Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Chronic Disease)

Offered by School of Health Sciences

Post-Diploma / 8 months / TGS-2021002419

Note: Please note that all applications for programmes will be done via STEP. Click the 'APPLY' button on this page to proceed to STEP. You are required to use your Singpass to activate your STEP account. To receive an alert about the future runs for this course, please click the 'INDICATE INTEREST' button. Thank you. STEP, the Skills Training and Enhancement Portal, is a one-stop digital platform for your training needs.
Course Information
Learning Outcomes
Course Schedule
Lesson Plan
Trainer Profile
Certification
Entry Requirements
Course Fees

Course Information

With the prevalence of chronic illnesses on the increase, the role of nurses in caring for and educating patients with chronic diseases is becoming crucial. As a nurse trained in the area of Chronic Disease Management, your ability to effectively communicate and advise your patients will make a profound difference in how the patient manages and lives with their condition.

Learning Outcomes

This course will provide all you need to know about pathophysiology and pharmacology management of patients with chronic conditions, and how to perform health assessments during clinical examination with guidance from our experienced lecturers.

You will learn how to use evidence-based practice in a clinical setting and gain advanced clinical training in the management and care of these patients. You will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience to update your clinical training.

Course 
Schedule

Application Period: TBC, Register Interest Now for Apr 2025 Intake
Course start date: TBC
Course end date: TBC*
(*Date may be extended if student needs to make-up for the days that he/she was absent during clinical practicum.)

Course structure delivery mode:

  • Classes: Full-time delivery mode (Mon – Fri, 8am – 6pm)
  • Clinical practicum at assigned clinical areas: Mon – Fri according to duty roster
Post-Diploma Certificate 1 (4 modules) 8 Apr 2024 – 24 May 2024 (7 weeks classes)
Study / Examination 27 May 2024 – 31 May 2024 (1 week)
Break 3 Jun 2024 – 7 Jun 2024 (1 week)
Post-Diploma Certificate 2 (1 module) 10 Jun 2024 – 21 Jun 2024 (2 weeks clinical practice)
Break 24 Jun 2024 – 28 Jun 2024 (1 week)
Post-Diploma Certificate 3 (4 modules) 1 Jul 2024 – 30 Aug 2024 (9 weeks classes)
Study / Examination 2 Sep 2024 – 13 Sep 2024 (2 weeks)
Break 16 Sep 2024 – 20 Sep 2024 (1 week)
Post-Diploma Certificate 4 (1 module) 23 Sep 2024 – 24 Nov 2024 (9 weeks clinical practice)

Ngee Ann Polytechnic reserves the right to reschedule / cancel any programme, modify the fees and amend information without prior notice.

Lesson Plan

Post-Diploma Certificate in Applied Sciences in Advanced Nursing (TGS-2021002422*)

*Administrative Note: TGS Numbers for this certificate course are different depending on the diploma programme. See details below:

Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Chronic Disease Management) (ADNC1) TGS No: TGS-2021002422

Advanced Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (ADPO1) TGS No: TGS-2021002425

Module
Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making
This module aims to provide the students with comprehensive foundation and principles of health assessment in clinical nursing practice. It will also provide comprehensive skills necessary to obtain data through complete health history taking and physical examination. Emphasis will be placed on the holistic and comprehensive approach of assessment. Variations of normality in the older persons will be taken into considerations in the assessment findings. Together with the relevant laboratory data, this module also equips the students with necessary knowledge underpinning the skills to make informed clinical decisions.
Module
Applied Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
This module aims to provide students with knowledge and understanding of pathophysiologic and pharmacologic considerations. This module will enable the students to gain a better understanding of underlying disease processes and relate the basic principles of pharmacology and the nursing process to selected drugs and their therapeutic use.
Module
Evidence-Based Practice
This module aims to provide the students with the knowledge and application underpinnings the evidence-based practice. Based on the 5 steps of evidence-based practice, the students will learn to convert information into an answerable clinical question (ask), track down best evidence for answering the question (acquire), critically appraise evidence (appraise), integrate evidence into clinical decision making (application), and evaluate and seek ways to improve the next time (audit).
Module
Care Management Across Life Span
This module focuses on the current trends that affect the healthcare and financial systems in Singapore. Emphasis will be placed on integrated care, collaboration and coordination to provide continuity of care of patients with special needs in a variety of healthcare settings. The principles and concepts of palliative care, case management, disease management, medical-surgical nursing and transitional care will be discussed.
Post-Diploma Certificate in Clinical Practicum in Advanced Nursing (TGS-2021002420*)

