ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine (PgDAM)
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine (PgDAM) is a specialised programme designed for learners seeking advanced expertise in the assessment, management, and treatment of substance use disorders and behavioural addictions. This diploma equips learners with the knowledge, clinical skills, and professional competencies necessary to address the complex biopsychosocial aspects of addiction, enhance patient outcomes, and contribute to evidence-based practice in healthcare and community settings.
Addiction medicine is an increasingly critical field, with rising global demand for skilled professionals capable of managing the multifaceted challenges associated with substance misuse, dependency, and rehabilitation. Through this programme, learners gain an in-depth understanding of neurobiology, pharmacology, and psychology of addiction, alongside assessment strategies, therapeutic interventions, and relapse prevention techniques. The course emphasises evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning, and the integration of research into patient care, enabling learners to provide effective, ethical, and compassionate treatment.
Learners will also develop advanced competencies in patient assessment, multidisciplinary collaboration, and clinical leadership, preparing them to manage diverse populations affected by addiction. The programme fosters critical thinking and professional development, equipping learners to influence healthcare policy, contribute to research initiatives, and drive innovation in addiction services.
Completion of the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine positions learners for career advancement in hospitals, specialised addiction clinics, rehabilitation centres, public health programmes, and academic research institutions. The qualification also serves as a pathway to doctoral studies, specialist fellowships, and teaching roles, ensuring learners can pursue professional growth while making a meaningful impact on patient care and addiction healthcare delivery worldwide.
Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine (PgDAM)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine (PgDAM), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine (PgDAM), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Foundations of Addiction Medicine and Neurobiology
- Assessment and Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorders
- Pharmacological Interventions and Therapeutics in Addiction
- Psychological and Behavioural Interventions
- Addiction Medicine in Special Populations
- Research Methods, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Leadership
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Foundations of Addiction Medicine and Neurobiology
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the neurobiology and pathophysiology of addiction.
- Analyse the biopsychosocial factors influencing substance use and behavioural addictions.
- Critically evaluate models of addiction, dependence, and recovery.
- Apply foundational knowledge to support evidence-based clinical decision-making.
Assessment and Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorders
- Conduct comprehensive assessments for substance use disorders and behavioural addictions.
- Critically appraise diagnostic tools, screening methods, and clinical interviews.
- Develop evidence-based strategies for identifying and managing complex cases.
- Integrate assessment findings to formulate personalised treatment plans.
Pharmacological Interventions and Therapeutics in Addiction
- Evaluate pharmacological treatment options for various substance use disorders.
- Apply advanced principles of prescribing, monitoring, and managing medications in addiction care.
- Critically assess emerging therapies and evidence-based pharmacological strategies.
- Formulate safe, effective, and personalised medication plans for patients.
Psychological and Behavioural Interventions
- Assess and implement evidence-based psychological therapies, including CBT, motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention.
- Analyse the effectiveness of behavioural interventions across diverse populations.
- Develop integrated treatment plans combining psychological and pharmacological approaches.
- Evaluate outcomes and adapt interventions to enhance recovery and long-term success.
Addiction Medicine in Special Populations
- Apply specialised strategies for adolescents, elderly, pregnant individuals, and co-morbid psychiatric populations.
- Analyse socio-cultural, economic, and environmental factors affecting addiction care.
- Develop personalised approaches for high-risk or medically complex patients.
- Integrate multidisciplinary approaches to optimise outcomes in special populations.
Research Methods, Evidence-Based Practice, and Clinical Leadership
- Demonstrate advanced understanding of research methodology in addiction medicine.
- Critically appraise scientific literature and translate findings into clinical practice.
- Design and conduct independent research or case studies in addiction care.
- Develop leadership, ethical practice, and professional skills to manage teams and drive innovation in addiction services.
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Medicine (PgDAM) equips learners with advanced clinical, research, and leadership skills, preparing them for senior roles in addiction care, mental health, and related healthcare sectors. This programme develops the expertise needed to manage complex cases, implement evidence-based interventions, and contribute to policy and service development.
Professional Career Pathways
Learners completing this diploma can progress to roles such as:
- Addiction Medicine Specialist or Consultant – managing patients with substance use disorders and behavioural addictions.
- Clinical Lead or Department Head – overseeing addiction treatment programmes, rehabilitation services, and multidisciplinary teams.
- Mental Health and Addiction Advisor – designing community-based interventions, prevention strategies, and rehabilitation plans.
- Addiction Researcher – conducting clinical studies, trials, and translational research to improve treatment outcomes.
- Public Health Specialist – contributing to policy, prevention initiatives, and national or global addiction health programmes.
- Academic and Teaching Roles – delivering education and training in addiction medicine and mental health.
Academic and Educational Progression
Learners may also advance to higher academic qualifications, including:
- Specialist Fellowships or Postgraduate Training in substance use treatment, rehabilitation, or behavioural health.
- Teaching and Academic Appointments in universities or professional training centres.
Global and Humanitarian Opportunities
Graduates can engage in international healthcare initiatives, including:
- Global Health Organisations – implementing addiction prevention and treatment programmes worldwide.
- Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) – supporting community rehabilitation, patient education, and substance use prevention.
- Public Health Campaigns – promoting awareness, prevention strategies, and mental health support in diverse populations.
Long-Term Professional Impact
Completion of this programme enables learners to develop advanced clinical expertise, research capabilities, and leadership skills, positioning them to improve patient outcomes, influence addiction policy, and drive innovation in addiction healthcare globally.