Clinical Pharmacy PgDip/MSc

Overview

This innovative course focuses on advancing your clinical practice, leadership, management, education, and research skills while incorporating the independent prescribing qualification. It is ideally suited for newly qualified pharmacists and those progressing towards advanced clinical practice.

We are one of the few institutions that integrates the RPS e-Portfolio into its curriculum. This unique feature empowers you to build your RPS e-Portfolio within the course, with your assessed work directly contributing to its development. By graduation, you will have a comprehensive portfolio that you can further refine and, if you choose, submit separately for RPS PRF credentialing.

We offer a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Clinical Pharmacy, completed over two years, and a Master of Science (MSc) in Clinical Pharmacy, completed over three years.

Pharmacists who already hold a PgDip in Clinical Pharmacy (or equivalent postgraduate qualification) may be eligible to apply for the MSc Top-Up, completed over one year. MSc students will engage in a research project, equipping them to develop as skilled research practitioners.

Why us?

• Course aligns with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) Post-registration Foundation (PRF) and Core Advanced Pharmacist Curricula
• Develop your RPS e-Portfolio as part of the course with assessed work directly contributing to its completion
• Part-time study is designed to fit around your professional commitments
• On-campus clinical skills teaching for hands-on practice

Course Structure

The course is delivered through a blended learning approach, with a strong emphasis on interactive distance-learning materials that you can engage with at your own time and pace.

Teaching is delivered via online lectures, expert interviews, directed reading, case-based scenarios, research activities, tutorials, and dedicated online tutor support. Content is divided into manageable, bite-sized chunks, allowing you to focus on specific areas in a short timeframe. You can test your knowledge with self-check quizzes, watch expert consultations, or explore video tutorials.

You’ll also attend on-campus teaching sessions for hands-on clinical skills development and participate in a series of live online seminars. These sessions are led by experienced academic pharmacists actively working in practice, highly specialist advanced clinical pharmacist practitioners, and a wide range of other healthcare professionals.

The modules are designed to run throughout the academic year, giving you the flexibility to manage your own schedule and study at your own pace within the module timeframe. Unlike undergraduate courses, this course requires a higher level of independent working, empowering you to take greater control of your learning experience.

You'll be assessed through a combination of written coursework and a work-based e-Portfolio. The e-Portfolio assesses learning and development through a variety of supervised learning events (SLEs), specifically tailored to meet the module and course outcomes. SLEs will be assessed in the workplace by either your educational supervisor, practice supervisor (responsible for day-to-day supervision in the workplace setting), or a suitably experienced member of the multidisciplinary team (MDT).

PgDip and MSc – Year 1

Foundations of Clinical Practice (30 credits)

Strengthen your capabilities as a safe and effective practitioner while deepening your critical understanding of the clinical pharmacist's role. Advance your consultation and history-taking skills, integrating diagnostic testing into patient-centred care. Build on existing knowledge with an evidence-based approach to problem-solving, prioritising patient safety and systematic decision-making.

Leadership in Healthcare (15 credits)

Explore your strengths and develop qualities to build and lead effective teams. Learn how to advocate for and implement change using quality improvement and leadership strategies. Deepen your knowledge of risk management and error reporting to improve patient outcomes and reduce adverse events.

Research in Healthcare (15 credits)

Gain the skills to create, analyse, critique, and apply evidence to enhance healthcare outcomes. Explore key approaches, from hypothesis formation to the synthesis of systematic reviews. Design a research project on a topic of your choice, guided by the principles of healthcare research.

PgDip and MSc – Year 2

Clinical Practice and Education (30 credits) – Core

Build your skills in acute patient care while fostering personal development, identifying learning opportunities, and reflecting on feedback. Develop confidence in evaluating evidence, creating management plans, and collaborating within a multidisciplinary team. Explore teaching and learning theories used in clinical education and use your expertise to mentor and train colleagues effectively.

Long-term Conditions (30 credits) – Optional

Develop your knowledge and skills in managing long-term conditions using a holistic approach within a multidisciplinary team across care sectors. Strengthen your ability to critically evaluate the evidence for managing long-term conditions, while considering the importance of health promotion and public engagement. Create a portfolio showcasing your expertise in caring for patients with long-term conditions and your ongoing professional development.

Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists – Optional

Prescribing is fully integrated into this course offering a seamless pathway to becoming a qualified prescriber. Build on the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course to facilitate your transition into independent prescribing.

This module is accredited by The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and leads to a Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists. A separate application is required for this course.

MSc and MSc Top-Up Only

Research Project (60 credits)

Gain a comprehensive understanding of research methods, including ethical, theoretical, and logistical considerations. Learn to critically evaluate research literature, and design, justify, and carry out research in your chosen clinical field. Develop the ability to communicate research findings effectively and identify ways to apply them to improve healthcare practice.

Facilities

Onsite facilities include state-of-the-art equipment for pharmacy. On-campus teaching for clinical skills is held within the Living Lab in the John Dawson Sciences Complex, which boasts multi-disciplinary laboratories and cutting-edge equipment thanks to multi-million pound investments. Online facilities include the use of the VLE Canvas where software such as reVIEW and Storyline are utilised to deliver the course.

Entry Requirements

We require:

• Registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)
• Current employment as a pharmacist in the UK
• Your undergraduate degree should be recognised by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)

For the MSc Top-Up we also require:

• Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pharmacy (or equivalent postgraduate pharmacy programme; this will be assessed for relevance by the team on application)

If English is not your first language, please see our English language requirements.

Fees and Finance

Tuition fees are:

• £500 per 10 credits if you are from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled

Each year of the course requires 60 credits to complete.

Career Ready

We encourage you to plan your career progression with your employer.

On completing this course you will be equipped with the advanced skills and knowledge specifically needed for progression into various senior pharmacist roles.

A promotion to a higher band of pay can quickly ensure a good return on your investment in the course.

MSc Clinical Pharmacy at the University of Sunderland

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Degree Overview:

The MSc Clinical Pharmacy program at the University of Sunderland is designed to align with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society's (RPS) foundation and advanced pharmacist frameworks and knowledge summaries. It equips students with the core skills and knowledge necessary to become advanced pharmacists and independent prescribers. The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online learning with practical experience, and emphasizes the development of portfolio assessments to build an impactful RPS individual pharmacist portfolio.

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Objectives:

• To prepare graduates for the role of an advanced pharmacist practitioner and prescriber.
• To develop critical care and decision-making skills for optimized patient outcomes.
• To equip graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to prescribe safely and effectively.
• To foster the development of strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• To cultivate ethical and professional behaviors.

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Program Description:

This program offers a comprehensive and flexible approach to learning, catering to the needs of working professionals. It combines interactive online learning materials with webinars and on-site sessions for a rich and engaging learning experience. Some key features of the program include:

• Tailored learning: The program allows students to customize their learning by choosing from a range of elective modules.
• Blended learning: The program utilizes a blend of online and on-site learning, allowing students to study at their own pace and convenience.
• Mentored approach: Students are encouraged to choose a mentor to support them throughout their studies.
• Interactive learning materials: The program uses self-check quizzes, e-learning, video presentations, applied case-based scenarios, and other interactive materials to engage students and facilitate learning.
• Experienced faculty: Students are taught by experienced academic practitioners, specialist advanced clinical pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals.
### Outline:

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Program Structure:

The MSc Clinical Pharmacy program is delivered through a blended learning approach, with a strong focus on interactive distance learning materials. Students can progress through the program at their own pace and schedule.

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Content:

