Cardiff Business School confirmed to continue delivery of NHS Wales Planning Diploma
26 May 2026
Cardiff Business School is delighted to announce that it will continue to deliver the Postgraduate Diploma in Healthcare Planning for NHS Wales from September 2026.
This follows a successful re-tendering process supported by the University’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Unit, and six successful years of delivering the Diploma to NHS Wales planners to develop the skills needed to design and implement integrated, sustainable health and social care services.
The Diploma, accredited at Level 7, forms a cornerstone of the Planning Programme for Learning (PP4L), which aims to professionalise planning across NHS Wales.
The programme equips mid-to-senior level staff with advanced knowledge in strategic planning, data analytics, business case development, and change management—critical skills for delivering the ambitions of A Healthier Wales and the Well-being of Future Generations Act.
Building on feedback from previous cohorts, the new iteration of the Diploma will feature:
- enhanced focus on Integrated Medium Term Plans (IMTPs) and the Welsh planning cycle
- greater use of Welsh NHS case studies and thought leadership from experienced planners
- flexible delivery through Cardiff Business School’s Executive Education Suite and the Virtual Executive Teaching Suite (VETS), ensuring accessibility for full-time professionals
- opportunities for learners to progress to a Master’s qualification via an applied research project
The programme will draw on Cardiff University’s interdisciplinary expertise, with contributions from the School of Medicine, School of Mathematics, and research centres such as the Digital Transformation Innovation Institute and Y Lab.
Speaking about the announcement, Professor Tim Edwards, Dean of Cardiff Business School, said:
We are proud to continue our partnership with NHS Wales at such a critical time for health and social care. This Diploma reflects our commitment to public value—helping planners develop the strategic insight and leadership skills needed to deliver sustainable services for future generations
Sarah Lethbridge, Pro-Dean of External Engagement, added:
Our approach is rooted in collaboration. By co-designing the programme with NHS Wales and drawing on Cardiff University’s world-class expertise, we ensure that learning is practical, impactful, and aligned with the unique challenges of the Welsh health system.
The next cohort will begin in September 2026, with applications coordinated through NHS Wales organisations. Each year, up to 25 participants will join the programme, contributing to a growing alumni network that strengthens planning capability across Wales.
For more information about the Diploma and other professional development opportunities, visit the Cardiff University CPD Unit.
You can also learn more about the Postgraduate Diploma in Healthcare Planning.
