MSc Surgical Care Practitioner (Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery) at University of Plymouth

Programme overview

A part-time MSc for practising surgical care practitioners, accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons, centred on a research investigation into a topic tailored to the student's own speciality and workplace. It develops advanced practice in an emerging specialist surgical role and examines care delivery and the surgical patient experience. Study takes place in Plymouth.

Department: School of Nursing and Midwifery | Duration: 1 year (part-time) | Study mode: part-time | Location: Plymouth, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students complete the Substantive Professional Project (SPP702), a workplace-based research investigation, alongside optional modules such as Ethical and Legal Issues in Healthcare Practice, Advancing Practice in Context, Surgical First Assistant and Clinical Decision Making and Diagnostic Reasoning for Advanced Practice. Students are enrolled on the full MSc and may exit with a PgCert (60 credits) or PgDip (120 credits).

Career pathways

Graduates practise as advanced practitioners providing surgical and clinical care across the patient journey, from pre-admission clinics and theatre to post-surgical ward care, working within the multidisciplinary team. Progression under the Knowledge and Skills Framework includes Band 8a and 8b roles managing operating lists or delivering screening and follow-up programmes.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants need a named consultant surgeon as clinical supervisor; current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (Part 1 or 2) or the Health and Care Professions Council; successful completion of the PgDip Surgical Care Practitioner (Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery) or equivalent; a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check; and satisfactory occupational health clearance. UK applicants need a relevant honours degree or an equivalent professional qualification (other qualifications with substantial relevant experience may be considered case by case), and must be employed full-time in an appropriate role in a suitable UK hospital with the support of the clinical manager. International students cannot be accepted because the programme requires employment as a trainee surgical care practitioner. Applications are made online and may involve an interview.

Duration: 1 year

Health Sciences