Program Overview

Clinically Enhanced Pharmacist Independent Prescribing

The Clinically Enhanced Pharmacist Independent Prescribing (CEPIP) course leads to the academic award of PG Certificate in General Pharmacy Practice (Prescribing). This course can be studied as a stand-alone program or as an optional module for the Foundation Stage 2 of the UCL PG Diploma in General Pharmacy Practice, leading to the academic award of PG Diploma in General Pharmacy Practice (Prescribing).

About the CEPIP Course

The UCL School of Pharmacy has a long-established tradition of supporting and facilitating the training and development of practicing pharmacists. Independent prescribing is becoming an integrated feature of health service delivery in both primary and secondary care, allowing pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to qualify as non-medical prescribers, benefiting patient care and service delivery.

The CEPIP course has been developed through consultation with key stakeholders, including service providers, clinical practitioners, and pharmacist independent prescribers, to meet the needs of pharmacists wishing to train as non-medical prescribers in primary or secondary care. The course is specifically designed to meet the needs of pharmacist prescribers working in medicines optimization, GP practice, Urgent and Emergency Care, and provision of NHS 111 services and care homes.

Key Information

• Programme Entry Points (2025/2026): September 2025 and March 2026
• Mode and Duration: Part-time, completed in 6, 9, or 12 months
• Tuition Fee (2025/2026 Academic Year & 2026/27 Academic Year): Ł3,300 for self-funding or employer-funded students
• Application Dates: Applications for March 2026 are now closed

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the course are stipulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Pharmacists wishing to apply must fulfill the following requirements:

• Registered as a pharmacist with the GPhC or, in Northern Ireland, with the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland (PSNI)
• In good standing with the GPhC and/or PSNI and any other healthcare regulator
• Relevant experience in a UK pharmacy setting
• Ability to recognize, understand, and articulate the skills and attributes required by a prescriber
• Identified area of clinical or therapeutic practice for learning
• Designated prescribing practitioner to supervise learning in practice
• Lower second-class Bachelor's degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard
• Registered pharmacists with the GPhC or PSNI, meeting professional standards relating to communication

International Students

International students must be registered pharmacists with the GPhC or PSNI and have patient-oriented experience in the UK. The learning in practice element must be undertaken in the UK under the supervision of a Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP).

English Language Requirements

The English language level for this program is Level 2. UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are available for international students aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL.

Computer Requirements

Students must have access to a computer with a fast and reliable internet connection and possess minimum computer skills, including:

• Navigating the Moodle virtual learning environment
• Communicating by email
• Working efficiently with Microsoft Word or similar software
• Using the internet to search websites
• Scanning and uploading documents
• Participating in online conferencing (webinars)

Indemnity Insurance

Pharmacists are advised to check with their employer and/or personal insurer to ensure they are fully covered in their role as a Trainee Independent Prescriber and a future role as a qualified independent and supplementary prescriber.

Assessment

The program uses a range of assessment methods addressing knowledge, competence, and performance, including:

• Case studies
• Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
• Portfolio including practice-based assessments Pharmacists must pass each element of assessment to pass the course.

Study Dates

Attendance at all study days is compulsory. Study days and online webinar dates are provided, and students must ensure they can attend all study days before applying.

Teaching and Learning

The course constitutes a range of learning activities equivalent to 600 hours of study. Students are supported through a blend of learning activities, including a bespoke online learning package, face-to-face learning sessions, and work-based learning. There is a strong emphasis on student-led learning and individual study.

How to Apply

Applications are made by completing both an online application form and the application pack. The online application form and application pack must be completed in full and submitted by the relevant application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Interviews

Applications are assessed against the entry criteria. Where there are areas of uncertainty, applicants will be invited to attend an interview via video conferencing software. The interview will focus on seeking clarification of areas of uncertainty within the application.