Postgraduate Diploma in Acute and Urgent Care (University of Wolverhampton)
Validated by University of Wolverhampton
"Our Postgraduate Diploma in Acute and Urgent Care equips healthcare professionals with advanced skills to excel in high-pressure medical environments. This programme is ideal for those seeking to enhance their expertise in managing critical situations across various medical specialties." - Dr. Hayder Ewad, Learna | Diploma MSc Programme Leader
"The University of Wolverhampton is proud to validate this high-quality Postgraduate Diploma in Acute and Urgent Care. It offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing healthcare professionals for the complexities of acute and urgent care settings." - Dr. Ben Appleby, University of Wolverhampton Course Leader
Next intake: March 2025Key Facts
The acute and urgent care diploma provides comprehensive training in managing critical medical situations across multiple body systems. You'll gain in-depth knowledge of cardiorespiratory emergencies, metabolic and endocrine crises, gastrointestinal and hepatological urgencies, sepsis management, neurological emergencies, and acute renal and toxicological presentations.
Our acute medicine diploma stands out through its fully online, flexible format, allowing you to study without career interruption. Led by specialists who bring real-world insights, you'll join a global community of healthcare professionals, engaging in peer-to-peer learning and building international networks that extend beyond the course duration.
Faculty
Programme Leader
Dr. Hayder Ewad
Dr Ewad is a Consultant Physician in General and Acute Medicine for the NHS, working in very challenging times and environment. Over the last 11 years in...
Validating partner
University of Wolverhampton
The University of Wolverhampton, founded in 1827, is a nationally recognised and internationally respected institution. The University has achieved four stars in the QS international ratings and boasts a 96% graduate employability rate (DLHE 2018). Offering over 500 courses, including 250 undergraduate and 120 postgraduate programmes, many are accredited by professional bodies. With a 190-year history, its research is world-leading, with more than half rated internationally excellent or world-leading in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF).
Frequently Asked Questions
For a full list of our FAQs visit our FAQs page.
As each Medical Council has their own rules/regulations with regard to Postgraduate study we recommend that you contact your local Medical Council with regard to recognition.
Upon completion of the course the University would invite you to a graduation ceremony and provide your certificate which makes no reference to the fact that the course was studied online and is therefore typically recognised the same as any other UK University qualification.
Rest assured, the overall Postgraduate Diploma carries a total of 1,200 CPD points, with the MSc an additional 600 CPD points, and all official certifications are issued directly by the University.
When you study one of our programmes you may be surprised to find that there are no lectures or seminars. Your learning will be self-directed meaning that rather than being told information you find it for yourself (with tutor guidance and support). We do this via a series of clinically rich scenarios which your tutor will post on our academic forum which you and your classmates will research, respond to and discuss.
You will be assessed through the Academic Forum, Reflective Journal and Assignments. Learning will be carried out using our online learning platform: Moodle.
You can study whenever and wherever you want - our programmes are totally flexible to fit around your other work and life commitments.
The course is specifically designed so that part of your study is the application of theory to practice in your day job.
We typically suggest that students aim to log into the Moodle platform daily. We recommend a "little and often" approach for reading, reflection and/or posting. High achieving students will typically spend 1-2 hours dedicated to their studies a day; 10 hours per week is sufficient time to spend on the platform.
Those who cannot dedicate more time than once/twice per week may struggle with the demands of this postgraduate programme.
Yes, everything is done entirely online through our learning platform, Moodle. You do not need to attend the University.
Postgraduate Diploma courses
In order to be eligible for our Postgraduate Diploma courses you need to hold a medical degree or undergraduate degree in a health related science and be working within the field that you wish to study, as the course is designed to further your knowledge within your chosen subject and is not designed to introduce these as new topic areas.
We have two intakes a year in March and September. Click the following link for the up to date application deadlines and module dates: Module Dates.
The Action Taker Discount offers savings based on your programme: £150 off for PGCert and £250 off for PGDip/2-year MSc programmes. To qualify, you must pay the deposit within 7 days of acceptance. This discount is not available during February and August and not available in combination with the Early Bird Discount. The Action Taker Discount will be applied to your final payment. To take advantage, act quickly after acceptance to secure your savings.
Next intake: March 2025 Key Facts
Programme Leader
Dr. Hayder Ewad
Dr Ewad is a Consultant Physician in General and Acute Medicine for the NHS, working in very challenging times and environment. Over the last 11 years in this senior role, Dr Ewad has earned the respect of every team he has joined. In December 2021, he was chosen as one of the heroes for South Mead hospital of NBT NHS trust/Bristol, which was very similar to the recognition he received in 1990, just two years after graduating from medical school in Iraq.
Dr Ewad has been a tutor with Learna for over two years, tutoring different subjects, he is now delighted to be the programme leader. Medical education is at the heart of his interests, previously he was a Clinical Physiology tutor at Al Nahrain Medical in Iraq from 1991 to 1994. Dr Ewad has earned a master's degree in Cardiac Physiology in 1993 and is a member of the RCP of London. He also has two diplomas from the universities of Leicester and Cardiff to support his interests in diabetes and therapeutics.
"If I see myself teaching my students something new, something different from what they already knew, something beneficial that could change the course of their professional lives for the better, then I consider myself a successful educator."
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Why Study an Acute and Urgent Care Postgraduate Diploma with Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
100% Flexible
Our courses are 100% online. No fixed study times mean you can log in and learn whenever and wherever.
Multidisciplinary - study in a group of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
Expert Led
All of our programmes are authored and developed by world leading experts in their field.
Our faculty are selected due to their subject expertise, experience and teaching abilities to ensure the highest standards of educational excellence.
Career Boosting
Get a University Validated postgraduate qualification in just 1 calendar year instead of 2 academic years.
40% of our alumni reported an increase in salary 2 years after studying with us.
Who is this course for?
This Postgraduate Diploma in Acute and Urgent Care is designed for healthcare professionals looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in managing acute medical situations, without the full commitment of a master's degree. It is particularly suited for:
Doctors
Doctors working in emergency departments or acute care settings will benefit from this PGDip by gaining advanced skills in handling acute conditions, including trauma, critical care, and medical emergencies. The programme offers practical knowledge on evidence-based protocols and rapid decision-making, making it ideal for doctors who want to improve their clinical impact without committing to a full MSc.
Nurses
Nurses working in acute care environments will deepen their clinical understanding of patient management in high-pressure situations. This PGDip equips them with the necessary tools to enhance their skills in triage, patient stabilisation, and the initial management of acute conditions, allowing them to take on more responsibility within their teams or advance into specialist acute care roles.
Physiotherapists
Physiotherapists working with acute care patients can benefit from this PGDip by developing specialised expertise in managing acute injuries and post-surgical care. It provides a strong foundation in early rehabilitation and the care of patients with complex needs, helping physiotherapists contribute effectively in fast-paced acute settings, such as critical care or trauma units.
Physician Associates and Occupational Therapists
Physician Associates and Occupational Therapists in acute care settings can use this PGDip to broaden their understanding of patient flow, acute care delivery models, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The course equips them with essential skills for assessing and managing patients in urgent care scenarios, improving their capacity to contribute meaningfully to patient care and team-based decision-making.
Radiographers
Radiographers working in trauma or emergency imaging will gain from this PGDip by enhancing their knowledge of advanced imaging techniques used in acute care settings. This qualification improves their ability to work effectively under pressure in urgent situations, helping to expedite the diagnosis and treatment of critically ill patients.
Paramedics
Paramedics who manage life-threatening emergencies in prehospital care will benefit from the PGDip by gaining deeper knowledge in triage and patient stabilisation. This course provides paramedics with the skills needed to manage acute scenarios more effectively, supporting career progression into senior or specialised roles within prehospital or emergency care.
How Will I Learn?
You'll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform, which allows you to engage with clinical cases, complete assignments, and collaborate with fellow students at times that suit your schedule. There's no fixed timetable—simply log in daily to participate in the week's activities.
Learn through engaging discussion
Our teaching approach is highly interactive, using small groups of 10-20 students to foster a collaborative environment where you can engage in thoughtful discussions and receive guidance from your tutor. You'll have access to learning resources and discussion forums that encourage ongoing interaction and deeper engagement with the material.
Throughout your studies, you'll receive support from a dedicated expert tutor and our Student Support Team, ensuring you have the resources needed to navigate the course successfully.
Curriculum
Our online postgraduate diploma in acute and urgent care allows you to study for just one calendar year and is a part-time, online course. The course is worth 120 credits and comprises six modules of 20 credits, each running over a period of six weeks.Module Aims
The module aims to use relevant understanding, methodologies and approaches to address complex cases, applying guideline and evidence based care in the management of acutely ill patients presenting with cardio-respiratory conditions.
Module Content
The module will cover the guideline directed approach to the management of the patient with acute respiratory and cardiovascular disease to include management of severe hypertension, acute heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, arrhythmias, thromboembolic disease, acute exacerbations of chronic respiratory disease, pneumonia, pneumothorax, pleural effusions, acute asthma, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest.
Weekly topics:
- Arrhythmias / hypertension
- Acute coronary syndrome / IHD+
- Heart failure
- Thromboembolic disease and C-P arrest
- Asthma / pneumothorax
- COPD and lung oncology
Learning Outcomes
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge and a critical understanding of selected methodologies and approaches in the diagnostic synthesis and management strategies employed in the treatment of patients presenting with acute respiratory and cardiovascular emergencies.
- Combine advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge with evidence-based practice in order to systematically appraise, reflect upon, and create ways forward in the treatment and management of patients presenting with acute cardio-respiratory conditions within a multidisciplinary setting.
Aims of the module:
The module aims to develop an ability to manage complex cases presenting with a variety of acute diabetic and endocrine conditions, applying guideline and evidence based care in the management of acutely ill patients.
Content summary:
The module will explore the management of the patient presenting with acute diabetic and endocrine disease including diabetic ketoacidosis, hypoglycaemia, hyperosmolar non-ketosis, acute hypercalcaemia, thyrotoxicosis, hypocalcaemia and adrenal crisis.
Weekly topics:
- Hypoglycaemia and Hyperglycaemia
- Diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state
- Chronic complications and diabetes
- Adrenal & Pituitary
- Acute Hypercalcaemia, hypocalcaemia and hyponatraemia
- Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism
Module Learning Outcomes
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge and a critical understanding of selected methodologies and approaches in the diagnostic synthesis and management strategies employed in the treatment of patients presenting with acute diabetes and endocrine emergencies.
- Combine advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge with evidence-based practice in order to systematically appraise, reflect upon, and create ways forward in the treatment and management of patients presenting with acute diabetes and endocrine conditions within a multidisciplinary setting.
Aims of the module:
The module aims to reformulate and use relevant understanding, methodologies and approaches to assess and manage complex cases, applying guideline and evidence based care in the management of acutely ill patients presenting with gastrointestinal conditions.
Content summary:
The module will explore the management of the patient presenting with acute gastrointestinal (GI) illness including upper GI haemorrhage, acute abdominal pain, intractable vomiting, inflammatory bowel disease, GI infections including dysentery and gastroenteritis together with the acute management of GI malignancy. Managing acute liver disease, hepatic encephalopathy and cirrhosis.
Weekly topics:
- Acute gastrointestinal bleeding
- Inflammatory bowel disease; evaluation and management
- Liver 1
- Liver 2
- Acute gastroenteritis and acute abdominal pain
- Acute complication of GI malignancies
Module Learning Outcomes
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge and a critical understanding of selected methodologies and approaches in the diagnostic synthesis and management strategies employed in the treatment of patients presenting with acute gastrointestinal (GI) emergencies.
- Combine advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge with evidence-based practice in order to systematically appraise, reflect upon, and create ways forward in the treatment and management of patients presenting with acute GI conditions within a multidisciplinary setting.
