Designed specifically for nurses and allied health professionals working in critical care, this MSc develops the enhanced knowledge, critical thinking and leadership skills needed to deliver high-quality care to critically ill adults. Aligned with UK national frameworks, it combines clinical expertise, evidence-informed practice and quality improvement to support your career progression and service innovation.
This three-year, part-time MSc combines academic study with workplace learning to develop enhanced clinical, leadership and research skills. Aligned with national critical care frameworks, the programme supports evidence-based, multidisciplinary practice and is built to be studied seamlessly alongside your professional role.
You will build expertise in advanced physiology, clinical decision-making, quality improvement and service innovation, before undertaking an independent research or quality improvement project with real-world impact. Your learning will include interactive lectures, seminars, clinical simulation as well as project-based learning, delivered by experienced academics and practising critical care clinicians. Work-based learning, clinical mentorship and inter-professional education ensure that learning is directly relevant to practice.
Liverpool’s progressive programme design, strong focus on authentic assessment and clear progression pathway from PG Certificate to MSc help prepare graduates for careers in clinical leadership, education, research and practice development within and beyond critical care.
You can complete this course with the following alternative qualifications:
This programme is designed for registered nurses and allied health professionals (AHPs) working in UK critical care settings seeking to enhance their clinical expertise and leadership capabilities. Applicants must be registered with the NMC or HCPC and be actively involved in the care of critically ill adults within a UK critical care unit.
Nurses should have completed the CC3N Step 1 competencies, while AHPs should be practising at or beyond Foundation level according to the Intensive Care Society AHP Capability Framework.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY OF THE CRITICALLY ILL PATIENT (HEAL702) | 30 |
| MANAGEMENT OF THE CRITICALLY ILL PATIENT (HEAL703) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Some of our central systems are still being updated, so if a module is listed but not linked to, check back again soon to access more module detail. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| NEGOTIATED WORK BASED LEARNING (PORTFOLIO ROUTE) (HEAL499) | 30 |
| PROMOTING QUALITY IN CRITICAL CARE (HEAL704) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Some of our central systems are still being updated, so if a module is listed but not linked to, check back again soon to access more module detail. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| DISSERTATION (HEAL451) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Some of our central systems are still being updated, so if a module is listed but not linked to, check back again soon to access more module detail. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
This three-year, part-time programme is designed to be completed alongside employment in a UK critical care setting. Teaching is delivered through a blended approach that combines online learning, live teaching sessions and work-based learning in practice.
You will learn through a range of teaching activities, including interactive lectures, seminars, tutorials, simulation-based learning and enquiry- and project-based activities. Lectures explore key topics such as advanced physiology, the management of critically ill patients, quality improvement and leadership in critical care. Sessions are delivered by University of Liverpool academics, experienced critical care clinicians and external experts. In-person lectures are live-streamed and recorded to support flexible engagement.
Seminars, tutorials and group work encourage critical discussion, problem-solving and inter-professional learning. Simulation activities provide opportunities to develop clinical assessment, communication, leadership and decision-making skills in realistic critical care scenarios. Students also undertake structured work-based learning, supported by clinical mentors and workplace assessors.
Teaching is supported by independent study, including directed reading, literature appraisal, preparation for assessments and project work. Students will normally participate in one teaching day per week (approximately seven hours), supported by additional independent study and assessment preparation. Seminar and tutorial groups typically include around 20 students, enabling discussion and personalised support.
The programme places a strong emphasis on active learning, research-informed teaching and digital innovation. Throughout the course, you will develop your ability to critically evaluate evidence, apply research to practice and undertake quality improvement and research projects, culminating in a dissertation or practice-based project in your final year.
Assessment is designed to reflect the knowledge, skills and decision-making required in real-world critical care practice. You will complete a range of authentic assessments that mirror professional activities undertaken by critical care practitioners.
In Year 1, you will complete an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and an unseen short-answer examination. The OSCE assesses your clinical reasoning, decision-making and prioritisation skills through a realistic patient scenario, while the written examination tests your ability to apply essential knowledge in complex clinical situations. Each assessment contributes 50% of the module mark.
As you progress through the programme, assessments focus on applying evidence to practice and leading service improvement. You will complete an evidence-based literature review, business case proposal, oral presentations and a critical reflection of practice. Many assessments allow you to choose topics relevant to your own role and clinical interests.
The programme concludes with a substantial dissertation or practice-based project in year three.
You will receive regular formative feedback, opportunities to practise assessment tasks and support from academic advisors and clinical mentors throughout the programme.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
You can study some of the modules on this course as standalone CPD (Continuing Professional Development) modules. Contact us using the buttons at the bottom of the course page to find out more.
As a part-time student, you’ll spend one teaching day each week engaging in interactive, interprofessional learning with expert clinicians, academics and peers. Through discussion, simulation, workplace learning and independent study, you’ll build the confidence, knowledge and leadership skills needed to improve outcomes for critically ill patients.
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This MSc is designed to help you advance your career in critical care and beyond as you develop enhanced clinical expertise, leadership skills and research capabilities that are highly valued across healthcare settings.
Through work-based learning and authentic assessments, you’ll gain experience in quality improvement, service development and evidence-informed practice. You’ll also build transferable skills such as analytical thinking, digital literacy, resilience and problem-solving.
Graduates will be well placed to pursue career development opportunities in clinical leadership, practice development, education, research and service improvement. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to contribute to the future of critical care through innovation, teaching and the advancement of professional practice.
This programme is designed to support career progression across a range of critical care roles. As well as enhanced clinical knowledge, you’ll develop leadership, research and quality improvement skills that can be applied directly in practice.
Graduates may pursue opportunities in:
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Part-time place, per year - £4,350
Part-time place, per year - £10,350
The tuition fees shown are for the academic year 2027/28. Please note that the international fee shown is for the academic year 2026/27 and will be updated shortly. Please be advised that tuition fees are subject to change each year for both UK and international students.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £13,206 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | Applicants should normally hold a relevant honours degree (minimum 2:2) in BN Nursing, BSc Physiotherapy, BSc Occupational Therapy, BSc Speech and Language Therapy, BSc Dietetics or an equivalent pre-registration, AHP or nursing qualification. For nurses who have completed pre-registration studies to diploma level, this will be considered if evidence of CPD study at Level 6 or Level 7 can also be provided. Students must be fully registered with either the NMC (nursing) or HCPC (allied health professionals). This programme will only be offered to students working in (or having responsibility for a patient caseload in) a critical care unit in the UK. Nurses must have completed CC3N Step 1 competencies. AHPs must be working at or beyond Foundation level according to the Intensive Care Society AHP Capability Framework. Confirmation of these criteria will be required through a personal statement and an employer reference upon application. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5 |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
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Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 15 October 2026 / Programme terms and conditions