*Administrative Note: TGS Numbers for this course are different depending on the diploma programme. See details below:

Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Chronic Disease Management) (ADNC1) TGS No: TGS-2021002420

Advanced Diploma in Perioperative Nursing (ADPO1) TGS No: TGS-2021002426

Module
Clinical Practicum in Advanced Nursing
The module provides the student opportunities to synthesize and apply the knowledge and practical skills learned in Post-Diploma Certificate 1 (Health Assessment and Clinical Decision Making, Applied Pathophysiology and Pharmacology, Evidence-Based Practice and Care Management Across Life Span) to the 2-week of broad-based Clinical Practicum in Advanced Nursing module. The students will be assigned to one of the following clinical settings that is different from their specialty attachment.
  • Acute care
  • Intermediate and long-term care
  • Primary care
  • Geriatric centres
  • Mental Health Care
Post-Diploma Certificate in Advanced Chronic Disease Nursing (TGS-2021002421)
Module
Fundamentals in Chronic Disease Management
This module aims to provide a comprehensive framework to develop nurses in counselling skills and implement prevention and behaviourally based instruction for the community. The focus will be on the use of person-centred therapy, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural therapy to change the behaviours of clients with unhealthy lifestyle practices.
Module
Advanced Chronic Disease Nursing Science I
The module aims to develop students' knowledge on the teaching-coaching function of the nurse in health promotion, screening and disease prevention activities across the life span for individuals, families and communities. Using a holistic approach which values the physical, mental, social and spiritual dimensions of health and their inter-relationships, it will cover major aspects of health education strategy and pedagogy in teaching of chronic diseases.
Module
Advanced Chronic Disease Nursing Science II
This course aims to provide a fundamental key concepts, interventions and principles of case management and rehabilitation in the acute, community and home settings. The module also optimises the management and care of patient with complications of chronic disease in cardiovascular and respiratory system, in addition to cardiac, stroke, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Module
Advanced Chronic Disease Nursing Science III
This course aims to provide a fundamental key concepts, interventions and principles of palliative care nursing practice across the continuum. The module optimises the management and care of patient with non-malignant diseases, in particular end-stage organ failure. The nursing management of patients with end of life care and use of common complementary therapies are also explored.
Post-Diploma Certificate in Advanced Clinical Practicum in Chronic Disease Nursing (TGS-2021002423)
Module
Advanced Clinical Practicum in Chronic Disease Nursing
The module provides clinical training and offers students the opportunities to provide direct patient/ family care and gain clinical experience in diverse health care settings. Students will be attached to specialised areas such as case/care management in the primary health care, acute to home, community and palliative care facilities with interdisciplinary experience in caring of patients with chronic and life-limiting conditions.

Trainer's Profile

Clara Tai Chia Chia 

Clara attained the Diploma in Nursing with Merit in 2001 and an Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Critical Care) in 2005. She then went on to achieve the Bachelor of Health Sciences (Nursing) in 2008, and the Master of Education (Curriculum and Teaching) in 2020. 

As a registered nurse specialising in critical care, Clara currently serves as the Senior Manager of the nursing skills cluster. Leading module leaders and ensuring up-to-date teaching practices of skills and application of knowledge, Clara's past experience includes roles in various units at Singapore General Hospital and 10 years as a lecturer at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. 

