School of Health Science secures approval to deliver new community nursing specialist qualification across Wales聽
The School of Health Science has been formally approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to deliver a Specialist Practice Qualification (SPQ) in General Practice Nursing, Community Mental Health Nursing and Community Learning Disability Nursing across Wales.
The new programme has been developed in line with the NMC Standards of Proficiency for Community Nursing Specialist Practice Qualifications, ensuring graduates meet the professional standards required for advanced community-based roles.
This postgraduate qualification also supports wider changes to health education delivery in Wales, helping to ensure that those living and working in Wales can access high-quality education that enables them to deliver care closer to home.
Deputy Head of School, Elizabeth Mason, described the approval as a significant milestone, 鈥淭his new addition to our suite of postgraduate and post-registration programmes is a fantastic achievement. It reflects the depth of expertise within our team and the School鈥檚 longstanding contribution to educating and developing the nursing workforce across North Wales and beyond.鈥
Commissioned and fully funded by Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW), the SPQ is offered as a part-time Postgraduate Diploma for eligible nurses living and working in Wales. Successful completion leads to a recordable Specialist Practitioner Qualification with the NMC.
The programme is open to registered nurses across Wales. Applicants from outside Wales are also welcome to apply; however, they would not be eligible for NHS Wales funding.
Designed for registered nurses who wish to specialise and take on leadership roles within community settings and GP surgeries, the SPQ supports practitioners to advance their clinical expertise while remaining in practice. Delivered through flexible online learning, the part-time structure enables nurses to balance professional development with clinical responsibilities.
The curriculum includes both shared and field-specific modules, equipping practitioners to develop master鈥檚-level skills as autonomous, evidence-based community specialists.
Through this new SPQ, the School of Health Science continues its commitment to strengthening the community nursing workforce and supporting high-quality, patient-centred care across Wales.