The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (PgD Geriatric Pharmacy) is a prestigious, advanced-level qualification specifically designed for professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects, expand their specialist knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) within the dynamic field of geriatric pharmacy. This comprehensive programme equips learners with the expertise needed to manage complex medication regimens, optimise pharmaceutical care for older adults, and contribute effectively to multi-disciplinary healthcare teams.
Focused on the unique challenges of ageing populations, the course explores advanced pharmacotherapy, clinical decision-making, medication safety, and evidence-based practices tailored to elderly patient care. By completing this diploma, learners gain a deeper understanding of geriatric pharmacology and develop the skills required to make informed, patient-centred decisions that improve therapeutic outcomes and enhance quality of life for older adults.
Centres delivering this qualification must ensure they have competent, experienced, and qualified staff, as well as access to all the necessary learning materials, facilities, and resources to provide high-quality training. This commitment to excellence supports learner success and upholds the rigorous standards expected at postgraduate level.
Ideal for pharmacists, clinical practitioners, and healthcare professionals aiming to progress in advanced pharmacy practice, the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy provides a pathway to greater professional recognition, career advancement, and ongoing CPD in a growing and vital area of healthcare.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (PgD Geriatric Pharmacy):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (PgD Geriatric Pharmacy), 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 |
| QC30105- 1 | Advanced Geriatric Pharmacotherapy and Clinical Practice | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30105-2 | Chronic Disease Management in Elderly Populations | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30105-3 | Medication Safety, Risk Assessment, and Pharmacovigilance | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30105-4 | Geriatric Patient-Centred Care and Communication | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30105-5 | Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Geriatric Pharmacy | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30105-6 | Leadership, Ethics, and Professional Development in Geriatric Pharmacy | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (PgD Geriatric Pharmacy):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background:
- A recognised Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy or a closely related health or life science discipline is required.
- Alternatively, applicants with equivalent professional qualifications may also be considered.
Professional Experience:
- A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in pharmacy, clinical practice, or healthcare is recommended to ensure appropriate contextual knowledge.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners whose first language is not English should demonstrate proficiency through an IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) to ensure they can engage with advanced academic content.
Commitment to CPD:
- Applicants should demonstrate a clear commitment to lifelong learning and CPD to enhance their professional skills and practice.
Access to Required Resources:
- Learners must have access to reliable internet, appropriate IT equipment, and any necessary learning materials or workplace facilities to fully participate in the course.
This comprehensive set of entry requirements ensures that learners are prepared to engage successfully with the rigorous academic and practical standards expected at a postgraduate level in geriatric pharmacy.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (PgD Geriatric Pharmacy):
Advanced Geriatric Pharmacotherapy and Clinical Practice
- Analyse complex pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes in elderly patients
- Evaluate and manage polypharmacy to optimise therapeutic outcomes
- Apply advanced clinical decision-making to individualised geriatric care plans
- Integrate evidence-based practices to address age-related health challenges
- Assess and resolve complex medication-related problems in older adults
Chronic Disease Management in Elderly Populations
- Critically evaluate the management of major chronic conditions in older adults
- Develop comprehensive care plans for cardiovascular, endocrine, and neurological disorders
- Apply strategies to minimise complications and hospital readmissions
- Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams to deliver coordinated care
- Implement preventative measures and lifestyle interventions tailored to elderly patients
Medication Safety, Risk Assessment, and Pharmacovigilance
- Conduct systematic risk assessments to identify and prevent medication errors
- Monitor, report, and analyse adverse drug reactions effectively
- Apply regulatory standards and pharmacovigilance requirements in geriatric practice
- Develop protocols to improve medication safety and minimise harm
- Promote a culture of accountability and continuous quality improvement
Geriatric Patient-Centred Care and Communication
- Demonstrate advanced communication techniques for engaging older patients and caregivers
- Address barriers to understanding, including sensory or cognitive impairments
- Build trust and empathy to enhance adherence and therapeutic relationships
- Collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure holistic, patient-centred care
- Advocate for the needs and preferences of geriatric patients in care planning
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Geriatric Pharmacy
- Design and conduct research projects relevant to geriatric pharmaceutical care
- Critically appraise academic literature to inform professional practice
- Apply statistical and qualitative methods for analysing research data
- Integrate research findings into evidence-based decision-making
- Promote innovation and scholarly contribution within geriatric pharmacy
Leadership, Ethics, and Professional Development in Geriatric Pharmacy
- Demonstrate leadership skills for managing pharmacy teams and initiatives
- Apply ethical principles and professional standards in clinical decision-making
- Develop strategies for mentoring and supporting junior colleagues
- Plan and manage personal CPD to maintain advanced professional competence
- Evaluate organisational practices and contribute to service improvements in pharmacy settings
This advanced-level qualification is tailored for professionals who are eager to enhance their expertise, expand their career opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to the growing field of geriatric pharmacy. It is ideal for individuals committed to lifelong learning and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Pharmacists Seeking Advanced Clinical Skills
- Practising pharmacists aiming to specialise in geriatric pharmacotherapy and optimise patient outcomes
- Professionals looking to strengthen their clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice in elderly care
Healthcare Practitioners in Geriatric Care
- Clinical pharmacists, hospital pharmacists, and community pharmacy professionals working with ageing populations
- Multidisciplinary healthcare team members wanting to improve collaborative geriatric care and medication management
Professionals Aiming for Career Progression
- Individuals aspiring to leadership roles within pharmacy, healthcare institutions, or aged care facilities
- Learners who wish to gain a postgraduate-level qualification to enhance their professional recognition and career prospects
Researchers and Academics in Pharmaceutical Practice
- Those interested in contributing to evidence-based research and innovation in geriatric pharmacy
- Professionals aiming to integrate scholarly work with practical applications in advanced pharmacy practice
International Learners and CPD-focused Professionals
- Global pharmacy professionals seeking an internationally recognised, Level 7 qualification
- Learners committed to maintaining CPD while keeping pace with the latest developments in geriatric pharmaceutical care
To ensure high-quality training delivery and learner success, centres offering this postgraduate qualification must meet the following requirements:
Qualified and Competent Staff
- Employ assessors, trainers, and internal quality assurers with appropriate Level 7 or higher qualifications in pharmacy or related fields
- Ensure staff have proven experience in geriatric pharmacy or advanced pharmaceutical practice
- Provide ongoing professional development opportunities to maintain current expertise and industry standards
Adequate Learning Resources and Materials
- Supply up-to-date textbooks, research journals, and digital learning platforms relevant to geriatric pharmacy
- Provide access to case studies, simulations, and reference materials to support practical learning
- Ensure materials meet postgraduate-level academic standards and align with the qualification’s learning outcomes
Facilities and Equipment
- Maintain suitable classroom or online learning environments that promote interactive and engaging learning
- Provide access to IT equipment, stable internet connectivity, and multimedia tools for blended or distance learning delivery
- Ensure access to any specialist resources or practical environments needed for applied pharmacy learning
Quality Assurance and Assessment Standards
- Implement robust internal quality assurance processes to monitor teaching and assessment standards
- Follow QualCert’s policies for assessment, moderation, and learner feedback to uphold academic integrity
- Maintain accurate records of learner progress, achievement, and assessment decisions
Learner Support and Guidance
- Offer academic support, mentoring, and feedback to help learners achieve their full potential
- Provide clear guidance on course requirements, assessment criteria, and progression opportunities
- Ensure accessibility and inclusivity for learners from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds