Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The programme combines leadership theory with applied service development and quality improvement techniques. Core themes typically include leadership and organisational change, service design and user-centred practice, governance and policy in public services, project and programme management, and applied research methods. Teaching emphasises practical application: students usually work on real-world service improvement projects or a dissertation that addresses an organisational challenge.

• Leadership and change: models of leadership, leading teams, managing culture and ethical decision making.
• Service development and improvement: service design, co-production with users, continuous improvement methods and evaluation.
• Governance, policy and regulation: accountability, risk management and the policy context for public and third-sector services.
• Research and evidence use: applied research methods, data for decision making, and translating evidence into practice.
• Project or dissertation: an extended piece of applied work focused on a workplace challenge or a research question relevant to service leadership.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (or an equivalent professional qualification) or demonstrate substantial relevant professional experience. The programme is designed to be accessible to those with significant workplace experience in public services, health and social care, local government or the third sector. Employers’ support for a work-based project is often beneficial.

International applicants must meet Bournemouth University’s English language requirements; equivalent English qualifications and recognised tests (for example IELTS or approved alternatives) are accepted. Admissions decisions take account of professional background, referees’ reports and a personal statement outlining motivation and suitability for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to leadership and senior practitioner roles that require strategic thinking and the ability to deliver service improvement. Typical roles include service manager, project or programme manager, improvement lead, service development specialist, policy advisor and consultant. The course is particularly relevant for professionals seeking promotion within health and social care providers, local authorities, charities and private companies that deliver public services.

The applied focus and emphasis on workplace projects help students build a portfolio of demonstrable change activity, which employers value when recruiting for roles that combine management, service design and quality improvement.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University offers a strong emphasis on applied and professional education, with teaching informed by staff who combine academic expertise with practical experience in service improvement and leadership. The university fosters employer links across health, social care, local government and the third sector, providing opportunities to test learning on real challenges.

The programme’s flexible, practice-based approach supports part-time study alongside work and is designed to develop transferable leadership skills, critical reflection and the ability to implement evidence-based change. Students benefit from small-group teaching, access to research support and a learning environment focused on preparing leaders for complex service systems.