University of Leicester

What you'll study

This integrated master’s programme combines evidence-based theory, human bioscience and extensive clinical practice to develop the knowledge and skills needed for adult nursing practice and advanced professional roles. Study is organised around core themes such as clinical assessment, pharmacology, person-centred care, long-term conditions, acute and complex care, older people’s care, and professional and ethical practice.

• Foundations of Nursing Practice: professional values, communication, basic clinical skills and patient safety.
• Human Bioscience and Pharmacology: anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and medicines management relevant to adult care.
• Clinical Assessment and Decision Making: assessment frameworks, clinical reasoning and care planning across settings.
• Care of People with Long-term and Complex Conditions: management and rehabilitation, multimorbidity and integrated care approaches.
• Older People’s and Palliative Care: gerontology, frailty, end-of-life care and symptom management.
• Leadership, Management and Quality Improvement: team working, service development and improving patient safety and quality.
• Research Methods and Evidence-based Practice: research design, critical appraisal and a major independent research project or capstone at master’s level.
• Advanced Clinical Practice Modules: higher-level assessment, clinical decision making and development of specialist practice skills in later stages of the course.
• Practice Placements: multiple supervised placements across hospital, community and primary care settings with formative and summative assessment of competence.

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, simulation and clinical skills sessions, interprofessional learning with other health programmes, small-group tutorials and supervised practice in NHS partner trusts. Assessment uses a combination of practical assessments, reflective practice logs, case studies, written assignments and the master’s-level research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic ability, numeracy and literacy, and a clear commitment to nursing. Typical entry routes include a relevant honours degree or prior study combined with healthcare experience, or equivalent qualifications and professional experience that meet the university’s criteria for advanced entry. All applicants must meet professional fitness to practise requirements.

• Evidence of prior academic study at an appropriate level (for example an honours degree or equivalent qualifications/experience).
• Functional skills in English and maths at a recognised standard (or equivalent qualifications) as required for professional practice.
• Relevant healthcare experience or demonstrable exposure to health and social care settings is strongly recommended and may be required for some entry routes.
• Satisfactory occupational health clearance and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for work with vulnerable people.
• Successful completion of any selection processes such as interview, values-based assessment or numeracy/literacy screening as specified by the school.

Admission criteria are subject to confirmation by the university; applicants should consult the University of Leicester admissions guidance for exact requirements and evidence of equivalency for international qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSci Nursing (Adult) are prepared for professional registration and practice as adult nurses in hospitals, community services, primary care and specialist settings. The integrated master’s emphasises higher-level skills that support progression into advanced clinical roles, leadership, education and research.

• Registered Adult Staff Nurse in acute, community or primary care settings.
• Specialist roles such as clinical nurse specialist, community matrons or rapid response practitioners after experience and further training.
• Leadership and management positions within NHS trusts, commissioning bodies or care providers.
• Opportunities in nursing education, practice development and quality improvement.
• Further academic study at postgraduate research (MPhil/PhD) level or specialist master’s and postgraduate diploma routes leading to advanced practice or prescribing qualifications.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester combines research-informed teaching with strong clinical partnerships across the East Midlands, ensuring students gain diverse placement experience and exposure to contemporary service delivery. The School supports interprofessional learning, access to clinical simulation facilities and experienced academic staff engaged in health services research relevant to nursing practice.

Students benefit from dedicated pastoral and academic support, a focus on employability and progression, and opportunities to engage in research projects or quality improvement initiatives with local NHS partners. The programme’s alignment with professional standards prepares graduates for safe, effective practice and career development in adult nursing.