Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Advanced Professional Practice in Neurological Rehabilitation
Advanced neurological rehabilitation training for ambitious health professionals seeking to elevate practice, build critical thinking, and develop innovative, specialist skills - taught by an expert, research‑active team and CSP‑ endorsed.Advanced, evidence‑based clinical development
Progress your career with a programme grounded in evidence‑based practice and rich in hands‑on skill development. Strengthen your reflection, analysis and critical debate while applying cutting‑edge theory directly to your clinical work through practice‑focused assignments.
Immersive research‑led learning experience
Learn from research‑active specialists with national and international reputations in neurological rehabilitation. Join an active research community, access advanced movement‑analysis facilities, and design your own impactful project supported by experienced academic staff.
Flexible pathways and specialist CPD options
Shape your learning through blended study, specialist modules such as Clinical Management of Hypertonia, and flexible full or part‑time routes. Choose PgCert, PgDip or MSc awards and train in purpose‑built clinical environments designed to elevate your professional practice.
Details
Programme overview
Postgraduate Certificate
To achieve a postgraduate certificate, you will need to obtain 60 credits. This must include the core module and two pathway modules.
Core module
ADV702
Applying Evidence to Practice 20 Credits
Pathway modules
ADV768
Clinical Assessment and Management in Neurology 20 Credits
ADV710
Pathomechanics and Rehabilitation of Gait and Balance 20 Credits
ADV739
Rehabilitation: Cognition, Perception and Behaviour 20 Credits
ADV735
Advancing the Management of Long Term Conditions 20 Credits
ADV778
Clinical Management of Hypertonia 20 Credits
ADV768
ADV710
ADV739
ADV735
ADV778
Postgraduate Diploma
To achieve a postgraduate diploma, you will have first completed the PgCert and need to obtain an additional 60 credits (to give 120 credits in total). This must include the core module, one pathway module and one optional module of your choice.
Core module
ADV715
Project Design for Research 20 Credits
Pathway modules
ADV768
Clinical Assessment and Management in Neurology 20 Credits
ADV710
Pathomechanics and Rehabilitation of Gait and Balance 20 Credits
ADV739
Rehabilitation: Cognition, Perception and Behaviour 20 Credits
ADV735
Advancing the Management of Long Term Conditions 20 Credits
ADV778
Clinical Management of Hypertonia 20 Credits
ADV710
ADV739
ADV735
ADV778
Optional module
Optional module 20 Credits
Optional modules can be chosen from the masters level modules
A-Z list . Please contact the Professional Development Unit Admissions Team to discuss your options.
MSc
To achieve a full master degree, you will have first completed the PgDip and need to obtain an additional 60 credits (to give 180 credits in total). This must include the core module.
Core module
ADV716 Research Dissertation 60 Credits
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Careers, industry and research
The Human Movement and Function Laboratory (HMFL) uses a range of highly advanced equipment, often in combination, in order to provide analysis and perspective on an individual’s movement and function.
A primary role of the HMFL is to provide support to the many research activities within the Rehabilitation research group.
"The masters was pivotal in shaping my career direction."
"It helped me discover my passion for working with underserved populations and inspired me to move from a primarily clinical role towards a research-focused academic pathway. The research skills I developed, combined with exposure to the importance of patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE), motivated me to pursue a PhD and contribute to improving knowledge and services in areas that are often overlooked."
Macy Fan, recent graduate
"Obtaining this masters degree has acted as an asset to my career. It has added to my knowledge with regards to treating neurological patients, allowing me to provide more evidence-based, and thus more effective treatment regimes to such patients."
The content of this programme was the best out of all the universities that I viewed. The available programmes of study at Plymouth are going from strength to strength in order to facilitate highly skilled graduates who can become leaders in clinical research.
Angie Logan
Studying at Plymouth has provided me with a great foundation and has put in place a life-long learning trajectory in my chosen profession. I learned skills such as critical thinking, professionalism, self-confidence, research, data analysis, how to apply evidence to practice, reflective practice, and scientific writing.
Auwal Abdullahi
Studying at Plymouth enhanced my knowledge and understanding of complex neuroanatomy and physiology and how this relates to human movement. The lecturers on the course are all experts in their field, so the standard of teaching is very high.
Paula Dimarco
Danielle Munford
Lecturer in Physiotherapy
Programme Lead
Professor Jonathan Marsden
Professorship and Chair in Rehabilitation
Dr Lisa Bunn
Associate Professor of Neurological Rehabilitation
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options – including part-time and January start dates – you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students – whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based – offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities – from pub quizzes, movie nights and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
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Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£11,700 per year
£11,700 per year
Part-time study
£1,300 per 20 credit module
£1,300 per 20 credit module
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£20,150 per year
£20,150 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate student at Plymouth, there may be funding options available to you, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds, that can help towards costs.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
You’ll normally be a health or social care professional with a first degree (BSc (Hons) at 2.2 or above or European first cycle equivalent).
Extended entry requirements
You will normally have a professional or therapeutic role within a neurological rehabilitation environment, for example, in occupational therapy, physiotherapy, nursing or speech and language therapy. If you have a related academic degree, or do not have a degree but have appropriate experience related to the programme, you may be eligible to apply.
You must also provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English in accordance with the University’s admissions code of practice – IELTS requirement is 6.5 average with a minimum of 5.5 in each category. If you need to improve your English language to get onto a degree course at the University, you can book a pre-sessional academic English course).
You’ll be individually assessed for your ability to study at this level and therefore an interview may be necessary. You’ll normally be required to submit a short piece of writing as part of the admissions process.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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