COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Leadership in Health and Social Care offers a flexible modular structure that enables students to tailor their studies to their professional interests, career aspirations and workplace requirements while progressing through postgraduate qualifications at different stages. The programme begins with a Postgraduate Certificate consisting of 60 credits, where students select three optional 20-credit modules that can either contribute towards a named postgraduate award or be studied individually as standalone professional development modules. Progression to the Postgraduate Diploma stage requires completion of a further 60 credits, including two core modules focused on research and leadership alongside one additional optional module. Students undertake one research-focused module selected from options including Research Methodologies: Application to Advanced Practice, Research Methods, Research Methods in Integrative Health or Critical Appraisal and Research Skills, allowing them to develop the critical evaluation, evidence appraisal and research competencies necessary for advanced professional practice and service improvement. In addition, students complete a leadership module chosen from either Leading for Quality or Leadership in Health and Social Care, both of which develop the knowledge and practical skills required to lead teams, manage change and improve organisational performance within complex health and social care environments. The final stage of the master's programme consists of a 60-credit Independent Scholarship project, which provides students with the opportunity to conduct an in-depth investigation into an area of professional relevance or personal interest. This substantial piece of independent work enables students to apply advanced research methodologies, critically evaluate evidence and develop innovative solutions to contemporary challenges within health and social care practice. The flexible design of the programme supports professionals from a wide range of backgrounds and allows learners to balance academic study with employment commitments while developing the leadership, research and strategic skills required for senior and influential roles across the health and social care sector.