This online course, delivered in collaboration with Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU), prepares clinicians to lead the implementation, governance, and improvement of point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) at a local level.

Ideal for those currently leading or aspiring to lead departmental ultrasound programmes, this module/micro-credential can be taken independently or as part of our PgCert in PoCUS. The module is based on independent study with online support. The areas to be explored in producing the final written work (1500 words) include: national and local guidelines, POCUS governance and accreditation, training pathways, equipment and quality control, maintaining standards and implementation challenges. Half the marks are awarded for the written work and half for a viva voce discussion on relevant issues.

Next dates: 18th September – 20th November 2025 (applications opening soon)

Fee: £600

What is a micro-credential?

A micro-credential is a short, specific course of study, with an assessment which earns credits. The Credit Accumulation and Transfer Scheme is a national UK university scheme to allow credits to be earned and accumulated. For example, a typical postgraduate diploma is 120 credits, a typical PgCert is 60 credits. Each of our micro-credentials earns 10 credits, with each credit representing the notional equivalent of 10 hours of study.

What is the commitment?

Each micro-credential requires 100 hours of notional study, most of which will be self-directed learning. However, for micro-credentials with a practical component (all except Ultrasound Image Acquisition and Optimisation and Departmental PoCUS Leadership modules), you must also complete a minimum of 21 hours of in-person, hands-on training at our London-based training centre if this is your first micro-credential with us, or 15 hours if you have already attended one of our other micro-credentials. You can enrol on up to two micro-credentials per term.

What are the entry requirements?

• Professional Registration: Registered with the General Medical Council (GMC), Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC), or Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC).
• Educational Background: A relevant first degree, such as MB BS (or equivalent), or a bachelor’s degree, ideally at first-class or 2:1 level.
• Clinical Experience: Current employment in an appropriate role within the NHS or a UK-based private healthcare provider, with evidence of basic ultrasound experience.

What does the course cover?

• National and local frameworks for PoCUS training and governance
• Roles and responsibilities of the departmental ultrasound lead
• Structuring local training programmes and assessment of competency
• Equipment procurement, maintenance, and standardisation
• Designing policies for quality assurance and ongoing audit
• Risk management, supervision models, and medico-legal responsibilities
• Barriers to implementation (e.g. time, funding, engagement)
• Strategies for overcoming local resistance and gaining institutional support
• Aligning local systems with national standards (e.g. RCEM, FUSIC, RCR)
• Leadership theory in healthcare and personal development planning

How is the course taught and assessed?

Unlike most of our other micro-credentials, the Departmental PoCUS Leadership course does not include practical sessions. The content is delivered through online materials, and you’ll have opportunities to interact with our faculty in live online sessions. The schedule for these sessions will be published soon.

To earn the micro-credential, you must successfully complete both of the following:

• A written assessment (a 1,500-word structured assignment describing the role of an effective departmental ultrasound lead).

• An oral examination (a 15–20 minute viva exploring and justifying your proposed approach and understanding of key leadership concepts).

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