Clinical and Professional Education

The MSc in Clinical and Professional Education at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip healthcare professionals, educators, and administrators with advanced skills and knowledge in clinical teaching, curriculum development, and healthcare education. This innovative course aims to bridge the gap between clinical practice and educational theory, fostering the development of effective teaching strategies tailored to the unique needs of healthcare environments. Throughout the program, students engage with a wide range of modules covering pedagogical principles, assessment methods, curriculum design, and leadership in education. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling participants to implement evidence-based educational practices within their own clinical settings.

Students benefit from a multidisciplinary learning environment that encourages collaboration among clinicians, educators, and policymakers, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and best practices. The program emphasizes the importance of reflective practice, supporting learners to critically evaluate their teaching approaches and adapt to the evolving landscape of healthcare education. With a mixture of face-to-face seminars, workshops, and online learning components, the MSc provides flexible study options suitable for busy professionals. Throughout the course, students undertake a research project or dissertation, allowing them to explore a specific area of interest in clinical or professional education, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

Graduates of the MSc in Clinical and Professional Education are well-equipped to assume leadership roles in health professions education, improve educational quality within their organizations, and contribute to policy development. The program also supports those aiming to pursue further research or doctoral studies. Whether you are an experienced clinician seeking to enhance your teaching skills or an educator aiming to develop innovative curriculum designs, this MSc offers a rigorous and supportive environment to achieve your professional goals. By combining theory, practical skills, and research, the program prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact on healthcare education and ultimately improve patient care through better-trained healthcare professionals.

By participating in this modular programme participants will be able to select the most relevant topics for their clinical and professional environment that will enhance their future teaching practices.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits

The MSc comprises two core and up to six optional modules (120 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

Students can study part time (up to three years) or flexibly (up to five years).

A Postgraduate Diploma comprising of two core modules and up to six elective modules (120 credits, part-time two years, flexible up to five years) is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate comprising one core and three optional modules (60 credits) is offered.

Core modules

• PG Certificate Year - Teaching and Learning in Medical Education (15 credits)
• PG Diploma Year - Writing a Research Proposal for Clinical and Professional Education (15 credits)

Optional modules

• Introduction to Assessment (15 credits)
• Leadership Skills for the Healthcare Professional (15 credits)
• Quality Improvement in Healthcare (15 credits)
• Qualitative Research Methods for Clinical and Professional Education (15 credits)
• Education for the Health Professions (15 credits)
• Teaching Ethics and Law in Clinical Education (15 credits)
• Introduction to Clinical Simulation (15 credits)
• Clinical and Educational Supervision (30 credits)
• Learning and Teaching for Adults (30 credits)
• Contemporary Issues in Clinical Education (30 credits)

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an individual research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 - 20,000 words.

Teaching and learning

This programme is delivered through a combination of methods with some blended learning, some distance learning and some face-to-face. Modules use a range of interactive online methods through a virtual learning environment to enable students to learn in a virtual, collaborative environment. Assessment is through coursework.

A minimum of a second-class UK Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, and relevant professional experience in a clinical or educational setting.

The financing of the Clinical and Professional Education programme at University College London (UCL) is structured to provide students with comprehensive support options to facilitate their academic journey. Funding for this programme can be obtained through multiple sources, including government-funded student loans, scholarships, bursaries, and external awards. Domestic students in the UK are eligible to apply for the Student Loan Company (SLC) loans, which cover tuition fees and provide maintenance funding to support living costs. These loans are repayable based on income after graduation, offering a flexible financial solution for many students.

International students pursuing the Clinical and Professional Education programme may need to seek alternative funding options, such as private scholarships, university-specific bursaries, or sponsorships from healthcare organizations. UCL offers various scholarships for international students, including need-based and merit-based awards, which can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external funding bodies and charitable organizations that support health professionals undertaking postgraduate education.

UCL also provides financial guidance and support services that help students navigate the complexities of funding their studies. Prospective students can access detailed information about tuition fees, payment plans, and financial planning through the university’s dedicated finance office. Furthermore, the course may include opportunities for paid placements or part-time work, which can help students offset costs while gaining practical experience.

Research funding, grants, and fellowships are also relevant for students involved in academic or clinical research components of the programme. These funding sources are often available through university research councils, national health agencies, or professional organizations. Payment deadlines, terms, and conditions vary, and students are advised to stay informed about eligibility criteria and application procedures for each funding option.

Overall, the financing landscape for the Clinical and Professional Education programme at UCL is designed to be accessible and supportive, facilitating diverse student populations in achieving their academic and professional goals. The university continuously updates its financial aid offerings to reflect changes in funding policies and student needs, ensuring that students have ample resources to complete their studies successfully.

The Clinical and Professional Education program at University College London is designed to prepare healthcare professionals with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in clinical practice. This program emphasizes the development of clinical competencies, professional values, and ethical standards necessary for effective patient care and interprofessional collaboration. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical learning with practical experience, ensuring students are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern healthcare environments.

Students enrolled in this program engage in a variety of learning activities, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and supervised clinical placements within diverse healthcare settings. The program focuses on cultivating critical thinking, decision-making abilities, and communication skills to foster competent and compassionate practitioners. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to reflect on their practice, develop research acumen, and understand the importance of lifelong learning in maintaining professional standards.

The curriculum covers core areas such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical skills, while also addressing social, psychological, and ethical aspects of healthcare. Students gain exposure to multidisciplinary teamwork and learn about the importance of patient-centered care. The program is structured to meet regulatory requirements and accreditation standards within the UK, aligning with national health policies and guidelines.

Graduates of the Clinical and Professional Education program at UCL are prepared for careers in various healthcare sectors, including hospitals, community clinics, specialized clinics, and research institutions. They are equipped to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and to adapt to evolving healthcare technologies and practices. The program also provides a foundation for postgraduate specialization and continued professional development.

In addition to academic excellence, UCL emphasizes fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages innovation, leadership, and ethical practice. The program benefits from the university's strong links with healthcare providers, ensuring relevance and alignment with current clinical practice. It also offers opportunities for students to participate in research projects, quality improvement initiatives, and community engagement activities, enhancing their professional profiles.

Overall, the Clinical and Professional Education program aims to produce highly skilled, reflective, and adaptable healthcare professionals who can deliver high-quality patient care, promote health and well-being, and contribute positively to healthcare systems locally and globally.