Aims of the module:
The module aims to apply guideline and evidence based care in the management of acutely ill patients, facilitating the critical evaluation of actions, methods and results used in the management of acute infections.
Content summary:
The management of patients presenting with acute bacterial, viral and fungal infection relating to all organ systems; management, investigation and diagnosis of sepsis and bacteraemia; management of the immune compromised individual in relation to infection.
Weekly topics:
- Sepsis Management
- Pneumonia and hospital acquired infections
- Cellulitis and skin infection
- Acute infections in immunocompromised patients
- Pyrexia of unknown origin, including travellers’ infection
- Genito-urinary infections
Module Learning Outcomes
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge and a critical understanding of selected methodologies and approaches in the diagnostic synthesis and management strategies employed in the treatment of patients presenting with acute infections.
- Combine advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge with evidence-based practice in order to systematically appraise, reflect upon, and create ways forward in the treatment and management of patients presenting with acute infections within a multidisciplinary setting.
Aims of the module:
The module aims to develop a critical understanding of the assessment and management of acute neurological disorders and stroke, applying guideline and evidence based care in the management of acute neurological disorders and stroke.
Content summary:
This module will explore the diagnosis and management of patients presenting with acute neurological disorders such as acute stroke, epilepsy, cerebral infections, cerebral haemorrhage/haematomas, venous sinus thrombosis, presentations with acute cerebral malignancy, dystonias, ataxias, acute neuronopathies/neuropathies and raised intracranial pressure.
Weekly topics:
- Acute headache evaluation and management
- Seizures
- Cerebral infections: meningitis and encephalitis
- Intracranial pathology inc. haemorrhage
- TIA and acute stroke
- Other neurological presentations
Module Learning Outcomes
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge and a critical understanding of selected methodologies and approaches in the diagnostic synthesis and management strategies employed in the treatment of patients presenting with acute neurological emergencies.
- Combine advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge with evidence-based practice in order to systematically appraise, reflect upon, and create ways forward in the treatment and management of patients presenting with acute neurological disorders including stroke medicine within a multidisciplinary setting.
Aims of the module:
The module aims to develop a critical understanding of the assessment and management of acute kidney, metabolic and toxicological disorders and apply guideline and evidence based care.
Content summary:
This module will explore the management of toxicological emergencies such as overdose both accidental and non-accidental, acute drug reactions and anaphylaxis. The module will also cover the presentation of the patient with metabolic and renal issues to include acute kidney injury, acid-base disorders, hyperkalaemia and acute hyponatraemia. It will also touch upon the implementation of renal replacement therapy including dialysis.
Weekly topics:
- Approach to the management of acute hyponatremia
- Renal Injury, renal replacement and hyperkalaemia
- Acid-Base balance
- Acute drug reactions, Urticaria and Anaphylaxis
- Poisoning
- Illicit drugs
Module Learning Outcomes
- Synthesise and apply advanced theoretical knowledge and a critical understanding of selected methodologies and approaches in the diagnostic synthesis and management strategies employed in the treatment of patients presenting with acute renal, metabolic and toxicological emergencies.
- Combine advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge with evidence-based practice in order to systematically appraise, reflect upon, and create ways forward in the treatment and management of patients presenting with acute renal, metabolic and toxicological disorders within a multi-disciplinary setting.
Assessment Methods
This programme emphasises learning through active participation in case-based discussions, reflection, and real-life scenarios. Students engage with clinical cases that mirror everyday practice, fostering problem-solving and evidence-based application from the very beginning.
Across the modules, assessments are integrated with learning. Each week, you will work through two to three clinical cases, discussing and reflecting on them with peers under the guidance of an expert tutor. These discussions form the core of your learning and are also the basis for your assessments.
Our innovative teaching methods are designed to help you translate this learning into real-world clinical practice. You'll need to regularly log in to participate in discussions, ideally on a daily basis, and commit approximately two hours per day to your studies. Our dedicated Student Support Team is available to assist with any challenges you may encounter, from navigating our online platform to managing deadlines.
How Foundational Knowledge is Developed
The programme is structured so that foundational knowledge is introduced through carefully designed clinical cases. Each case is crafted to highlight essential concepts and progressively deepen your understanding as you apply critical thinking and evidence-based analysis. This hands-on approach ensures that you are not only acquiring theoretical knowledge but also learning how to apply it in a practical, clinical setting.
This programme is suited for professionals who thrive in an online, discussion-based learning environment. Please note that this course focuses on interactive, applied learning through peer collaboration and case discussions. You will be fully supported, encouraged and led through the programme to success and graduation!
- Every week students are presented with two/three clinical case-based scenarios that are reflective of every day clinical practice and research.
- Tutors will post a number of questions and prompts to aid students in a formal discussion of each case.
- These discussions are facilitated throughout by your tutor and are then assessed at the end of every module.
For this assessment, students will work on a group assignment and/or an individual assignment.
- Group assignments are designed to hone skills in the multidisciplinary, holistic approach to modern treatments and patient management by requiring group participation in a single piece of work.
- Individual assignments are designed to hone skills in academic career progression through such tasks as reviewing papers, developing scientific posters or abstracts, peer-reviewing, social media activities, patient information leaflets and essays.
The reflective journal is used by students throughout each module to monitor personal progress. This is guided by weekly feedback from your tutor and is graded at the end of every module. The journal typically includes the following:
- Initial expectations and reasons for taking the course.
- Module and/or personal learning objectives.
- Description of events, issues and learning points within current personal practice.
- Change in every day practice due to knowledge gained on each module.
- A description of what has been learned during the module.
- Students are provided with case-based problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination.
- The exam consists of 30 'Single Best Answer' questions.
- Students are required to complete the exam online within the set time.
Entry requirements
Applicants will be assessed on an individual basis, but typically, applicants for the programme will:
- Possess an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject awarded by a UK university or overseas equivalent.
- Provide evidence in the personal statement as to how they can apply learning to a practical setting and reflect on practice.
- Basic IT skills (e.g. word processing, email and internet).
- If English is not the student’s first language they must hold an English language qualification.
English requirements:
- IELTS with an overall score of 6.0 or above.
- GMC / NMC (Nursing Midwifery Council) / GPhC / HCPC registered – with a licence to practise.
- Proof of study at a UK, USA, Australian, New Zealand or Canadian University or membership to a medical body from one of these countries.
Course Fees
Option 1: Upfront Payment in full. Option 2: Interest free payments every other month for the duration of the course.
| Date | Instalments | Up-Front Payments |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | £895 | £5,360 |
| 1st May 2025 | £893 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £893 | |
| 1st September 2025 | £893 | |
| 1st November 2025 | £893 | |
| 1st January 2026 | £893 |
† Deposits are non-refundable
†† Prices are subject to review following each intake
Option 3: Lower your monthly payments by spreading the cost for between 2 and 8 years with a loan from our lending partner Lendwise*.
*Subject to eligibility criteria.
Learna | Diploma MSc has a partnership with Lendwise which is a leading private student loan provider, to help UK students fund their course fees should they require financing. Lendwise is a UK-based education finance platform through which candidates can fund their postgraduate and professional qualification studies at leading educational institutions.
A Lendwise loan comes with a fixed interest rate for the duration of the loan (between 2 and 8 years) and no early repayment penalties. The interest rate offered will depend on the overall applicant profile and the application process is entirely online.*
*Other sources of funding are available.
Learna | Diploma MSc does not offer financial advice, recommend or endorse any financial product. You should always check the suitability of the product that is of interest to you. If you are in any doubt as to its suitability, we suggest that you seek independent professional advice.
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Why Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online diploma courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
Our courses are some of the most affordable of their kind, providing value for money without compromising on quality. We also don't apply an international surcharge. No fixed timetable means you can log in & learn on the go, at your convenience.
Being totally online means we can select the very best tutors and resource editors, no matter where they’re located.
Connect with multidisciplinary people around the world to expand your insights & broaden your career prospects.
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