Advanced Clinical Practice MSc
Our Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) degree will enable you as an experienced practitioner working at an advanced level to meet the nationally agreed advanced clinical practice criteria.
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Viewing course details for 2024 year of entry
- Code
- PGB70G
- Attendance
- Part-time
- Start
- September 2024, January 2025
- Fees
- £65 per credit (UK)
- Duration
- 2 years part-time, 3 years part-time
- Course Leader
- Tina Moore
- Study mode
- On campus, Online, Blended
- Location
- Hendon campus
- School / Department
- School of Health and Education
Why study MSc Advanced Clinical Practice at Middlesex University?
Our Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) degree will enable you as an experienced practitioner working at an advanced level to meet the nationally agreed advanced clinical practice criteria. This will include the four pillars of advanced practice (clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research) in order to further develop your role as an advanced clinical practitioner.
The core focus of the programme is the recognition of and building on previously acquired knowledge and skills, combined with workplace learning and supplemented with virtual live and on-demand pre-recorded modules. Key to the programme is the relationship between the trainee, your clinical supervisor and your University tutor.
The following awards (at either MSc or PG Dip) are given depending on practice area: Health Care Practice, Nursing, Mental Health, Midwifery or Primary Care.
We have five different specialisms for this course – Health Care Practice, Nursing, Midwifery, Mental Health and Primary Care Nursing.
Whether studying for a PG Diploma or an master's degree, you will benefit from our pre-programme consultation and advice which continues throughout the course. You'll also benefit from our unique personal tutoring system which takes a proactive approach and echoes the values of ‘building success for all’, helping you to reach your potential as a qualified advanced clinical practitioner.
As an experienced practitioner working at an advanced level, we know that you have the makings of an advanced clinical practitioner having already gained academic qualifications and experience. Our job is to capture that past learning, to work with you and your clinical supervisor to build on your experience by identifying work-place learning opportunities.
Course highlights
- Recognition of prior learning wherever that takes place
- Focus on work place learning
- Pre-course consultation and advice
- Tripartite reviews: clinical supervisor, practitioner, university tutor
- Clinical supervisor preparation and on-going support
- Full accreditation from the Centre for Advancing Practice.
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3 great reasons to pick this course
The Dame Janet Ritterman Bursary.
Nursing and midwifery students enrolled on an undergraduate or postgraduate course at Middlesex University for the 2024-25 academic year could be eligible to apply for The Dame Janet Ritterman Bursary.
This bursary has been kindly sponsored by the Chancellor of Middlesex University, Dame Janet Ritterman and is to the value of £1,000. If you match the defined criteria then you are eligible to apply by completing and submitting the form below.
Amount: 2 x £1,000 bursaries
Eligibility: Applicants must be a first, second or third year student studying nursing or midwifery at undergraduate or postgraduate level, and enrolled in their course in September 2024. The bursary is open to both UK or International students. Full terms and conditions can be found below.
Please note, priority will be given to those who are from the following groups:
Refugees and/or asylum seekers, care leavers, those who can demonstrate financial hardship or to those who are the first in their family to go to university.
The closing date to apply is Sunday 27 October 2024.
About your course
What will you study on MSc/PGDip Advanced Clinical Practice?
You’ll work alongside your clinical supervisor and personal tutor to follow an initial self- assessment of capabilities and design a unique programme of university study and workplace learning. This personalised approach to learning will enable you to demonstrate the capabilities within the ACP domains of advanced practice, education, research and management and leadership.
We have four different specialisms for this course - Nursing, Midwifery, Mental Health and Primary Care Nursing.
ACP capabilities within each domain will be demonstrated in the workplace or university and then documented through a series of reflective narrative accounts supplemented with appropriate evidence in a portfolio. You’ll do this as part of the module entitled Capabilities of Advanced Clinical Practice which is one of three core modules in the programme. The others are the Advanced Practitioner Enquiry and Advanced Project – these align with the capabilities within the research domain.
What will you gain?
On successful completion of the MSc/PGDip Advanced Clinical Practice programme, you’ll be entitled to the professional title of Advanced Clinical Practitioner having demonstrated capabilities with the four domains of ACP practice. Successful practitioners will have acquired a range of advanced level skills which will offer you further career progression and/or progress to masters or doctoral level studies.
You’ll have developed skills required to share your advanced knowledge and expertise across the local, national and international arena and to act as supervisors of other advance practitioners.
You will also build a reputation for yourself, act as a role model and be known as an expert within your field of nursing/midwifery.
Modules
Here is a brief overview of the modules.
Advanced clinical practice is delivered by experienced, registered health and care practitioners. It is a level of practice characterised by a high degree of autonomy and complex decision making. This is underpinned by a master’s level award or equivalent that encompasses the four pillars of clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research, with demonstration of core capabilities and area specific clinical competence.
Advanced clinical practice embodies the ability to manage clinical care in partnership with individuals, families and carers. It includes the analysis and synthesis of complex problems across a range of settings, enabling innovative solutions to enhance people’s experience and improve outcomes.
(Health Education England, 2017).
This module provides an opportunity for those working in an advanced level of practice to integrate, synthesise, and demonstrate the application of knowledge around an area of specialism through clinical case presentation in the workplace.
In addition, you will be supported in demonstrating through a reflective and systematic way, your journey in developing and advancing the capabilities that are required for Advanced clinical practice as outlined by the Practice Standards Framework (Health Education England and Royal College of General Practitioners). This will be demonstrated through a portfolio of evidence.
Module descriptions to be updated.
This module is designed to develop your understanding in a range of advanced inquiry methodologies appropriate for practitioners, in order to design a real work based project that has clear objectives to related to your own professional development or the development of practice in your setting. You will be expected to focus on specific service, organisational or practice related issues and take initiative and leadership. You will explore approaches to advanced practitioner inquiry and innovative methods appropriate for your area of practice. You will be able to critically reflect upon your position as a ‘practitioner or insider researcher’ and the ethical implications that could arise during the project.
This module is the culmination of your master's study and provides the opportunity to synthesise professional and academic learning. You will be supported to undertake a substantial work-based project that is designed to develop your own professional practice and address a practice, organisational or service issue that you have already identified in your workplace or professional field.
Building on your understanding of advanced practitioner inquiry methodologies, you will be encouraged to consider improvement and leadership strategies to support the successful management of your project and to deliver real outcomes that have the potential to transform practice.
This module is a culmination of your Masters study and provides the opportunity to synthesise professional and academic learning. It will support you to undertake a substantial work based project that is designed to develop your own professional practice and address a practice, organisational or service issue that you have already identified in your workplace or professional field. Building on your understanding of advanced practitioner inquiry methodologies, you will be encouraged to consider improvement and leadership strategies to support the successful management of your project with the potential to deliver real outcomes that can transform practice.
This module is a culmination of your Masters study and provides the opportunity to synthesise professional and academic learning. It will support you to undertake a substantial work based project that is designed to develop your own professional practice and address a practice, organisational or service issue that you have already identified in your workplace or professional field. Building on your understanding of advanced practitioner inquiry methodologies, you will be encouraged to consider improvement and leadership strategies to support the successful management of your project with the potential to deliver real outcomes that can transform practice.
This module is designed to develop your understanding of a range of advanced inquiry and research methodologies appropriate for practitioners, in order to design a real work based project or practice development activity that has clear objectives related to your own professional development or the development of practice in your setting. you will be expected to focus on specific service, organisational or practice related issues and take initiative and leadership. It will explore approaches to advanced practitioner inquiry and innovative research methods appropriate for your area of practice. It will enable critical reflection upon your position as a ‘practitioner or insider researcher’ and the ethical implications that could arise during the project.
Advanced clinical practice is delivered by experienced, registered health and care practitioners. It is a level of practice characterised by a high degree of autonomy and complex decision making. This is underpinned by a master’s level award or equivalent that encompasses the four pillars of clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research, with demonstration of core capabilities and area specific clinical competence. (Health Education England, 2017).