Clara has been blessed with a fulfilling career in the field of Nursing. She worked in an acute hospital (Singapore General Hospital) for 13 years holding the latest post as that of a Nurse Clinician. During the 13 years, she had previously worked as a registered nurse in orthopaedic surgery unit for 1 year, respiratory medicine unit for 2 years, medical intensive care area (MICA) for 1 year, medical intensive care unit for 1 year and surgical intensive care unit for 8 years.  

Subsequently, she joined Ngee Ann Polytechnic as lecturer teaching nursing students of Diploma in Nursing and Advanced Diploma in Nursing for 10 years. 

Lynda Koh Leng Leng

Lynda is a dedicated educator and healthcare professional with a strong commitment to advancing the nursing field. She possesses an impressive academic background, holding a Master of Science in Applied Gerontology, a Master of Education, an Advanced Certificate in Training and Assessment (ACTA), a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDHE), an Advanced Diploma in Community Nursing, and a Bachelor of Nursing. This diverse education equips her with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for effective teaching, particularly in nursing topics related to chronic disease care.

Throughout her professional journey, Lynda has gained valuable experience in primary and hospital care settings, excelling in patient care, clinical coordination, and community health nursing. Her expertise in providing holistic care to a wide range of patients informs her approach to teaching.

Lynda currently teaches full-time and part-time courses in nursing and healthcare, with a focus on general nursing and chronic disease care management. She draws upon her extensive experience in gerontology, education, and community nursing to inspire and educate the next generation of healthcare professionals. Her teaching philosophy emphasises the integration of evidence-based practices, patient-centered care, and continuous professional development, preparing students to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.

Lynda’s passion for community health shines through in her dedication to nurturing future nurses, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and empathy required to deliver high-quality care throughout all stages of life.

Hazel Lim Wai Ling

Hazel is a nursing professional and educator with a Master of Public Health and a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing). She brings academic nursing foundations and research-related experiences to her role as a polytechnic lecturer, where she has been shaping the minds of future nurses since 2011.

With a five-year diverse work experience in dermatology, renal, and general wards as a nurse, and completed later by several years of research as a research nurse and research assistant, Hazel contributed to impactful studies that have advanced her understanding of various healthcare fields.

Hazel has made contributions to research, particularly in the areas of dementia and healthcare technology. Her published works include "Knowledge and Attitudes towards Dementia among the General Public in Singapore: A Comparative Analysis," featured in Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders in April 2023, and "Introducing a Healthcare-Assistive Robot in Primary Care: A Preliminary Questionnaire Survey," published in Frontiers in Robotics and AI in May 2023. These publications reflect her dedication to exploring innovative solutions and addressing public health issues.

In her teaching role, Hazel provides students with hands-on experience and bridges the gap between theory and practice. Hazel’s combination of clinical experience, research expertise, and teaching excellence makes her an invaluable asset to both her students and the broader healthcare community.

Sabita Zakir Hussain

Dr. Sabita is a seasoned medical professional with a rich background in both clinical practice and healthcare education. She holds an MBBS and advanced qualifications, including a Specialist Diploma in Biotechnology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education, and an Advanced Certificate in Learning and Performance, combining her medical expertise with strong educational skills.

With over a decade of clinical experience as a medical officer in three different countries, Dr. Sabita has provided comprehensive care to patients across multiple specialties, serving both adult and pediatric populations in various healthcare settings.

In her role as an educator, Dr. Sabita is passionate about sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with future healthcare professionals. She teaches full-time and part-time courses, specialising in anatomy and physiology, applied pathophysiology, pharmacology, and human biosciences. Her teaching approach focuses on building foundational knowledge while encouraging learners to develop critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills essential for effective patient care.

Dr. Sabita’s diverse experience in medicine and education uniquely equips her to play a significant role in shaping the development of aspiring healthcare professionals, fostering their growth and preparing them for the challenges of the healthcare industry.

Tan Hong Yong

Dr. Tan is a medical professional and educator with a unique blend of expertise in both medicine and economics. Holding an MBBS and a Bachelor of Science in Economics, he has developed a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare and education.

With nearly a decade of medical work experience, Dr. Tan understands the complexities and demands of the changing healthcare environment. This extensive clinical background allows him to bring practical insights and real-world applications into his teaching. He teaches full-time and part-time nursing and healthcare-related courses, focusing on health assessment, anatomy and physiology, human biosciences, applied pathophysiology and pharmacology, and biology. His teaching approach lays the foundational knowledge that encourages his learners to think critically and reason so they can provide better care in a dynamic healthcare environment.

He has applied his leadership skills and economic acumen to be instrumental in aligning educational strategies with industry needs, ensuring the modules he is leading are both relevant and forward-thinking.

Dr. Tan’s educational philosophy integrates clinical expertise, economic understanding, and strategic management to prepare students for the multifaceted challenges of modern healthcare. He is committed to fostering a learning environment that encourages critical thinking, innovation, and continuous professional development.

Certification

1 Advanced Diploma
4 Post-Diploma Certificates
10 Modules

Certification

You are required to complete the 4 post-diploma certificates within 2-year validity period to be awarded the Advanced Diploma qualification.


Entry Requirements

Applicants with any of the following qualifications are invited to apply for the course:
  • A local Polytechnic Diploma/ Degree in Health Sciences (Nursing) or equivalent
  • Be a Registered Nurse with valid practicing certificate from the Singapore Nursing Board (SNB); and
  • Have at least 2 years of clinical nursing practice; and
  • Have a minimum of 1 year practice in the nursing specialty – nursing practice related to nursing management or care of patients with chronic diseases

Successful applicants will need to undergo a compulsory medical examination and vaccinations before semester starts. Please see details and refer to instructions in the medical examination form (Click here for medical examination form) for submission of all the required documents.

Course Fees

Funding period for this course is from 1 Apr 2021 to 31 Dec 2024.

SkillsFuture Credit
This course is eligible for SkillsFuture Credit.

All Singaporeans aged 25 years and above can use their $500 SkillsFuture Credit from the government to pay for a wide range of courses. The credits can be used on top of existing course fee subsidies/funding. This is only applicable for self-sponsored applicants and must be applied via the SkillsFuture Portal. More details on the SkillsFuture Credit Claims will be advised upon admission into the course. Find out more about SkillsFuture Credit here.

Union Training Assistance Programme (UTAP)
NTUC members enjoy 50% unfunded course fee support for up to $250 each year (or up to $500 for NTUC members aged 40 years old and above) when you sign up for courses supported under UTAP (Union Training Assistance Programme). Please visit e2i’s website to find out more.

Skills-Based Modular Courses (SBMCs) are bite-sized part-time courses for individuals to acquire new skills or deepen relevant skills, without the need to pursue a full diploma. Refer here for course fees for SBMCs.

GST Increment in 2024
Please note that the GST rate will be revised to 9% with effect from 1 Jan 2024, as such any payable course fees will be subjected to the new GST rate adjustments in 2024. Please refer to our STEP portal for the updated fees. (Click on STEP)

Note:

  • The fees below are determined based on prevailing funding policies and subject to review and revision.
  • Please refer to our FAQs for more information.

Ngee Ann Polytechnic reserves the right to reschedule/cancel any programme, modify the fees and amend information without prior notice.

Applicants / Eligibility Fees
Full Course fee$21372.72
PR Sponsored by SME$2225.50
Singapore Citizen Sponsored by SME$2225.50
Singapore Citizen Aged 40 & Above$2225.50
Singapore Citizen Aged Below 40$3205.90
Singapore PR$8549.08
Long-Term Visit Pass Plus$21372.72