ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare is an internationally recognised qualification designed to equip healthcare professionals, students, and support staff with essential research knowledge and analytical skills. This course provides a solid foundation in understanding the role of research within healthcare, enabling learners to critically evaluate evidence, apply data-driven insights, and contribute effectively to evidence-based practice.

Through a combination of theoretical understanding and practical application, learners explore key research methodologies, ethical considerations, data collection techniques, and analysis tools relevant to healthcare settings. The qualification emphasises the importance of research integrity, critical thinking, and accurate interpretation of clinical and healthcare data.

This programme is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their professional competence, support service improvement, and participate in healthcare innovation. By developing a deep appreciation for research principles, learners gain the ability to design small-scale studies, interpret results, and apply findings to improve patient care and organisational outcomes.

Upon successful completion, learners will possess the confidence and competence to engage in research activities, collaborate on healthcare projects, and contribute to continuous improvement in clinical practice. The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare prepares professionals to thrive in modern, evidence-based healthcare environments committed to quality, safety, and excellence.

Course Overview

Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare

Entry Requirements
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Future Progression

To enrol in ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare learner must meet the following entry requirements:

Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
Educational Background:A high school diploma or an equivalent qualification is typically required. Learners should demonstrate competence in literacy and numeracy to understand theoretical content, complete assessments, and analyse data effectively. Basic knowledge of healthcare concepts or scientific principles will be an added advantage.
Professional Experience:While not mandatory, prior experience in healthcare, social care, or research-related environments is highly beneficial. This may include work in nursing, allied health professions, medical support roles, or administrative positions within healthcare settings. Such experience helps learners contextualise research principles within real-world healthcare practices.
English Proficiency:As the course is conducted in English, learners must possess good written and spoken English skills. This is essential for understanding learning materials, participating in research discussions, and completing written assignments or data analysis tasks.
Additional Requirement:Learners may be required to submit proof of identity, educational certificates, or professional references as part of the admission process. A genuine interest in healthcare research, innovation, and evidence-based practice is essential to ensure active engagement and successful course completion.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare, consists of 7 mandatory units.

Introduction to Research Methodologies in Healthcare
Research Design and Proposal Development
Data Collection Methods in Healthcare Research
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Ethical Issues in Healthcare Research
Critical Appraisal of Healthcare Literature
Application of Research Skills in Healthcare Settings

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

1. Introduction to Research Methodologies in Healthcare

Understand the fundamental concepts and importance of research in healthcare practice.
Identify different types of research methodologies, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods.
Explain how research contributes to evidence-based decision-making in healthcare.
Demonstrate awareness of basic research terminology and processes.
Recognise the role of research in improving clinical outcomes and organisational performance.

2. Research Design and Proposal Development

Understand the key components of a research proposal and how to structure one effectively.
Develop clear research questions, aims, and objectives aligned with healthcare priorities.
Choose appropriate research designs to address specific healthcare issues.
Demonstrate knowledge of sampling techniques and population selection.
Prepare a professional research proposal with defined methodology, timeline, and ethical considerations.

3. Data Collection Methods in Healthcare Research

Identify various data collection tools such as surveys, interviews, observations, and clinical audits.
Understand how to select appropriate methods based on research objectives and study design.
Demonstrate techniques for ensuring data accuracy, reliability, and validity.
Apply ethical and professional standards when collecting healthcare data.
Evaluate the strengths and limitations of different data collection approaches in healthcare settings.

4. Data Analysis and Interpretation

Understand basic principles of quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
Learn to organise, summarise, and interpret healthcare data using suitable techniques.
Use statistical or thematic analysis to draw meaningful conclusions from data.
Present research findings clearly through charts, graphs, and written reports.
Demonstrate the ability to make informed decisions based on analysed research evidence.

5. Ethical Issues in Healthcare Research

Recognise the importance of ethics and integrity in healthcare research.
Understand informed consent, confidentiality, and participant protection.
Identify potential ethical dilemmas and apply frameworks to resolve them responsibly.
Demonstrate knowledge of ethical approval processes and institutional review requirements.
Ensure compliance with legal, professional, and organisational ethical standards.

6. Critical Appraisal of Healthcare Literature

Develop the ability to search, evaluate, and interpret healthcare research articles effectively.
Understand how to identify bias, validity, and reliability in published research.
Use critical appraisal tools to assess the quality and relevance of studies.
Compare and contrast findings from multiple research sources to draw balanced conclusions.
Apply evidence from existing literature to support healthcare improvements and best practices.

7. Application of Research Skills in Healthcare Settings

Apply research skills to real-world healthcare scenarios and service improvements.
Integrate evidence-based findings into patient care and policy development.
Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with healthcare teams in conducting small-scale research projects.
Reflect on the role of research in driving innovation and continuous improvement in healthcare.
Showcase competence in presenting research findings to professional and academic audiences.

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare provides learners with a strong foundation in research methodologies, data analysis, and evidence-based practice within healthcare environments. This qualification prepares individuals for further professional growth, enabling them to take on more advanced roles in healthcare research, policy development, and clinical improvement. It also supports continuous professional development for those seeking to enhance their competence and credibility in the global healthcare sector.

1. Progression to Advanced Professional Qualifications

Learners can progress to higher-level vocational qualifications in research methods, healthcare management, or quality improvement.
The course serves as a pathway for those wishing to develop expertise in healthcare data analysis, clinical research coordination, or health informatics.
It enhances learners’ ability to undertake specialised training related to healthcare policy or patient safety research.
This qualification provides a foundation for professional certification programmes in healthcare research and auditing.
Learners gain the academic readiness and professional confidence to pursue more complex research-oriented qualifications.

2. Career Advancement Opportunities

Graduates can advance to roles such as Research Assistant, Clinical Data Coordinator, Healthcare Analyst, or Quality Improvement Officer.
The qualification increases employability within hospitals, public health agencies, research institutions, and community healthcare organisations.
Learners can take on roles involving research planning, data evaluation, and project support in healthcare innovation.
It equips professionals with critical thinking and analytical skills essential for leadership and decision-making roles.
The award demonstrates commitment to evidence-based practice, enhancing career growth and recognition in healthcare sectors.

3. Continued Professional Development (CPD)

The course supports ongoing professional learning through workshops, seminars, and short research-focused training sessions.
It encourages learners to remain updated with the latest trends, methodologies, and technologies in healthcare research.
Participants can build on their skills to specialise in public health research, epidemiology, or healthcare evaluation.
It supports reflective practice and self-assessment to ensure consistent professional growth.
The qualification contributes to fulfilling CPD requirements set by healthcare organisations and professional bodies.

4. Pathway to Supervisory and Leadership Roles

Learners gain the analytical and problem-solving abilities required for supervisory positions within healthcare research teams.
The qualification prepares individuals to manage small-scale research projects or lead quality improvement initiatives.
It enhances understanding of evidence-based leadership in research and clinical settings.
Professionals become capable of mentoring junior staff and guiding them in applying research methods effectively.
Graduates can contribute to the design and evaluation of institutional research policies and frameworks.

5. Opportunities in Community and Public Health Research

The qualification enables learners to participate in community-based health research and outreach projects.
Learners can collaborate with public health organisations to collect and analyse data that inform health strategies.
It equips professionals to contribute to national and international health studies addressing population health issues.
Graduates can work alongside healthcare teams to implement evidence-based community health interventions.
The award opens opportunities to engage in research that improves patient outcomes and healthcare accessibility.

6. Personal and Professional Growth

Learners develop confidence in conducting independent and collaborative research.
The qualification enhances communication, presentation, and analytical skills for use in professional settings.
It nurtures ethical responsibility, research integrity, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Learners gain valuable insights into global healthcare trends and innovations.
Graduates emerge as research-driven professionals who contribute positively to the advancement of modern healthcare practices.

FAQs

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare is ideal for individuals working in or aspiring to enter the healthcare and research sectors. It is suitable for healthcare professionals, support staff, data coordinators, and administrative personnel who wish to gain essential research knowledge and analytical skills. This course is also beneficial for those seeking to strengthen their ability to understand, interpret, and apply evidence-based research to improve patient outcomes and organisational performance.

This internationally recognised qualification equips learners with practical and theoretical research skills tailored to healthcare environments. Participants gain a strong understanding of research methodologies, data collection, and ethical standards, enabling them to contribute effectively to healthcare innovation and quality improvement. The course enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities—key competencies for evidence-based practice. Learners also benefit from improved professional credibility, increased confidence in conducting healthcare research, and broader career advancement opportunities within the global healthcare sector.

ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare is a 3-day 9-hour training program. This Training program has mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But the final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Research Skills for Healthcare includes quizzes consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and ability to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%.