ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (PgDPS)
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (PgDPS) is an advanced programme designed for learners seeking specialised expertise in the surgical care of infants, children, and adolescents. This diploma equips learners with the clinical knowledge, operative skills, and research capabilities required to manage complex congenital, acquired, and trauma-related conditions in paediatric populations.
Pediatric surgery is a highly specialised field, demanding precision, advanced clinical reasoning, and a deep understanding of the unique anatomical and physiological considerations of children. Through this programme, learners gain comprehensive insights into neonatal surgery, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and thoracic procedures, minimally invasive techniques, and perioperative care. The curriculum emphasises evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and research application, enabling learners to deliver safe, effective, and patient-centred surgical care.
Learners will develop advanced competencies in preoperative assessment, surgical intervention, postoperative management, and complication prevention. Ethical considerations, professional leadership, and multidisciplinary collaboration are integrated throughout, preparing learners to contribute to surgical teams, influence clinical protocols, and engage in innovative paediatric surgical research.
Completion of the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery positions learners for career progression in specialist hospitals, paediatric surgical centres, research institutions, and academic environments. The qualification also supports further academic advancement, including doctoral studies, surgical fellowships, and teaching roles, enabling learners to achieve long-term professional growth while making a significant impact on the health and well-being of children worldwide.
Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (PgDPS)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (PgDPS), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (PgDPS), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Foundations of Pediatric Surgery and Child Health
- Neonatal and Congenital Surgical Conditions
- Pediatric Gastrointestinal, Urological, and Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Minimally Invasive and Advanced Pediatric Surgical Techniques
- Perioperative and Postoperative Care in Pediatric Surgery
- Research Methods, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Leadership
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Foundations of Pediatric Surgery and Child Health
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of pediatric anatomy, physiology, and developmental considerations.
- Analyse common surgical conditions and their pathophysiology in children.
- Apply foundational principles to support evidence-based pediatric surgical practice.
- Evaluate ethical, legal, and professional considerations in paediatric surgery.
Neonatal and Congenital Surgical Conditions
- Conduct comprehensive assessments for neonates with congenital anomalies.
- Apply surgical and non-surgical management strategies for congenital conditions.
- Evaluate perioperative risks and optimise neonatal outcomes.
- Integrate research findings and evidence-based protocols into clinical practice.
Pediatric Gastrointestinal, Urological, and Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of gastrointestinal, urological, and cardiothoracic surgical conditions in children.
- Apply operative techniques for managing complex paediatric cases.
- Monitor intraoperative progress and make informed clinical decisions.
- Implement evidence-based strategies to improve surgical outcomes and patient safety.
Minimally Invasive and Advanced Pediatric Surgical Techniques
- Analyse indications and techniques for minimally invasive pediatric surgeries.
- Apply advanced surgical methods, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures.
- Assess patient suitability, risk factors, and safety protocols for advanced techniques.
- Integrate innovative procedures into clinical practice following evidence-based guidelines.
Perioperative and Postoperative Care in Pediatric Surgery
- Design and implement perioperative care plans for pediatric patients.
- Manage postoperative recovery, complications, and critical care requirements.
- Apply evidence-based protocols for pain management, infection prevention, and rehabilitation.
- Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans to optimise recovery outcomes.
Research Methods, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Leadership
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of research methodology relevant to pediatric surgery.
- Critically appraise scientific literature and apply findings to clinical practice.
- Design and conduct independent research or case studies in pediatric surgical practice.
- Develop leadership, ethical practice, and professional skills to manage surgical teams and promote innovation in pediatric surgical care.
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pediatric Surgery (PgDPS) equips learners with advanced clinical, surgical, research, and leadership skills, preparing them for senior roles in paediatric surgical care and related healthcare sectors. This programme develops the expertise required to manage complex congenital, neonatal, and acquired conditions, implement evidence-based surgical interventions, and contribute to clinical policy and service development.
Professional Career Pathways
Learners completing this diploma can progress to roles such as:
- Pediatric Surgeon or Specialist Consultant – performing complex surgeries and managing paediatric surgical teams.
- Clinical Lead or Department Head – overseeing paediatric surgical units and multidisciplinary care programmes.
- Surgical Researcher – conducting clinical trials, translational research, and innovations in paediatric surgical techniques.
- Hospital or Clinical Advisor – contributing to healthcare policy, patient safety, and surgical protocols.
- Academic and Teaching Roles – delivering education and training in paediatric surgery and allied healthcare fields.
Academic and Educational Progression
Learners may also advance to higher academic qualifications, including:
- Specialist Fellowships or Postgraduate Training in complex pediatric surgical procedures or minimally invasive surgery.
- Teaching and Academic Appointments in universities, surgical academies, or professional training centres.
Global and Humanitarian Opportunities
Graduates can contribute internationally by engaging in:
- Global Surgical Programmes – supporting paediatric surgical care initiatives worldwide.
- Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) – advancing surgical training, patient care, and healthcare accessibility in underserved regions.
- Public Health and Community Health Initiatives – promoting child health, awareness, and preventive surgical programmes.
Long-Term Professional Impact
Completion of this programme enables learners to develop advanced surgical expertise, research capabilities, and leadership skills, positioning them to improve patient outcomes, advance paediatric surgical practice, and drive innovation in global healthcare systems.
