The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology (PgDCP) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals who wish to advance their expertise in laboratory medicine, diagnostics, and clinical investigation. This programme is tailored to meet the needs of medical practitioners, laboratory scientists, and healthcare professionals who seek to specialise in the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases through clinical pathology.
By enrolling in this diploma, learners gain an in-depth understanding of laboratory techniques, pathology analysis, diagnostic processes, and evidence-based clinical decision-making. The course is designed to align with UK healthcare standards and international best practices, ensuring learners develop both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies required in advanced clinical environments.
The PgD in Clinical Pathology covers core areas such as haematology, microbiology, clinical biochemistry, immunology, molecular diagnostics, and laboratory management. Learners develop advanced analytical skills, critical thinking, and proficiency in interpreting laboratory results to support patient care.
The programme also emphasises research methodology, quality assurance, and professional ethics, preparing graduates to take on senior roles in clinical laboratories, research institutions, and healthcare organisations.
The course is open to national and international healthcare professionals, laboratory scientists, and clinical researchers seeking advanced knowledge in clinical pathology. It is also suitable for organisations sponsoring staff development in laboratory medicine.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology (PgDCP):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology (PgDCP), offers 120 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 1200 hours, including 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC27216- 1 | Advanced Principles of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27216-2 | Haematology, Blood Transfusion, and Coagulation Disorders | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27216-3 | Microbiology and Infectious Disease Diagnostics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27216-4 | Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27216-5 | Immunology, Serology, and Advanced Laboratory Techniques | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27216-6 | Research Methods, Quality Assurance, and Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Pathology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology (PgDCP):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree in medicine, biomedical sciences, or a related healthcare or life sciences discipline is required.
Experience:
- Relevant clinical, laboratory, or healthcare experience is strongly recommended to support practical and research learning.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English, both written and spoken. Non-native English speakers should provide evidence of competency, such as IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology (PgDCP):
Advanced Principles of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Critically evaluate the principles and scope of clinical pathology and laboratory medicine
- Apply advanced diagnostic reasoning to clinical and laboratory scenarios
- Integrate laboratory findings into evidence-based patient care
- Analyse complex cases using multidisciplinary approaches in laboratory medicine
Haematology, Blood Transfusion, and Coagulation Disorders
- Demonstrate in-depth understanding of haematological disorders and coagulation mechanisms
- Apply laboratory techniques for the diagnosis and monitoring of blood disorders
- Critically assess blood transfusion practices and safety protocols
- Interpret haematological test results to inform clinical decisions
Microbiology and Infectious Disease Diagnostics
- Analyse pathogenic microorganisms and their role in human disease
- Apply laboratory diagnostic techniques for infectious diseases
- Evaluate antimicrobial susceptibility testing and infection control protocols
- Integrate microbiology results into clinical management strategies
Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of biochemical markers in health and disease
- Apply molecular diagnostic techniques, including PCR and genetic testing
- Critically evaluate laboratory results in relation to patient conditions
- Implement quality control and standardisation in biochemical and molecular testing
Immunology, Serology, and Advanced Laboratory Techniques
- Analyse immune system function and its relevance to disease diagnosis
- Apply serological testing and advanced immunological assays
- Evaluate laboratory techniques for accuracy, reproducibility, and clinical relevance
- Integrate immunology findings into patient management and research
Research Methods, Quality Assurance, and Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Pathology
- Design and critically appraise research methodologies applicable to pathology
- Apply principles of quality assurance and clinical governance in laboratory practice
- Analyse and interpret research data to inform clinical and laboratory decisions
- Demonstrate the ability to implement evidence-based practice and continuous professional development
The Course is ideal for ;
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology is designed for healthcare and laboratory professionals who wish to specialise in advanced diagnostics and laboratory medicine. This course is suitable for:
- Medical practitioners, laboratory scientists, and healthcare professionals seeking advanced knowledge in clinical pathology
- Professionals aiming for leadership, senior, or specialist roles in hospital laboratories, diagnostic centres, and research institutions
- Clinical researchers and academics focusing on pathology, biomedical sciences, or laboratory medicine
- Practitioners preparing for higher academic qualifications such as doctorates (PhD) or specialised postgraduate studies
- Healthcare organisations seeking to upskill staff in evidence-based laboratory practices, clinical governance, and advanced diagnostics
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology must meet the following standards:
- Accreditation: Centres must be approved and accredited by QualCert or an equivalent awarding body to deliver and assess this Level 7 programme.
- Qualified Tutors and Assessors: Tutors must hold relevant postgraduate qualifications in clinical pathology, biomedical sciences, or healthcare, along with practical laboratory and clinical experience. Assessors should be trained in evaluating both theoretical knowledge and practical competencies.
- Facilities and Resources: Centres must provide access to fully equipped laboratories, hospital or clinical facilities, simulation labs, and digital learning platforms suitable for advanced pathology training.
- Learning Materials: Centres should provide learners with current textbooks, research articles, journals, case studies, and digital resources relevant to advanced clinical pathology.
- Assessment Systems: Centres must implement robust assessment strategies, including written exams, practical lab evaluations, case studies, and research assignments.
- Quality Assurance: Internal verification and quality assurance procedures must be in place to maintain academic and professional standards in line with QualCert requirements.
- Learner Support: Centres should offer academic guidance, clinical supervision, pastoral support, and career advice throughout the programme.
- Health, Safety, and Compliance: Centres must maintain a safe learning and laboratory environment, adhere to UK healthcare standards, and ensure ethical practice in all laboratory and research activities.