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We provide a 20 credit Specialist cancer care (degree level) (HEAD359) module in partnership through an academic partnership with the University of Plymouth. This high-quality course runs once a year and is designed to enable the learner to become competent at assessing, delivering, and evaluating the specialised treatment and care required by people affected by cancer.
We are currently in the process of redesigning our module for the 2025/26 academic year to align more closely with the ACCEND Framework.
As part of this update:
The module will be renamed Fundamentals of Cancer Care
It will be offered at both Level 6 and Level 7
More detailed information will be shared soon
This course is aimed at people working in cancer care. The course is suitable for nurses, allied healthcare professionals and the wider clinical cancer workforce.
A mix of learning strategies are used including self-directed, taught sessions, and professional discussion. There are normally 6 taught study days which are themed to reflect the elements of the practice portfolio. Specialist speakers have been identified from the multi-disciplinary team. The schedule is flexible to allow for educational needs highlighted through problem-based learning. The programme includes student-led sessions which are for the learner to use as negotiated. This time may be used for tutorials (individual or group), to meet with mentors or to visit specialist areas of practice related to oncology care.
“I think that the oncology module is one of the most interesting & well organised modules that I have done.”
“The staff are wonderful & have been supportive during this course, I have found it most informative & will help me with my role.”
“The Module was excellent. Good variety of lectures giving a good overview of Oncology. I learnt a lot that will help me in my practice.”
Introduction to cancer
The cancer pathway and diagnostics
Cancer treatments
Personalised care
Living with and beyond cancer
Palliative and end of life care
Communication skills
Ethics in Cancer care
The theoretical assessment is in the form of a case study on a chosen patient with cancer. The word limit is 3000 words .
A 10 minute presentation on an area or practice covered during the course that has influenced changes to care and enhanced the cancer journey.
£1,260 funding is available for University Hospitals Plymouth staff
Provisional Study Dates for 2026
Study Day 1: 25 February 2026
Study Day 2: 4 March 2026
Study Day 3: 11 March 2026
Study Day 4: 18 March 2026
Study Day 5: 25 March 2026
Study Day 6: 1 April 2026
If you would like to undertake the course or would like further information:
