Master's top-up for Level 7 Apprentices

Options for those who have completed a Higher-level (Level 7) Apprenticeship

About our top-up programme

If you’ve done a Higher-level (L7) Apprenticeship and passed your EPA within the last 5 years, you can top up to a Master’s qualification in one year.

You will take the 60-credit Practitioner Research for Work-based Transformation module.

Your award will depend on the Apprenticeship you have completed. There are two available award titles: MSc Leadership Practice or MSc Healthcare Leadership.

What you will study

The Practitioner Research for Work-based Transformation module provides you with the opportunity to plan, implement, evaluate and disseminate key findings from a work-based enquiry, creating meaningful and sustainable change within and beyond your organisation.

Aims of the module

To develop and execute a substantive work-based enquiry that addresses an area of pressing need within your organisation that is meaningful to you and others
To enhance your ability to conduct practitioner research, critically evaluate your findings, and implement sustainable changes
To provide you with the skills to disseminate your findings effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences
To foster critical and developmental reflexivity within your professional practice and personal development.

Assessment methods

Research report and critical reflection - for an academic audience
Dissemination plan and portfolio tasks - for an organisational audience.

How to apply

Contact us to discuss your options for a master's top-up. We will invite you to a personal planning session with an Admissions Tutor to discuss your potential Award title.

How much does the master's top-up cost?

Fees for 2026/7 entry

The fee for the top-up option for external candidates is: £4,320
The fee for the top-up option for candidates who completed their Senior Leadership Apprenticeship at Lancaster is: £3,150

Fees for 2027/8 entry

Fees TBC

When does the course start?

Course start dates: September, January, April

Course duration: 10 months

Action research is encouraging me to seek out my own workplace solutions and solve them as I go. It has given me confidence in my leadership skills, knowing I can drive a project through from concept to implementation. I can be a catalyst for change, and I can bring people with me.

A quote from Ruth McHugh Practitioner Research for Work-based Transformation alumna

Diane Bleackley, Teaching Fellow

Speak to a team member

If you have any questions, we are here to help you.