Professional courses

Dr Carmel Sheppard

Professional Doctorate Pathway

Biomedical Science (DBMS)

Place of Employment & Job Title

Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust / University of Southampton. Consultant Nurse - Breast Cancer

What made you decide to come to the University of Portsmouth to study the Professional Doctorate?

At the time of applying to join the professional doctorate I had been working as a clinical nurse specialist. The role of consultant nurse which would be the next in my career required the attainment of a doctorate. Portsmouth was one of the first universities to offer a Clinical Doctorate and rather than a PhD. I wanted support and development in both research skills, but also in professional development and the doctorate at Portsmouth offered both.

How did you find the course?

Part 1 was extremely valuable. It helped both refine my research questioning as well as giving me the opportunity to develop a professional portfolio during part 1 of the course.

During Part 2 of the course the academic staff were wonderful in the support and confidence they gave me leading to the successful completion of a randomised controlled trial exploring point of need access for patients with breast cancer two years following diagnosis.

What was your project title?

A randomised controlled trial examining point of need access versus routine clinical review for patients following the diagnosis of breast cancer

How do you think this course has helped you to develop your career in your profession?

This ultimately led me to be successfully appointed as Consultant Nurse, and as a result of the support I received during this programme I have been able to present the findings of my research at national and international level and am in the process of seeking publication. The course has certainly given me credibility in being a good researcher and has since opened other doors to further research.