Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-30 | - |
Program Overview
Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists
Overview
The Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists is a postgraduate course designed to equip pharmacists with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to become autonomous prescribers. This General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)-accredited qualification is a prerequisite for annotation as an independent prescriber and is the first step towards a career-changing pathway.
Course Structure
The course is delivered through a blended approach, combining on-campus, live online, pre-recorded, and distance learning materials. The curriculum is based on the GPhC's syllabus for independent prescribing for pharmacists and conforms to the requirements of the Standards for Education and Training for Pharmacist Prescribers.
- The course runs twice a year, with intakes in October and January.
- Students attend ten mandatory study days, including assessments, where they study therapeutic topics, clinical skills, patient assessment, and more.
- Students undertake at least 90 hours of supervised practice with a designated prescribing practitioner (DPP) and submit a written portfolio of evidence to complete their studies.
Modules
Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists (40 credits)
- Acquire the theoretical and practical skills and knowledge to become a safe and effective Independent Prescriber.
- Gain experience with a dedicated in-work mentor to help develop the competencies required for professional recognition as a prescriber in your own right.
- Consolidate and develop your abilities to engage in reflective practice and utilise these skills to enhance patient care and safety by focusing on the fundamental principles of effective consultation and prescribing governance.
Facilities
The course is based in The John Dawson Sciences Complex on City Campus, which boasts multi-disciplinary laboratories and cutting-edge equipment thanks to multi-million-pound investments.
- The University has a purpose-built model pharmacy complete with a consultation suite and optional video recording of your interaction with patients.
- The University can accurately simulate hospital-based scenarios in a fully equipped ward environment.
Entry Requirements
- Be registered with the UK General Pharmaceutical Council or the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland.
- Have appropriate patient-orientated experience in a UK hospital, community or primary care setting following your foundation year as defined by the GPhC's Standards for Education and Training.
- Hold or be working toward a recognised clinical qualification at postgraduate diploma level or above, or be able to provide an equivalent portfolio of evidence of clinical experience.
- Have an identified area of clinical practice for independent prescribing and the agreement of a DPP to supervise your learning in practice.
Fees and Finance
- The fee for this course is £1,688.
- The employer usually meets these costs – we advise you to speak to your workforce development lead before applying.
- We also accept self-funded applicants and encourage anyone wishing to explore their options to contact us.
Meet the Students
"The course is perfect for your professional growth and was the catalyst for change in my career." - Jonathan Hindmarsh
Meet the Team
- Rebecca Coon, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy
- Keith Holden, Principal Lecturer
Related Courses
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Contact
For more information on studying this course, contact the Corporate and Professional Education Team.
Program Outline
Program Name: Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists
Degree Overview:
Overview:
This program equips pharmacists with the skills and knowledge to become independent prescribers, allowing them to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions autonomously within their clinical competence. Participants will gain the ability to prescribe medications directly to patients, improving access to care and medicines.
Objectives:
- Equip participants with the theoretical and practical skills necessary to become safe and effective independent prescribers.
- Provide participants with a dedicated in-work mentor to support the development of required competencies for professional recognition.
- Enhance participants' ability to engage in reflective practice and utilize these skills to enhance patient care and safety.
- Focus on the fundamental principles of effective consultation and prescribing governance.
Description:
This intensive program combines online learning, live online sessions, pre-recorded lectures, and independent study. It is offered in a "blended" format, allowing for flexibility and efficient learning. Case-based learning and a variety of teaching methods are employed to ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.
Duration:
The program typically takes 12 months to complete, although it can be completed in less time.
Outline:
Content:
The program reflects the General Pharmaceutical Council's syllabus for independent prescribing for pharmacists and adheres to the Standards for Education and Training for Pharmacist Prescribers.
Structure:
- Participants will study either online or at the University for one day a week during the first term.
- Self-directed learning and online resources will supplement weekly sessions.
- Assessments will take place in the form of a multiple-choice question exam and a sequential clinical examination.
- Participants will complete a minimum of 90 hours of supervised practice with a designated prescribing practitioner (DPP).
- A written portfolio of evidence is required to finalize the program.
Modules:
- Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists (40 credits)
Module Description:
This module aims to equip participants with the essential knowledge and skills to become a safe and effective independent prescriber. Participants will gain experience with a dedicated in-work mentor to develop the necessary competencies for professional recognition. The module focuses on refining and developing the ability to engage in reflective practice and utilize these skills to enhance patient care and safety. Participants will learn the fundamental principles of effective consultation and prescribing governance.
Assessment:
- Multiple-choice question exam
- Sequential clinical examination
- Written portfolio of evidence ### Teaching:
- Blended learning approach combining online, live online, pre-recorded lectures, and independent study.
- Case-based learning strategy
- Lectures, seminars, practical skills development sessions, presentations, self-directed learning, and mentored practice.
- Comprehensive online learning environment for additional support. ### Careers:
- Independent prescriber in a variety of settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals, and general practice.
- Improved job satisfaction and career advancement opportunities.
- Enhanced professional development and clinical utility. ### Other:
- This program is the only GPhC-approved Independent Prescribing course designed specifically for pharmacists in the northeast of England.
- Participants will undertake a minimum of 90 hours of supervised practice with a designated prescribing practitioner, ideally a medical practitioner.
- Non-medical prescribers may be considered for supervision when necessary.
- The program is available as a standalone course or as an optional module for those enrolled in the MSc Clinical Pharmacy program.
Please note:
This information is current as of April 15, 2024. The University of Sunderland continuously reviews and enhances course content. Updates may be communicated to prospective students in writing.
University of Sunderland
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.
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.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.
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.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.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.
Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for all applicants:
General Requirements:
- Be registered with the UK General Pharmaceutical Council or the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland.
- Hold or be working towards a recognised clinical qualification at postgraduate diploma level or above, or be able to provide an equivalent portfolio of evidence of clinical experience. (If you are unable to meet this requirement, consider applying for MSc Clinical Pharmacy which includes an optional independent prescribing module.)
- Have an identified area of clinical practice for independent prescribing.
- Agreement of a Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) to supervise your learning in practice.
Additional Requirements:
- Applicants must have appropriate patient-orientated experience in a UK hospital, community or primary care setting following their foundation year as defined by the GPhC's Standards for Education and Training.
Submission Deadlines:
- Applications should be received by 31 July for October entry and 31 October for January entry.
Contact:
- To apply, contact cape@sunderland.ac.uk.
- Download the Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) guide.pdf for your DPP to review. ## Language Proficiency Requirements This information is not available in the provided context. Please refer to the University of Sunderland website or contact the program director for information regarding language proficiency requirements.
