
Independent prescribing courses are essential for healthcare professionals who want to expand their clinical skills and provide better patient care.
Many independent prescribing courses are available: for example, a 30- credit module course and a 45- credit module course.
Both offer valuable education but differ in cost, time commitment and prerequisites needed.
In this article, we will compare the pros and cons of each type of course so that readers can make an informed decision when selecting one.
We will discuss topics such as the amount of time required to complete each course, cost differences and any prerequisites that may be needed. By the end of this article, you will have all the information necessary to decide which independent prescribing course is right for you.
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What will I learn from this article?
Part 1
- 1. Introduction
- A. Definition of the academic education credit system in the UK
- B. Purpose and significance of the system
- C. Overview of how the system works
- 2. Accumulating Credits
- A. Types of learning experiences that earn credit
- B. Credit value assigned to courses and programs
- C. Transferring credits between institutions
- 3. Earning a Degree
- A. Requirements for degree completion
- B. The role of credits in determining degree eligibility
- C. Options for combining credits from multiple sources
- 4. Benefits and Challenges of the System
- A. Advantages for students and institutions
- B. Potential drawbacks and issues to be aware of
- C. Strategies for making the most of the credit system
- 5. Conclusion
- A. Recap of critical points
- B. Final thoughts on the importance of understanding the UK academic education credit system
- C. Call to action for students to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the system.
Part 2 of the article
- Introduce the importance of independent prescribing courses for healthcare professionals
- Compare the 30- credit module and 45- credit module courses
- Discuss the time commitment needed to complete each course
- Evaluate cost differences between the two courses
- Explore any prerequisites that may be needed for either course
- Summarise critical points and explain why one type, of course, may be better suited for different types of professions and levels of experience
- Conclude by providing readers with all the information necessary to decide which independent prescribing course is right for them
Part 3 of the article
- What is the independent prescribing course?
- What are the entry requirements for the independent prescribing course
- How to get HEE funding for the non-medical prescribing course
The United Kingdom Academic system
Independent prescribing courses are essential for healthcare professionals who want to expand their clinical skills and provide better patient care. With an independent prescribing course, healthcare professionals can gain the knowledge and confidence they need to make safe, effective decisions without relying on a doctor’s prescription or advice.
By taking an independent prescribing course, healthcare professionals can become more autonomous and have greater control over patient care. This type of education also allows them to be more proactive regarding diagnosis and treatment options for their patients. Healthcare professionals need to understand the legal implications of being able to prescribe independently so that they can ensure best practices are followed at all times.
There are many independent prescribing courses available: for example, a 30-credit course and a 45-credit course. Both offer valuable education but differ in terms of cost, time commitment and prerequisites needed.
In this article, we will compare the pros and cons of each type of course so that readers can make an informed decision when selecting one. In addition, we will discuss topics such as the amount of time required to complete each course, cost differences and any prerequisites that may be needed. By the end of this article, you will have all the information necessary to decide which independent prescribing course is right for you.
First, we will explain the credit system within the UK and then relate this to the non-medical prescribing course.
Introduction to the United Kingdom Academic Education Credit System
The UK academic education credit system is an essential component of the higher education landscape in the country. It allows students to receive recognition for their learning experiences and achievements and accumulate credits for a degree over time.
The purpose of the first part of the article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the academic education credit system in the UK and explain how it works, the benefits and challenges, and what students need to know to make the most of this system.
How the UK Academic Education Credit System Works
The academic education credit system in the UK assigns credit value to individual courses, programs, and other learning experiences. This credit value is determined by the difficulty and time required to complete the learning experience and is usually expressed in terms of credit points or credits. For example, a typical full-time undergraduate program in the UK consists of 120 credits, and a student typically earns around 20-30 credits per semester.
To accumulate credits, students can enrol in courses and programs offered by universities, colleges, or other institutions. They can also earn credit through work-based learning experiences, such as internships or co-op programs, or by participating in online learning programs. Once a student has accumulated the required credits, they can apply for a degree.
Benefits of the UK Academic Education Credit System
The academic education credit system in the UK provides numerous benefits to students and institutions. For students, it offers flexibility and the opportunity to tailor their education to their individual needs and interests. For example, students can transfer credits from one institution to another or take courses online to earn credits towards their degree.
The system also benefits institutions by allowing them to offer more diverse and innovative learning experiences and to recognise the learning that takes place outside the classroom. This benefits society by ensuring people have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Challenges of the UK Academic Education Credit System
Despite its many benefits, the UK academic education credit system has challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the issue of the transferability of credits between institutions.
Although the system is designed to allow for the transfer of credits, there can be discrepancies between the credit values assigned by different institutions, making it difficult for students to transfer their credits from one institution to another.
Another challenge is the consistency in the quality of courses and programs offered by different institutions. Some institutions may have higher standards or more rigorous requirements for awarding credits, making it difficult for students to transfer credits from one institution to another.
What Students Need to Know about the UK Academic Education Credit System
For students, it is essential to understand the academic education credit system in the UK to make the most of the opportunities it offers. To begin with, students should research the credit value assigned to courses and programs offered by different institutions, and the requirements for earning a degree. They should also be aware of the transferability of credits and the quality of the courses provided by other institutions.
Finally, students should take advantage of the many resources available to help them make informed decisions about their education and career path. This might include talking to academic advisors, seeking information from academic and professional organisations, and networking with other students and professionals in their fields of interest.

30 Credit Non-medical prescribing course overview
The 30-credit independent prescribing course is aimed at healthcare professionals who already understand clinical practice and healthcare. It is a shorter course when compared to the 45-credit course and usually takes around six months to complete.
The cost of the 30-credit course can vary depending on where you study, but it’s typically between £1500 and £3,500. Some prerequisites must be met to complete the course successfully, such as having a relevant healthcare degree or 2-3 years of experience in a healthcare field.
45 Credit Non-medical prescribing course overview
The 45 credit offers an in-depth look at all aspects of independent prescribing, including legal issues, medications, diagnosis and patient care. It takes around 6 months to complete and can cost between £1,800 and £3,000, depending on your chosen institution.
The time commitment needed to complete each course
It is important to note that both courses have a significant time commitment associated with them, as they involve attending lectures, seminars and tutorials, as well as completing assignments and assessments throughout the program. Therefore, before enrolling in either course, it is essential to ensure that you can commit enough time to complete the program.
A 30-credit independent prescribing course would typically require around 300 hours of study time, while a 45-credit independent prescribing course would require approximately 450 hours. In addition, the 45-credit course would provide a more in-depth and comprehensive learning experience, covering a wider range of topics and providing more opportunities for hands-on experience.
In independent prescribing, the 45-credit course would likely cover more advanced topics and provide a deeper understanding of the principles and practices involved. This might include a greater emphasis on patient assessment, pharmacology, legal and ethical considerations, and more opportunities for practical experience and case studies.
On the other hand, a 30-credit independent prescribing course may provide a more fundamental level of knowledge and skills, focusing primarily on the core concepts and theories of independent prescribing. This course may be a good option for those looking to acquire a basic understanding of the subject or for those seeking a more streamlined and focused learning experience.
Ultimately, choosing between a 30-credit and a 45-credit independent prescribing course will depend on the student’s individual goals, interests, and needs. Students should carefully consider the hours of study time required for each course, as well as the learning outcomes and expectations, before making a decision.
Cost differences between the two courses
The cost of the 30-credit and 45-credit independent prescribing courses can vary depending on your chosen institution. Generally, the price for the 30 credit course is between £1,500 and £3,000, while the 45 credit course can be anywhere from £1,800 to £3,000.
Many institutions offer payment plans or discounts for certain groups of students, such as medical professionals or those in financial need. If you are considering enrolling in either course, looking into all available options is essential to find a program that best meets your needs and budget.
Key points
When deciding which type of independent prescribing course is the best fit for you, there are a few key factors to consider. First, the 45-credit course requires more time commitment than the 30-credit module.
The cost of both courses also varies depending on the institution chosen, and payment plans or discounts may be available.
When selecting an independent prescribing course, it is essential to evaluate your situation and assess what will work best for you in terms of time commitment, eligibility requirements and budgetary constraints. By taking all these facets into account, readers can make an informed decision and choose the course best suited to their profession and experience level.
Summary
When it comes to selecting an independent prescribing course, readers need to take into account their own professional and personal needs. In addition, the 30-credit and 45-credit courses have unique requirements in terms of qualifications, time commitment and cost. Therefore, readers should consider these factors carefully before committing to a course to ensure they make the best decision for themselves.
By researching all available options in terms of prerequisites, duration and costs and evaluating which type, of course, may be better suited to different professions and levels of experience, readers can make an informed decision when choosing an independent prescribing course. With this information, readers can confidently select the option that best suits their specific needs and provide themselves with the tools to become independent prescribers.
All in all, independent prescribing courses are essential for healthcare professionals who wish to advance their careers and expand their knowledge base. By taking the time to evaluate which course is best for them, readers can make a decision that will benefit them both professionally and personally.

Part 3
What is the independent prescribing course?
Independent Prescribing is a course offered in the UK that prepares healthcare professionals, such as nurses, pharmacists, and physiotherapists, to become independent prescribers. Independent prescribing is the ability of these healthcare professionals to prescribe and supply a range of medicines and treatments without needing an assessment by a doctor.
The independent prescribing course provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed and effective prescribing decisions, taking into account patient safety, evidence-based practice, and legal and ethical considerations. The course is designed to help students develop their understanding of pharmacology, patient assessment, and the principles of safe and effective prescribing.
The course typically covers various topics, including anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, clinical decision-making, and the legal and ethical aspects of prescribing. The course may also include practical elements, such as case studies, clinical placements, and simulations, to provide students with hands-on experience in prescribing and patient management.
To become an independent prescriber, students must complete an independent prescribing course approved by the relevant professional body, such as the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) or the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). The course is usually assessed through exams, assignments, and practical assessments. Students must demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills covered in the course to earn credit.
Overall, the independent prescribing course provides healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed and effective prescribing decisions, and to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Whether you are a nurse, pharmacist, or physiotherapist, the independent prescribing course is essential to becoming a more competent and confident healthcare professional.
What are the entry requirements for the independent prescribing course?
Entry Requirements for Independent Prescribing Course for Pharmacists:
- Education: To be eligible to take an independent prescribing course for pharmacists, you must have a degree in pharmacy or a related field from an institution recognised by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
- Professional Registration: You must be registered as a pharmacist with the GPhC and hold an active pharmacy registration.
- Work Experience: Some independent prescribing courses may require a minimum amount of work experience as a pharmacist, usually in the area of patient care.
- Additional Training: You may be required to complete additional training in patient assessment, clinical decision-making, and prescribing ethics before taking an independent prescribing course.
- English Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking an approved test, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
Entry Requirements for Independent Prescribing Course for Nurses:
- Education: To be eligible to take an independent prescribing course for nurses, you must have a degree in nursing or a related field from an institution recognised by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
- Professional Registration: You must be registered with the NMC and hold an active nursing registration.
- Work Experience: Some independent prescribing courses may require a minimum of work experience as a nurse, usually in the area of patient care.
- Additional Training: You may be required to complete additional training in patient assessment, clinical decision-making, and prescribing ethics before taking an independent prescribing course.
- English Language Proficiency: If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language by taking an approved test, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
It is important to note that the specific entry requirements for an independent prescribing course may vary depending on the institution and the professional body overseeing the course. Therefore, before enrolling in an independent prescribing course, it is recommended that you check with the institution and the relevant professional body to confirm the entry requirements.
How to get HEE funding
Pharmacists in the NHS are being offered the opportunity to receive funded training to become independent prescribers. This training will allow pharmacists to provide more comprehensive care for patients and help to expand pharmacy services in emerging clinical pathways. Applications for the 3,000 available training places are now open. They are open to community pharmacists, general practitioners, health and justice pharmacists, and pharmacists working in NHS trusts or integrated care boards. In addition, several universities will offer the courses from September 2022 to March 2023, with multiple intake dates available.
