Introduction
When applying for an Independent Prescribing (IP) course, there are numerous factors to consider. In this blog post, we’ll explore these considerations, including university choices, funding options, timelines, and common challenges faced by pharmacists.
University Options
The Independent Prescribing course is open to various healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, nurses, and paramedics. Currently, the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) lists 52 universities offering this course for pharmacists across the UK, giving applicants plenty of options to choose from.
Some universities offer the course to all healthcare professionals, while others are more specific about which professions they cater to. To find out which universities offer the IP course:
- For pharmacists: Visit the GPhC website
- For nurses or paramedics: A quick Google search will provide this information
Funding Options
The great news is that Health Education England (HEE) has extended funding for the IP course until March 2025. This covers upcoming cohorts, making it financially accessible for many pharmacists.
To find out which universities have HEE funding available:
- Visit the HEE website
- Search for “HEE funded IP course”
- Check the DPP Connect website for published lists of HEE-funded courses
What to Expect When Applying
The application process can be more involved than many students anticipate. Here’s what to expect:
- Time commitment: Give yourself ample time to complete the application process
- Preparation: Know what you want to achieve with the course
- Research: Choose the university and cohort that best suits your needs
- Forms: Be prepared for potentially lengthy application forms
- DPP arrangement: Ensure you have a Designated Prescribing Practitioner in place
Standard Requirements Across Universities
While universities have their individual requirements, some elements are standard across all institutions:
- DPP requirement: All universities require you to have a DPP in place before applying
- Professional qualification: You must be a qualified pharmacist, nurse, or paramedic
- Experience: You need relevant professional experience
- Understanding of purpose: You should clearly understand why you’re applying for the IP course
- Practice hours: All universities require 90 hours of learning in practice
Variations Between Universities
While there are standard requirements, universities do vary in their specific demands:
- DPP shadowing hours: This can range from 25 hours to as many as 60-70 hours depending on the university
- Remote learning options: Some universities allow remote in-practice learning, while others require face-to-face interactions
- Application form requirements: Some universities have more extensive forms with additional information required from DPPs
Challenges Pharmacists Might Face
The IP course presents several challenges that pharmacists should be aware of:
- Time commitment: Although part-time, the course requires significant independent study
- Clinical transition: Moving from community pharmacy to a clinical setting can be challenging
- Self-directed learning: There’s an expectation of independent study and less hand-holding
- Application forms: The process of completing university application forms can be lengthy and detailed
Timeline for Application
The application process includes several steps:
- Researching and choosing your university
- Requesting/downloading application forms
- Completing your section of the application
- Reserving your DPP slot (if using a service like DPP Connect)
- Completing any required interviews or additional processes
- Having your DPP complete their section of the forms
- Submitting your application to the university
Allow at least three weeks from choosing your university to being able to apply, though more time is always better.
Universities Offering Remote Learning
For those who prefer remote options, several universities offer fully remote or hybrid learning:
- University of West England (Bristol) – fully remote
- Bath University – fully remote
- Robert Gordon University – fully remote
- Other universities offer hybrid models with minimal face-to-face days
Universities with More Extensive DPP Requirements
Some universities require additional information from DPPs:
- UCL
- Reading University
- Medway School of Pharmacy
Cohort Start Dates
Most universities offer three cohorts per year:
- January cohort
- March cohort
- September cohort
Some universities may only offer one or two of these cohorts annually. Check university websites for their specific offerings.
Course Duration
The standard duration for the IP course is six months (part-time), but there are variations:
- Manchester University offers an accelerated four-month course
- De Montfort University has a fast-track four-month option
- Some universities allow extensions up to 12 months
The DPP Payment Situation
Some universities have raised concerns about students paying DPPs directly due to potential conflicts of interest. This is where services like DPP Connect can help by:
- Acting as an independent body between student and DPP
- Offering standardized pricing
- Ensuring DPPs are paid regardless of whether students are signed off as competent
- Eliminating ethical concerns about payment-for-competency arrangements
- Vetting all DPPs and potential IP students to ensure quality
Recommended Universities
Based on experience working with multiple universities, some institutions stand out for their quality and student experience:
- Brighton University
- University of West England (Bristol)
- Robert Gordon University
- Leicester University
- Keele University
- Aston University
- Salford University
Conclusion
Applying for an Independent Prescribing course is a significant step in advancing your pharmacy career. By understanding the requirements, preparing thoroughly, and giving yourself enough time, you can make the process smoother and set yourself up for success.
Whether you’re looking for a fully remote option, an accelerated program, or a specific university with HEE funding, there are plenty of choices available to suit your needs and circumstances.
