City

What you'll study

This programme builds advanced knowledge of neonatal physiology, pathophysiology and clinical management alongside practical skills in assessment, monitoring and support of the newborn. Core themes include neonatal respiratory and cardiovascular support, thermoregulation and fluid balance, nutrition and feeding in preterm and sick infants, infection prevention and neonatal pharmacology. Students also study developmental care, family-centred practice and communication with parents in high-acuity settings.

Teaching blends lectures, skills sessions in clinical simulation, case-based learning and supervised clinical practice. Research methods and audit are integral, with modules covering evidence appraisal, statistics, quality improvement methodology and protocol development. The programme culminates in a substantial independent research project or practice-based dissertation that addresses an applied issue in neonatal care.

• Neonatal physiology and clinical assessment
• Respiratory support and advanced monitoring
• Nutrition, growth and developmental support
• Neonatal pharmacology and therapeutics
• Infection control and neonatal sepsis management
• Family-centred care and communication
• Clinical simulation and emergency response
• Research methods, audit and quality improvement
• Independent research project or dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a second-class honours degree (2:1 preferred) or equivalent in a relevant subject such as nursing, midwifery, medicine, biomedical science or a related health profession. Applicants without a qualifying degree but with substantial professional experience and recognised postgraduate qualifications may be considered on an individual basis.

Current professional registration (for example NMC, GMC or equivalent) and recent clinical experience in neonatal, paediatric or maternity settings are highly desirable. Employers' support for classroom‑to‑practice elements or evidence of access to an appropriate clinical environment for practice-based learning may be required. International applicants must meet the programme's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates typically progress into specialist clinical roles within neonatal units such as neonatal nurse specialist, advanced neonatal practitioner, neonatal outreach nurse or neonatal unit educator. The MSc also supports careers in clinical governance, quality improvement and service development within neonatal and paediatric services, and provides a foundation for roles in research and teaching.

The qualification is recognised by employers in NHS trusts and specialist neonatal centres and is commonly used by practitioners aiming for senior banded posts, advanced clinical practice pathways, or further academic study (for example PhD or professional doctorates).

Why study at City

City offers practice-focused postgraduate training delivered by staff with current clinical roles and research expertise in neonatal and perinatal health. The programme benefits from established partnerships with London NHS trusts, providing access to diverse clinical placements and multidisciplinary teams. Students learn in well-equipped simulation facilities that mirror neonatal unit environments, supporting hands-on skill development in a safe setting.

Teaching is designed for health professionals balancing work and study, with a combination of blended learning and face-to-face practical sessions. The school's emphasis on applied research and quality improvement helps graduates translate learning directly into safer, evidence-based care for newborn infants and their families.