Overview

They say prevention is better than cure - so join an important and growing area of healthcare to combat infection.

This course will help you develop specialist knowledge and become an expert practitioner in the field of infection prevention and control.

In addition, you will gain the relevant knowledge and skills required to be an IPCP (Infection Prevention and Control Practitioner) which enables you to translate and apply these core principles across different acute and secondary healthcare settings.

You will achieve the following qualifications in Infection Prevention and Control:

• a Postgraduate Certificate after your first year
• a Postgraduate Diploma after your second year
• MSc after your third year - to be eligible for the MSc all the modules should be completed within four years.

Course detail

This new programme combines specialist Infection Prevention and Control knowledge with skills in improvement science - both critical to the specialist role.

The first year is mainly delivered by face-to-face attendance format, which is a key advantage for facilitating the formation of peer networks. This is crucial for working in infection prevention as peer access encourages the sharing of best practice.

The portfolio-based learning approach enables you to develop the critical knowledge and skills relevant to your own workplace and ensures you develop appropriate competencies to meet the requirements of your role.

Additionally a proportion of the content is delivered by subject experts, ensuring optimal learning.

After the first year you will achieve a PGCert, having acquired the necessary expert knowledge and skills to operate effectively as a junior IPCP.

You then have the option to extend your studies through PgDip and MSc level developing your knowledge and skills in leadership, improvement science and project management in preparation for more senior IPCP leadership roles.

The two improvement science modules and project in Years 2 and 3 will be especially relevant as your role requires you to facilitate change and lead improvement across a wide range of healthcare settings.

Study & career progression

Career options may include senior roles within the field of infection prevention and control or public health. You could also study for a PhD or Professional Doctorate.