The Programme

• Course Content

  This Postgraduate Certificate comprises three 20 credit modules:

  Holistic Nursing Care of the Older Person (Semester 1) – This module examines the holistic nursing care of older people, integrating physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of health and well-being. Students will explore the impact of ageing on body systems and the management of common age-related conditions. The module highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, communication, and ethical decision-making in the care of older adults. Students will also consider strategies for preventing functional decline, supporting self-management of chronic illness, and addressing complex co-morbidities. Through critical reflection and application of research and policy, students will develop advanced skills to deliver safe, compassionate, and person-centred nursing care for older people in diverse health and social care settings.

  Prevention, Assessment and Management of Frailty in Older People (Semester 2)- This module explores the complex and multidimensional nature of frailty in older adults, focusing on comprehensive assessment and evidence-informed management across care settings. Students will examine biological, psychological, and social determinants of frailty, alongside national and international frameworks that guide best practice. Teaching will cover the use of validated assessment tools such as the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) and frailty indices, promoting advanced clinical reasoning and interprofessional collaboration. Emphasis is placed on early identification, prevention of deterioration, and management of acute and chronic presentations in frail populations. The module integrates current research, policy, and ethical considerations to support person-centred, safe, and sustainable care. Students will critically evaluate service models and develop strategies that enhance quality of life, functional ability, and dignity for older adults living with frailty.

  HSN7076 – Evidence Based Practice - Students will examine the principles and seven step process of Evidence Based Practice, including reflection on practice, identifying topics of inquiry, forming searchable clinical questions, locating appropriate evidence sources, interpreting research quality, and evaluating how evidence informs decision making, quality improvement and practice development.

   

• Outcomes

  Upon successful completion of this course, students will graduate with a Post Graduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Advanced HealthCare Practice (Frailty and Healthy Ageing).  

• Delivery

  Students should note that delivery may be via blended learning, with a mix of online and face to face classes as detailed within the module timetable on Canvas.

  Autumn (AUT) teaching commences w/c Monday, 21 September 2026 (Week 1) and finishes w/c  Monday, 14 December 2026 unless otherwise advised.

  Spring (SPR) teaching commences w/c Monday, 18 January 2027 (Week 18) and finishes w/c Monday, 27 April 2027 unless otherwise advised.

  Venue for first class listed below - thereafter, students should check the Weekly Planner facility on QSIS for remaining venues.

  First Semester	(Day)	(Time)	TBC
  Second Semester			TBC

• Selection Criteria

  Applicants shall normally hold a relevant 2.2 Honours degree or above, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. 

  Applicants who do not hold a 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) may be considered on a case-by-case basis where they can demonstrate evidence of successful study at Level 6 in a healthcare related subject. 

  Applicants must provide evidence of at least 20 CAT points at Level 3/6. Certificates must clearly state level of study and credit worthiness in order to meet the entry requirements. 

  In addition, applicants accessing postgraduate certificates must be working in the relevant clinical area. 

  International Trained Nurses/Midwives: If you hold an international qualification you will need to provide a UK ENIC Statement of Comparability. This should be obtained prior to submitting your application. You can apply for a statement through the ENIC website: Statement of Comparability (enic.org.uk)