• Clinical Decision Making and Stages of Care (20 credits): Develop strong clinical decision-making skills and learn how to interpret and consider relevant patient information.
• Patient Safety (20 credits): Understand patient safety concepts, including risk identification, quantification, and management.
• The Acute Patient (20 credits): Explore the care of patients with acute illnesses and manage complex cases with multiple co-morbidities.
• The Chronic Patient (20 credits): Follow the patient journey in chronic illness and learn to make appropriate pharmaceutical care decisions.
• Primary Care and Social Pharmacy (10 credits): Gain knowledge of key principles relating to transfer of care, medicines management in care homes, and good practice guidelines.
• Psychiatry (10 credits): Understand the neurobiology, clinical features, investigations, and management strategies for common psychiatric disorders.
• Evidence-based Medicine (10 credits): Learn about evidence-based medicine and how to apply it in practice.
• Clinical Investigation and Diagnostics (10 credits): Build your understanding of clinical investigations and diagnostics.
• Population Healthcare (10 credits): Expand your knowledge of the pharmacist's role in improving population health.
• Clinical Skills 1 (10 credits): Develop fundamental knowledge of human anatomy and physiology for clinical examination.
• Clinical Skills 2 (10 credits): Learn to perform a holistic assessment of a patient, integrating history, systems assessment, and physical examination.
• Clinical Audit (10 credits): Develop and implement clinical audits to improve patient care.
• Research Methods (30 credits): Gain a comprehensive understanding of research methods and learn to design and conduct research studies.
• Research Project (30 credits): Conduct a research study and analyze the findings.
• Independent Prescribing (40 credits): Become an independent prescriber and gain the necessary skills and knowledge for safe and effective prescribing.
### Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

The program uses a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Written/online examinations
• OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations)
• Work-based portfolio
• Written coursework

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Assessment Criteria:

The assessment criteria are designed to ensure that students demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to practice as an advanced clinical pharmacist and independent prescriber.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of teaching methods to deliver the curriculum, including:

• Online lectures
• Expert interviews
• Directed reading
• Case-based scenarios
• Research
• Tutorials
• Online tutor support

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Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced academic pharmacists and healthcare professionals who are active in clinical practice.

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Unique Approaches:

The program uses a blended learning approach that combines online learning with practical experience. This allows students to learn at their own pace and convenience, while also gaining valuable practical skills.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

Graduates of the MSc Clinical Pharmacy program are qualified to work as advanced clinical pharmacists and independent prescribers in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, community pharmacies, and primary care.

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Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the program may pursue careers in areas such as:

• Clinical pharmacy
• Independent prescribing
• Research
• Education
• Public health

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Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the program are highly sought-after by employers and are well-prepared for a successful career in pharmacy. The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge they need to make a significant contribution to patient care.

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Other:

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On-site Facilities:

The program utilizes state-of-the-art facilities at the University of Sunderland's John Dawson Sciences Complex, including multi-disciplinary laboratories and cutting-edge equipment.

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Online Facilities:

Students have access to the University's VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) Canvas, which provides access to a wide range of online resources.

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Library Resources:

Students have access to the University's extensive library resources, including a comprehensive collection of books, e-books, and journals.

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Mentored Approach:

Students are encouraged to choose a mentor to support them throughout their studies. This provides them with valuable guidance and support as they progress through the program.

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Tuition fees are: £445 per 10 credits if you are from the UK/Ireland/EU settled/pre-settled Each year of the course requires 60 credits to complete. We do not accept applications from international students for this course.

University of Sunderland

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Overview:

The University of Sunderland is a public university located in Sunderland, England. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university has a strong focus on providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment for its students.

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Services Offered:

The University of Sunderland provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Access to libraries, learning resources, and academic advisors.

Student Support:

Counseling, mental health services, and disability support.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options.

Career Services:

Career guidance, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Student Life:

A vibrant student union, clubs, societies, and social events.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university boasts a diverse and inclusive campus community where students can connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Students can participate in extracurricular activities, engage in personal and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a vibrant social scene.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Top-Quality Facilities:

The university has modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, sports facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.

Inclusive Culture:

The university fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

Vibrant City:

Sunderland is a dynamic city with a rich history and a low cost of living.

Strong Industry Links:

The university has strong connections with local businesses and industries, providing students with valuable career opportunities.

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Academic Programs:

The University of Sunderland offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Arts and Design:

Fashion, Photography, Fine Art, and Graphic Design.

Sciences:

Pharmacy, Nursing, Medicine, and Biology.

Business and Law:

Business Management, Finance, Law, and Tourism.

Computing and Engineering:

Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.

Education and Social Sciences:

Education, Psychology, and Social Work.

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Other:

The university has campuses in Sunderland, London, and Hong Kong, offering students a global learning experience. It is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and equality, diversity, and inclusion.