Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Healthcare Management, Leadership and Innovation
Build management, leadership and innovation skills with a flexible MSc for healthcare professionals. Develop expertise in quality improvement, patient safety, organisational development and education to advance your career in the health services.Shape your MSc around your goals
Tailor your qualification to your experience and ambitions. Choose between a traditional dissertation or a workplace‑focused professional project, and use APEL to gain credit for prior learning, ensuring your route reflects your professional background and future goals.
Learn flexibly through blended teaching
Learn through a blended model combining face‑to‑face teaching, interactive digital materials and structured tutorial guidance. This supportive environment helps you build confidence, deepen your research skills and stay on track throughout each module, whether studying full‑time or alongside clinical practice.
Advance your healthcare career
Designed for doctors, dentists, managers and healthcare professionals, the programme strengthens your leadership capability and innovative thinking. Intercalating medical students can complete the MSc in one year, gaining a competitive edge and valuable management insight before returning to clinical training.
Details
Programme overview
You will study aspects of management, leadership and innovation in healthcare, relevant to professionals seeking to lead services and organisations into the future and explore the management and leadership theories pertinent to health and care practice. Gain practical experience of multi-disciplinary team working through problem identification and problem solving to encourage innovation and creativity in project design, development and knowledge transfer. You'll also be offered the choice of a traditional research-based dissertation or the option to undertake a work-related professional project or quality improvement project built on improvement science principles.
Core modules
Leadership in Healthcare: Theory and Practice (HML713)
Learners with be provided with a broad-based introduction to the field of health service leadership. Key leadership theories and trends will be explored along with how they relate to the real world. Concepts around quality, leadership to drive improvement and innovation will also be discussed. Finally, the importance of understanding and equipping ourselves in the context of leadership will be examined.
Learners with be provided with a broad-based introduction to the field of health service leadership. Key leadership theories and trends will be explored along with how they relate to the real world. Concepts around quality, leadership to drive improvement and innovation will also be discussed. Finally, the importance of understanding and equipping ourselves in the context of leadership will be examined.
Management in Healthcare: Theory and Practice (HML714)
Learners will acquire an increased understanding and knowledge of theories, tools and strategies for management in healthcare environments alongside an appreciation of their role within teams and complex systems. Learners will analyse, critique and reflect on real world scenarios to develop a confident and competent management approach to achieve personal and effectiveness in practice.
Learners will acquire an increased understanding and knowledge of theories, tools and strategies for management in healthcare environments alongside an appreciation of their role within teams and complex systems. Learners will analyse, critique and reflect on real world scenarios to develop a confident and competent management approach to achieve personal and effectiveness in practice.
Quality Improvement and Innovation (HML717)
This module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of tools and theories for quality improvement and innovation, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on the applicability of these to past, current, and future healthcare challenges. Students will develop confidence and competence to lead and manage quality improvement and innovation individually and collaboratively.
This module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of tools and theories for quality improvement and innovation, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on the applicability of these to past, current, and future healthcare challenges. Students will develop confidence and competence to lead and manage quality improvement and innovation individually and collaboratively.
Research Methods in Healthcare (CLE721)
This module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of the research methods and statistics, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on research evidence, to practice. Students will be introduced to a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methods, primary and secondary research methods, equipping them with a basic understanding of the underlying principles of quantitative and qualitative research.
This module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of the research methods and statistics, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on research evidence, to practice. Students will be introduced to a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methods, primary and secondary research methods, equipping them with a basic understanding of the underlying principles of quantitative and qualitative research.
Research Design and Development (CLE731)
This module provides an introduction to the research design, development and knowledge transfer process. You will be supported in generating a research idea and developing it into a coherent and achievable research proposal for a Masters dissertation.
This module provides an introduction to the research design, development and knowledge transfer process. You will be supported in generating a research idea and developing it into a coherent and achievable research proposal for a Masters dissertation.
Research Project Dissertation (CLE732DL)
This module is the dissertation associated with the masters programmes and is designed to enable students to produce a project dissertation under supervision, and to demonstrate project design, development, evaluation and synthesis skills.
This module is the dissertation associated with the masters programmes and is designed to enable students to produce a project dissertation under supervision, and to demonstrate project design, development, evaluation and synthesis skills.
Optional modules
Organisation Development and Change (HML715)
This module complements the modules in management and leadership in healthcare and comprises an in-depth study of organisations in the 21st century with a focus on health and care. Critical study of the structures, values and cultures of organisations will be incorporated along with theory from established and contemporary OD literature. Diagnostic and consultancy models will be studied with a view to critical application in practice.
This module complements the modules in management and leadership in healthcare and comprises an in-depth study of organisations in the 21st century with a focus on health and care. Critical study of the structures, values and cultures of organisations will be incorporated along with theory from established and contemporary OD literature. Diagnostic and consultancy models will be studied with a view to critical application in practice.
Contemporary Issues in Clinical Education (CLE713)
This module will explore current issues, drivers and challenges in undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing clinical education, and will draw widely on contemporary educational research and scholarship. You will be encouraged to reflect on your role as a clinical educator, and to investigate the impact of culture and policy on your practice.
This module will explore current issues, drivers and challenges in undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing clinical education, and will draw widely on contemporary educational research and scholarship. You will be encouraged to reflect on your role as a clinical educator, and to investigate the impact of culture and policy on your practice.
Technology Enhanced Teaching and Learning (CLE722DL)
This is a completely online module and provides students with a broad overview of educational technologies and their associated pedagogical affordances. Participants will learn about a comprehensive range of educational technologies and will also critique their relevance to practice. Students are expected to engage with the online content and keep a reflective journal on the development process for the duration of the module.
This is a completely online module and provides students with a broad overview of educational technologies and their associated pedagogical affordances. Participants will learn about a comprehensive range of educational technologies and will also critique their relevance to practice. Students are expected to engage with the online content and keep a reflective journal on the development process for the duration of the module.
Primary and Public Healthcare: Global Health (GH712)
This module will offer insights to the impact of the environment, culture, perceptions, health education and preventative health strategies to form the foundations of health and a functioning health care system.
This module will offer insights to the impact of the environment, culture, perceptions, health education and preventative health strategies to form the foundations of health and a functioning health care system.
Health in Humanitarian Emergencies (GH715)
This module explores the management models of healthcare provision in response to humanitarian emergencies, resulting from both natural and human-induced crises. By evaluating the history of the humanitarian movement and factors affecting the current delivery of national and international aid programmes, this modules aims to review potential strategies for implementing sustainable healthcare programmes in LMICs.
This module explores the management models of healthcare provision in response to humanitarian emergencies, resulting from both natural and human-induced crises. By evaluating the history of the humanitarian movement and factors affecting the current delivery of national and international aid programmes, this modules aims to review potential strategies for implementing sustainable healthcare programmes in LMICs.
Patient Safety (HML716)
This module will enable students to critically review and analyse the current theories and evidence base in the field of patient safety. It will facilitate their application to the participant’s own workplace, allow the participant to develop skills in conducting incident investigations and to critically assess evidence-based strategies to improve patient safety and quality care within healthcare.
This module will enable students to critically review and analyse the current theories and evidence base in the field of patient safety. It will facilitate their application to the participant’s own workplace, allow the participant to develop skills in conducting incident investigations and to critically assess evidence-based strategies to improve patient safety and quality care within healthcare.
Championing and supporting a culture of participation and inclusivity
Intercalated degree
Join the programme if you're an intercalating medical student and have successfully completed your fourth year, or have already completed an undergraduate course.
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.
Careers, industry and research
Alumni case study: Dr Leila Ellis
“Studying part-time over three years allowed me to balance other clinical, academic and professional commitments while fully engaging with the programme. The diverse range of modules, including 'organisation development and culture' and 'project design and knowledge transfer', were highly relevant to my work within the NHS. The programme was delivered through a blend of seminars, workshops and case studies which helped bridge theory and practice. Through the application of key frameworks, such as systems thinking, transformational leadership and change management, I learnt to drive impactful projects, improve patient outcomes and stay adaptive in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.”
Alumni case study: Dr Elizabeth Reilly
Dr Reilly returned to Plymouth to study a PgCert in Healthcare Management, Leadership and Innovation after our beautiful coastline lured her back to the region.
“Studying this programme has given me greater confidence to take on more managerial roles as part of my Consultant Rheumatologist post in the future. It will allow me to manage the team more effectively, and with greater knowledge of the wider hospital management teams and systems supporting our clinical practice. Plymouth prepared me for the challenges that I face.”
Intercity Place
Discover the first‑class home for your healthcare education – an inspiring space where you’ll gain the skills, confidence and experience to thrive in 21st‑century healthcare careers.
Academic staff
Mrs Pamela Nelmes
Associate Professor of Healthcare Leadership
Programme Lead
Dr Ian Higginson
Honorary Associate Professor
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 a society
Postgraduate study is about more than academic achievement. Joining a society is a great way to connect with other students, build friendships, develop new interests, and create a healthy balance alongside your studies.
Whether you're looking to meet people with similar interests, try something new, expand your professional network, or simply take a break from academic commitments, there's a society for everyone.
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Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in
Full-time study
£11,700 per year
£11,700 per year
Part-time study
£650 per 10 credits
£650 per 10 credits
Tuition fees for UK students starting in
Full-time study
£12,100 per year
£12,100 per year
Part-time study
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
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
Full-time study
£21,000 per year
£21,000 per year
Part-time study
£1,170 per 10 credits
£1,170 per 10 credits
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
Full-time study
£21,650 per year
£21,650 per year
Part-time study
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
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 master's 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 will normally have a first degree BA/BSc (Hons) at 2:2 or above in a relevant subject e.g. (clinical or non-clinical) leadership, management, innovation or related topics.
Entrants who have acquired experience through work or other means that enables staff responsible for admissions to be confident of the candidate’s ability to succeed in the programme may also be considered, in line with QAA guidance.
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), 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?
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 find out more on our
International students page.
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 find out more on our
International students page.
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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