Complex Symptom Management in Supportive Oncology
Everything you need to know
- Start date: May 2027
- End date: August 2027
- Module leader: Dr Heather Drury-Smith
- Level: 7
- Credits: 15
Introduction
This module develops advanced knowledge of complex symptom management in oncology.
You will critically evaluate assessment strategies, multidisciplinary approaches, and evidence-based interventions for symptoms related to cancer and its treatment. Emphasis is placed on person-centred, holistic care and improving quality of life through reflective, research-informed practice.
Who is this course/module for?
- Qualified healthcare and allied health professionals working with people affected by cancer.
- Practitioners involved in the assessment and management of complex cancer-related symptoms.
- Professionals seeking to enhance patient-centred, evidence-based approaches to complex symptom management and improve quality of life.
- Those interested in multidisciplinary working and advancing practice in complex symptom management within oncology and supportive care settings.
What you’ll learn
Critically analyse the causes and impact of complex cancer-related symptoms on quality of life. Evaluate evidence-based, person-centred approaches to assessment and management, reflect on communication with patients and families, and apply multidisciplinary strategies to optimise outcomes in supportive oncology care.
Skills you’ll gain
Critically analyse the causes and impact of complex cancer-related symptoms on quality of life.
Evaluate evidence-based, person-centred approaches to symptom assessment and management.
Apply holistic frameworks to address complex symptom challenges in oncology.
Reflect on clinical and ethical considerations in symptom management.
Synthesise research and evidence to propose improvements in supportive oncology care.
How you’ll learn
This online module blends self-directed study with live and recorded webinars, interactive activities, and formative tasks. You will engage with evidence-based materials, clinical examples, and patient perspectives, collaborating with peers and tutors. Learning is designed to be flexible, inclusive, and directly applicable to your professional practice.
Fees and Funding for 2026/27
| Indicative price for stand-alone module |
Home student: £915 EU / International students: £930 - The University cannot sponsor a Student Visa for CPD modules. However, if you already have permission to study in the UK, you can apply. If you’re unsure whether your visa allows this, please contact the International Experience Team at hallamhelp@shu.ac.uk to discuss your options. |
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| How to apply |
You can apply for this module using our online admissions form. After you have registered or logged in, select the module title under "Please choose your first module". |
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Entry requirements
Applicants are normally expected to hold a science or healthcare degree or professional qualification in a relevant subject, such as Radiotherapy & Oncology, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics, Speech & Language Therapy, Nursing, or Exercise Medicine. Equivalent academic or professional qualifications will also be considered, including evidence of CPD, leadership, service development, research, or publications. Applicants should usually have at least 12 months’ professional experience supporting people living with or beyond cancer. If English is not your first language, you must have an English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5, minimum 6.0 in each skill) and access to reliable IT. Recognition of prior learning may be considered for relevant Level 7 credits.
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Attendance
Delivery Method:
Distance learning (fully online, independent study). Delivered entirely online through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), with no live sessions. Students study independently using guided materials and activities, with online academic support available to help them stay on track.
View our statement on notional study hours »
Provisional timetable
This module does not have a specific timetable of study days and times, that you are expected to attend. Your tutor will direct you through a series of learning resources and activities, including non-live discussions and live webinars. The latter will be recorded for people who cannot join the live sessions. If you would like to know the times for the live sessions in advance, you can request this from the module leader anytime from 17th August 2026.
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Assessment
Module assessment is made up of one or more assessment tasks. The assessment task(s) for this module are:
- Written Assignment
Successful completion of this module will earn you 15 level 7 credits
Further details
For further information please contact the module leader Catherine Holborn - c.holborn@shu.ac.uk or contact the student experience team: