MSc in Nursing Courses in UK: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

MSc in Nursing is a postgraduate program that equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of nursing. The duration of the MSc Nursing curriculum varies depending on the specialty and the university. It can, however, last between 1-3 years.  

Most UK institutions base their MSc Nursing curriculum on the demands of the NHS and other healthcare businesses in the country. As a result, after completing the program, students are more likely to find work and settle in the UK. The program focuses on enhancing clinical expertise and research skills in nursing practice. 

The average fees for MSc in Nursing in the UK range from £10,000 to £40,000, depending on the university and specific specialization. The course usually has multiple intakes throughout the year to provide flexibility to students.

Why Study MSc in Nursing in the UK?

Studying MSc in Nursing in the UK offers several advantages due to the country's reputation for high-quality education and the healthcare system. Some key reasons to consider studying the course in the UK are:

Top Nursing Education: The UK is renowned for its world-class education system, and its universities have a strong reputation for delivering exceptional nursing programs. Students can benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty members and gain valuable insights into the latest developments in the nursing field.

Clinical Placements: The UK offers excellent clinical placement opportunities in leading hospitals, healthcare centers, and community settings. These placements allow students to gain practical experience, apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, and develop critical skills required for a successful nursing career.

Global Recognition: A degree in MSc Nursing from a UK university is highly regarded worldwide. It opens up international career opportunities and enhances employability in various healthcare settings globally. After completing an MSc in Nursing at a UK university, you will be entitled to join the Nursing and Midwifery Council Professional Register and legally practice in the UK.

Support for Foreign Students: To attract MSc Nursing students from other countries, practically every nursing university in the UK provides scholarships and bursaries. Also, a 2-year post-study work permit available for careers in the UK

MSc in Nursing in UK: Highlights

Types of Msc in Nursing in UK

In the UK, specialization in nursing can be pursued through different master's programs. Some universities offer specialized master's degrees in specific areas, while others offer specialization options within a broader nursing program. Students can choose the specialization based on their career interests and aspirations.

Some of the most popular Masters in Nursing UK specializations are:

• Adult Nursing
• Children's nursing
• Learning disability nursing
• Mental health nursing

Best Universities for MSc in Nursing in the UK

Check out the following top universities in the UK for a Master in nursing:

University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is a world-class public research institution in Edinburgh, Scotland. Students who graduate with a degree in nursing studies from the University of Edinburgh have good job prospects. Graduates of this program have gone on to work in both community and hospital settings, concentrating in areas such as intensive care.

King’s College, London

One of England's oldest and most prominent institutions is King's College London. The most recent QS Rankings place King's nursing faculty second in the world. You may get ready for both adult nurse registration and mental health nurse registration by enrolling in this college's MSc nursing program for overseas students in the UK.

University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow is a prestigious public research institution in Glasgow, Scotland. The Master of Nursing program at the University of Glasgow routinely ranks first in the University League ranking. The nursing postgraduate program here lasts one year.

University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield is a well-known public research university in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England. Nursing master's degrees in the UK provide you with a comprehensive overview of the most recent techniques, ideas, and clinical challenges in the field of developmental language and literacy impairments.

University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham is a prestigious public research institution in Nottingham, England. This program will give nurses the information and skills they need to expand their practice and improve patient care.

Course Curriculum of the MSc in Nursing in UK

The MSc in Nursing program will prepare you for further critical inquiry, evidence-based practice, and research abilities by building on the information, skills, and experience you obtained while completing your undergraduate degree. Throughout the program, you will gain leadership abilities and learn how to facilitate change and continuous improvement in the workplace. 

This Master's degree involves more independent study than an undergraduate course. Essays, reports, case studies, tests, and presentations are among the evaluation techniques accessible. Postgraduate nursing courses in the UK typically require 180 credits for completion.  The topics covered may include:

• Advanced Nursing Practice
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Leadership and Management in Healthcare
• Research Methods in Nursing
• Health Promotion and Public Health
• Ethical and Legal Issues in Nursing
• Specialized Clinical Skills
• Health Assessment and Diagnostic Reasoning

Eligibility Criteria for MSc in Nursing in the UK

Those who are interested in getting a master's degree in nursing in the UK must fit the requirements listed below:

• Bachelor's degree in nursing or a discipline closely connected to healthcare with a grade point average of 55% (second class lower in the UK).
• Some organizations require candidates to have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 75%, which is similar to a first- or second-class upper honors in the UK.

MSc in Nursing in the UK Requirements

The following are the necessary requirements for overseas students seeking a Master's degree in nursing in the UK:

Documents Required 

As part of the application procedure, students applying to the MSc in nursing program in the UK must provide the following documents:

• Transcripts of all educational qualifications till UG
• Proof of registration as a registered nurse
• Proof of experience
• Letter of Recommendation or LOR
• Statement of Purpose or SOP

English Language Proficiency

Another prerequisite for MSc nursing colleges in the UK is English language proficiency. The examinations and average scores are as follows:

• IELTS: 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5
• TOEFL: 80 – 100
• PTE: 59 - 67

GRE

When applying for a master's degree in nursing in the UK, GRE scores are quite important. Admission to nursing programs requires a minimum GRE score of 4.0 in writing, 155 in verbal, and 160 in quantitative.

Passport and Visa

To apply for an MSc in Nursing in the UK, you must have a valid passport and a UK student visa. Don't forget to apply for your visa at least 3 months before to the planned departure date. Check the visa requirements and submit the necessary documents to the appropriate authorities.

MSc in Nursing in the UK Admission Process

To take admission for an MSc in Nursing in the UK, follow these general steps:

• Research Universities and Programs: Explore different universities offering MSc in Nursing programs and review their entry requirements, course curriculum, and facilities.
• Application Preparation: Prepare the required documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and English language test scores. Write a compelling statement of purpose and update your resume.
• Online Application: Fill out the online application form provided by the university of your choice. Make sure to provide accurate and complete information. Submit the completed application along with the necessary documents, application fee, and any additional requirements specified by the university.
• Application Review: The university will review your application, considering your academic qualifications, work experience, and supporting documents. Some universities may require an interview or entrance examination.
• Offer of Admission: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer of admission from the university. Review the offer and follow the instructions to accept the offer.

Cost of Studying MSc in Nursing in UK

The typical cost of an MSc in nursing for an overseas student in the UK is between 10,000 and 40,000 GBP. International master's students who are interested in studying in the UK must have enough money to cover three types of expenses: 

Pre-Arrival Costs: These include application fees, English language proficiency tests (such as IELTS), visa application fees, health insurance, and travel expenses. For health insurance and visa application fees, you will need to budget between £300 and £350. 

Educational Costs: In the UK, the cost of a master's degree in nursing ranges from 10,000 GBP to 40,000 GBP a year. Additionally, most colleges need a deposit payment of £2,000.

Living expenses: The sum will change based on the kind of house, the location, and additional elements like utilities and transportation. These costs range from 21,754 to 47,708 GBP.

Scholarship for the MSc in Nursing in UK

Universities in the UK provide scholarships to overseas students from underprivileged backgrounds and those who have excelled academically. According to the UK government, nursing, midwifery, and many other allied health students will get guaranteed supplementary funding of at least 5,000 GBP per year. 

The grant is non-repayable and will be accessible starting in the following year. Furthermore, the table below lists other scholarships that are accessible to international students in the UK.

 Job Scope of the MSc in Nursing in UK

International graduate learners in the UK can apply for a work visa, which will allow them to find employment there when they graduate. Working as a private nurse can help you make more money. 

Additionally, earning your degree in the UK will prepare you for the employment prospects available worldwide. You can work in the NHS, hospitals, nursing homes, NGOs, rehabilitation facilities, community healthcare facilities, etc., after earning your MSc in nursing. The work profile and a graduate's specialty affect the average pay of an MSc Nursing graduate. 

Take a look at the pay scales for various nursing positions available under MSc in Nursing in the UK jobs: