Skip to main content

Undergraduate/Postgraduate Certificate of Achievement in Developing Practice in Clinical Skills

Learn how to carry out an in-depth history and conduct systematic physical examinations of different areas of the body. Gain an understanding of best practice in documenting and communicating your findings. Earn credits at the same level as our undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

A member of staff working at a laptop at a bedside in a mock hospital ward

Key course information

LevelShort courses and CPD
Duration4 months
Start dates13 January 2026
Fee£750
Course codeCID1377

Course summary

This is a multi-professional course relevant to both primary and secondary care. The course enables you to carry out an in-depth history and conduct systematic physical examinations of different areas of the body, including the respiratory system, cardiovascular system and the central nervous system. You'll also learn best practices in documenting and communicating your findings.

This course can be completed at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.

What you'll study

You'll cover all aspects of clinical history taking and physical examination, including the principles of history taking and physical examination of the following:

  • Respiratory system
  • Cardiovascular system
  • Gastrointestinal system
  • Central nervous system
  • ENT and dermatology
  • Endocrinology
  • Musculoskeletal system.

How you'll learn

This course is taught via problem-based learning, group discussion, interactive lectures, simulation, workshop sessions, and our virtual learning environment. There is a total of 70 hours of face-to-face contact time.

The course is assessed in two ways, a six-station OSCE and a 3,000-word clinical case review.

Entry requirements

Fees and finance support

The employer usually meets course costs – we advise you to speak to your workforce development lead before applying.

We also accept self-funded applicants and encourage anyone wishing to explore their options to contact cpd@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).

Apply now

Contact the Corporate and Professional Education team for further information about applying for this course by calling 0191 515 3361(opens in new tab) or emailing cpd@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).