This programme has been developed to enable healthcare and allied professionals, and intercalating medical students, to engage with both theoretical and practice elements in the study of Palliative and End of Life Care at master's Level.
Introduction
This course will encourage you to consider how good practice can be achieved across a number of different practice settings and apply learning to your own practice area. This programme is rooted in the core elements of good practice, engaging clinical, academic, organisational, political and international perspectives on the current and future challenges for Palliative and End of Life Care.
You will be prepared and provided with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to develop into, and engage in senior clinical and/or leadership roles within regional, national and international contexts.
Your learning experiences will promote improvements in the care delivered to patients and families, enhance support provided to colleagues, enable effective team working within and across professions and sectors, and highlight the pressures of organisation structures and resources on service delivery.
Work-based learning placements within specialist palliative care settings will provide you with the opportunity to contextualise learning within the programme. You will also undertake advanced communication skills training, delivered by internationally renowned experts, and is designed to develop and enhance skills to address challenges frequently encountered in practice.
The programme is led by an academic lead and a clinical lead from the School, supported by input from specialist clinicians, senior academics and an international faculty.
Who is this course for?
The course is designed for all healthcare and allied professionals who support patients with life limiting illness (gerontology, respiratory, oncology, cardiology), including doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists, you will develop critical understanding of the evidence that underpins the practice and development of Palliative and End of Life Care services.
What you'll learn
How to address the challenges encountered in palliative care practice
Advanced communication skills
Effective team working
Leadership skills
Theoretical and practice elements of palliative care.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
You will learn the core competencies for managing end of life care that are identified following the Shape of Training recommendations and subsequent guidance for Core Medical Trainees and Specialist Trainees in General Practice/Paediatrics/Elderly Medicine/General Internal Medicine.
You will be given the opportunity to critically examine the evidence base and develop and enhance your knowledge for practice in the care of patients, and their families, at the end of life.
Compulsory modules
ADVANCED PRACTICE IN PALLIATIVE CARE (MDSC160)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This module is designed for all healthcare and allied professionals that support patients with life limiting illness, including: doctors, nurses, health care managers, medical students, medical and pharmaceutical researchers, radiographers, health care educators, chaplains, medical volunteers, hospice personnel and social workers.
Palliative Care is a global issue and is a core skill for all health care professionals. Due to changes in disease and demographic profiles, all areas of healthcare and all health carers will necessarily engage with patients with palliative care needs. The Lancet Commission Report of 2017 "Alleviating the access abyss in palliative care and pain relief" identifies that almost half of the global deaths each year require palliative care input. The limited and inequitable spread of palliative care results in excess of six billion hours of serious health related suffering. As recognised by the World Health Organisation health care professionals should be competent and confident in applying the principles of Palliative Care “… training and continuing education on Palliative Care should be integrated as a routine element of, all undergraduate medical and nursing professional education, and as part of in-service training of caregivers at the primary care level.”(WHO, 2014)
The module provides opportunities for health and allied care professionals to engage, understand and develop the skills required to provide effective, evidenced based approaches to managing the needs of patients, and their families, with life limiting illness. The module does this by providing a range of educational modalities to ensure a comprehensive overview and practicable engagement with the learning materials. In addition, the module also meets nationally defined Competencies in Practice for the doctors training in general internal Medicine, Care of the Elderly and for most medical specialities.
In addition to traditional teaching approaches led by national and international academic and clinical experts, this module engages experiential learning to explore the challenges of clinical communication within this field. The integrated two-day Advanced Communication Skills Workshop is a core activity and learning is further supported by electronic self-directed learning opportunities. Students are encouraged to bring their own clinical experience into the discussion forums that examine clinical cases on pain and symptom management, ethical issues in decision making, psychosocial care and the effects of policy upon practice.
A week’s structured observational clinical placement is offered to national/international students within a specialist palliative care unit. The placement is structured to both challenge and consolidate learning within the module.
