LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM)

Why Choose this Qualification

The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is a specialized qualification designed to develop essential knowledge and skills for those aspiring to work in elderly healthcare. Geriatric medicine is a vital field of study that focuses on the medical care, well-being, and quality of life of older adults. Choosing this diploma not only strengthens your academic and professional foundation but also prepares you for a meaningful career where you can make a lasting difference in the lives of elderly patients.

Key Reasons to Choose this Qualification

Comprehensive Understanding of Geriatric Medicine
Gain an in-depth foundation in geriatric anatomy, physiology, and ageing processes.
Learn about the diagnosis and management of age-related diseases and chronic conditions.
Study preventive healthcare practices such as nutrition, rehabilitation, and fall prevention.
Understand the principles of long-term care, dementia care, and palliative support for the elderly.

Practical Skills for Real-World Elderly Care
Acquire hands-on knowledge to assess and monitor elderly patients effectively.
Learn essential techniques for handling geriatric emergencies and first aid.
Apply evidence-based practices in managing multiple chronic illnesses and complex care needs.
Develop problem-solving abilities in clinical scenarios involving elderly healthcare.

Career-Ready Qualification
Enhance employability with recognized geriatric healthcare skills.
Prepare for entry-level roles in hospitals, nursing homes, care facilities, and community healthcare.
Build a strong foundation for progressing into advanced medical, nursing, or healthcare studies.
Demonstrate professional competence through an accredited international qualification.

Strong Focus on Patient-Centered Elderly Care
Develop communication skills for interacting with older adults and their families.
Learn to apply empathy and ethical practices in geriatric healthcare.
Understand cultural and social considerations in ageing and elderly well-being.
Gain confidence in supporting patients with dignity and respect in all healthcare settings.

Internationally Recognized Qualification
Earn a qualification awarded by LICQual, known for its high academic standards.
Open opportunities for global healthcare careers in geriatric and elderly care sectors.
Gain credibility and recognition among employers, peers, and professional bodies.
Use this diploma as a stepping stone for advanced healthcare certifications worldwide.

Flexible and Structured Learning
Benefit from a structured curriculum designed for progressive learning.
Study at your own pace with assignment-based assessments that test understanding.
Access study resources and materials tailored to geriatric healthcare.
Balance academic growth with professional or personal responsibilities.

Ethical and Professional Development
Gain insights into professional codes of conduct in elderly care and medicine.
Understand patient confidentiality, rights, and safeguarding responsibilities for older adults.
Learn to make responsible decisions in complex healthcare situations.
Develop leadership and teamwork qualities for future growth in healthcare roles.

Contribution to Society and Elderly Well-Being
Play a direct role in improving healthcare outcomes for ageing populations.
Support global initiatives for better elderly care and healthy ageing.
Build a career with both personal fulfillment and professional impact.
Contribute to enhancing dignity, independence, and quality of life for elderly patients.

The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is more than just an academic qualification; it is a pathway to a rewarding career in elderly healthcare. With its combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, ethical training, and international recognition, this diploma equips learners to make a significant impact in the field of geriatric medicine. By choosing this qualification, you are not only investing in your professional growth but also in the well-being and dignity of older adults worldwide..

Course Overview

LICQual UK Awarding Body

Average Completion Time:
4-12 Months

Study Units: 6 Units

Evidence & Assignment Based

Mandatory Units

  • Principles of Geriatric Medicine and Elderly Care
  • Anatomy, Physiology, and Ageing Processes
  • Common Geriatric Conditions: Diagnosis and Management
  • Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment and Multidisciplinary Care
  • Pharmacology and Therapeutics in Older Adults
  • Ethical Practice, Professional Standards, and CPD in Geriatric Medicine

Who Should Take This Course

The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is a specialized qualification designed for individuals who are passionate about elderly healthcare and aspire to build a strong foundation in geriatric medicine. Elderly care is one of the most important fields in healthcare, requiring both advanced medical knowledge and compassionate practice. This diploma equips learners with the skills and expertise necessary to work in healthcare professions or advance to higher-level studies, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of learners.

This Course is Suitable For

Aspiring Elderly Healthcare Professionals
Build a strong understanding of ageing processes, geriatric anatomy, and physiology.
Learn to identify and manage age-related illnesses, chronic diseases, and mobility challenges.
Develop skills to assess, diagnose, and monitor elderly patients’ health conditions.
Gain confidence in applying geriatric medical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings.

Nursing and Healthcare Assistants
Enhance knowledge in patient-centered care for older adults.
Improve practical skills in monitoring vital signs, administering medication, and providing daily support.
Strengthen communication techniques with elderly patients and their families.
Acquire internationally recognized skills to progress within healthcare careers.

Medical Students and Early Career Practitioners
Use this diploma as a foundation for further geriatric or general medical studies.
Gain early exposure to elderly healthcare practices, ethics, and professional standards.
Build the ability to apply evidence-based medicine in geriatric care.
Develop strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in clinical situations.

Allied Health Professionals
Strengthen geriatric knowledge to support multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
Learn preventive approaches such as nutrition, fall prevention, and rehabilitation strategies.
Improve patient care delivery through applied geriatric medicine principles.
Gain specialized skills that add value to existing healthcare qualifications and roles.

Community Health Workers and Caregivers
Acquire essential skills to support elderly health within local and community settings.
Learn to recognize early signs of illness and age-related decline.
Develop preventive healthcare practices to promote healthy ageing and wellness.
Enhance ability to provide health education to families and caregivers.

Individuals Seeking a Career Change into Healthcare
Begin a professional journey in healthcare with a recognized qualification.
Gain specialized knowledge in geriatrics without needing prior medical experience.
Acquire transferable skills applicable to hospitals, nursing homes, and NGOs.
Build confidence to progress into advanced healthcare education and practice.

International Learners Aiming for Global Healthcare Careers
Earn a globally recognized diploma that enhances employability worldwide.
Gain knowledge and skills that meet international elderly healthcare standards.
Strengthen professional profiles for roles in hospitals, clinics, and care facilities abroad.
Open pathways for higher education and advanced geriatric studies globally.

Volunteers and NGO Workers in Elderly Care Programs
Develop expertise to contribute effectively to elderly health and welfare projects.
Learn the essentials of geriatric medicine relevant to community and outreach programs.
Improve ability to deliver support services in elderly and palliative care initiatives.
Gain confidence in making a positive impact on ageing populations and vulnerable groups.

The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is ideal for anyone committed to improving elderly health and well-being. Whether you are an aspiring healthcare professional, a current practitioner, or someone looking to transition into the medical field, this qualification provides the foundation, skills, and recognition needed to excel in geriatric medicine. By choosing this course, learners position themselves for both career advancement and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of elderly healthcare.

Eligibility Criteria

The LICQual Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is a UK-accredited programme designed for aspiring healthcare professionals, nurses, caregivers, and community health practitioners who wish to develop a strong foundation in elderly healthcare, ageing processes, and geriatric medicine. This assignment-based qualification combines essential theoretical knowledge with practical applications, making it ideal for medical students, healthcare assistants, allied health professionals, and individuals looking to specialize in geriatric care. By meeting the entry requirements, learners ensure they are fully prepared to succeed in the programme and apply their knowledge effectively in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community healthcare settings.
Educational Background:
Applicants should hold a recognised healthcare or science-related qualification such as a diploma in healthcare practice, nursing, or an equivalent qualification. Candidates with Level 2 or Level 3 qualifications in healthcare, ageing studies, clinical science, or related fields may also be considered. Equivalent international qualifications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure they meet the suitability standards for the programme.
Professional Experience:
While previous experience in geriatric care or general healthcare is beneficial, it is not strictly mandatory. A minimum of one year of healthcare, caregiving, or community health experience is recommended. Applicants with exposure to elderly healthcare, nursing support, or clinical assistance will find the course particularly valuable, though motivated individuals without direct experience are also encouraged to apply.
Age Requirement:
Learners must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment, ensuring they possess the maturity, responsibility, and commitment required for training in geriatric medicine. This requirement ensures that candidates can engage with both the academic and practical aspects of the qualification effectively.
Language Proficiency:
Since the programme is delivered in English, learners should demonstrate strong reading, writing, and communication skills. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or an equivalent qualification is recommended for non-native English speakers. This ensures that learners can complete assignments, engage with course resources, and interact professionally in academic and healthcare contexts.
Technical Requirements:
Applicants should have access to a computer or laptop with a stable internet connection. Basic IT skills are necessary to manage online learning platforms, conduct research, and submit assignments digitally. Familiarity with using word processing tools and accessing digital study resources will support a smoother learning experience.
Required Documents:
Submission of a valid ID or passport, proof of educational qualifications, and evidence of any healthcare or related professional experience (if applicable) is required for registration. Applicants presenting international qualifications may be asked to provide additional documentation for verification.

