Online Palliative Care Companion Training Program

The Online Palliative Care Companion Training Program qualifies individuals to support terminally ill persons and their families with empathy, dignity, and specialized expertise in accordance with World Health Organization guidelines. Designed for nursing professionals, healthcare staff, social workers, spiritual counselors, and committed individuals, the course equips learners to address the psychological, physical, social, and spiritual complexities of the end-of-life stage while respecting individual boundaries.

The curriculum encompasses 13 comprehensive study booklets covering core principles of palliative care, communication strategies with dying patients and their relatives, symptom management, and psychosocial support. Participants study essential legal frameworks, including advance directives and patient rights, explore ethical questions surrounding medical interventions and assisted dying, and learn practical methods for grief support, self-care, and resilience to prevent burnout.

Instruction combines digital and printed study materials with an interactive online study center, round-the-clock artificial intelligence learning support, and individualized feedback from experienced distance instructors. The qualification includes a three-day practical seminar or webinar to simulate real-world palliative situations and is officially recognized by the German Association for Palliative Medicine, aligning with level 5 of the German Qualifications Framework.

Applicants must be at least 23 years of age and hold an intermediate school leaving certificate alongside strong communication skills. Prior professional experience in educational, social, or therapeutic settings is recommended to gain optimal value from the curriculum. Enrollment is available year-round directly through the institution's online registration portal.