used to treat skin disease.
This module is compulsory for the MSc Clinical Dermatology. It is suitable for practitioners with an interest in dermatological conditions and will be of interest to FY1-2, GPs, Dermatology Nurses, Advanced Care Practitioners, hospital and retail Pharmacists who are managing people with skin conditions on a regular basis.
- Mind and Skin
This course will explore the relationship between skin problems and their impact on mental health and well being and analyse a range of therapeutic approaches currently used to support individuals affected by a broad range of skin diseases.
The course will critically analyse the association between biological, psychological and social factors affecting people with a broad range of skin diseases to develop an understanding of the relationship between mental health and well-being and a range of skin conditions. It is taught by clinicians with experience of managing patients with psychocutaneous disorders and focuses on managing the delivery of appropriate care in primary and secondary settings.
This module will be of interest to a wide range of health professionals involved with psychological support of people with skin conditions and health professionals interested in psycho-dermatology.
The content will include:
• An introduction to neuroscience
• Relationship of skin disease to mental health & wellbeing
• Psychological factors: body image, self esteem
• Social factors: psychological well- being and quality of life
• Patient assessment & advanced communication skills
• Therapeutics & management approaches: pharmacological, psychotherapeutic complementary interventions
• Impact of interpersonal skills/engagement on therapeutic interventions
• Research & practice development related to skin disease & mental health
• Service user needs & carers role, health promotion and self help
• Multidisciplinary team working & specialist referral criteria.
- Lower Limb Dermatology
This module provides practitioners with the skills required to effectively diagnose and manage skin conditions affecting the lower limb including management of patients with diabetic foot disease. It will develop knowledge of assessment and management of a range of skin conditions by promoting critical awareness, understanding and application of the current evidence base. It examines current national and international guidelines, and best practice in the assessment, treatment and management of patients with skin conditions affecting the lower limb. This course aims to consolidate and enhance professional competence and skill in managing patients with dermatological skin and nail conditions that affect the lower limb and any associated complications including those related to systemic diseases such as diabetes.
Content
Includes the following:
• Assessment of the lower limb
• Leg ulceration and associated dermatological conditions including eczema and allergic contact dermatitis
• Skin infections include bacterial, viral and fungal infections
• Cellulitis including management of underlying causes
• Nail conditions
• Skin lesions, benign and malignant, commonly presenting on the lower limb
• Plantar pustulosis and plantar psoriasis
• Diabetic Foot Disease
• Systemic diseases presenting as skin conditions on the lower limb such as pyoderma gangrenosum
• Models of service delivery, referral criteria.
Prerequisites
The entry requirements for the MSc ACP programme are:
· Normally a first degree in a health-related discipline.
· Applicants with evidence of equivalent professional development or academic proficiency will be considered.
· Applicants with non-European academic qualifications will need to supply evidence of equivalency through ENIC
· Current registration with one of the statutory regulators of health and care professions
· Employment as a health care professional in an appropriate setting
· Evidence of employer support to undertake the programme including the provision of a mentor with ‘occupational competence’ and the availability of appropriate clinical supervision
· Normally a minimum of 3 years post-qualification experience.
· Evidence of their employer’s recommendation for their application for a programme of study leading to an Advanced Practice role including a formal reference from the employer confirming;
§ the applicant demonstrates professional values and behaviours, respecting people’s diversity, beliefs, culture, needs, values and preferences and shows respect and empathy acting as a role model for others
§ the applicants ‘clinical readiness’ to undertake the programme
We do not accept self funding students onto this programme, so funding would need to be agreed with your employer prior to application.
Level
7
Credits
180
Course Leader
Laura Eccott & Eleanor Squires
Start date
September 2024
Mode of delivery
Blended
Faculty
Health & Social Work