Adult Critical Care Nursing, PGCert
Swansea UniversitySingleton Park Campus, United Kingdom
Course overview
The Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Adult Critical Care Nursing is designed to prepare registered nurses to deliver safe, effective, and evidence‑based care for critically ill adults. This one‑year, part‑time programme aligns with the Critical Care Nurse Network Leads’ (CC3N) National Framework, enabling you to achieve Step 2 and Step 3 critical care competencies. Commissioned by Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW), the programme is delivered in collaboration with Swansea Bay University Health Board and Hywel Dda University Health Board.
The course has been supported by national critical care organisations including the British Association of Critical Care Nurses and the All Wales Critical Care Nursing Committee. Grounded in advanced clinical practice, leadership, and quality improvement, the curriculum is designed to support local critical care units in meeting Guideline for the Provision of Intensive Care Services (GPICS) standards relating to staffing, education, and service excellence. Throughout the programme, you will develop the confidence and capability to lead multidisciplinary teams, apply evidence‑based interventions, and drive innovation in patient care, contributing to improved outcomes and the highest standards of critical care provision.
Upon successful completion, you will hold a nationally recognised Postgraduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing, as stipulated by GPICS.
Key highlights
- Aligned with CC3N National Framework for Step 2 and Step 3 competencies
- Commissioned by Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW)
- Delivered with Swansea Bay and Hywel Dda University Health Boards
- Supported by the British Association of Critical Care Nurses
- Curriculum covers advanced clinical practice, leadership and quality improvement
- Leads to a nationally recognised qualification as stipulated by GPICS
Entry requirements
- Degree: 2:2 — 2:2.
- GCSE: C or above — to include English
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries
First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.
Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)
The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.
Careers this course leads to
- Critical Care Staff Nurse
- Senior Critical Care Nurse
- Critical Care Charge Nurse
- Cardiac Intensive Care Nurse
- Critical Care Practice Educator
Cost of study
UK/Home: £2,750 per year
Admission
Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Swansea University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.
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