There are 3 modules which make up the Dip HIC. These can be undertaken separately and need not follow a set sequence. For example: module 3 could be undertaken before module 1. The modules are:
| Module 1 | Basic Knowledge |
| Module 2 | Infection control and related studies |
| Module 3 | Hospital hygiene, sterilization and decontamination |
Regardless of prior learning all candidates must participate in Modules 2 and 3 if they wish to obtain the Dip HIC.
Note that each of the modules can be taken as a separate course.
Reflective Portfolio
Candidates for the Diploma in Hospital Infection are required to present a Reflective Portfolio. This is a document which brings together evidence of the range and scope of the candidate's professional involvement in hospital infection. It will consist of a series of brief accounts of activities related to participation in hospital infection control. The portfolio will normally include 10-15 pieces of work covering a range of activities. Each piece of work will be an account of a particular activity. It will be a real account of an actual happening, not a theoretical treatment. Several accounts of the same type of activity, e.g., outbreak control, will not be acceptable unless different lessons can be drawn from them.
Other courses
Students will come from a range of backgrounds and will have had opportunities to attend local courses involving relevant infection control activities. Courses will be validated by the Advisory Board for course content and will constitute an eligible component of the learning exercise. All aspects of distance learning will be considered by the Advisory Board and where appropriate, credits given.
Project report
Candidates for the Diploma in Hospital Infection Controls are required to produce a project report of no more than 10,000 words (excluding references). The form of this report is defined in the General Regulation 16.11.2 www.legislation.hmso.gov.uk and should be distinguished from an essay or dissertation.N.B. The project may be based on an extended account and investigation of one of the events described in the Reflective Portfolio. Topic titles and a short outline of the research activity will have to be submitted to the Advisory Board before the work commences.
