Keele University

What you'll study

The programme combines applied clinical modules with research and service improvement to develop autonomous, evidence‑based practitioners. Core themes include advanced clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning in the critically ill, advanced pharmacology and pathophysiology, management of organ support and multi‑system failure, and the principles and practice of critical care rehabilitation. Students also study modules in research methods and applied statistics to prepare for a dissertation or service improvement project, and leadership and quality improvement in critical care services.

• Advanced Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning – focused history taking, physiological monitoring interpretation, and bedside decision making.
• Pathophysiology and Advanced Pharmacology – mechanisms of critical illness, drug therapy for organ support and sedation, and safe prescribing principles for non‑medical prescribers where applicable.
• Support of Organ Function – mechanical ventilation, haemodynamic support, renal replacement therapy, and management of severe sepsis and multi‑organ failure.
• Rehabilitation and Long‑term Outcomes – early mobilisation, delirium prevention, and planning for recovery and discharge from critical care.
• Research Methods and Evidence Appraisal – quantitative and qualitative methods, critical appraisal, and translation of evidence into practice.
• Service Improvement/Dissertation – an independent project, audit or research dissertation applying learning to a clinical problem in critical care.

Teaching typically uses blended delivery: face‑to‑face seminars and simulation, online learning materials, case‑based discussions and supervised clinical practice. Assessment methods include written assignments, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), case portfolios and a substantial project or dissertation. Clinical skills and competencies are developed and signed off in the workplace in partnership with employer clinical supervisors.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally registered healthcare professionals (for example, nurses registered with the relevant national regulator, or allied health professionals registered with their statutory body) with current clinical experience in acute or critical care settings. Typical entry expects a degree or equivalent professional qualification; applicants without a degree but with substantial relevant clinical experience and employer support may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Applicants should normally be practising in a clinical role with access to an appropriate critical care environment for placement and competency sign‑off, and have support from their employer for protected learning time. English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English according to the university’s standard guidance. Additional requirements may include an occupational health check and up‑to‑date professional registration; specific documentation is confirmed at application.

Career prospects

Graduates progress into advanced clinical roles within critical care, such as senior staff nurse/specialist practitioner, advanced critical care practitioner or roles in critical care outreach and rapid response. The programme also supports careers in clinical education, critical care service development, research and leadership positions within hospital and community services.

The skills developed—advanced assessment, independent clinical decision‑making, quality improvement and research literacy—are valued by NHS Trusts and employers internationally, and can support applications for higher clinical banding, advanced practitioner training pathways, or doctoral study in critical care and related fields.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers an interprofessional learning environment with established links to local and regional NHS critical care units, enabling clinically relevant teaching and workplace supervision. The university combines campus‑based simulation facilities and small‑group teaching with flexible blended learning suited to practising clinicians.

Students benefit from research‑active academic staff with clinical backgrounds, opportunities to undertake meaningful service improvement projects within partner trusts, and dedicated student support services including library and online learning resources. The programme is designed to align academic study with clinical competence, supporting career progression for experienced practitioners aiming to lead and innovate in critical care delivery.