NHS Leader Goes the Distance for University of Wolverhampton Law Degree

A senior NHS leader whose work focuses on data science, artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare innovation has graduated with distinction from the University of Wolverhampton's Master of Laws (LLM) programme.

Claire Macdonald, Head of Clinical Data Science at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, completed the online degree while balancing a demanding full-time leadership role and caring responsibilities.

Travelling around 300 miles from her home near Loch Lomond, Scotland, to attend her graduation ceremony before returning to work the very next day, Claire demonstrated the commitment that has driven her passion for continuous professional development.

Already an experienced online learner, Claire had previously completed a BSc in Natural Sciences, an MSc in Data Science and an MBA specialising in Cybersecurity through flexible learning routes. Working predominantly remotely, she was well accustomed to online study and valued the flexibility it offered.

Reflecting on graduation day, Claire said the University of Wolverhampton ceremony stood out as one of the most memorable she had attended.

"The procession was the most enthusiastic I've experienced," she said. "Everyone was celebrating and enjoying the moment. It was a lovely atmosphere."

Claire chose to study law to deepen her understanding of the legal and regulatory frameworks underpinning the use of data and AI in healthcare.

"I chose the Master of Laws because it fitted several of my criteria," she said. "I could study online, it covered key legal foundations that would support my professional development, and the University seemed to adopt a modern approach to teaching."

The flexibility of online learning allowed her to fit study around work and family commitments.

"Being able to study online really helps people like me who have those sorts of commitments, as I could fit university work into lunch times, evenings and around whatever demands I had on my time."

Although entering an entirely new discipline was initially challenging, Claire said the course structure and support from lecturers helped her quickly build confidence and develop her legal knowledge.

A particular highlight was her dissertation on the Governance of AI and Synthetic Data in Healthcare, a highly specialised topic closely aligned to her professional responsibilities. Claire praised her dissertation supervisor and the wider faculty for supporting her interdisciplinary approach.

"My supervisor said they'd never seen a dissertation quite like it," she said. "I'm glad they allowed me to explore an area of interest that was so relevant to my job. The research helped me make sense of a rapidly changing field and has been incredibly useful in my work."

The knowledge gained through the degree is already helping Claire develop policies and governance frameworks that support the safe and responsible use of emerging technologies within healthcare.

Graduating with distinction exceeded her own expectations.

"I surprised myself at being awarded my degree with distinction, and I'm positive the way the course was constructed enabled me to achieve this."

During her studies, Claire also received national recognition when she was named Team Leader of the Year at the Women in Tech Awards 2025. Further recognition may follow, with her team shortlisted for Best Sovereign Cloud/Regulated Cloud Solution at the Computing Cloud Excellence Awards 2026.

Looking ahead, Claire is considering a PhD and continues to contribute to national discussions on AI governance through her role as Chair of the Health Data Research UK Responsible AI Governance, Risk Management and Compliance Special Interest Group.

Reflecting on her experience, she strongly recommends postgraduate study for professional development.

"I would definitely recommend the course. It opens opportunities, gives you credibility and helps you understand the legal foundations behind policy, governance and decision-making."