Advanced Communications and Psychological Skills

PGCert Module 2

Level 7

20 Credits

Module Outline

Advanced Communications and Psychological Skills is the second step in our brand-new Postgraduate Certificate in Cancer Care. Developed and delivered by leading healthcare professionals and patient partners, this module explores evidence-based communication strategies and psychological principles essential for contemporary healthcare. Participants will critically examine techniques for managing complex interactions and fostering therapeutic relationships. Emphasis is placed on applying theoretical frameworks to real-world clinical scenarios through practice-based learning, enhancing professional competence in areas such as identifying and responding to psychological distress and supporting shared decision-making. By integrating psychological insight with advanced communication skills, this module equips practitioners to deliver psychologically informed care that improves outcomes and promotes resilience within multidisciplinary teams. 

Fully aligned with the national ACCEND framework (Aspirant Cancer Career and Education Development), this module also supports your professional development journey toward enhanced, advanced, and consultant-level roles. This module is part of a wider Postgraduate Certificate in Cancer Care where students must complete all three modules to receive their PGCert award. However, each module can be accessed and completed as a stand-alone module where you will be awarded 20 academic credits at Level 7.

Delivery Method:

Online Interactive Learning

Duration:

200 hours

Cost:

£1,200

Available Start Dates:

June 2026 | April 2027

Academic Credits

20 credits at Level 7

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Key Topics

Advanced communication models
Recognising/responding to psychological distress 
Advanced listening, questioning and empathy
Managing emotionally charged/conflictual situations
Integrating psychological theory
Personal wellbeing and resilience
Reflective practice

Entry Requirements

Professional Requirements:  

Learners are required to be a registered heath care professional of the following regulatory bodies:  

Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) 
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) 
General Medical Council (GMC) 

Experience:  

Has regular contact with people affected by cancer though consideration will be given to candidates in other settings.    

Academic Qualifications:

Currently employed in the care, treatment and management of people affected by cancer though consideration will be given to candidates in other settings. 

Clinical Practice Requirements:

Learners will normally hold a relevant degree. If this is not the case, relevant experience will be considered on an individual basis. This may also involve the submission of written academic work for assessment. 
Previous study at level 6 or able to demonstrate the ability to study at level 7. 
Competence in written and spoken English.

Upcoming Dates

Our next Advanced Communications and Psychological Skills module will be held online on the following dates:

June 2026

Tuesday 2nd of June 2026
Thursday 4th of June 2026
Tuesday 16th of June 2026
Tuesday 23rd of June 2026
Friday 17th of July 2026
Friday 24th of July 2026
Tuesday 28th of July 2026
Friday 7th of August 2026

April 2027

Dates TBC

Assessment

Reflective case study (60%)
Critical reflection of roleplay scenarios (40%)

This module is accredited by:

Learning Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of this Level 7 (20 credit) module, you will be able to: 

Critically evaluate the evidence base underpinning effective communication in healthcare and the key principles of safe and effective psychological care
Recognise and respond to psychological distress appropriate for practice through problem-based learning
Demonstrate the implementation of communication skills through role play and critically reflect through self-evaluation
Develop and demonstrate a critical understanding of skills to manage challenging situations
Recognise how personal wellbeing influences professional effectiveness and use this understanding to develop strategies to maintain personal wellbeing

Related Courses and Modules

PGCert Cancer Care – Fundamentals in Cancer Care – Module 1
PGCert Cancer Care – Leadership and Quality Improvement – Module 3 (Awaiting Accreditation)
The PGCert in Cancer Care is made up of 3 individual modules, where you must complete all three to complete your PGCert; however, each module can be accessed and completed as a stand alone course.
“Patient experience talk was very powerful and I took the most from this interaction.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“I have a good understanding now how to take control of the conversation using the Sage and Thyme method. There is now a structure to try and follow which can help with work and everyday life.”
SAGE and THYME Communication Skills
“Great course. I have learnt so much even though I have worked for 10 years at VCC. I feel enlightened and feel like I have greatly benefited from attending.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“As a student nurse I feel that I have benefited from some additional learning experiences that Uni may not have covered during my degree.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“I attended this course remotely and I was so impressed with the delivery. I felt that I was included and involved as much as if I had attended in person.”
Foundations in Cancer Care
“I found it really informative and a good mixture of learning and participation. Loved the interactive elements in the afternoon.”
Foundations in Acute Oncology