How to apply
Eligibility for Independent Prescribing Training
- Candidates must be at least two years qualified
- Changes to entry requirements are expected in Autumn 2022
- CPPE must authorise funding for Group 2, PCPEP applications
Application Process
- Apply for authorisation via the CPPE website, PCPEP independent prescribing section
- Choose a university provider listed on the CPPE website
- IP applications open when the list of providers from HEE is published
- A reflective account must be completed as part of the application
Timing for IP Training
- Courses available from September 2022 to March 2023
- Different universities have different cohort dates and cut-off dates for application
Location for IP Training
- No restrictions on where learners can apply; they can be in a different region than where they live or work
Completion of PCPEP Pathway
- Pathway learners who want to apply for early IP must complete an application via the new CPPE process
- CPPE will contact learners who have completed the pathway with instructions on how to apply
- Start on the reflective account now to be prepared for the application.
Requirements for Eligibility
- Support from a Designated Prescribing Practitioner
- Appropriate Practice-based Learning Environment
- Meeting Course Provider Eligibility Criteria
- Commitment to Using Skills for NHS Clinical Services.
Group 1 (Pharmacy Integration Programme – PhIP) Eligibility:
- Who is eligible for the PhIP?
- Community pharmacists, including locum pharmacists, pharmacists employed in General Practice who are not eligible for PCPEP, pharmacists working to provide primary care services (not employed in ARRS roles), and Health and Justice pharmacists are qualified for the PhIP.
Group 2 (PCPEP) Eligibility:
- Who is eligible for the PCPEP?
- To be eligible, you need to be enrolled in CPPE’s Primary Care Pharmacy Education Pathway (PCPEP) and meet the PCPEP criteria to enrol in an Independent Prescribing Course. You can also apply if you have completed or are completing the CPPE Clinical pharmacists in general practice pathway or the CPPE Medicines optimisation in care homes pathway if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Group 3 (NHS Managed sector) Eligibility:
- Who is eligible for the NHS Managed sector offer?
- Pharmacists working in an NHS Hospital Trust or Mental Health Trust and pharmacists working in an integrated care board (ICB) are eligible for the NHS Managed sector offer.
- Is every region eligible for the NHS-managed sector offer?
- No. The North East, Yorkshire, and North West are not included in the national provision for group 3 – access for funded places will be via the usual commissioning routes.
- I work as a hospital pharmacist; am I eligible?
- Hospital pharmacists working in an NHS Hospital Trust can access this funding. Speak with your workforce/education and training leads to check the internal process before applying.
- I work as a pharmacist for a community mental health trust, am I eligible?
- Pharmacists working in a Mental Health Trust can access this funding. Speak with your workforce/education and training leads to check the internal process before applying.
- Is the funding available if I work in a non-patient-facing role?
- Yes. It would help if you met the eligibility criteria and have a DPP in a patient-facing role with up-to-date patient-facing, clinical, and diagnostic skills and evidence of competence in an area of practice relevant to you.
- Can I access funding if I work part-time?
- Yes. You can access the funding if you work part-time or on a fixed-term contract, with agreement from your employer.
- Do I need a defined prescribing role in community pharmacy to be eligible?
- No. To be eligible, pharmacists working in community pharmacies will not require a defined prescribing role or access to a prescribing budget.
- I work as a pharmacist for an ICB; am I eligible?
- Yes. Pharmacists working for an ICB (previously known as CCG) are eligible under Group 3 (NHS Managed Sector). Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and speak with your organisation to check the internal process before applying.
List of universities with HEE funding
Pharmacists who meet the eligibility criteria can apply to the university of their choice if the university provider is listed below. As part of the application process, all learners will need to assure their chosen university that they meet the course requirements.
Cohort Start Dates:
- Health Education Co-operative (including University of Salford, University of Central Lancashire, University of Chester, University of Cumbria, University of Bolton, University of Huddersfield)
- University of Salford: September, January and March
- University of Central Lancashire: September
- University of Chester: September and March
- University of Cumbria (including London campus): September and January
- University of Bolton: September and January
- University of Huddersfield: September, January and March
- University of Manchester: September and March
- University of Leicester: October and February (pending GPhC accreditation, subject to contract)
- Sheffield Hallam University: September and January
- University of Leeds: September and January
- University of Sunderland: October and January
- Aston University: September and March
- De Montfort University: September and January
- Keele University: September and February
- University of Birmingham: September, January and March
- University of Hertfordshire: September, November, January and March
- Coventry University: September and January
- Medway School of Pharmacy: September, January and February
- University of Portsmouth: September and January
- University of Reading: September and January
- University of Bath: September, December, February and March
- University of the West of England: September and January
- University of East Anglia: September and February
GPhC Requirements for Independent Prescribing Courses
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has revised the requirements for entry into independent prescribing courses, eliminating the previous two-year practice requirement. The new provision states that applicants must have relevant experience in a pharmacy setting and an understanding of the skills and attributes necessary for prescribing. They must also choose a specific clinical or therapeutic practice area to focus on during their learning.
University providers of accredited courses must follow the previous entry requirements until they have been approved under the revised standards. Still, they can apply for GPhC approval to implement the changes starting October 1, 2022. Prospective applicants should verify with the university they are using regarding their readiness to accept applicants based on the updated entry requirements.
Continuing professional development
Continuing professional development is crucial for independent prescribers in ensuring they maintain and improve their skills and knowledge in the field of medicine and clinical practice. CPD helps to keep practitioners up-to-date with the latest developments and advancements in medicine, as well as ensuring they maintain a high standard of patient care. Additionally, CPD also helps to meet the regulatory requirements for independent prescribing and ensures that practitioners continue to meet the standards set by the regulatory bodies. By participating in CPD, independent prescribers can demonstrate their commitment to professional growth, patient safety, and ethical practice. Overall, continuous professional development is essential for maintaining high standards of practice and providing the best possible care to patients.
The requirements for a Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) or Designated Medical Practitioner (DMP)
DPP Requirements:
- Do I need to have a designated prescribing practitioner (DPP) in place to apply?
- Yes, you will need to have a DPP before applying for the training.
- How do I find a suitable DPP?
- You can approach local GP/PCN/Hospital Trust for support or seek advice from colleagues who are prescribers; community pharmacist leads for your PCN, or your local Primary Care Training Hub.
- Can my DPP work in a different setting than me?
- Ideally, it is best to have a DPP in the same setting, but if not possible, the DPP can provide supervision in a clinical area where you have expertise and access to patients. Universities will have specific guidelines.
- I am a potential DPP; what information do I need from my perspective trainee?
- Course providers will provide information for employers and DPPs on how to determine if a prospective learner is eligible for the course. Refer to the course provider list on the website.
- Does HEE provide funding for the DPP?
- No, HEE will only provide funding for the course fees; no payment will be available for the DPP supervision.
DPP Information:
- You will need to have a designated prescribing practitioner (DPP) before applying for independent prescribing training.
- To find a suitable DPP, consider approaching a local GP/PCN/Hospital Trust, or seek advice from colleagues who are prescribers or a local Primary Care Training Hub.
- A DPP can work in a different setting, but having one in the exact location is ideal. The DPP should be able to provide supervision in a clinical area where you have expertise and access to patients.
- As a potential DPP, you will receive information from the course providers on determining a prospective learner’s eligibility.
- HEE will provide funding for course fees but not DPP supervision.
What is advanced clinical practice?
Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) is a healthcare professional role that provides high level clinical assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management of patients, often in a primary care setting. The ACP may take on extended and enhanced roles and responsibilities, including ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, prescribing medications and delivering certain procedures. The role of an ACP is to support the delivery of safe and effective patient care, improve patient outcomes and reduce health inequalities.
How to become an advanced clinical practitioner?
To become an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) and practice advanced clinical practice in the United Kingdom, you need to follow these steps:
- Education: Obtain a relevant master’s degree in advanced clinical practice or a related field.
- Experience: Gain significant experience in a clinical setting. This can vary from field to field but usually requires a minimum of 2 years in a related speciality.
- Registration: Register with the relevant regulatory body for your profession, for example, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for nurses and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for Physiotherapists.
- Training: Complete a course or training program in advanced clinical practice. This will often include a combination of didactic learning and practical experience.
- Certification: Gain certification as an advanced clinical practitioner (ACP) from a relevant professional organization.
- Continuous professional development: Maintain and improve your knowledge and skills through ongoing education and professional development activities.