Academic Modules
Advance your knowledge, skills, and professional development through our accredited academic modules, delivered in partnership with the University of Plymouth. Designed for healthcare professionals working with people affected by cancer, our modules combine academic learning with practical application to support high-quality, person-centred care and career progression.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you are considering further study but are unsure which learning opportunity is right for you, our Education & Development Guide provides information on academic modules, short courses, workforce development opportunities, career pathways, the ACCEND ePortfolio, and additional learning resources to support your professional development.
Download Cancer Education Hub_ Education and Development Guide [pdf] 4MB
Why Study an Academic Module?
Our academic modules can help you:
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Develop specialist knowledge in cancer care
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Gain academic credit at Level 6 or Level 7
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Support career and professional development
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Enhance evidence-based practice
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Build confidence in supporting people affected by cancer
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Progress towards enhanced, advanced, or consultant-level practice roles through alignment with the ACCEND Framework and associated capabilities.
Fundamentals of Cancer Care
Advance your clinical practice with an engaging, interactive, and evidence-based module designed for healthcare professionals.
Academic Credit
20 credits at Level 6 (Degree) HEAE312 or Level 7 (Masters) APP789
Module Codes
Level 6: HEAE312
Level 7: APP789
Module Outline
This module can be studied at Level 6 or Level 7 and is delivered by healthcare professionals in partnership with the University of Plymouth. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of cancer care for healthcare professionals working with individuals affected by cancer.
Fully aligned with the national ACCEND Framework (Aspirant Cancer Career and Education Development), this module also supports your professional development journey toward enhanced, advanced, and consultant-level roles in cancer care.
Delivery Method
Blended learning including:
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Six in-person interactive study days
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Tutorials
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Online learning
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Self-directed study
Delivered by a range of specialist speakers from the multidisciplinary team.
Key Topics
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Introduction to cancer
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The cancer pathway and diagnostics
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Cancer treatments
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Personalised care
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Living with and beyond cancer
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Palliative and end-of-life care
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Communication skills
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Ethics in cancer care
Assessment
Case Study
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Level 6: 2,000 words
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Level 7: 3,000 words
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Weighting: 70%
Presentation
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based on the case study
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Weighting: 30%
Study Dates - 2027
This module runs once a year.
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Study Day 1: Thursday 25 February
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Study Day 2: Thursday 4 March
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Study Day 3: Thursday 11 March
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Study Day 4: Thursday 18 March
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Study Day 5: Thursday 25 March
- 1-1 Tutorial to be arranged for week of 5 April
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Study Day 6: Thursday 15 April
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Case Study Submission: 17 May
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Presentation Date: Thursday 17 June
Location
Derriford Hospital, Plymouth
Support Available
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1:1 tutorials with the module leader
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Email and video support
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Access to University of Plymouth resources including:
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Moodle (online learning platform)
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Study skills and library services
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Entry Requirements
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Registered healthcare professionals with regular contact with people affected by cancer (consideration may be given to those in other settings)
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Competence in written and spoken English
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For Level 7: Previous study at Level 6 or evidence of ability to study at Level 7
Fees for 2027
£1,300 - Funding available for University Hospitals Plymouth staff. Please also speak to us about other funding options if needed.
Module Lead
Andy Garner - Oncology Education Lead at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
Feedback from 2024/25 Cohort
All respondents rated the module 5/5 across all categories, including:
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Overall experience
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Quality of teaching and facilitation
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Application of learning to clinical practice
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Likelihood of recommending the module
Student comments:
“Very enjoyable. Great to meet colleagues and discuss our practices.”
“Informative and supportive. Andy was very approachable and understanding.”
“A lot is learned that can be applied in a patient setting. Very useful.”
Register Your Interest
Fundamentals of Cancer Care - Expression of Interest Form 2027 - Fill in form
