The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the complex and evolving field of cardiothoracic surgery. This diploma is not intended for fresh candidates; rather, it is aimed at experienced practitioners who wish to expand their knowledge, refine their clinical skills, and strengthen their professional practice while enhancing their Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
The course provides learners with advanced insights into cardiothoracic anatomy, surgical techniques, perioperative management, and the latest innovations in cardiothoracic care. It equips professionals with the ability to critically analyse clinical cases, apply evidence-based practice, and demonstrate leadership in surgical environments. By completing this diploma, learners will be better prepared to take on more challenging roles, contribute to improved patient outcomes, and pursue career progression within surgical and clinical settings.
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery must ensure they have competent and highly qualified staff with relevant expertise, as well as the necessary resources and learning materials to provide a high standard of training. This includes access to up-to-date research, clinical case studies, and professional support to enable learners to succeed in this demanding field.
Through this qualification, learners will develop a deeper understanding of cardiothoracic surgical principles, ethical practice, and clinical decision-making, ensuring they are well-equipped to excel in their careers and contribute effectively to the advancement of healthcare practice.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS):
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS) consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC27194- 1 | Advanced Cardiothoracic Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27194-2 | Diagnostic Methods, Imaging, and Clinical Assessment in Cardiothoracic Surgery | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27194-3 | Surgical Techniques and Intraoperative Management in Cardiothoracic Procedures | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27194-4 | Postoperative Care, Critical Care Management, and Complication Prevention | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27194-5 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Decision-Making in Cardiothoracic Surgery | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27194-6 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Surgical Medicine | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS):
Minimum Age
Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment. This ensures a mature approach to study and professional development.
Educational Background
Applicants should hold a recognised qualification at Level 5 or above in medicine, surgery, or a related healthcare discipline. A strong academic background in clinical sciences will support progression at this advanced level.
Professional Experience
This diploma is not designed for fresh candidates. Learners are expected to have relevant professional experience in surgery, cardiology, anaesthesiology, intensive care, or another healthcare field connected to cardiothoracic practice. Experience within a clinical or surgical environment is highly desirable.
Language Proficiency
As the qualification is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate strong written and spoken English skills. A minimum of IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) is recommended to engage with complex medical terminology, research, and academic writing.
Commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Applicants must show commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth, as this diploma forms part of advanced CPD for healthcare professionals seeking career progression.
Access to Required Resources
Learners should have access to appropriate resources, including a stable internet connection, academic journals, research publications, and relevant clinical practice settings, to successfully complete the qualification.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS):
Advanced Cardiothoracic Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of cardiothoracic anatomy and physiological functions
- Analyse the pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiothoracic diseases and conditions
- Apply anatomical and physiological principles to surgical planning and decision-making
- Correlate clinical presentations with underlying pathophysiological processes
Diagnostic Methods, Imaging, and Clinical Assessment in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Evaluate the role of diagnostic imaging modalities in cardiothoracic assessment
- Perform systematic clinical assessments for cardiothoracic patients
- Interpret imaging and diagnostic results to support surgical planning
- Integrate diagnostic data into multidisciplinary care pathways
Surgical Techniques and Intraoperative Management in Cardiothoracic Procedures
- Demonstrate understanding of advanced surgical techniques in cardiothoracic procedures
- Evaluate intraoperative management strategies to optimise patient outcomes
- Apply principles of surgical precision, sterility, and safety in practice
- Critically assess operative decision-making in complex cardiothoracic cases
Postoperative Care, Critical Care Management, and Complication Prevention
- Apply evidence-based practices in postoperative and intensive care management
- Recognise and manage complications following cardiothoracic procedures
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of ventilatory support and haemodynamic monitoring
- Implement protocols for enhanced recovery and patient safety
Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Decision-Making in Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Critically appraise clinical research and evidence in cardiothoracic medicine
- Apply evidence-based decision-making to surgical practice
- Design and evaluate research relevant to surgical innovation and outcomes
- Integrate clinical data into patient-centred surgical care strategies
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Leadership in Surgical Medicine
- Demonstrate awareness of ethical considerations in cardiothoracic surgery
- Apply professional standards and regulatory frameworks to surgical practice
- Develop leadership skills to manage surgical teams effectively
- Promote continuous improvement, patient safety, and quality assurance in surgical environments
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS) is specifically designed for healthcare professionals who wish to enhance their expertise and progress in the specialised field of cardiothoracic surgery. This qualification is not intended for fresh candidates but for experienced practitioners seeking to advance their clinical knowledge, technical skills, and leadership capabilities.
This course is ideal for:
- Surgeons and surgical trainees aiming to strengthen their expertise in cardiothoracic procedures and operative decision-making.
- Medical doctors and physicians with a background in cardiology, pulmonology, or related specialities who wish to expand into surgical practice.
- Anaesthetists and critical care specialists seeking advanced understanding of perioperative and postoperative management in cardiothoracic surgery.
- Surgical nurses, operating department practitioners, and allied healthcare professionals involved in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care.
- Healthcare educators and clinical researchers focusing on cardiothoracic innovations and evidence-based practice.
The diploma is particularly suited for professionals committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), improving patient outcomes, and contributing to the evolving field of surgical medicine. By completing this programme, learners will gain advanced skills, broaden their career prospects, and play a key role in delivering safe, ethical, and high-quality surgical care.
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Dip CTS) must ensure that they meet all necessary standards to provide high-quality learning, teaching, and assessment. To maintain academic integrity and support learner success, centres are expected to have the following in place:
- Qualified and Competent Staff
Tutors, assessors, and internal verifiers must hold appropriate academic qualifications and relevant professional experience in cardiothoracic surgery, surgical medicine, or related disciplines. They should be capable of delivering advanced-level teaching and assessment in line with international best practices. - Access to Suitable Learning Resources
Centres must provide learners with access to up-to-date textbooks, peer-reviewed journals, case studies, online learning platforms, simulation tools, and specialist resources relevant to cardiothoracic surgery and surgical medicine. - Clinical and Practical Facilities
Where applicable, centres should have access to suitable training environments, simulation labs, or clinical placements to support the development of practical and professional skills. - Effective Quality Assurance Systems
Centres must maintain robust quality assurance and internal verification processes to ensure fair, accurate, and consistent assessment outcomes. - Commitment to Learner Support
Centres should provide academic guidance, career advice, and learner support services, ensuring learners can successfully achieve their qualification and enhance their professional development. - Compliance with Regulatory Standards
Centres must comply with QualCert’s policies, assessment regulations, and quality assurance frameworks to maintain the credibility and recognition of the qualification.
This ensures that learners receive structured, professional, and high-quality training that supports their growth in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.