Advanced clinical practice embodies the ability to manage clinical care in partnership with individuals, families and carers. It includes the analysis and synthesis of complex problems across a range of settings, enabling innovative solutions to enhance people’s experience and improve outcomes. (Health Education England, 2017).
This module provides an opportunity for those working in an advanced level of practice to integrate, synthesise, and demonstrate the application of knowledge around an area of specialism through clinical case presentation in the workplace.
In addition, this module will facilitate and support the student in demonstrating through a reflective and systematic way, their journey in developing and advancing the capabilities that are required for Advanced clinical practice as outlined by the Practice Standards Framework (Health Education England and Royal College of General Practitioners). This will be demonstrated through a portfolio of evidence.
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Student testimonials
"During my MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice at Middlesex University, I found the teaching style precise and effective. Alison Harris and Tina Moore were incredibly supportive as I transitioned into a senior clinical role. They deeply understood the challenges of balancing a full-time job with demanding assignments."
"At one point, I nearly gave up, but Alison’s guidance and Tina’s reassurance helped me persevere. Their patience and dedication ensured I could manage my clinical responsibilities while continuing my studies. I highly recommend Middlesex for its understanding staff and superior teaching style compared to other universities."
Athikur Choudhury, ACP graduate
"In 2021 my clinical director called me to see if I would be interested in the ACP course. I thought this was completely out of my reach with a demanding role professionally and three children and a busy home. However, I looked further into the modules and the variety of those which could be specific for my role as matron and clinical nurse specialist…so I applied!
"The ACP course provided an extensive depth of understanding and knowledge within my specialist area of women's health and cancer, particularly the practice portfolio, physical assessment and project proposal.
"Broader modules of leadership and service development equipped me with management skills and the confidence to improve practice and patient care. I cannot recommend this course highly enough. The project module was demanding, challenging, but at the same time, it was rewarding to find outcomes and solutions to facilitate change in patient care.
"The ACP course modules are bespoke to your own speciality, and I am so very grateful to my NHS Trust and Middlesex University for their support, for the guidance of my clinical director and the excellent module leaders. The university staff, especially those in the library, could not be more accommodating – especially to someone who had never used some of the software.
"I am very proud to have started at Middlesex as a student nurse in 1998 and to have achieved my ACP in 2023. I am hoping to support other ACPs in the future at my NHS Trust."
Tara Egan, Lead Nurse – Women's Health, Outpatients & Imaging, CNS Gynae-Oncology, Whittington Trust
"I wanted to become an advanced practitioner ever since the roles first appeared – to advance my career and help to take the nursing profession to the next level.
"I was finally able to start my studies, but I was daunted by the task of juggling work, family life and studies. I have two small children so I knew it would be no easy task. However, I was soon reassured by the university’s supportive, knowledgeable and accommodating lecturers. Their guidance and feedback inspired me to successfully complete the programme. The modules were well structured and relevant to the ACP role.
"I am now a qualified ACP and independent non-medical prescriber, working alongside junior doctors, consultants and other professionals in a multidisciplinary team."
Iiris All, ACP graduate
"As a junior nurse I wished to become an advanced practitioner. At that time, I could not find the words to describe what I wanted professionally. From when I began learning about my specialist field (ENT), I knew I wanted to prescribe.
"The physical assessment course was so important for me. I have had to do clinical assessments and triage in many of my previous posts, and this aspect is essential. I did more modules and learned how to develop big projects, do research and prepare a portfolio with my competences in advanced practice. It was quite intense, hard work and exciting, learning how to complete my essays.
"My tutors were amazing. Looking back, I can say this programme was really important for my professional fulfilment. I learnt a lot, and advanced my practice – as it says in the title. I definitely recommend it."
Julio Rodriguez, Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT), West Middlesex Hospital
"This programme allowed me the opportunity to learn, implement and live my dreams.
"It empowered me to share my experiences and skillset with total strangers, both fellow students and lecturers. We forged friendships and developed as professionals together.
"It was not without its challenges, but these encouraged us to negotiate the pathway to completion. An amazing course, with brilliant, encouraging lecturers."
Shawn Marie Robinson, Nurse Hysteroscopist, Whittington Trust
Teaching
You will be taught used a student centred approach. This is designed to support and develop mastery of knowledge and understanding of your area of professional practice. There are a variety of teaching and learning strategies used within this programme, all of which are designed to support you and to allow you to have equal and equitable opportunities to optimise your potential, support, independence and autonomy of learning and facilitate your development as Advanced Clinical Practitioner.
Stimulating and innovative learning opportunities will be available whether within the University, online or in your workplace. Learning will be supported and facilitated by the programme leader, module leaders, clinical supervisor and personal tutor.
You have a strong support network available to you to make sure you develop all the necessary academic skills you need to do well on your course.
Our support services will be delivered online and on campus and you have access to a range of different resources so you can get the help you need, whether you’re studying at home or have the opportunity to come to campus.
You have access to one to one and group sessions for personal learning and academic support from our library and IT teams, and our network of learning experts. Our teams will also be here to offer financial advice, and personal wellbeing, mental health and disability support.
Your skills and knowledge are assessed by the use of a variety of methods, which are informed by the University and School Assessment Strategies together with the HEE/RCGP ACP capabilities.
Assessment methods may vary according to the type and focus of the module which may include: Reflection on practice, oral presentations of case studies, presentations, portfolios, OSCEs, reports, clinical audits/evaluation, research/project proposal.
Compulsory
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North London campus
Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.
Learn moreFacilities and support
Our Sheppard Library provides a wide range of resources and support to help you to succeed in your studies.
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Over 1,000 study spaces including rooms for group study and over 500 computers available.
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We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.
Our facilitiesStudent support
We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.
Additional needs
We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team.
Wellness
Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.
Work while you study
Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
An honours degree of 2:2 or above in nursing, midwifery or a related subject.
Further requirements
- Current UK nursing and midwifery registration, and be practising at an advanced level of nursing / midwifery practice together with a satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in place
- A minimum 3 years full time experience, or equivalent, in the area of practice disciplines
Further requirements continued
- Access to a clinical practice supervisor to support the work placed learning, portfolio development and to validate achievement of the capabilities as set out by the Health Education England Framework (2017)/ Royal College of General Practitioners (2020). This must be a registered health or social care professional working at an advanced level of practice
- Evidence of prospective employment as an Advanced Practitioner on completion of the programme
- Evidence of passing an International Language Testing System (IELTS) with a score of 7.0 with a mean score of 6.5 in all elements or equivalent testing systems.
Apply as early as possible to make sure you get a place. You can submit your application before you receive your final qualification.
Watch our step-by-step video how to apply for postgraduate taught courses.
Personal statements
Make sure that you highlight your best qualities in your personal statement that are relevant to this course. Such as your ability to be forward-thinking, creative and collaborative.
Interviews
You will be expected to attend a pre-programme planning discussion
Careers
How can the MSc/PGDip Advanced Clinical Practice support your career?
On successful completion of the MSc/PGDip Advanced Clinical Practice programme, you’ll be entitled to the professional title of Advanced Clinical Practitioner having demonstrated capabilities with the four domains of ACP practice within your specialism.
You will be able to practice as an ACP within a job role which will have been identified by your employer and as such, you will be the right person, with the right skills, in the right place at the right time (HEE, 2017).
Global network
You’ll study with students from 122 countries who’ll hopefully become part of your global network. And after you graduate, we'll still support you through our alumni network to help you progress in your chosen career.
Fees and funding
The fees below are for the 2024/25 academic year:
UK students1
Part-time students: £63 per credit
Part-time students: £TBC per dissertation
Additional costs
We cover your costs for the day-to-day things that you need to do well in your studies.
- Free – laptop loans, Wi-Fi and printing
- Free specialist software for your course
- Free online training with LinkedIn Learning.
Financial support
We offer lots of support to help you with fees and living costs. Check out our guide to student life on a budget and find out more about postgraduate funding.
Help from your employer
Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.
Fees disclaimers
1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase postgraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.
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Get answers from our Unibuddy student ambassadors
We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.
Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.
Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.
At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.