MSc Leadership and Management (Top-up) at University of Portsmouth

Programme overview

Turn your practical leadership experience into an academic postgraduate qualification in 1 year, as you explore management topics and target your studies to progress your career. Take your practical leadership experience you’ve gained in your career and complete a dissertation on leadership or management to convert your experience into a full Master’s degree. Supported by an expert supervisor, you'll use research theory and practices to explore leadership within your organisation, and graduate with a recognised academic qualification.

Duration: 1 year part-time (top-up) | Study mode: part-time | Intake: January 2027 / September 2027 / January 2028 | Location: Portsmouth, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Modules include Research Methods and Investigative Project.

Career pathways

You’ll graduate as an expert in leadership with a postgraduate qualification to showcase your skills. Holding a recognised MSc certificate will help you appeal to employers and evidence your experience, both in civilian life and during your time in service.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

There are 4 recognised routes of entry: The award of the CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Leadership & Management obtained within the last 5 years and a minimum of 3 years appropriate management experience. Military applicants may apply on the basis of Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) via either their Rank or the award of ICSC and a minimum of 2 years work experience at a leadership level. Police applicants may apply on the basis of Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) following successful completion of the College of Policing Senior Leadership Development Programme (June 2018 or later) and a minimum of 2 years work experience at Chief Inspector level or equivalent. Via a Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) portfolio where the applicant can demonstrate they meet the Learning Outcomes of a number of prior units. English language: IELTS band 6.5 (or equivalent) with no component score below 6.0.

Domestic applicants: GBP 3,730 for the whole programme (2026/27). Part-time: £3,730 Source

International applicants: GBP 6,200 a year (2026/27). Part-time: £6,200 per year Source

Intake: January 2027 / September 2027 / January 2028

Duration: 1 year part-time (top-up)

Apply through the official page: https://www.port.ac.uk/study/courses/postgraduate-taught/msc-leadership-and-management-top-up

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