Key features

This 20-credit module aims to equip students with knowledge, understanding and capability to deliver person-centred care to fulfil the role of the general practice nurse in alignment with National Standards.
This is one of three standalone modules that make up the Fundamentals of General Practice. The focus of this module is managing complexity and supporting self-management.
The module team delivers teaching supported by a range of current clinicians, subject and context-specific experts who will guide exploration of topics including
  • Strategic initiatives and models of care for long term Health Conditions
  • Complexity in Primary Care
  • Contraception and Sexual Health
  • Menopause Management
  • Neurological diseases
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
  • Established cardiovascular disease and secondary prevention
  • Musculoskeletal disorders
  • Travel Health
GP nursing
GP nurse
Module code

APP757 / HEAD396


Credits

20


FHEQ Level

Level 6 (degree) and Level 7 (masters)


Location

Blended learning approach with face to face delivery at Plymouth

Module details

Degree – level 6

By the end of the module, the student will be able to:
  • demonstrate knowledge, understanding and capability in practice to undertake clinical competencies required to fulfil the role of a general practice nurse
  • discuss and analyse the developing role of the practice nurse, within the Primary Care Multi-disciplinary team and the interface of general practice with the wider health community
  • develop and evidence reflective practice recognising its centrality to the provision of quality patient care
  • access and critically analyse the evidence base used to support current practice
  • demonstrate an understanding of the principles involved in assessment and management of patients living with long term conditions.

Masters – level 7

By the end of the module, the student will be able to:
  • demonstrate knowledge, understanding and capability in practice to undertake clinical competencies required to fulfil the role of a general practice nurse
  • critically analyse and evaluate the developing role of the practice nurse, within the Primary Care Multi-disciplinary team and the interface of general practice with the wider health community
  • develop and evidence reflective practice recognising its centrality to the provision of quality patient care, innovation and leadership
  • access and critically analyse the quality of evidence base used to support current practice
  • access, appraise and interpret the principles involved in assessment and management of patients living with long term conditions.
Foundations of general practice nursing course

Entry requirements

To be considered for a place on these modules you must be:
  • a registered practitioner working within a primary care setting in order to meet the module outcomes.
And one of the following:
  • a health and social care worker in possession of previous study at level 5 (Diploma of Higher Education) or a foundation degree to study the module at degree level
  • a health and social care worker ideally in possession of previous study at degree level to study the module at masters level.
In alignment with the Health Education Core Competences and Career framework (2022) this course develops an enhanced level, autonomous practitioner. As such it is not suitable for Nurse Associates.
Each student will be considered and advised individually (where required) by the programme team and Professional Development Unit. Please contact the PDU or programme lead if you have any queries regarding your situation.

Fees

Module dates

Plymouth
12,19, 26 March, 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 April 2026
Occasionally delivery dates might be subject to change – always check with the module lead or Professional Development Unit.
Please be aware that all modules run to minimum numbers.
In the event that there are low numbers, this module may be rescheduled to an alternative date.
Some modules are also subject to maximum numbers.
Fiona Cook

Module lead: Fiona Cook

Welcome to general practice nursing at the University of Plymouth. As we embark on this journey together let me introduce myself. I have worked in general practice for over 30 years and continue to do so alongside my role as a lecturer. With a previous background in palliative care, I believe firmly in nursing as a vocation as well as a profession, delivering truly person-centred care. That is the underpinning theme of this course. Nursing in general practice offers the opportunity to become a specialist generalist, delivering care across the lifespan and improving health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. It can also be challenging and a steep learning curve as organisations respond to change. As course leader I aim to support you as you develop in this role. Do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of help. I look forward to meeting you.

Admissions information

Additional information and documentation required for the application process.
  • Application forms.
  • Change of name forms.
  • Pre-course information.
  • Downloadable guides.
  • Student card.
Admissions information Additional information and documentation required for the application process.Access to application forms, download guides and confirmation information. Visit our admissions homepage.
Green figure with heartbeat image

You can contact the Professional Development Unit with any queries

Prospective student enquiries:
Current student enquiries:
Professional Development Unit, Level 4 Rolle Building, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom.
Monday – Thursday 8:30–17:00 and Friday 8:30–16:30.