Practitioners with Advanced or Extended Roles in Dementia PGCert
City Campus, United Kingdom
Practitioners with Advanced or Extended Roles in Dementia PGCert
University of Bradford
Dementia Studies / Health & Social Care
Program Overview: PGCert in Advanced Dementia Practice
This innovative postgraduate certificate is the first course of its kind in England, designed for practitioners from a variety of clinical backgrounds working in healthcare settings where diagnostic services and post-diagnostic support for people with dementia are provided. It is taught by a pioneering team of academics in the Department of Applied Dementia Studies at the University of Bradford, a department with over 30 years of experience in dementia research and education.
The programme aims to support learners to develop high-level skills in assessment, diagnosis, clinical management, and ongoing support for people with dementia and their carers. Study is through a blended learning approach delivered fully online, combining independent study, online tutor-led exercises, clinical work-based learning, and mentor supervision.
The programme aligns to tiers 2 and 3 of the Dementia Training Standards Framework and is suitable for practitioners in a range of roles including GPs, social prescribers, practice nurses, community matrons, and advanced nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists. Assessment includes both theoretical and clinical competence evaluation undertaken by a clinical mentor.
Key Program Highlights
- First postgraduate certificate of its kind in England, delivered by the pioneering Department of Applied Dementia Studies
- Fully online blended learning approach allowing you to study flexibly alongside your professional role
- Aligned to tiers 2 and 3 of the Dementia Training Standards Framework for recognised professional development
- Research-informed teaching delivered by academics actively involved in dementia research using innovative methodologies
Curriculum & Modules
The PGCert curriculum is structured around core modules that develop your competence in dementia assessment, diagnosis, pharmacological and psychosocial support, and post-diagnostic care pathways. Study is through a blended learning approach that includes independent study guided by distance learning materials, online tutor-led exercises, clinical work-based learning, and mentor supervision, enabling you to apply theory directly to your own practice.
Assessment and Diagnosis of Dementia
20 creditsDevelop advanced skills in the assessment and diagnosis of dementia, including the use of validated cognitive screening tools, differential diagnosis, and understanding of the biomedical and psychosocial aspects of dementia presentation.
Pharmacological and Psychosocial Support for People with Dementia
20 creditsExplore evidence-based pharmacological treatments and psychosocial interventions for people living with dementia, including medication management, non-pharmacological therapies, and person-centred approaches to ongoing support.
Post Diagnostic Support Pathways for People with Dementia
20 creditsExamine the range of post-diagnostic support pathways available for people with dementia and their carers, including care planning, coordinating multidisciplinary services, and enabling people to live well with dementia.
Develop leadership skills to implement evidence-based changes in dementia care practice within your workplace, drawing on quality improvement methodologies and reflective practice.
Enhance your clinical skills and methodological knowledge for advanced dementia practice, integrating research evidence with clinical expertise to improve patient outcomes.
Clinical Competence Portfolio
Integrated across modulesCompile a portfolio of clinical competence evidence throughout the programme, demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world dementia care settings under the supervision of your clinical mentor.
Areas of Specialist Interest
Admission Requirements
This programme welcomes applicants from a variety of clinical backgrounds who are currently working in dementia diagnostic and support services. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, and our team will guide you through every step of the admissions process to ensure a smooth experience.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationA good first degree (2:2 or above) or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject area
- Professional ExperienceCurrently working within a service providing diagnostic and ongoing support for people living with dementia
- Employer SupportSupport from your employer to undertake this programme of study for the duration of the course
- Clinical MentorAn appropriately qualified and experienced local Clinical Mentor/Assessor must be arranged before starting the programme
- Computing RequirementsAccess to a computer with broadband connection and ability to access the university online learning platform via a modern web browser
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 7.0 with no element below the minimum threshold
- Pre-sessional EnglishAvailable through the University of Bradford Language Centre for those who do not meet the IELTS requirement
- Alternative TestsEquivalent English language qualifications accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details on accepted alternatives
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Bradford awards numerous non-repayable scholarships each year to UK, EU, and international students based on academic excellence, personal circumstances, or economic hardship. Additionally, healthcare staff providing NHS services may be eligible for employer-funded support. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on funding opportunities available to you.
University of Bradford Postgraduate Scholarship
Non-repayable scholarships awarded to postgraduate students on the basis of academic merit, personal circumstances, or financial hardship. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by academic year.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of this PGCert programme are equipped with advanced clinical competencies in dementia assessment, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic support, positioning them for enhanced roles within health and social care services. The qualification enables practitioners to take on specialist responsibilities in dementia care, lead service improvements, and contribute to better outcomes for people living with dementia and their families.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Bradford is a recognised leader in dementia studies education and research. Its Department of Applied Dementia Studies has been providing accredited programmes since 2001 and is the first and only university in Europe accredited by Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) for excellence in dementia education and training. The university has also achieved consistent recognition for social mobility and inclusive education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Mental Health Nursing | Guardian University Guide | Top 20 |
| Dementia Research Impact | REF | Outstanding |
| ADI Accreditation for Dementia Education | Alzheimer's Disease International | First in Europe |
| Paramedic Science | Guardian University Guide | #3 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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