Course features

This module aims to provide students working towards an advanced level of practice the opportunity to develop a deep and systematic understanding of the pathophysiology that underpins clinical assessment, diagnostic reasoning and evidence-based management of patients with common health conditions. 

Entry requirements

For qualified healthcare professionals with the first degree of 2:1 or higher.

Learning outcomes

• Demonstrate a deep level of knowledge and systematic understanding of the cellular to organ-system pathophysiology underlying common health conditions.

• Apply pathophysiological principles to inform the advanced interpretation of presenting signs and symptoms, clinical assessment findings and decision-making in patient care.

• Discuss the integration of pathophysiology concepts in clinical reasoning; recognising incomplete data, limitations and areas of conflict in the field of practice.

• Synthesise and appraise the specialist evidence-base, clinical guidelines and relevant interdisciplinary literature to support individualised patient care in complex and novel contexts.

• Critically reflect on the advanced practitioner’s role, professional scope of practice within interdisciplinary care, and contribution to strategic enhancement of the clinical field.

Assessment

• Essay (70%) and presentation (30%)

Teaching schedule

Term 2 - 14/01/2026, 21/01, 28/01, 04/02, 11/02, 18/02, 25/02, 04/03, 11/03, 18/03

Presentations 25/03, 26/03

Term 3 - 15/04/2026, 22/04, 29/04, 06/05, 13/05, 20/05, 27/05, 03/06, 10/06, 17/06

Presentations 24/06, 25/06