Code

PGB70G

Start

September 2026, January 2027

Fees

£67 per credit (UK)

Duration

2 years part-time, 3 years part-time

Location

Hendon campus

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.

Full accreditation from the Centre for Advancing Practice

Top 6

UK university in Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 2024

Silver Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023 Award

For very high-quality student experience and student outcomes

Award-winning team

Middlesex University Midwifery Team won the ‘Maternity & Midwifery Trailblazer Award’ for Outstanding Achievement and Commitment in Education at the Maternity and Midwifery Awards London Festival 2025

Student stories and experiences

one man and two women receiving an award

MDX’s pioneering simulated training for adult social care nurses nets Gold Award

International Nurses Day: MDX nursing and mental health care experts recognised for contributions to fulfilling UN Sustainable Development Goals

Diversity at Middlesex University

Watch a video of our students saying which countries they're coming from.

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.

In Year Two, you will engage in a project and select optional modules that allow you to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals. This phase emphasizes practical skills and real-world application, enabling you to deepen your expertise in specialized areas.

This degree offers an individualised and bespoke pathway based on pre-accreditation (up to 60 credits) tailored to current and future development needs. There are a range of CPD optional modules that can be undertaken (up to 60 credits).

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

Students sat working in study space at Sheppard Library.

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Student using computer help from library support

We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place. Our facilities

Careers

How can the MSc/PGDip Advanced Clinical Practice support your career?

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.

Our employability service Careers and Futures will help you make the most of your experience and connections to achieve your career goals. You'll have unlimited access to one-to-one advice and support from specialists in your sector plus 24/7 online support. You can also make the most of events and networking opportunities, on and off campus.

As an alumni, we offer you lifetime career support so we can help you as your progress.

MDXcelerator student start-up support

We can help you bring your business idea to life with our MDXcelerator programme which includes masterclasses with high-profile entrepreneurs, workshops, mentoring opportunities and competitions to secure seed funding.

Students at Middlesex span 122 countries and you will be part of our thriving global network. After you graduate, you'll join our alumni network. You will get access to:

Lifetime careers support from the Careers and Futures employability service;
Raise your personal profile as one of our featured alumni;
Continued limited usage of the Sheppard Library;
Exclusive MDX alumni networks to connect with your peers.

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

Register your interest

Chat with a real student about life at MDX

See all students you can chat to

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

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

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

Fees and funding

The fees below are for the 2026/27 academic year:

UK students¹

Part-time students: £67 per credit

The following study tools are included in your fees:

Free access to the resources, learning materials and software you need to succeed on your course;
Free laptop loans for up to 24 hours;
Free specialist software for your course;
Free printing for academic paperwork.

You may be eligible for one of our scholarships including:

The Alumni Postgraduate Award: a 20% fee reduction for UK/EU Middlesex alumni who studied eligible undergraduate courses;
The Chevening Scholarship: full course fees;
The European Academic Awards: £1,000 to £7,000 for students showing academic excellence;
Regional or International Merit Award: up to £2,000 towards course fees.

For international students, we also have a limited number of other awards specific to certain regions, and work in partnership with funding providers in your country to help support you financially with your study.

Find out more about our postgraduate scholarships.

Help from your employer

Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.

Work while you study

If you are not currently working, we can 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.

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.

2. International fees: Tuition fees 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.

Important information

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.