Clinical Education - PgCert, MSc
This course is an excellent opportunity for a range of health professions, including medicine, nursing, paramedicine, radiography, pharmacy and other allied health professions who are involved with teaching and supervising students to strengthen their skill-set and progress their career. The General Medical Council and other health profession regulating bodies recognise that educators require the necessary knowledge for this role and that there is a need for greater professionalism and accountability as clinical teachers.
Month of entry
- Distance Learning - October
Mode of study
- Online programme, Part time
Location
- Online
Subject area
- Health and Rehabilitation, Medicine
Fees for 2026/27 academic year
-
Home and International - MSc (180 credits) £4,400 (per year of study)
Home and International - PG Cert (60 credits) £4,400
Duration of study
- 1 year - Postgraduate Certificate, 3 years - MSc
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2025/26 academic year.
Why study Clinical Education at Keele University?
Course summary
This course will introduce you to the latest theoretical base and expose you to the challenges of teaching students in the clinical environment. The overall aim of the course is to improve the quality and effectiveness of clinical teaching. Participants will develop expertise and specialist knowledge in their chosen areas of clinical education.
The course is divided into two levels: Postgraduate Certificate and full MSc, with optional simulation pathway. Students can step off at any level.
Postgraduate Certificate
Open to Home (UK) and international students part time as a distance learning (online) course.
This course will cover the fundamentals of clinical education, introduce you to the latest theoretical base and expose you to the challenges of teaching and assessing students in the clinical environment. The overall aim of the course is to improve the quality and effectiveness of clinical teaching through:
- Understanding a learner-centred approach
- Developing practical teaching and assessment skills
- Promoting understanding of educational theory
- Promoting reflective practice in education and clinical practice
- Promoting evidence based education
MSc
Open to Home (UK) and international students part time as a distance learning (online) course.
Achieving the MSc will develop your knowledge and necessary skills to ensure professionalism is reached and maintained for clinical leaders. It will provide the individual with advanced expertise and specialist knowledge in clinical education and enable you to display critical analysis and independent thinking, to progress you in clinical education teaching. To complete the masters, you undertake a clinical education-based research project.
The total academic credit rating for the MSc degree is 180 credits, of which the taught modules comprise 120 credits and the research project 60 credits. You must choose the Designing and Delivering Simulation optional module for the MSc in Clinical Education (with simulation) award.
On successful completion of your research project, you should be able to:
- Communicate a framework of reference (such as a literature review), to show the relevance of the proposed research.
- Display evidence of critical analysis, independence of thought and an understanding of advanced concepts and methods related to research.
- Demonstrate the appropriateness and intellectual coherence of the research design/plan of argument for linking questions to methods and conclusions.
- Select appropriate information gathering methods and implement these effectively and with a high level of judgement.
- Show evidence of advanced methods of analysis and of a high level of skill in their execution.
- Where appropriate, evidence of critical evaluation and reassessment of results and techniques during the research period.
- Show evidence of intellectual rigour in the interpretation of the results of the analysis.
- Analyse ethical issues (where appropriate).
- Produce a report of appropriate style, organization and structure.
- Display a high level of written English and expository methods.
Teaching facilities
The course is hosted by Keele University's School of Medicine, which is one of the top ranked universities in the UK. You will have access to university libraries (online facilities for distance learning) facilities and enjoy the support of the wider university. Teaching Faculty include specialist clinical educators along with educationally qualified clinicians working in both Primary and Secondary care who ensure the course is relevant to the clinical environment.
Accreditation and Professional Recognition
The Postgraduate Certificate pathways are accredited by both the Academy of Medical Educators, and Advance HE (formally the Higher Education Academy), HEA. Successful completion of the course entitles participants to be recognised as Fellows of the AoME and / or HEA and use the
post-nominals MAcadMEd and / or FHEA.
Course structure
Taught modules
Certificate
Compulsory modules:
- Effective Clinical Teaching and Assessment (30 credits)
- Theoretical Perspectives on the use of Simulation based Education (15 credits)
- Learning and Professional Development in the Clinical Environment (15 credits)
MSc
Compulsory modules:
- Effective Clinical Teaching and Assessment (30 credits)
- Research Methods for Clinical Education (15 credits)
- Clinical Education Research Project (60 credits)
- Theoretical Perspectives on the use of Simulation based Education (15 credits)
- Learning and Professional Development in the Clinical Environment (15 credits)
- Principles of Curriculum Design and Assessment (30 credits)
Optional modules:
- Digital Education for Clinical Teachers (15 credits)
- Designing and Delivering Simulation based Education (15 credits) You must choose this module for the MSc in Clinical Education (with simulation) award.
Modules
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Compulsory Modules (comprising the postgraduate certificate)
Effective Clinical Teaching and Assessment (30 credits)
This module will enable you, to interpret and build upon the theoretical frameworks that apply to learning, teaching and assessment and develop understanding in the areas that are relevant in clinical education.
Research Methods for Clinical Education (15 credits)
This module allows you to develop an understanding of the principles of research, the appropriate use of methodological approaches, and to understand how selected methods may be applied to researching practice.
