Independent Prescribing Courses 2026-27
Written by AlisonFreemantle on Thursday 9th April 2026
Confirmation of NHS England funding
Applications for NHS England funded independent prescribing courses for 2026/27 are now open.
Pharmacists from all sectors, including community pharmacy and locums, are invited to take advantage of this opportunity. Courses are available up to March 2027, with several universities offering multiple dates for cohort intakes. Start dates will depend on the university provider.
Pharmacists who meet the eligibility criteria will be able to apply for independent prescribing courses at a variety of universities across England including Portsmouth, Winchester and Reading locally.
Eligible pharmacists will need to demonstrate (as a minimum):
- The support of an identified designated prescribing practitioner (DPP).
- An appropriate practice-based learning environment in a prescribing setting that can offer appropriate clinical support.
- Evidence that you meet the course provider eligibility criteria (applicants will be subject to their chosen university’s enrolment processes).
- Commitment to use the skill within your area of competence and expertise, for the delivery of NHS clinical services as they emerge.
Universities are listed on the NHS England website by sector.
Course length and the number of face-to-face days required vary between universities. Please check the individual university webpages for further information on course format.
Funding
Independent Prescribing training is available to pharmacists who meet the eligibility criteria. Tuition fees are fully funded by NHS England. Pharmacists that are successful in applying to one of the approved universities will be allocated a fully funded place directly by the university. They do not need to apply to NHS England for funding separately.
For any further enquiries, please contact england.pharmacyteam@nhs.net
In addition to the offer mentioned above, University of Brighton and University of Winchester are also providing IP funded course provision. For further details and information on how to apply, please visit their respective webpages.