Teaching will be led from the Academic Palliative and End of Life Care Centre, Liverpool, and from the International Collaborative for Best Care for the Dying Person: the Centre is the lead site for the Collaborative, which brings together multidisciplinary practitioners in palliative and end of life care from 24 countries, who wish to build the evidence base for best care for dying patients through collaborative knowledge transfer, clinical excellence, research, service innovation and quality improvement.
Liverpool’s School of Medicine is ideally located for access to some of the UK’s leading specialist clinical units. Students will also benefit from the expertise within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences research institutes teaching and research links with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and surrounding medical institutions.
On successful completion of this module you will achieve 30 academic credits at M Level (7).
Optional modules
Applied Ethics for Clinical Practice I (MDSC400)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This module will provide students with the opportunity to explore and understand ethical problems and theories, to enhance their ethical reasoning skills and to develop a series of research skills and professional behaviours in the fields of clinical ethics and in ethical decision-making processes.
This module is designed to help students to comprehend different perspectives: the ethical decisions for healthcare staff; patients’ perspectives on ‘ethical care’ and patients’ moral commitments to their immediate environments (families, other chains of care); institutional levels of care and the ethics of resource allocation; duty of care towards the research subjects; as well as ethical suggestions and contributions towards improving present health care practices.
There are two linked assessments: a 15 min. presentation 30%. (about a relevant regulation/policy/law and the underpinning ethical principles) and a case study report (a case from a national or international healthcare practice, critically reviewed from an ethical perspective) (3000 words).
Liverpool’s School of Medicine is ideally located for access to some of the UK’s leading specialist clinical units. Students will have the advantage of being taught by ethicists together with clinical experts in hospitals such as Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, The Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, and The Walton Centre, the UK’s only specialist hospital trust dedicated to neurological services. Students also benefit from the expertise within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences research institutes teaching and research links with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and surrounding medical institutions.
This module is designed primarily for healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, health care managers, medical students, medical and pharmaceutical researchers, radiographers, health care educators, chaplains, medical volunteers, hospice personnel and social workers) but it is also accessible for students with interest in medical ethics.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
In Semester two you will be able to develop your research skills, enabling you to develop a critical awareness of the processes required for successful planning and delivery of research.
Compulsory modules
ADVANCED PRACTICE IN END OF LIFE CARE (MDSC161)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
This module provides the opportunity to develop critical understanding of contemporary end-of-life care provision. This module is designed for all health and social care professionals who support patients, and their families, at the end of life, including: doctors, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, health care managers, medical students, medical and pharmaceutical researchers, health care educators, chaplains, volunteers and hospice personnel.
Palliative Care is a global issue. Caring for patients and their families at the end of life is increasingly recognised as a core skill for all health and social care professionals, including those associated with the organisation and delivery of services. The challenges in providing and accessing appropriate End of Life Care are well documented. The World Health Organisation Atlas https://www.who.int/nmh/Global_Atlas_of_Palliative_Care.pdf estimate that 20.4 million people with chronic illness require meaningful End of Life Care, and the Lancet Commission Report https://www.thelancet.com/commissions/palliative-care estimate that in the recorded deaths of 2015, 45% of patients experienced significant health related suffering.
Within the UK, the General Medical Council (www.gmc-uk.org/ethical-guidance/ethical-guidance-for-doctors/treatment-and-care-towards-the-end-of-life) and the Royal College of Nursing (www.rcn.org.uk/clinical-topics/end-of-life-care) outline the challenges, core skills and importance of considered, evidence based care at the end of life, forming the basis for the focus within this module. In addition, a key aim within this module is to consider the role of policy, examine key issues relating to societal engagement and explore the impact of national strategies on end-of-life care provision.