Clinical Education Research Project (60 credits)
In this module you will design and undertake an original research project, addressing a novel and important problem in clinical education. You will prepare your research report as a dissertation or in a journal style article suitable for publication in a peer reviewed journal. You will be supported in disseminating your findings at conferences and as a journal article.This module allows you to develop skills in research design, writing for publication, project management, and presenting.
Theoretical Perspectives on the use of Simulation-Based Education (15 credits)
This module explores the theory that underpins the use of simulation-based education. There is a focus on pedagogical principles, educational assessments, and integration of simulation into a clinical curriculum to simulate real-life scenarios, particularly those involving patient interactions, communication, and clinical skills to teach healthcare professionals.
Learning and professional development in the clinical environment (15 credits)
This module is designed to help you to develop the practical skills and knowledge needed to be an effective teacher specifically within the clinical workplace, supported by underpinning educational theory and the latest pedagogical literature.
Principles of Curriculum Design and Assessment (30 credits)
The module will enable the you to link the principles of curriculum design with assessment practice and design curricula that use the relevant assessment strategies to assess knowledge and competence which are aligned with ILOs, teaching and learning.
Optional Modules - MSc
Digital Education for Clinical teachers (15 credits)
You will explore, and critique extant theory and practice pertaining to digital education and use this knowledge to design and develop your own digital education approach to address a perceived gap in knowledge or practice for a group of learners.
Or
Designing and delivering Simulation (15 credits) (optional or core for Simulation route)
Simulation has an increasing role in clinical education across a variety of professions as it addresses learning needs in a safe environment. Simulation-based education utilised replication of real-life scenarios to guide learning and facilitate skill development. Clinical educators who are engaged in simulation as an educational tool are required to have the knowledge and skills to deliver effective teaching. This module focuses on the design and delivery of simulation-based education into a clinical curriculum.
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare.
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities in Bangladesh, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc- if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course -PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
A recognised degree level award in your chosen area of healthcare
This course is designed for graduate health professionals currently engaged in clinical teaching.
We can accept International applicants on to any version of this course - PG Cert or MSc - if the chosen mode of attendance is distance learning.
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group C.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
Social life, societies and sports
Find out moreAccommodation
Find out moreLocal area and travel
Find out moreBoost your employability
Find out more
Postgraduate funding and scholarships
Funding
Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, our dedicated financial support team is here to help.
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2026 start date falls in the 2025/26 academic year. Please see the tuition fees archive for the 2025/26 fees.
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our financial support team.
Scholarships
We are committed to rewarding excellence and potential. Please visit our scholarships and bursaries webpage for more information.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Additional costs
"The taught Masters in Clinical Education has greatly improved my knowledge surrounding research and education within healthcare. Utilising my skills and experience from the course, I was delighted to secure my top choice specialised foundation programme for my foundation training as a doctor, allowing me to build on my skills learnt from the Masters and incorporate these in further opportunities in education and research."
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching
During the programme you will sometimes be expected to role play and engage in simulated clinical scenarios with other students, such as the practice and observation of practical skills in physical contact with other students. For some specific practices, this may necessitate modification of dress - e.g., to shorts and t-shirt. These activities will be conducted in a professional, safe, respectful and culturally sensitive way, under the supervision of academic staff, according to a defined protocol.
MSc, PG Certificate
- Distance Learning: The online delivery of this course is via Microsoft Teams with content designed specifically for this course. Learning and teaching methods include interactive discussion forums, narrated short presentations, animated videos and video presentations. The course is delivered asynchronously over a specified time and students access the materials and activities at a time that is suitable for them via extensive independent study.
- Dissertation pathway: The emphasis is on self-directed learning supported by individual educational supervisors. It is essential that students identify a local topic-specific supervisor for their project. The topic-specific supervisor should be a senior member of staff within their local NHS Trust or Keele University or equivalent academic institution. Where students are supervised by clinicians who do not hold an academic or teaching post within the university, then a member of academic staff from the course must also oversee the project. The Course Director can assist students in identifying a supervisor.
MSc
The emphasis is on self-directed learning supported by individual educational supervisors. It is essential that students identify a local topic-specific supervisor for their project. The topic-specific supervisor should be a senior member of staff within their local NHS Trust or Keele University or equivalent academic institution. Where students are supervised by clinicians who do not hold an academic or teaching post within the university, then a member of academic staff from the course must also oversee the project. The Course Director can assist students in identifying a supervisor.
Assessment
PG Certificate
Modules will be assessed by a variety of assessment methods including written assignments, reflective diaries, presentations and case studies and production of educational media.
MSc
You will undertake a dissertation project in an area related to Clinical Education. The outcome of the research project can be presented for assessment in two different ways.
- A written dissertation (15,000 words) OR
- A journal style article, supported by a presentation of research design and reflective piece.
Progression and affiliation
The Postgraduate Certificate pathways are accredited by both the Academy of Medical Educators, and Advance HE (formally the Higher Education Academy, HEA). Successful completion of the courses entitles participants to be recognised as Fellows of the AoME and/or HEA and use the post-nominals MAcadMEd and/or FHEA.
"The taught Masters in Clinical Education has greatly improved my knowledge surrounding research and education within healthcare. Utilising my skills and experience from the course, I was delighted to secure my top choice specialised foundation programme for my foundation training as a doctor, allowing me to build on my skills learnt from the Masters and incorporate these in further opportunities in education and research."
