Therapeutics (PgCert)

This programme is designed for GPs, pharmacists and specialist nurses who wish to further develop their knowledge of the evidence-based management of commonly encountered medical conditions.

The Postgraduate Certificate in Therapeutics is designed for medical practitioners, pharmacists, specialist nurses, and others who wish to gain further expertise in the practical management of common therapeutic problems.

This one-year part-time, distance-learning course is taught online, and aims to equip you with a sound understanding of the management of common medical conditions and to develop skills in evidence-based medicine. Graduates would be expected to gain the skills and expertise necessary to become the ‘local therapeutics expert’.

The course arises from a leading research centre and aims to encourage critical thinking and to equip students not only with practical and factual knowledge, but also provide a basic approach to therapeutic problems, encouraging attitudes and abilities which will be of lasting value in dealing with future advances in therapy.

Most of the teaching is problem-orientated and is specifically designed to be of direct relevance to practice. There are several different integrated components to the course structure. There is fortnightly reading for each module with copies of or links to key articles. There are also regular clinical exercises to be completed which provide the basis of in-course assessment. There is an electronic discussion board, as well as dedicated email and telephone contacts, to ensure good communication with the University and between candidates.

Distinctive features

• Problem orientated, evidence-based learning specifically designed to be of direct relevance to practice.
• Distance-learning, delivered entirely online. You can choose when and where to study, at home, at work or on the move.
• The course includes a ‘study day’ held in Cardiff, which all candidates are encouraged (but not required) to attend. Presentations will be available online to those unable to attend.
• Targeted fortnightly reading guided by aims and outcomes for the period.
• Audio interviews and presentations are available to download.
• We are also recognised as a major research centre. Advances in therapeutics have been pioneered in Cardiff, including methods for optimal use of anticoagulants, antiarrhythmic drugs and anticonvulsants.