University of Edinburgh

What you'll study

This programme combines taught modules, clinical practice and a substantial research dissertation to develop advanced assessment, clinical decision-making, prescribing and leadership skills. Core themes include advanced clinical assessment, pathophysiology and pharmacology, evidence-based practice and service improvement.

• Advanced Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning – advanced history-taking, physical examination, use of investigations and integration of findings to formulate management plans.
• Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for Advanced Practice – applied theory to underpin clinical decisions, safe medicines management and understanding of disease mechanisms.
• Non-medical Prescribing (where available as an option or elective) – preparation to undertake independent or supplementary prescribing, dependent on local provision and eligibility.
• Advanced Practice Leadership and Service Improvement – service redesign, leadership in multidisciplinary teams, quality improvement methodologies and policy influence.
• Research Methods and Evidence Translation – quantitative and qualitative methods, critical appraisal and skills to implement evidence into practice.
• Dissertation / Major Project – an independent piece of advanced-level research or practice development linked to clinical practice.
• Clinical Practicum / Work-based Learning – supervised clinical placements in specialist areas to consolidate advanced skills. The amount and location of practice hours reflect professional standards and local partnership arrangements.

Students typically follow a modular pathway that can be tailored with elective modules or pathways in areas such as acute care, primary care, community health, palliative care or mental health. The programme is offered with flexible study options, including part-time study to accommodate working clinicians.

Entry requirements

• Professional registration – current registration as a nurse with the relevant professional regulator (for UK applicants, Nursing and Midwifery Council).
• Academic qualification – an honours degree in nursing or a related health discipline, or equivalent professional experience. Typical offers expect a degree at UK second-class (2:2) or above; exact requirements are considered alongside clinical experience.
• Clinical experience – relevant post-registration clinical experience (often a minimum of two years) in a clinical setting appropriate to the chosen pathway.
• References and employer support – at least one professional reference and, where applicable, evidence of employer support for protected learning time and clinical supervision for practice-based components.
• Occupational requirements – satisfactory occupational health clearance and any necessary background checks (such as Disclosure/DBS) for placement learning.
• English language – international applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements.

Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission; applicants are assessed on the overall strength of their application, professional suitability and alignment of learning objectives with programme aims.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of advanced clinical and leadership roles across healthcare settings. Typical career pathways include:

• Advanced nurse practitioner or advanced clinical practitioner roles in primary, secondary or community care.
• Clinical nurse specialist or consultant nurse positions with specialist caseloads and responsibility for pathways of care.
• Clinical leadership, service improvement and management roles within NHS boards, health organisations and charities.
• Roles in education and training, including practice educator positions and teaching within higher education.
• Further academic study and research careers, including progressing to MPhil/PhD study or research posts.

The programme equips graduates with transferable skills in clinical decision-making, research literacy and leadership that are valued across health systems nationally and internationally.

Why study at University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh offers the programme within a strong academic environment renowned for health and nursing research. Students benefit from the School of Health in Social Science’s multidisciplinary expertise and links with clinical partners, including local NHS boards, which support high-quality practice placements and applied learning.

• Teaching is delivered by experienced clinicians and researchers with active involvement in practice development and health services research.
• Access to clinical simulation facilities, libraries and online learning resources supports blended and flexible study for practising clinicians.
• Opportunities to engage with research centres and networks that focus on advanced practice, chronic disease management and health services improvement.
• A supportive environment for career development, with employer relationships across the region facilitating transition into advanced clinical roles.

The programme is designed to be practice-focused and research-informed, preparing graduates to lead safe, effective and innovative clinical care in complex healthcare contexts.