MSc Rural Advanced Practice at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

Developed with NHS Education for Scotland, this fully online MSc prepares nurses and allied health professionals to work as advanced practitioners in remote, rural and island settings. It is delivered through UHI's Centre for Rural Health Sciences and focuses on clinical practice, leadership and management, education and research. Assessment is through practice-linked reflection and a work-based portfolio, with clinical competence developed through local practice supervision.

Duration: 3 years part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

PgDip core modules are Values and principles of living and working in a remote, rural or island community, Improvement science: enhancing quality in health and social care, and the Remote advanced practice portfolio. The MSc adds the Major project: innovative solutions (40 credits). Entry in the current year is to year two only.

Career pathways

Graduates work as remote and rural advanced practitioners providing and improving healthcare in remote and rural communities.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants must be a registered nurse or allied health professional with current NMC, HCPC or equivalent registration, employed in a health, social care or third sector role in a remote, rural or island setting in the UK. They need a first degree (SCQF level 9) or evidence of successful degree-level study, and must be working at advanced practice level with at least a postgraduate diploma level qualification (level 11) including a recordable independent prescribing qualification and an advanced clinical assessment module (RPL assessed individually). Applicants must supply transcripts, evidence of registration, a personal statement naming workplace, employer and line manager, and confirmation of clinical supervision arrangements. English language: overall IELTS 6.5 with no element below 6. PSDS funding applications for September 2027 entry close 30 May 2027; UHI applications close 18 June 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,920 for the whole programme (2026/27). MSc with 60 credits of recognised prior learning plus 3 modules (80 credits) and dissertation (40 credits). Applicants domiciled in the UK. Source

International applicants: GBP 6,583 for the whole programme (2026/27). MSc with 60 credits RPL plus 3 modules and dissertation. UK-resident students assessed as international for fee status; the course is not open to those needing a Student Route visa. Source

Intake: September

Duration: 3 years part-time

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