What professional development and leadership programmes does the RCP offer?

Updated

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) offers professional development through its education provision, in-depth leadership programmes (applications open), and leadership CPD courses. These are aimed at doctors at every career stage, from those just starting out to experienced practitioners. To find specific programmes, courses and application details, browse the Professional development section of the RCP website.

What the RCP provides

According to the RCP website, its professional development offer is built around "impactful education that equips doctors to lead, grow and thrive at every stage of their career." The site groups this into three areas:

  • Professional development – education designed to support doctors throughout their careers.
  • Leadership programmes – described as "in-depth" programmes, with applications open.
  • Leadership CPD courses – continuing professional development focused on leadership skills.

The site also frames leadership as something to "develop throughout your career," which indicates the provision is not limited to a single career stage.

Who it is for

The RCP describes itself as a professional membership body dedicated to improving the practice of medicine, chiefly through the accreditation of physicians by examination. Its membership is presented as supporting a successful and enjoyable career "whether you've just started on the road to becoming a doctor or been practising for years."

That framing suggests the professional development and leadership offerings are intended for:

  • Doctors beginning their careers.
  • Practising physicians looking to develop leadership skills.
  • Members seeking CPD to support ongoing career growth.

How to find and apply

  1. Go to the RCP website (rcp.ac.uk).
  2. Navigate to the Professional development section, which the site lists alongside Policy and campaigns and Upcoming events.
  3. Review the leadership programmes and leadership CPD courses listed there.
  4. Check the application status for the in-depth leadership programmes — the site states applications are currently open.

The website does not specify programme fees, eligibility criteria or application deadlines in the material available, so confirm those details on the relevant programme page before applying.

Related ways to engage

Beyond formal programmes, the RCP site points to other routes for professional learning:

  • Events – webinars, conferences and ceremonies are listed under Upcoming events.
  • Med+ 2026 – the RCP's largest specialty conference, taking place Monday 23 – Tuesday 24 November 2026 at the RCP at Regent's Park, London and online. Across two days, experts share evidence, innovations and practical insights from more than 15 specialties, with the aim of helping attendees apply new knowledge to clinical practice.
  • Membership – joining the RCP is presented as the entry point to these benefits.

What to check before deciding

Because the available RCP material does not state costs, entry requirements or time commitments for the leadership programmes and CPD courses, treat the website's programme pages as the authoritative source. If you are choosing between the in-depth leadership programmes and the leadership CPD courses, compare them on the same dimensions: duration, format, eligibility, and whether the outcome you need is a formal leadership development programme or shorter CPD.