Nursing, PG Dip, University of Essex Online

the United Kingdom

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Study options for this course

The award	How you will study	Study duration	Course start	Domestic course fees	International course fees
PG Dip	Part-time, Distance, Online	16 months	October, January	GBP 8314 total	GBP 8700 total

About Nursing, PG Dip - at University of Essex Online

As a nurse, it is essential to continue learning and developing your skills. Our PG Dip Nursing is designed to allow nursing professionals to gain a recognised post graduate qualification, plus a host of new knowledge and capabilities, in just 16 months alongside your current work commitments.

The modules focus on both the management aspects of healthcare, as well as, specific topics relevant to nurses in a range of positions, organisations and countries. You will learn from both our expert tutors and your fellow students through an entirely assignment-based course. Skills such as critical analysis, decision making and communication will all be enhanced by this broad-reaching programme, and you will be encouraged to reflect on your own clinical practice while you develop your own professional portfolio.

Alongside your main modules, you will be able to select three optional modules to tailor the course to your interests. Optional topics include:

the management of disease, including pathophysiology and pharmacology
the principles of pain management
the theoretical knowledge required to support the delivery and management of diabetes care both in primary and secondary healthcare settings
the role of nurses in meeting the needs of vulnerable individuals, groups and communities
the scientific concepts underpinning infection control and prevention
contemporary models and strategies to guide the design of effective health promotion activities
practical leadership skills underpinned by a critical appreciation of leadership theory

Upon completion of your PG Dip Nursing, we offer the opportunity for you to progress on to study for our full MSc Nursing (180 credits).

Learn more about Nursing, PG Dip - at University of Essex Online

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Entry requirements

We know that many people from non-traditional backgrounds would succeed on our courses! That's why we offer two different entry routes, taking into account your prior work experience and relevant qualifications. You will also need to meet our English language requirements.

Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within your two-week induction period of the course in order to continue with your studies.

Because of the work-based nature of the programme, all students must be working in clinical practice as a registered nurse or with a license to practice as a nurse with a nursing regulator or appropriate licensing board.

Academic entry route

In order to satisfy the Academic Entry Route requirements for our PG Dip Nursing programme students must meet the following criteria as a minimum:

An undergraduate degree or equivalent in a health or social care related subject from an approved institution
Working in clinical practice as a registered nurse or licensed to practice as a nurse with a nursing regulator or appropriate licensing board

Work experience entry route

Students who do not have a degree may be eligible for entry and will be considered on an individual basis. In order to satisfy the work experience entry route requirements for our PG Dip Nursing, you must meet the following criteria:

at least three years' post-qualification work experience as a registered nurse or licensed to practice as a nurse with a nursing regulator or appropriate licensing board, supported by appropriate references

English language requirements

As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency with English is required. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0. Don't worry if you don't hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification - we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.

You don't need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.

Fees, Funding and Scholarships at University of Essex Online

A university education is one of the biggest investments in yourself and career. Our tuition fees include all teaching materials and required reading – there aren't any hidden charges for assessments or resits.

We also offer students a range of tuition fee discounts, scholarships and payment options for our online courses*.

Full payment discount: Pay the full tuition fee upfront and you will get a 5% discount.
Alumni discount: Graduates from the University of Essex or University of Essex Online are eligible for a 10% discount.
International scholarship: If you're living outside the UK and Europe you might be eligible for a scholarship.
Student loan: Students based in England might be eligible for a loan from Student Finance England for our Bachelors and Masters degrees.
Monthly payment plan: Available for those who are self-funding.
10% anniversary scholarship on all our Masters programmes, when you enrol from 1 July.

* Please note that a maximum of two discounts or scholarships can be applied. For more information on our discounts and scholarships and to discuss your eligibility please contact our Admissions team.

Student reviews of University of Essex Online

Find out what students say about University of Essex Online

Andy Robertson, BA (Hons) Business and Management

“Being a naval chap, I thought that I was a broad, adaptable, comfortable manager.

However, as a mature student, the vagaries and pressures of work take priority and zap your energy, making the balance beyond work, between family and study even more precarious.

In maintaining the balance between work, study and home life, I learned that one has to set aside a period known as the “study period” and sacrifice being idle! Giving up free time simply means giving up time without purpose, a really neat trick of useful time management. And when in doubt, I sought the great bunch of tutors and student advisers at University of Essex Online.”

Breshana Francis, CertCE Law

"I am a Jamaican living in Qatar with my family as expats; we can be called upon to relocate to another country at any time. The University of Essex Online law programme fits perfectly with this lifestyle, as it provides the flexibility that I need to pursue my studies vigorously and to keep up with my ever-changing environment.

I was able to achieve my CertCE Law, which allows me to continue studying towards an LLB qualification. The University of Essex Online law degree programme has developed and shaped my mind to think like a lawyer from the start of my studies.

During this time, I can work, take a holiday and have family time as this is only possible through The University of Essex Online programmes."

Aisha Legge, MBA (Human Resource Management)

"I wish I’d started my MBA years ago. I feel like I’m part of a community. I created a WhatsApp group for students based in the UAE and we physically meet up regularly. If I can’t watch any lectures live because of the time difference I can watch them on demand and our tutors try to be flexible with their office hours.

Even though we’re miles away from the Essex team, they’re always willing and able to help with any issues or questions I have. My student adviser, Marie, replies promptly, is always able to assist me and offers support in my studies.

My hope is that my MBA will help with career advancement and open doors to opportunities with potential employers in the future."