| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
Program Overview
The University of Northampton offers a comprehensive non-medical prescribing program designed for nurse/midwife practitioners and allied health professionals seeking to expand their scope of practice. Through a combination of theory and practical application, the program equips learners with the skills necessary to safely prescribe within their respective fields. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible for registration as Independent & Supplementary Prescribers with the NMC and HCPC, opening up new career opportunities in advanced clinical practice.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The University of Northampton offers a 40-credit non-medical prescribing course designed to empower autonomous nurse/midwife practitioners and AHPs to confidently prescribe within their scope of practice. Upon successful completion, practitioners will earn academic accreditation and acquire the advanced skills necessary for safe prescribing, aligning with current professional regulations. This qualification makes them eligible to register as Independent & Supplementary Prescribers with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and the HCPC. This professional qualification (V300 prescribing course) can be pursued as a standalone module or as part of a broader package of modules leading to an MSc Advanced Clinical Practice or MSc Advancing Practice.
Outline:
Course Content:
The non-medical prescribing course equips students with the skills needed to conduct comprehensive and safe consultations, bridging theory and practical application of knowledge to prescribing practice.
- Differential Diagnoses: The course covers differential diagnoses, diagnostic tools used in practice, and the safety netting of all prescribing decisions.
- Clinical Reasoning and Decision-Making: Theories and methods underpinning clinical reasoning and decision-making in healthcare are explored, along with advanced communication strategies, legal and ethical issues of advanced assessment, and evidence-based practice.
Teaching Approach:
The course employs a varied, active-blended learning approach, incorporating:
- Lectures: Formal presentations of key concepts.
- Interactive Group Work: Collaborative learning activities to foster discussion and problem-solving.
- Online Learning Activities: Engaging digital resources and exercises.
- Online Activity Days: Dedicated time for online learning activities.
- NUR3015P Nurse Independent and Supplementary Prescribing (NISP) (NMC V300) Programme Level 6: This module is designed for NMC registered professionals.
Assessment:
The assessment strategies in this non-medical prescribing program provide students with the opportunity to critically reflect, evaluate, and synthesize their learning, development, and practice in relation to prescribing. Assessment methods include:
- Portfolio of Evidence: A purposeful compilation of a student's evidence and achievement in relation to prescribing within their area of practice. Completion of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (2022) Competency Framework demonstrates practical application of the core competencies associated with Prescribing Practice. This is verified and signed off by the Practice Assessor, Practice Supervisors, and the Academic Assessor (NMC) or a Designated Medical Practitioner for the HCPC module.
- Exam: An assessment under examination conditions to assess numerical skills and their application to Prescribing Practice.
Teaching:
- Faculty: The program is led by experienced faculty members, including Senior Lecturer Julie Holloway (NMC registered professionals) and Senior Lecturer Krishna Gohil (HCPC registered professionals).
- Teaching Approach: The course utilizes an active-blended learning approach, combining face-to-face sessions with online learning activities.
Careers:
- Career Paths: Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible to register as Independent & Supplementary Prescribers with the NMC and HCPC, opening doors to a wider range of prescribing roles within their respective professions.
- Opportunities: The qualification enhances career prospects and allows practitioners to expand their scope of practice, potentially leading to leadership positions and advanced clinical roles.
Other:
- Employer Support: Applicants must have employer support and protected learning time to participate in the program.
- Enhanced DBS Check: Applicants must have an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Services check undertaken.
- Professional Standing: Students who do not have a relevant Bachelor's degree must satisfy the University that they are fit to register for and benefit from the program based on their professional standing, qualifications, and/or training.
- Special Admission: The University offers special admission for applicants who may not meet the general entry requirements, following the Special Admissions Policy.
University of Northampton
Overview:
University of Northampton is a public university located in Northampton, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as continuing professional development courses. The university is known for its focus on social impact and its commitment to creating a better society through its students, research, and engagement with the wider world.
Services Offered:
The university provides a variety of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus halls of residence are available for students.Employment Promise:
The university offers an employment promise to help students find work after graduation.Student Perks:
Students receive various perks, including laptops, trips, and internships.Support:
The university provides comprehensive support services to students, including academic, wellbeing, and accessibility support.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at University of Northampton can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university has a modern campus with a full range of integrated learning environments, including a 24/7 library and learning zone. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and societies, and there are numerous events and activities throughout the year.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Social Impact Focus:
The university is committed to making a positive impact on society through its research and engagement.Modern Campus:
The university has a new, modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities.Employment Promise:
The university's employment promise helps students find work after graduation.Student Support:
The university provides comprehensive support services to students.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
Programs in various fields, including business, sport, nursing, law, psychology, computing, and design.Master's:
Programs in various fields, including business, education, health, and social work.Continuing Professional Development (CPD):
Courses designed to enhance professional skills and knowledge.Other:
The university has a strong focus on research and has several research institutes and centers. It also has a strong commitment to equality and inclusion and provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.
Entry Requirements:
- NMC Registered: Applicants must be a registered nurse (level 1), midwife, or SCPHN with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for at least 12 months prior to applying.
- HCPC Registered: Applicants must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for at least 3 years prior to applying.
- Employer Support: Applicants must have employer support and protected learning time.
- Knowledge and Experience: Applicants must have knowledge and experience in the area in which they intend to prescribe.
- Clinical Skills: Applicants should be assessed and approved by their employer as competent within their scope of practice, at history taking, assessment, diagnosis/care management, planning/evaluating care, and have completed a period of clinical skills learning.
- Self-Employed Nurses/Midwives: Self-employed nurses/midwives must demonstrate how they meet the above criteria directly to the module lead prior to enrollment.
- Academic Qualifications:
- An appropriate healthcare or bachelor’s degree with honors.
- Students who do not have a relevant Bachelor’s degree must satisfy the University that by virtue of their professional standing, qualification and/or training that they are fit to register for, and to benefit them from, their proposed programme of study.
- Special Admission: Applicants who cannot meet the general entry requirements may be considered for 'special admission' following the University's Special Admissions Policy.
- Required Documents:
- Relevant SIF Form related to employment status (Employed at an NHS and non-NHS organization or Self-employed).
- A copy of an up-to-date Enhanced DBS certificate (Child and Adult workforce), issued within the last three years.
