Starting this September, the new course will serve as a sound foundation for all infection prevention and control practitioners and those seeking formal infection control training and a qualification in this vital healthcare area.

The course is taught by expert practitioners, policy makers from the Welsh Assembly Government, and leading professionals in the field, and is the only course of its type available in Wales.

Infection prevention and control continues to be a growing concern amongst healthcare organisations, professionals and the wider public.

Deputy Head of the School of Health Science, Dr John Gammon, who is heading up the programme, said: “The PGCert in Infection Prevention and Control will equip practitioners with the knowledge, skills and expertise to function effectively in infection prevention and control environments as clinicians, researchers, and middle managers.

“The skills they gain whilst studying here at the School of Health Science will improve health care provision and patient safety, and positively influence public perceptions.”

Tracey Gauci, Nursing Officer (Health Protection) from the Public Health and Health Professions Department of the Welsh Assembly Government, added: “Higher education institutions across Wales have been engaged in developing and running a range of infection prevention and control courses at diploma, first degree and even master’s level over last few years. This is in addition to education and training provided locally by NHS Trusts and the national e-learning programme.

“Access to good quality education and training in infection prevention and control is essential to raise awareness of issues such as the importance of hand hygiene, hospital cleanliness and prudent antibiotic usage and supports the Government's strategies to reduce healthcare associated infections in all healthcare settings.

“Traditionally, practitioners specialising within the field of infection prevention and control within Wales would have had to access specialist training outside of Wales, which is also limited in availability and geographically.

“This course is an exciting development and potentially an important resource for new and aspiring infection control practitioners. It will also attract experienced practitioners, equipping them with evidence based knowledge essential to underpin their experience." 

Students will develop their knowledge in three core areas – patient care practices and health care systems; microbiology and infectious diseases; and epidemiology and applications of research.

As the programme extends and develops students’ knowledge, those successfully completing the programme may have the opportunity to progress to healthcare leadership, education or consultant roles, and can be confident that they are providing the most up-to-date patient focussed care.

For more information about the course, or to apply, contact Jayne Cutter on 01792 295790 or email: j.cutter@swansea.ac.uk.

And for more information about Swansea University’s School of Health Science visit the School's website.