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Brighton & Sussex Medical School

Simulation in Clinical Practice

BSMS > Postgraduate > Simulation in Clinical Practice

Simulation in Clinical Practice

Key facts

PGCert

Part-time: 1-3 years

Eligible applicants: UK, international

Location: University of Brighton, Falmer campus, local hospital trust; online via the virtual platform

General enquiries: brighton.ac.uk/enquiries or email Simulation@bsms.ac.uk

This course is jointly validated by the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex. Applications for 2025/26 entry are now open.

APPLY for the Simulation in clinical practice course HERE >

Download the course application handbook for further information on this course.

Download the Simulation in Clinical Practice handbook here > 

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Course overview

The PGCert in Simulation in Clinical Practice at Brighton and Sussex Medical School is purpose-built to meet the clinical and professional development needs of the NHS workforce, particularly for those aiming to become educators in simulation-based learning. This course offers a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring that you are well-equipped to lead in the rapidly evolving field of clinical simulation.

Choosing the PGCert in Simulation in Clinical Practice means joining a dynamic community of healthcare professionals dedicated to advancing clinical education and improving patient outcomes through innovative simulation techniques. This course is your gateway to becoming a leader in simulation-based learning, equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the NHS and beyond.

Key areas of study

  • Multidisciplinary approach to learning
  • The evolution, variety and importance of human factors in healthcare practice
  • Knowledge and skills required to design, develop and facilitate simulation training
  • Debriefing skills required to aid learners and subsequent reflection and development
  • Simulation-based medical education principles
  • Transformative learning
  • Role of extrinsic and intrinsic feedback
  • Producing a portfolio of teaching experience

Course structure

How is the course taught?

Our curriculum is designed to help you advance your expertise through a mix of immersive learning experiences, including group work activities, debriefing and feedback sessions, and the exploration of critical areas such as technical issues, human factors, and fidelity in simulation. You will develop a portfolio of experience that reflects the educational principles of our modules, demonstrating your competence in applying these approaches to real-world clinical education.

The course emphasises hands-on learning, allowing you to collaborate with peers and external partners on projects that address real-world clinical challenges. The competencies you will acquire are highly sought after by employers across the healthcare sector, including:

  • Designing and facilitating simulation scenarios that enhance clinical training
  • Creating simulation-based curricula tailored to various healthcare settings
  • Utilising advanced technology and simulation tools to replicate clinical environments
  • Conducting research to assess the impact of simulation on clinical practice and patient outcomes
  • Applying evidence-based practices to improve patient safety and team performance
  • Developing leadership and teamwork skills through interdisciplinary simulation exercises
  • Managing simulation centers and programs, including resource allocation and staff training

Delivered in an intensive, immersive format, this course allows you to integrate new skills directly into your professional practice, making it ideal for those balancing work and study. Whether you are involved in clinical education, patient safety, or healthcare management, the PGCert in Simulation in Clinical Practice offers the flexibility and relevance needed to advance your career within the NHS and beyond.

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Modules

Modules MDM148 and MDM149 are delivered over the course of five days in the medical school, delivered in a hybrid format of face-to-face teaching and online teaching. Principles and Practice of Simulation and Teaching and Learning in Medical Education are assessed by way of academic essays following the delivery of each module. 

  • MDM148 Principles and Practice of Simulation (20 credits)   
  • MDM149 Feedback and Debriefing in Simulation (20 credits)

AND either

  • MDM28 Teaching and Learning in Medical Education (20 credits)

OR 

  • MDM162 Digital Learning (20 credits)

Standalone module options:

The core Simulation modules, MDM148 and MDM149, can be taken as single standalone modules, separate to enrolling on the PGCert programme. For more information, please email: Simulation@bsms.ac.uk

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Career opportunities

This PGCert will provide specialist knowledge that will be useful for any career in the field of healthcare that involves the support of learning and assessment in practice.

In addition, the programme will enable you to develop the skills of critical analysis, critical reflection and the evaluation of research evidence commensurate with postgraduate study.

Delegates who graduate from the PGCert will take with them specialist knowledge and the confidence to design simulation scenarios and facilitate beneficial debriefing sessions.

As most graduates will already be employed in a medical educator role prior to starting the course, the PGCert is designed to increase the repertoire of the educators, and to enable them to deliver simulation sessions more effectively within their chosen setting.

student examining a dummy's ear

Why BSMS?

Our faculty comprises experienced clinicians, educators, and researchers who are leaders in the field of clinical simulation. You will benefit from their expertise and insights, gaining practical knowledge that you can immediately apply in your workplace. Our diverse student body, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare professionals, provides a rich environment for interdisciplinary learning and collaboration.

We place a strong emphasis on community, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment from the outset. Our induction day is carefully designed to help you build connections and create a strong professional network, ensuring you have the support you need throughout your studies.

We are proud to partner with leading healthcare organisations and institutions, providing you with exceptional opportunities for experiential learning and research. Our valued partners include:

  • Health Education England
  • NHS England
  • University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
  • Kent, Surrey, Sussex Air Ambulance Trust
  • Royal College of Surgeons
  • Association for Simulated Practice in Healthcare
  • Resuscitation Council UK

What our students say

Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) 2024 Results

100% Overall Satisfaction
95% Teaching Quality
93% Course Engagement

"This course has created depth to my understanding of simulation in healthcare, enabling me to evaluate and improve my own practice. The course provides an outstanding networking platform for collaborating with a diverse range of experienced professionals. I have developed from a simulation provider to an educator in simulation." Jonny Sharpe, Course Representative 2023-2024.

"Overall, the module was absolutely amazing. The teaching was outstanding, the format was well thought through – I feel like I learned a great deal. And for the first time, I am sad that it is Friday and the module is over!" Dr Thomas Kurka, student.

"This dynamic course has been a game-changer in my professional journey, transforming my approach to healthcare simulation. As an Integrated Simulation Manager, it not only deepened my expertise but also enriched my practice with cutting-edge educational principles. It empowered me to evolve from a simulation provider to an educator, inspiring me to create impactful learning experiences and opening doors to exciting teaching opportunities – including at the university level. The course’s vibrant network of experienced professionals continues to fuel collaboration, innovation and growth in my simulation career." Rizza Birao, PGCert 2024-2025.

Entry requirements

Applications are welcome from medicine, nursing, paramedics, physician associates and other healthcare specialist groups. Current employment in a clinical role which includes teaching or developing simulation-based education is essential.

The course forms one of two validated routes for entry to the PGDip or MSc in Clinical Education, the other being via the PGCert in Medical Education.

Prior study at level 6 and experience in delivery of simulation is also a requirement.

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Fees and funding

The fees listed are the overall costs for full-time courses taken in the academic year 2025/26. Where courses are taken part-time over more than one academic year, fees are usually charged pro-rata for the modules taken during each academic year. If you do not have settled status in the UK and require a work visa, then you will be fee assessed as Overseas and will therefore be subject to the International fee rate.

Find out more about fees and funding >

Scholarships

Read more about scholarships >