Master in Independent Prescribing Pgcert

Applications for the Oct 2027 intake are due by Jul 15, 2027. Tuition is 20,800 GBP per year.

The School of Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast is globally recognised for excellence, consistently ranking among the top institutions worldwide for Pharmacy and Pharmacology. This Postgraduate Certificate in Independent Prescribing leverages that world-class research and teaching pedigree to provide a rigorous pathway for pharmacists in Northern Ireland to qualify as non-medical independent prescribers.

Designed to be both practical and academically intensive, the programme integrates online learning with live workshops, fostering a collaborative network of professionals. Students benefit from the expertise of internationally renowned faculty and gain exposure to innovative clinical practices. By combining theoretical knowledge with essential work-based learning, the course ensures that graduates are fully equipped to take on the responsibilities of independent prescribing within a modern healthcare setting.

Programme Distinctives

• Dual Accreditation: The course is fully accredited by both the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
• Collaborative Support: Live workshops facilitate peer-to-peer networking, creating a supportive community of practice that extends well beyond the classroom.
• Work-Based Integration: A core focus on 'Learning in Practice' ensures that clinical skills are developed in real-world environments under the guidance of a designated prescribing practitioner.

Queen's University Belfast is a historic and research-led university located in the heart of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Founded as Queen's College Belfast in 1845 and established as an independent university in 1908, Queen's combines a long heritage with modern ambitions. The campus sits within a designated conservation area and serves a diverse community of around 24,915 students, including roughly 3,500 international students, creating a lively and inclusive environment for study and social life.

Academically, Queen's is a Russell Group member with strong disciplinary strengths and a clear focus on employability. The university hosts four flagship Global Research Institutes addressing Global Peace, Security and Justice; Cyber Security; Health Sciences; and Food Safety, offering students opportunities to engage with impactful research. Career-facing initiatives such as Degree Plus and targeted employer workshops enhance internships, placements and graduate prospects, while sustained investment in campus infrastructure has delivered new teaching facilities, a student centre and a cutting-edge clinical simulation centre for health-related programmes.

For international students, Belfast offers an affordable and welcoming city experience with rich cultural life and efficient transport links across the UK and Ireland. University support services help with arrival, visas and accommodation, and a variety of clubs, societies and volunteering options make it easy to build networks and gain practical experience. Queen's is a strong choice for students seeking rigorous teaching, active research opportunities and clear pathways into careers in the UK and beyond.