Program Overview

University Award Independent Prescribing for Pharmacists (Practice Certificate in Independent Prescribing) - Level 7

Course Overview

The programme is a multi-professional, part-time course which will prepare pharmacists for a role as an Independent Pharmacist Prescriber.

Key Course Details

• Location: Location is dependent on start date; please enquire for further details
• Duration: Part-time, 1 Semester, Part-time, 18-24 weeks
• Start date: January 2026

Course Outline

Course Summary

The programme is a multi-professional, part-time course which will prepare pharmacists for a role as an Independent Pharmacist Prescriber.

Modules

• The programme at level 7 is a 40 credit programme HPHN7416 focusing on the principles which underpin prescribing practice.
• The programme comprises 26 theory days some of which are delivered by attendance at a University campus and virtually the remainder are delivered more flexibly online.
• Students also undertake 12 practice days (90 hours equivalent) in clinical practice preparing to be a prescriber.

Module Dates

Dates for course delivery and for which attendance is required at the University are available on request.

Programme Specification

For a detailed summary of the programme, please read our programme specification for this course.

Assessment, Feedback, and Teaching and Learning methods

Full details are available in the programme specification.

Timetables

The teaching timetable should be available from the end of August. Access to the timetable is through the Student Hub – you will be able to access the Student Hub after you have completed online registration.

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must submit a fully completed application form, and all entry criteria must be met as part of the application process.
• Applicants must:
  • be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council – this will be checked on receipt of the application form, applicants with a record of fitness to practice issues are not eligible for this course.
  • evidence of successful study at level 6 within 6 years of the course start date.
  • have at least two years' appropriate patient-orientated experience post registration, in a relevant UK practice setting.
  • are required to provide evidence of a satisfactory enhanced disclosure clearance (DBS) within three years of the programme start date.
  • have an identified area of clinical or therapeutic practice in which to develop independent prescribing practice.
  • demonstrate that they meet the requirements of their employing organisation/Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) in respect of pre-programme numeracy assessment.
  • have an identified Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) who meets the criteria for eligibility as a DPP.

Application Information

• Demand for places on these courses is currently high and all applications are subject to the availability of course places.
• The application process may take some time to complete as it requires the applicant's Line Manager, Designated Prescribing Practitioner/Practice Assessor/Practice Supervisor, their employing organisation's Non-Medical Prescribing Lead to confirm their support via a specific Application Form designed for this process.

Student Finance

We have a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, grants and funds available to support you throughout your studies with us.

Fees

The tuition fees for CPD and short courses vary based on the intensity and length of the course.

Resources and Facilities

Have a look at our learning resources for non-medical prescribing.

Meet the Staff

Our academic staff are passionate about their field and have a wealth of real-world experience to back up their knowledge. Find out more about your tutors.