Program Overview

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Introduction to the Program

The International Perspectives in Emergency and Critical Care (Professional Practice) program is a postgraduate course offered by Birmingham City University. This program is designed to develop knowledgeable, critical thinking, proactive, professional practitioners who are fit to meet the changing demands of modern healthcare provision in the global arena.

Program Overview

The Professional Practice Course is flexible, practice-led, responsive, and aims to foster excellence. It consists of a selection of modules that can be studied on their own or as part of an award. The program is available at various levels, including Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert), Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip), and Master of Science (MSc).

Why Choose This Program?

• A strong focus on current issues in acute care and the practical application of knowledge.
• Each module has a bespoke Moodle virtual learning environment to support continued learning off-campus.
• A wide choice of optional modules allows students to build a bespoke learning experience, most appropriate to their career plans.
• Ongoing support from university staff to facilitate development as a learner.

Similar Courses

Similar courses offered by the university include:

• Cancer and Haemato-oncology (Professional Practice) - BSc (Hons) or PG Level
• Cardiac Care (Professional Practice) - BSc (Hons) or PG Level
• Healthcare (Professional Practice) - BSc (Hons)

Fees and How to Apply

UK Students

• Annual and modular tuition fees are applicable to the first year of study.
• The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament.
• Award: PgCert / PgDip / MSc
• Starting: September 2025
• Mode: Part-time
• Duration: Up to 5 years (part-time) or 2 years (full-time)
• Fees: To be confirmed

International Students

This course is not available to international students.

Entry Requirements

Level 6 Study

For entry onto the BSc/BSc (Hons), students must have a relevant Diploma in Higher Education or 240 credits, of which at least 120 credits are at level 5. Students who have a Dip HE or equivalent but do not have any previous BCU credits will need to complete three modules at Level 6.

Level 7 Study

For entry into the Postgraduate Certificate/Postgraduate Diploma/MSc award, students must have a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent or a 60 credit Level 6 award in an appropriate subject area. Applicants with evidence of successfully completed Level 6 study within the preceding 2 years may also be considered.

Course in Depth

The program is structured into several years of study, each with specific modules and exit awards.

Year 1 Pathway Award – Exit Award: PG Cert Professional Practice (International Perspectives in Emergency and Critical Care)

• Core Concepts in International Perspectives in Emergency and Critical Care (40 credits)
• Prevention, Recognition, and Management of Sepsis (20 credits)

Year 2 Pathway Award - Exit Award: PG Dip Professional Practice (International Perspectives in Emergency and Critical Care)

• Understanding and Managing Behaviour of Self, Teams, and Organisations (20 credits)
• Research: Methods of Enquiry (20 credits)
• An appropriate module of at least 20 credits from the list of additional optional modules or any module (relevant to Pathway/Speciality) from the University/Faculty portfolio as agreed with the Pathway Leader.

Year 3 Pathway Award – Exit Award: MSc Professional Practice (International Perspectives in Emergency and Critical Care)

• Option 1: Research Dissertation (60 credits)
• Option 2: Research Dissertation (40 credits) and Writing for Academic Publication (20 credits)

Facilities and Staff

The Nursing and Midwifery courses are based at the City South campus, which has undergone a £41 million expansion to provide state-of-the-art facilities. These include a mock operating theatre, wards, and a home environment room, all designed to replicate real-world settings for practical training. The Centre for Skills and Simulation, simulation manikins, and computer facilities with the latest technology and software support the learning experience.

Our Staff

The program is led by experienced professionals, including Associate Professor Chris Carter, who is a senior lecturer and an experienced critical care nurse and leader. The staff are committed to providing ongoing support to facilitate students' development as learners.