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The theoretical element of the course is structured across four online teaching days. This is followed by a face-to-face clinical skills study day which is delivered at Walsall Campus. From the start of the programme, applicants will be supported in clinical practice to develop their skills. Progress will be monitored using an electronic clinical document to record the completed examinations and proficiency.
School of Nursing and Midwifery
Postgraduate Credit Neonatal and Infant physical examination (L7)
Postgraduate Credit Part-time 1 year
This course allows registered midwives and nurses to study the development of skills to undertake the Newborn and Infant Physical Examination (NIPE) in line with national requirements (NHS England, 2024). As you have chosen to study this a level 7, you will be required to demonstrate skills in criticality.
This course allows registered midwives and nurses to study the development of skills to undertake the Newborn and Infant Physical Examination (NIPE) in line with national requirements (NHS England, 2024). As you have chosen to study this a level 7, you will be required to demonstrate skills in criticality.
Award
Postgraduate Credit
Start date(s)
CLOSED
UCAS Code
Course specifications
Course length
Part-time (1 year)
Campus location
University: Walsall Campus
UCAS points calculator
Why choose this course?
What happens on the course?
This course is currently subject to revalidation in February 2026.
This course will prepare applicants to undertake a systematic newborn infant physical examination in line with national guidance (NHS England, 2024). Particular attention will be paid to the four key screening areas which include the eyes, heart, hips and testes (if applicable). Applicants will be supported to develop their knowledge and skills in relation to:
- The underpinning anatomy and physiology of each key area, to include embryological development
- The importance of thorough history taking to identify key risk factors
- The components of assessment for each key area
- National referral pathways
In addition to the four key screening areas, applicants will be encouraged to recognise the importance of a systematic and holistic approach to the examination. Consequently, other theory elements include the neurological, integumentary, genitourinary, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems of the newborn. The course also requires applicants to demonstrate proficiency in professional communication, particularly when sharing concerns and discussing management plans with parents. Applicants will have the opportunity to practice their skills using simulation equipment at the Walsall campus. The theoretical component of the course will be assessed via a twenty-minute viva voce examination.
For the clinical component, applicants will be assessed via the completion of an online portfolio. Applicants will need to have regular clinical exposure which allows them the opportunity to undertake regular newborn and/or infant physical examinations.
Placements on the course
Every student will now have the opportunity for a professional development work placements, to bridge the gap between academic learning and the world of work.
These short-term, structured experiences include:
- Short duration: condensed work-like experience in professional environments
- Academic integration: always linked to coursework, assessments or professional development modules
- Project-based learning: students work on specific tasks or research with an organisation
- Flexible format: can be in-person, remote, hybrid or virtual
- Skill development: enhances workplace skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving
- Experiential learning: helping to close the gap between knowledge gained and the skills needed to succeed
Employability on the course
Our courses are designed from day one to prepare you for your future career. You will benefit from:
- Extended induction: a period to familiarise yourself with your new university
- Structured learning pathways: courses are crafted with a focus on preparing students for future careers
- Hands-on project experience: projects and practical activities designed around real-world activities
- Embedded professional development: all courses are designed with workplace skills development and professional placements as part of the course
- Industry-informed modules: course content is kept up-to-date with industry standards through our industry links, staff's research and work in the field
- Placement opportunities: professional development placements for every student
Course Modules
Potential Career Paths
Additional Information
Everything you need to know about this course!
The University of Wolverhampton has offered postgraduate education and training for NIPE for many years. Consequently, we offer a well-embedded, quality teaching and learning experience. The ability to study this programme online has been developed in response to postgraduate student feedback, recognising the flexibility required by clinicians looking to integrate work and study. Students can engage in the course from a place of their choosing to maximise their comfort and accessibility. Onsite attendance for the skills days is required.
The viva voce assessment is conducted face-to-face, and students are required to submit an electronic portfolio of their clinical assessments and experiences undertaken under the supervision of an experienced NIPE practitioner.
Every baby born within the UK should be offered a NIPE before they are 72hrs old. Following the successful completion of the course, applicants will be able to competently undertake the NIPE within their sphere of practice.
Midwives who did not have the opportunity to study NIPE at an undergraduate level, will now be able to meet the required midwifery standards of proficiency (NMC, 2019).
Nurses and Health visitors who complete this course will be able to add this valuable skill to their portfolio and enhance their employability.
| Location | Mode | Sep intake Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home | Part-time | £1050 per year | 2025-26 |
These fees relate to new entrants only for the academic year indicated for entry onto the course, any subsequent years of study may be subject to an annual increase, usually in line with inflation.
Applicants are required to evidence the following:
Diploma in Higher Education in midwifery or nursing with evidence of level 6 study
or
Level 6 Degree qualification
and
Current NMC registration pin with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
In addition, applicants should possess a current enhanced DBS and be up to date with their NHS trusts’ mandatory training. They should have the opportunity to examine babies as part of their normal role.
Self-funding:
If you intend to self fund, you might want to take advantage of the University’s scheme to pay by instalments: see How to pay.
Gateway.Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:
If your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.
We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.
Financial Hardship:
Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.
Bursaries and Scholarships:
In addition the University also offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships packages
You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.
Please note that this course does not attract the NHS Learning Support Fund
