Work-based learning for healthcare professionals

Gain academic credit for learning you do at work through flexible work-based learning modules at King's College London. 

What is work-based learning? 

Work-based learning (WBL) helps healthcare professionals gain academic credit for learning that takes place in the workplace at either undergraduate (Level 6) or postgraduate (Level 7) level.  

You can use your day-to-day work, professional development activities and specialist training as the basis for academic study. Through structured learning and assessment, you can gain university credit for knowledge and skills you are already developing in practice. 

We work with NHS trusts and healthcare organisations across London and beyond to support workplace learning and professional development in a wide range of healthcare settings. 

You can study work-based learning as a standalone continuing professional development (CPD) module or use the credits towards programmes such as the BSc Clinical Practice, MSc Advanced Clinical Practice and other post-qualification pathways at King's. 

Work-based learning supports workforce sustainability and can help improve services and patient care. It also supports UN Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by helping healthcare professionals develop workplace -relevant knowledge, skills and professional behaviours. 

Why choose work-based learning at King's? 

Work-based learning allows you to study while continuing in your current role. 

Benefits include: 

• Learning that is directly linked to your job 

• Academic credit for workplace learning and training 

• Support for career development and specialist practice 

• Opportunities to improve services and patient care 

• Flexible study that fits around work commitments 

As a King's student, you will learn from experienced clinicians and academics and have access to a range of learning resources and support. 

Who is work-based learning for? 

Work-based learning is designed for qualified healthcare professionals, including: 

• Registered nurses 

• Midwives 

• Allied health professionals 

• Advanced clinical practitioners 

• Clinical educators 

It is a good option if you are: 

• Completing specialist training 

• Developing advanced practice skills 

• Leading a quality improvement project 

• Involved in service improvement, innovation or sustainability  

• Supporting education or workforce development 

Work-based learning modules 

Level 6: undergraduate (BSc) level courses 

15 credits:  

• Suitable for healthcare professionals developing specialist knowledge and skills in the workplace 

30 credits: 

• Suitable for healthcare professionals developing additional knowledge and skills in the workplace 

Level 7: postgraduate (MSc) level courses 

 15 credits: 

• Suitable for experienced practitioners developing specialist or advanced practice 

 30 credits: 

• Suitable for workplace projects, advanced practice and service improvement work 

To apply for a Level 7 course you must hold an undergraduate 2:1 degree or higher. 

How is work-based learning assessed? 

Most modules are assessed through a portfolio of evidence. 

This may include: 

• Reflective writing 

• Critical discussion of practice 

• Evidence of workplace learning 

• Professional development activities 

• Evaluation of the impact of your learning 

The focus is on showing what you have learned and how you have applied that learning in practice. 

King's assesses the academic side of the module. Your employer remains responsible for assessing workplace competence where required. 

What support will I receive? 

You will receive support from both King's and your workplace. 

Support from King's may include: 

• Academic tutorials 

• Assessment guidance 

• Online learning resources 

• Module inductions 

• Access to library and study support services 

What does studying work-based learning involve? 

Work-based learning is designed to fit around your job. 

Depending on your role and learning goals, you may: 

• Take part in workplace training programmes 

• Reflect on your practice 

• Build a portfolio of evidence 

• Read and review relevant evidence and research 

• Attend online tutorials 

Many students continue working while they study and apply their learning directly to their practice. 

How to apply  

Step 1: Discuss your plans with your employer and choose your module 

Before applying, speak to your line manager and Trust education team. This ensures the learning activity is appropriate and supported by your employer. Most students undertake Work-based Learning with employer sponsorship and funding arrangements are usually agreed locally before applying. 

• You can explore some of the Work-based Learning modules we offer on our shortcourse catalogue. 

If you and your employer are not sure which module is right for you, please contact the Work-based Learning team for advice.  

Step 2: Submit your application 

Applications are submitted through King's Apply. Applicants must ensure they apply for the appropriate: 

• Level (Level 6 or Level 7)

• Credit value (15 or 30 credits) 

• Module code 

Applications are typically accepted four times each academic year: in September, November, March and June. 

Frequently asked questions 

Can I study work-based learning while working full-time? 

Yes. Work-based learning is designed for people who are working. Many students continue in full-time roles while studying. 

Do I need support from my employer? 

Usually, yes. Most students need support from a line manager, professional lead or workplace supervisor. 

Can I gain academic credit for learning at work? 

Yes. You can gain academic credit for learning gained through workplace practice, specialist training and professional development activities. 

Can work-based learning count towards a degree? 

Depending on your study pathway, credits gained through work-based learning may contribute towards programmes such as the BSc Nursing Studies programme and the MSc Clinical Nursing programme and other professional development programmes at King's. Credits gained are also recognised by the Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS) scheme. 

What is the difference between Level 6 and Level 7? 

Level 6 modules are studied at undergraduate level. Level 7 modules are studied at postgraduate level. 

How do I know which module is right for me?  

The right module will depend on your learning goals, professional experience and the amount of academic credit you need. If you are unsure, contact the Work-based Learning team for advice before applying. 

Is work-based learning only for nurses? 

No. Work-based learning is available to a range of healthcare professionals, including nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, advanced clinical practitioners and clinical educators.