2026/27

The Professional Development Award (PDA) is a unique award - you set out the learning pathway, designing a bespoke academic qualification to suit your career and learning aspirations.

This framework is really flexible and allows you to use the credit for courses you have already completed towards a recognised qualification.

You can:

start this award without importing credit, building credit module by module.
import previous UWE Bristol credit/external credit into the award to include marks which will count towards the final classification (depending on level of study, you will need to provide copies of transcripts).
gain credit from your experience; if you wish to do this you will be able to evidence this in a module via Accredited Experiential Learning (this module is 50% of normal fee).

PDA has only one compulsory module, Evidencing Work Based Learning (EWBL), which can be done at distance, and on a reflective practice if you wish (see our EWBL pages which demonstrate how this module can benefit both you and your employer).

The PDA can be started at any time; there are no limitations on how long you would like to spend completing the award.

The award descriptor you attain will be e.g. MSc Professional Development.

How to apply

To apply, you will need a completed Negotiated Learning Plan (NLP). You will not be able to submit your application without this document.

We are available to support you at any stage as you complete your NLP.

Download our example NLP (PDF) to see how a completed plan can look.
Download and complete our NLP form (DOC).
Click 'Apply Now' and follow the online application process. Please ensure you have uploaded your completed NLP to enable application submission.

Postgraduate award options
You can choose from the below postgraduate award options. Below demonstrates how credits can be used to make up each award.

MSc/MA Professional Development - 180 credits

Import up to a maximum of 120 completed credits
At least 60 masters credits must be completed while registered on the award, of which EWBL 40 credits is the compulsory module
Maximum 60 level 6 credit can be imported to the MSc

PG Diploma Professional Development - 120 credits

Import up to a maximum of 105 completed credits
Must complete a compulsory 15 credit EWBL module while registered on the award
Maximum 40 degree level credit can be imported to the PGDip

PG Certificate Professional Development - 60 credits

Import up to a maximum of 45 completed credits
Must complete a compulsory 15 credit EWBL module while registered on the award
Maximum 20 degree level credit can be imported to the PGCert

Benefits for employers
Work-based learning is at the core of the Professional Development Awards (PDA) and is an increasingly popular mode of study for employed people to gain a higher education award.

The PDA programme can develop a highly skilled workforce by identifying the specific learning needs of employees together with tailoring a programme to suit different businesses.

Academic facilitators work with an allocated mentor and the learner for work-based learning modules; with a module leader available for employees on any taught modules.

Key benefits to employers include:

Re-skilling existing employees as business develops and grows
Meeting workforce professional development goals
Designing a bespoke qualification responsive to specific business need
Encouraging staff to engage with organisational change
Reducing time spent learning away from the workplace
We can also accredit in-house training programmes.

Find out more about the PDA

In the following videos, meet our Masters graduates from the College of Health, Science and Society, and find out how the UWE Bristol Professional Development (PDA) course and Work-Based Learning have enhanced their careers:

Anna (Clinical Nurse Specialist)

Alison (Specialist Community Public Health Nurse)

Accredited by

Why choose UWE Bristol?

UWE Bristol works closely with employers and industry partners, ensuring that course content reflects today’s challenges, emerging trends, and the skills that organisations are actively seeking.

Many courses are offered part-time, online, or in blended formats, making it easier to balance learning with work and personal commitments without compromising depth or quality.

Teaching staff often come from professional backgrounds, bringing practical insight, case studies, and hands-on expertise that help learners apply knowledge directly to their careers.

Learners benefit from career guidance, mentoring, and access to a vibrant network of professionals, alumni, and industry events that can open doors to new roles or progression.

UWE Bristol is known for its emphasis on practical skills, innovation, and employability, giving learners added confidence that their qualification will be respected and valuable in the workplace.

Course details

Course leader

Clive Warn

PD@uwe.ac.uk

Course delivery

No attendance

Downloads

Negotiated Learning Plan Level 7

Prerequisites

To be eligible to study our PDA, you should:

have been employed in the last 18 months.
be self-employed or engaged in voluntary activity and have been working to an appropriate level.
upload your completed Negotiated Learning Plan to submit your application. Download the form here.

For postgraduate qualifications, applicants should normally have a first degree and/or at least two years professional experience.

Possession of knowledge and skills needed for admission to the University may be demonstrated by means other than via the usual entrance requirements.

We provide the academic support for those without formal qualifications to engage fully with study and gain higher level skills.

Learners will be considered for entry to pursue the most appropriate level of study based on qualifications and/or their personal, professional or educational experience following guidance provided in line with UWE Bristol's entry requirements and admissions policies.

Course fees

£200.00

2026/27

Professional Development - Postgraduate

Y01E

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Academic level: 7