ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology (Dip CP)
The ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology (Dip CP) is a specialised qualification designed for learners who want to advance their expertise in the diagnosis, investigation, and management of diseases through laboratory medicine. Clinical pathology is a vital branch of modern healthcare, supporting accurate diagnosis and treatment by analysing blood, body fluids, and tissue samples. This diploma equips learners with the advanced knowledge, technical skills, and analytical abilities required to contribute effectively to clinical decision-making and patient care.
The programme provides a comprehensive framework covering areas such as haematology, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, and molecular diagnostics. By engaging with these core disciplines, learners will develop the competence to interpret laboratory results, apply evidence-based practices, and ensure the highest standards of accuracy and safety in clinical testing. Emphasis is also placed on understanding the role of pathology in disease prevention, early detection, and the monitoring of therapeutic responses.
This diploma is particularly relevant for learners aiming to progress in healthcare, laboratory science, or medical research. It also prepares professionals to take on advanced roles in hospitals, diagnostic centres, research institutions, and public health organisations, where the demand for skilled clinical pathology specialists continues to grow globally.
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology provides learners with a strong foundation for both professional advancement and academic progression. It is an ideal choice for those dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes through precise diagnosis, laboratory innovation, and scientific excellence in medical practice.
Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology (Dip CP)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology (Dip CP), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology (Dip CP), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Principles of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Haematology and Blood Disorders
- Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics
- Immunology and Disease Mechanisms
- Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Pathology
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Principles of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the role of clinical pathology in diagnosis and patient care.
- Evaluate laboratory processes, safety standards, and quality assurance protocols.
- Apply ethical and professional principles in clinical laboratory practice.
- Analyse the contribution of pathology services to evidence-based healthcare delivery.
Haematology and Blood Disorders
- Assess the structure, function, and pathology of blood and bone marrow.
- Interpret haematological tests to diagnose anaemia, leukaemia, clotting disorders, and other conditions.
- Apply laboratory techniques for blood analysis and transfusion practices.
- Evaluate advances in haematology research and their implications for clinical practice.
Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
- Identify pathogenic microorganisms and their clinical significance.
- Apply diagnostic microbiology techniques, including culture, microscopy, and molecular testing.
- Evaluate infection prevention and control strategies in healthcare settings.
- Analyse the role of antimicrobial resistance in clinical microbiology.
Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics
- Interpret biochemical markers used in diagnosing metabolic and systemic diseases.
- Apply molecular diagnostic methods, including PCR and genetic testing, in clinical pathology.
- Assess the role of biochemistry in monitoring therapeutic responses.
- Critically evaluate innovations in molecular and biochemical diagnostics.
Immunology and Disease Mechanisms
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of immune system function and dysfunction.
- Analyse the role of immunology in autoimmune diseases, allergies, and immunodeficiencies.
- Apply diagnostic techniques in immunopathology and serology.
- Evaluate emerging therapies and immunological research in clinical practice.
Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Pathology
- Apply research methodologies relevant to laboratory and clinical investigations.
- Critically evaluate scientific literature in clinical pathology.
- Design and present a research proposal addressing a key issue in pathology or diagnostics.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical responsibility in medical and laboratory research.
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Pathology provides learners with advanced theoretical understanding and hands-on laboratory expertise, enabling them to excel in clinical diagnostics, laboratory medicine, and applied medical sciences. This qualification empowers learners to contribute effectively to healthcare delivery, scientific research, and diagnostic innovation while opening diverse pathways for professional and academic growth.
Academic Progression
- Progression to Level 7 Diplomas in specialised areas such as Clinical Pathology, Laboratory Medicine, Molecular Diagnostics, Haematology, Microbiology, or Immunology.
- Eligibility for advanced postgraduate training routes offered by professional bodies, healthcare institutions, and laboratory accreditation organisations.
- Access to specialised certification programmes, including those in quality management, laboratory leadership, advanced diagnostic techniques, and clinical laboratory regulation.
- Opportunity to pursue professional qualifications in clinical research, biomedical regulation, and laboratory quality assurance.
Professional Progression
- Expanded career pathways as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Diagnostic Technologist, Clinical Pathologist Assistant, or Medical Laboratory Specialist.
- Employment opportunities in hospitals, diagnostic centres, pharmaceutical companies, pathology laboratories, and biotechnology firms.
- Career mobility into specialised sectors such as forensic pathology, transfusion science, clinical microbiology, cytology, or molecular testing.
- Ability to support public health programmes, infection surveillance, disease monitoring, and epidemiological research.
- Pathways towards supervisory and managerial positions in laboratory operations, quality control, auditing, and healthcare compliance.
- Opportunities to contribute to innovation in diagnostic technology, research projects, and healthcare improvement initiatives.
Global Opportunities
- Recognition of skills across international healthcare systems, supporting global employment mobility.
- Access to roles in international research organisations, public health agencies, and global diagnostic networks.
- Strong demand for professionals in regions focusing on advanced laboratory diagnostics, precision medicine, and healthcare technology expansion.
- Opportunities to work with global health projects, laboratory accreditation bodies, and multinational biomedical companies.
