Program Overview

Cardiovascular Health and Rehabilitation PGCert

Overview

The Cardiovascular Health and Rehabilitation PGCert is a postgraduate course designed for health professionals and graduates looking to facilitate a career switch into this rewarding and high-profile area. The course was established in 2004 and is characterized by its multidisciplinary approach, stressing the importance of evidence-based practice in ensuring high standards of cardiovascular rehabilitation and prevention.

Course Details

• Level: Postgraduate
• UCAS Code: N/A
• Start date: Oct 2025, Oct 2026
• Duration: 2 years
• Location: Exton Park, Chester
• UK fees: £2,925 for the full course (2025/26)
• International fees: £15,000 per year (2025/26)

Course Leader

• Richard Bott

Accreditations

• The course is aligned with the BACPR standards and core components.
• Opportunity for a placement in a cardiac rehabilitation unit at a local hospital.
• Choice of research project – individually led, work-related, or as part of a current University research course.

Course Structure

The course is highly flexible, allowing you to study full-time or part-time to suit your personal and work commitments. Flexibility is achieved through the delivery of modules over three-day blocks followed by eight weeks of campus- or home-based learning.

Modules

• Year 1
  • Cardiovascular anatomy and physiology
  • Exercise prescription
  • Nutrition in CVD
  • Psychological influences on behavior change

Module Aims

• Equip students with advanced knowledge of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology
• Develop students' skills in the key aspects of data handling and statistical analysis
• Analyze critically the psycho-social and physiological evidence base for exercise testing, prescription, and patient program design

Entry Requirements

• Home Students: A minimum of a 2:2 honors degree in a related subject area, or equivalent professional qualifications
• International Students: A minimum of a 2:2 honors degree in a related subject area, or equivalent professional qualifications

English Language Requirements

For more information on our English Language requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

Where You'll Study

• Exton Park, Chester
• Modern learning resources and library
• Fitness facilities
• Student Services
• Chapel, chaplaincy, and multi-faith spaces
• Accommodation
• Catering

Fees and Funding

• Home Students: £2,925 for the full course (2025/26)
• International Students: £15,000 per year (2025/26)
• Additional Costs: Books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery, and related materials
• Bursaries: The University of Chester supports fair access for students who may need additional support through a range of bursaries and scholarships

Your Future Career

• Cardiac Rehabilitation
• Exercise Physiologist
• Occupational Physiologist
• Researcher
• Lecturing/Teaching
• Weight Management
• Health Promotion
• Corporate Health, Fitness, and Nutrition

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences.