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School of Nursing and Midwifery

MSc Health and Social Care Leadership, Coaching and Innovation

MSc Part-time 3 years

Study MSc Health and Social Care at the University of Wolverhampton — a one-year full-time (or 21-month part-time) master's designed to develop skilled, reflective practitioners ready to lead and shape the future of health and social care.

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Study MSc Health and Social Care at the University of Wolverhampton — a one-year full-time (or 21-month part-time) master's designed to develop skilled, reflective practitioners ready to lead and shape the future of health and social care.

Award
MSc
Start date(s)
14 September 2026
Course specifications
View course spec
Course length
Part-time (3 years)
Campus location
University: Walsall Campus
School
School of Nursing and Midwifery

Why choose this course?

This postgraduate course offers you a transformative learning experience alongside other health and social care professionals seeking to develop advanced leadership, innovation, and coaching and mentoring capabilities. Unlike generic leadership programmes, this course is specifically designed to meet the complex interpersonal, ethical, and organisational challenges faced in health and social care settings. Students will be guided through an ecological approach to leadership, from self-leadership to leading individuals, teams and applying these principles within and across organisations. It blends theory, reflective practice, and applied skills to support professionals in becoming confident, emotionally intelligent mentors and coaches who can lead change, support colleagues, and enhance service delivery within and across organisations. 

What sets this course apart is its deep integration of coaching and mentoring within the realities of clinical and social care. You will explore traditional and contemporary theory to develop inclusive leadership practices that will influence multidisciplinary teams and person-centred care. The course also emphasises personal development, emotional intelligence, and professional identity; ensuring that you not only gain knowledge but also grow as a compassionate, reflective leader.

There are options to study the Post graduate certificate over one year, progress to the postgraduate diploma over two years, or complete the full MSc over three years.

What's unique about this course?

Vocational and reflective, not research-heavy by default. Students choose between a traditional research study or a work-based project for their major module - a flexibility not all master's programmes offer.


One module at a time. The programme is deliberately sequenced so students focus on a single module before moving to the next, rather than juggling several concurrently - designed to manage postgraduate workload.


A distinctive practitioner-interview archive. A growing, on-demand catalogue of recorded interviews with HSC professionals across leadership, mental health, youth work, housing and community development - a resource unique to this programme.


Every student gets a placement, structured explicitly to bridge academic learning and workplace practice, with flexible in-person, remote or hybrid formats.


Emotional intelligence as a named, central ethos - not just a soft skill mentioned in passing, but the subject of a dedicated module (The Emotionally Intelligent Practitioner) plus a Psychologically Informed Practice module.


Short, intensive duration - 12 months full-time - aimed at practitioners looking to accelerate into leadership or specialist roles quickly.
20% Loyalty Discount for Wolverhampton undergraduates progressing directly to this Master's.

 

 

 

What happens on the course?

Throughout the course, you will engage in experiential learning, peer coaching, and real-world case studies. You also have opportunities to apply your learning in your own workplace, supported by expert facilitators and structured feedback. The following modules will be studied:

Year of study: 1 (Part-time)

  1. Contemporary Leadership in Health and Social Care
  2. Developing Professional Practice through Mentorship and Coaching

Year of Study: 2 (Part-time)

  1. Leading Across Systems: Developing Collaborative Approaches to Stakeholder Relationships
  2. Transforming Practice: Service Improvement and Innovation in Health and Social Care

Year of Study: 3 (Part-time)

  1. Health and Social Care Research Dissertation

This course is designed to support students, especially those returning to study or coming from diverse educational backgrounds to settle into academic life with confidence.  Recognising the ability of health and social care professionals with sector norm experience in leadership who may not have completed a level 6 qualification but have evidence of studying at level 6.   

At Level 7, students are introduced to postgraduate expectations through structured induction activities, academic writing workshops, and early opportunities for peer connection and tutor support. The course team fosters a welcoming, inclusive environment where students feel valued and supported from the outset. 

Academic support is embedded throughout modules, including access to personal tutors and extensive study skills resources. Early formative assessments, such as reflective writing and project planning, are designed to build confidence and provide constructive feedback before summative assignment submission. 

All students will be offered comprehensive assessment briefs for each module of study. Reflection is a core component of the course, encouraging students to track their development and use feedback to shape their learning journey. 

Student feedback is actively sought through module evaluations and informal discussions, and is used to adapt teaching approaches, resources, and support mechanisms, ensuring that the course remains responsive, relevant, and inclusive for all learners. 

Placements on the course

  • Professional development work placements are available to every student, bridging academic learning and the workplace
  • Placements are short, structured and project-based, always linked to coursework or professional development modules
  • Format is flexible: in-person, remote, hybrid or virtual
  • A professional marketplace, introduced in the first module, connects students to a range of HSC organisations and agencies, opening up placement and study visit opportunities
  • Support during placement comes from placement agencies, programme staff and the University Chaplaincy

 

 

 

 

 

Employability on the course

Employability runs through the whole programme, not just one module:

  • A careers fair at the start of the course introduces students to professionals and agencies across the HSC sector
  • Students build a development plan, reviewed regularly with the programme team throughout the year
  • Transferable skills - interpersonal skills, reflection, leadership, planning, research, report writing, presenting, public speaking, group work and LinkedIn profile-building - are woven into weekly teaching
  • Students take part in an assessment centre to identify their strengths and talents for the job market
  • Regular access to the University Careers Team, plus 1-1s with the Programme Lead and Success Hub, covering CV writing, interview practice and volunteering opportunities
  • Graduates are prepared for roles in private industry, local authorities, government departments, statutory bodies, NHS Trusts, NHS England, charities, policy organisations, and higher and further education

Course Modules

Module: 7NH163
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

This postgraduate module explores the principles and practices of effective leadership and management within health and social care settings. Learners will be introduced to foundational leadership concepts, including the personal qualities of a good leader and an overview of traditional and contemporary leadership theories and styles. Learners will learn how to search for and evaluate topic related research studies and relevant policy. Emphasis is placed on motivation, power dynamics, organisational structures, compassionate leadership, self-leadership, and the development of self and others. The module supports the growth of emotional intelligence (EI), resilience, and the creation of person-centred cultures through practical leadership activities. Learners will examine leadership approaches and develop academic writing skills to communicate leadership insights effectively. Strategic leadership topics include vision-setting, effective communication, and maintaining motivation during organisational change.

Module: 7NH164
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

This postgraduate module develops advanced knowledge and practical skills in reflective practice, coaching and mentoring as essential components of health and social care leadership. Learners will explore the theoretical foundations of reflection, coaching and mentoring, including historical and contemporary models such as GROW and CLEAR, alongside adult learning theory and reflective practice frameworks (Kolb, Schön). Key concepts such as psychological safety, relational dynamics, cultural competence, and ethical considerations will be critically examined to ensure inclusive and values-based practice. The module emphasises applied practice, equipping students with core coaching and mentoring skills such as active listening, questioning, feedback, and goal setting. Learners will gain experience in structuring and managing professional relationships, facilitating reflective conversations, and using tools like coaching contracts and supervision models to support career development. Strategies for evaluating impact and outcomes will also be addressed. Finally, the module focuses on professional identity and leadership, fostering emotional intelligence, resilience, and ethical leadership. Through reflective journaling and personal development planning, students will develop the confidence to act as coaches, mentors, and change agents within complex healthcare systems.

Module: 7NH165
Credits: 30
Period: 1
Type: Core

This postgraduate module equips health and social care professionals with advanced leadership and management skills to navigate complex organisational environments. Learners will critically explore and develop strategies to build collaborative internal and external stakeholder relationships and organisational success. The module introduces tools such as PESTLE analysis to assess external influences and examines how organisational strategy aligns with governance, operational behaviour, and culture within primary and secondary care, social care and other providers. Key themes include influencing and negotiation techniques, conflict management, and fostering civility within teams. Learners will evaluate methods for working effectively with diverse stakeholders to achieve business objectives while maintaining ethical and person-centred approaches. The module also addresses leadership challenges during periods of change, highlighting the importance of resilience and strategic communication.

Module: 7NH167
Credits: 60
Period: 2
Type: Core

In this module, you will plan and complete a substantial research project focused on a topic relevant to health and social care practice. You may undertake either a primary research project or an integrative review, depending on your research question, professional context, and ethical considerations. Both routes require you to engage critically with existing evidence, apply appropriate research methods, and demonstrate ethical and methodological rigour. The module supports you to move from guided learning to independent inquiry. With workshops and academic supervision, you will develop a clear research question, justify your methodological choices, and critically analyse findings or evidence. The dissertation enables you to demonstrate advanced research literacy, critical judgement, and scholarly communication. This module prepares you for research active professional roles and provides a strong foundation for progression into doctoral study.

Module: 7NH165
Credits: 30
Period: 2
Type: Core

This postgraduate module equips health and social care professionals with advanced leadership and management skills to navigate complex organisational environments. Learners will critically explore and develop strategies to build collaborative internal and external stakeholder relationships and organisational success. The module introduces tools such as PESTLE analysis to assess external influences and examines how organisational strategy aligns with governance, operational behaviour, and culture within primary and secondary care, social care and other providers. Key themes include influencing and negotiation techniques, conflict management, and fostering civility within teams. Learners will evaluate methods for working effectively with diverse stakeholders to achieve business objectives while maintaining ethical and person-centred approaches. The module also addresses leadership challenges during periods of change, highlighting the importance of resilience and strategic communication.

Module: 7NH166
Credits: 30
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module empowers students to lead meaningful change within health and social care settings by critically addressing issues related to the quality of care in their own professional sphere. Learners will begin by identifying and examining a specific challenge impacting service delivery, negotiating and agreeing a project brief with their line manager to ensure alignment with organisational priorities. Using a recognised model for quality and continuous improvement, students will critically analyse the evidence base and develop a detailed, practical plan to enhance service quality and outcomes. The module emphasises the integration of innovation and evidence-based practice, fostering the ability to design interventions that are both sustainable and impactful. Throughout the process, learners will apply advanced critical thinking to evaluate the effectiveness of change initiatives, considering organisational culture, stakeholder engagement, and evidence-based implementation strategies such as PDSA and change models. By the end of the module, students will demonstrate the capacity to lead evidence based service improvement projects that drive measurable enhancements in care quality, contributing to continuous improvement and innovation within health and social care systems.

Module: 7NH167
Credits: 60
Period: 3
Type: Core

In this module, you will plan and complete a substantial research project focused on a topic relevant to health and social care practice. You may undertake either a primary research project or an integrative review, depending on your research question, professional context, and ethical considerations. Both routes require you to engage critically with existing evidence, apply appropriate research methods, and demonstrate ethical and methodological rigour. The module supports you to move from guided learning to independent inquiry. With workshops and academic supervision, you will develop a clear research question, justify your methodological choices, and critically analyse findings or evidence. The dissertation enables you to demonstrate advanced research literacy, critical judgement, and scholarly communication. This module prepares you for research active professional roles and provides a strong foundation for progression into doctoral study.

Potential Career Paths

  • Private industry (health and social care sector roles)
  • Local authority positions
  • Government departments
  • Statutory bodies
  • NHS Trusts / NHS England
  • Charities and voluntary sector organisations
  • Policy organisations
  • Higher and further education
  • Leadership and management roles in health and social care
  • Research and policy development roles
  • Further study, including PhD or professional doctorate routes

 

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

What makes this course stand out? 

  • Designed specifically for health and social care professionals, with sector-relevant content and examples.
  • Builds leadership confidence, insight and competence tailoring and applying leadership principles to situations and populations
  • Focus on emotional intelligence and professional identity, in addition to learning practical leadership approaches and skills.
  • Integration of coaching and mentoring with leadership and service improvement, offering an integrated, service relevant development of skills and knowledge.
  • Use of real-world case studies and workplace-based projects, ensuring relevance and impact.
  • Opportunities for peer coaching and reflective practice, fostering deep learning and collaboration with like-minded colleagues.
  • Access to experienced facilitators with clinical, educational, and leadership backgrounds.
  • Flexible delivery options, including online synchronous and asynchronous learning to suit working professionals.
  • Alignment with national frameworks such as the NHS Leadership Academy and Advance HE, supporting career progression.

By the end of the course, you will have developed a knowledge and skills set and confidence and competence to mentor and coach others effectively, lead with empathy, and contribute meaningfully to a culture of learning and improvement in your organisation and beyond. 

Completion of the three years equips professionals with a suite of transferable skills, including:

  • Self-awareness
  • Coaching & Mentoring
  • Decision Making
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Reflections
  • Critical Reading and Writing
  • Report Writing
  • Research skills
  • Leading and evaluating QI projects
  • Designing Business Cases
  • Academic Posters
  • Presentation skills

"I’m a Registered Nurse and Midwife in Nigeria. I was supported by my organisation back in Nigeria to gain a postgraduate qualification and, now I’ve completed the course, I shall be returning to take on a more senior managerial role.   Having a background in nursing, I was looking for something that was quite challenging that would help me build up my career. I chose the University of Wolverhampton because the course was perfect for me; it prepares you for a role in any health organisation.

The buildings I studied in were close together on campus, so I didn’t have to travel far between lectures. It’s a nice setting, and I was made to feel very welcome. The lectures were a bit challenging at first, but what I enjoyed most was the team spirit amongst the lecturers and other students – it allowed us to support each other through the challenges the course offered.  

There were students from many different countries on the course and it was great to share knowledge. Everyone had a background in health – ranging from nursing to micro-biology and nutrition. Visiting the Learning Centre was always a pleasant experience as the librarians were always there to help out.   If I had the opportunity I would enrol again – and would definitely recommend the University of Wolverhampton to others. It allows you to grow professionally, as well as develop your personal skills."

Angela, MSc/MA Health and Social Care graduate 

Postgraduate Loyalty Discount:

You can get 20% discount on a taught postgraduate course if you’re a University of Wolverhampton Graduate.

The University offers a generous 20% Loyalty Discount to students progressing from an undergraduate programme to a taught postgraduate on-site programme, where both courses are University of Wolverhampton Awards.

There is no time limit on how long ago you completed your degree as long as this is your first Masters level qualification.

The discount applies to the first year of enrolment only. Students who receive a loyalty discount are not entitled to any further tuition discount or bursary. For full terms and conditions click here.


Self-funded:

If you are paying for the fees yourself then the fees can be paid in 3 instalments: November, January and April. More information can be found by clicking here.


Sponsored - Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:

Your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.


Financial Hardship:

Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.


Charitable Funding:

You might also want to explore the possibility of funding from charitable trusts. Please contact Association of Charitable Foundations, Directory of Social Change or Family Aid. Most charities and trust funds offer limited bursaries targeted to specific groups of students so you will need to research whether any of them are relevant to your situation.

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

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