This course has been designed to develop knowledge and skills in evidence based public health practice in order to meet the professional standards laid down by the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) for registration on Part 3 of the register; the course provides education and training for a Child and Family centred public health role to enable the student to work with individuals, families and populations; it focuses on the prevention of ill health, health improvement and the reduction of health inequalities; after gaining the PGDip students can undertake a top-up to progress to an Master's which incorporates a research module and dissertation; students have the opportunity to pursue research in Specialist Community Public Health Nursing and thus be in a position to influence public health services and practice; on successful completion of the course students can register as a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse; enter a career in public health; register to prescribe from the community practitioners' formulary.