The module uses a blended approach to learning engaging a mix of online and classroom-based activities, encouraging both critical reflection and examination of clinical management and organisational practise. National and international academic and clinical experts lead teaching, with participation from the Academic Palliative and End of Life Care Centre, Liverpool, and from the International Collaborative for Best Care for the Dying Person. The Centre is the lead site for the Collaborative, which brings together multidisciplinary practitioners in palliative and end of life care from 24 countries, who wish to build the evidence base for best care for dying patients through collaborative knowledge transfer, clinical excellence, research, service innovation and quality improvement.
Liverpool’s School of Medicine is ideally located for access to some of the UK’s leading specialist clinical units. Students will also benefit from the expertise within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences research institutes teaching and research links with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and surrounding medical institutions.
On successful completion of this module you will achieve 30 academic credits at M Level (7).
Advanced Research Methods: Design and Data Analysis (MDSC702)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will enable students to further develop and apply their understanding of research. The module will enhance students ability to appraise the design, development, process and analysis of research within health and social science, to critically apply and develop high quality research proposals in a considered and structurally sound approach commensurate with Masters / Level 7 study.
The module is aimed at those who have either completed MDSC701 (Introduction to Research Methods) or have a solid grounding in the basics of research. The module will introduce and explore use and support of Clinical Trials centres and Research Design Support services in the development of advanced study design (e.g. clinical trials, complex interventions). The module will also critique the theory and application of qualitative and quantitative study design and data analysis. The module will equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to complete a large-scale dissertation project that would be required for a Master’s award, and provide a grounding in advanced research skills, such as those required to successfully submit for research funding.
The syllabus for this module is aligned to the Liverpool Curriculum Framework Hallmarks and demonstrates active learning and authentic assessment, designed to help students gain greater confidence in advanced approaches to research, and enable students to critique and develop research in their own area of practice
The module will have a flexible approach, and will be delivered; online, on-campus, or a combination of the two across the semester. Delivery will be supported by lectures, audiovisual presentations, quizzes and case-based interactive discussion boards and tutorials.
There is two part summative assessment within this module:
1. Presentation – Study Protocol Critique: Students will present and critique an outline study protocol. (15 Minute Presentation).
2. Study Protocol: Students will develop a robust project protocol amenable for a Masters level project. (2,000 words).
The assessments can be tailored to focus on the students area of interest and area of speciality.
Introduction to Research Methods: Developing Core Skills (MDSC701)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module will facilitate students to develop a critical understanding and ability to appraise the design, development, process and analysis of research within health and social science. The syllabus for this module is aligned to the Liverpool Curriculum Framework hallmarks engaging: Research Connected Teaching; Active Learning, and Authentic Assessment. Further, the curriculum will provide students with the opportunity to develop: Confidence – in their skills and knowledge of research methods; Digital fluency – through engaging digital platforms for academic development and educational activities; and Global Citizenship – through encountering and appreciating international approaches and perspectives on the collection and analysis of data.
The module is aimed at those who have little experience in research and are looking to prepare for a masters level research project. At the end of this module, students will be able to understand and appropriately critique the elements of ‘the research journey’ from the conception of an idea, through development/approval, execution, analysis and reporting.
The syllabus for this module is aligned with the Liverpool Curriculum Framework and demonstrates active learning and authentic assessment, designed to develop confidence and understanding of research evidence, and how this influences their own area of practice.
The module will have a flexible approach, and will be delivered; online, on-campus, or a combination of the two across the semester. Delivery will be supported by lectures, audiovisual presentations, quizzes and case-based interactive discussion boards and tutorials.
There are two assessments within this module, aligned to the development of core research skills:
1. Critique of a Research Article: 2,000 words
2. Data Analysis Activity: Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis Exercise: Poster Presentation.
The assessments can be tailored to focus on the student’s area of interest and area of speciality.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Final project
In Semester three you will undertake and submit a research project.
Compulsory modules
Research Project (MDSC406)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: whole session
This module is designed for the research project element of Master’s level programmes of study within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. It is designed for students undertaking clinical projects and those that are appropriate to scientists and healthcare professionals within the subject area of their Master’s programme. These might include new graduates in the fields of health and science, doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, health care managers, medical students, medical and pharmaceutical researchers, and other related non-medical personnel.
Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of scientific and applied medical topics previously covered during the core modules and to plan and execute a research project and then to learn how to communicate it to a scientific audience in the form of a scientific poster and a journal article. This module will allow students to understand the process of dissemination of research findings, which will be supported by a supervisor.
In order to accommodate different professional and personal needs, the module has a flexible, online or on-campus structure dependent on the research project. This will be an independent piece of work carried out by the student with support from a named supervisor. Support will also be provided by peer support sessions and assessment support sessions prior to submission, and group lectures and seminars will form the basis of the taught element at the beginning of the module.
Students will further develop their digital skills in the virtual learning environment to explore their research area.
Students will produce a piece of written work that is based on the research project or a systematically structured literature review. The assessment of this module is i) a written journal paper, 5000 words (60%), ii) an individual poster, equivalent to 2500 words, 20%, and iii) an individual oral presentation, c. 15 mins, 20%.
Contributions to teaching and supervision will be from key clinical and research areas and where appropriate cross-Faculty to ensure research informed teaching. Students will benefit from the wide range of research expertise within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences research institutes, teaching and research links with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and other institutions. The University is ideally located for access to some of the UK’s leading specialist clinical units with clinical experts in hospitals such as Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, The Palliative Care Institute Liverpool, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, and The Walton Centre, the UK’s only specialist hospital trust dedicated to neurological services.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
This course uses a blended approach to learning, involving a combination of classroom, practice and online-based activities. The range of educational strategies are used to facilitate learning, including structured reading, experiential learning, formal presentation, clinical observation, reflective practice, student presentation, group discussion and structured critical review.
How you're assessed
You will be assessed through a combination of presentations, coursework and the final research project.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
This course is delivered by the School of Medicine, you’ll be taught by enthusiastic, approachable staff who are all active researchers and/or practising clinicians. As part of the School of Medicine you will benefit from close links with other schools and research institutes within both the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences and wider University to create exciting interdisciplinary opportunities for research and learning.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
An exicting place to study
Centre of Excellence in Teaching and Learning
Flexible delivery supporting health professionals throughout their careers
Access to Centres of Clinical Excellence across the UK
Programmes designed for international impact overseas
Training health professionals for over 180 years
Committed to technologically innovative teaching with state-of-the-art facilities.
What students say...
The faculty is amazing and encouraging, the subject is outstanding, there are several chances for research, and we get to see how what we learn in class is applied in the real world.
This course will prepare you with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to develop into, and engage in senior clinical and leadership roles, promoting improvements in the care delivered to patients and families, supporting colleagues and ensuring effective team working within and across professions and sectors, whilst understanding the pressures of organisation structures and resources on service delivery.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
For clinicians who complete the course, the programme maps directly onto relevant postgraduate training curricula and will directly enhance the career and employment prospects of clinicians in training. The programme will also support the current and future careers of clinicians in other related areas of medicine and allied health professionals.
For intercalating medical students, successful completion of the master’s degree will support competitive applications in the UK Foundation Programme through the additional tariff gained by a level 7 qualification. Career development (through a competitive advantage in Academic Foundation posts) will also be supported by completion of the programme.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£11,700
Part-time place, per year
£3,900
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£28,300
Part-time place, per year
£9,434
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
All qualified clinicians and allied healthcare professionals must have a degree with a degree award at minimum 2:2
For intercalating medical students you should have successfully completed a minimum of 3 years undergraduate training at a recognised medical school
For nurses who may have qualified without a degree, examples of an ability to study at level 7 will be required.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5
TOEFL iBT
100 overall, with minimum scores of listening 21, reading 21, writing 21 and speaking 23. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
130 overall, with no component below 120
Pearson PTE Academic
69 overall, with no component below 61
LanguageCert Academic
75 overall, with no skill below 70
PSI Skills for English
C1 Pass in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Have you got a question about this course? Email the admissions team.