The Qualification Process

Step 1: Self-Assessment
Learners review the entry requirements to confirm eligibility. Candidates with a background in dentistry, oral health, or public health are encouraged to apply.

Step 2: Registration
Complete the registration process by submitting required documents such as proof of qualifications, a valid ID, and payment of enrollment fees.

Step 3: Induction
An induction session is conducted to:

  • Verify learner eligibility and documentation.
  • Introduce study materials, learning outcomes, and assessment procedures.

Step 4: Learning and Evidence Submission
Learners complete assignments, case studies, and practical exercises demonstrating competence in public health dentistry, community oral health assessment, preventive strategies, and program planning.

Step 5: Feedback and Revision
Assessors review submitted evidence and provide constructive feedback. Learners can revise and resubmit work to meet all required standards.

Step 6: Competence Validation
Final submissions are evaluated to confirm that learners have met all theoretical and practical learning outcomes.

Step 7: Internal Quality Assurance (IQA)
The IQA team reviews the assessment process to ensure accuracy, fairness, and compliance with international standards.

Step 8: External Verification (EQA)
External verifiers validate the authenticity and quality of learner achievements.

FAQs

The Dip GM is a specialized qualification designed to provide professionals with an advanced, dedicated understanding of healthcare for the elderly population. It focuses on the unique anatomical, physiological, and pathological changes associated with aging, emphasizing the complexities of multi-morbidity and polypharmacy common in older adults. The goal is to equip learners with the specialized knowledge required to deliver compassionate, holistic, and evidence-based care that promotes the well-being and functional independence of geriatric patients across various healthcare settings.

The Diploma is ideally suited for experienced healthcare assistants, nurses, community health workers, and allied health professionals who currently care for older adults or aspire to specialize in geriatrics. This includes staff in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and home health services. It is also highly beneficial for early career medical practitioners and individuals with a background in social care or life sciences, as it provides a robust, specialized foundation to advance their expertise in this critical and growing field.

The curriculum provides in-depth instruction on the complex health issues specific to older adults. Key areas include the management of chronic multi-morbidities, common geriatric syndromes such as falls, frailty, and delirium, and the diagnosis and support for dementia and cognitive impairment. It also addresses critical topics like polypharmacy, nutritional management, end-of-life care planning, and the challenges of rehabilitation, ensuring a comprehensive view of the patient’s physical, psychological, and social needs.

While specific requirements may vary, the Diploma typically requires a foundational level of education, often equivalent to a high school qualification or a Level 2 vocational award. Most importantly, candidates benefit greatly from prior experience in a care or health-related setting, as the course builds upon a basic understanding of patient interaction and clinical environment protocols. This experience helps learners immediately contextualize the principles of age-appropriate care and specialized geriatric assessment tools.

A core component of the Dip GM is dedicated to understanding polypharmacy, which is the use of multiple medications by a single patient, a common and hazardous issue in geriatrics. The course teaches the principles of safe prescribing, recognizing adverse drug reactions, and understanding altered drug metabolism in the elderly. Learners develop skills in medication reconciliation and are taught to apply evidence-based strategies for deprescribing to reduce unnecessary or harmful medications and simplify treatment regimens.

Learner competence is evaluated through a structured process that tests both theoretical mastery and its practical application. Assessment usually involves written assignments and examinations covering the pathophysiology of geriatric syndromes and ethical decision-making. Crucially, it includes the analysis of complex patient case studies where learners must interpret clinical data, recommend appropriate geriatric assessment tools (like functional capacity scores), and formulate person-centered care plans.

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