Programs

MA Art Therapy

The MA Art Therapy program at the University of Derby is designed to equip you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to become a registered art therapist. This course emphasizes the crucial role of imagery and imagination in art therapy practice. You will gain hands-on experience in clinical art therapy under supervision, participate in group work, engage in studio practice, and develop a critical understanding of contemporary theoretical frameworks. The program aims to foster your clinical reasoning skills and professional identity through a blend of taught modules, personal therapy, and a significant Independent Scholarship project.

MPhil/PhD

The University of Derby offers opportunities to pursue research leading to an MPhil or PhD degree. You can choose to work on a predefined research project, either fully-funded or self-funded, or design your own research project. It is also possible to apply for a PhD by Published Works if you have an existing body of research. The university aims to provide the necessary supervision and facilities to support your research journey.

MSc Accounting and Finance

This Master of Science (MSc) in Accounting and Finance is designed to provide a comprehensive and intellectually stimulating learning experience. It prepares students for professional accounting examinations, such as ACCA and CIMA, while also conferring a respected master's degree. The program focuses on developing advanced financial techniques and strategic knowledge, enhancing critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills to improve employability in senior finance roles. Students will learn within an ACCA and CIMA accredited study center, taught by experienced professionals with both academic and industry backgrounds. The curriculum integrates real-life business scenarios through consultancy projects, guest lectures, and potential finance-related internships, offering practical experience and networking opportunities within the regional business community.

MSc Advanced Clinical Practice

The MSc Advanced Clinical Practice program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip healthcare professionals with advanced theoretical and clinical skills. The program aims to develop practitioners capable of managing individual patient care through history taking, examination, requesting and interpreting investigations, and prescribing medicines and therapies where appropriate. It also emphasizes the importance of driving service improvement, undertaking audit and research, and educating others to enhance patient care. The course structure follows the four pillars of advanced practice and utilizes a constructivist learning approach in partnership with employers to foster autonomous practitioners. Students are expected to attend the Kedleston Road campus once a week.

MSc Advanced Data Science

The MSc Advanced Data Science is designed for individuals seeking to develop advanced skills in statistical analysis, business analytics, data processing, and natural language processing, including large language models. The program offers a critical understanding of modern data science principles, methods, and challenges, with a focus on ethics, trust, and governance in AI systems. Delivered by research-active academics, the course emphasizes learning the latest techniques and tools, applying analytical and computational methods to real-world datasets, and developing independent research and problem-solving abilities through a substantial MSc project. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and practical experience demanded by employers in data-driven industries.

MSc Advanced Engineering Materials

The MSc Advanced Engineering Materials program provides in-depth knowledge in the multidisciplinary field of engineering materials, integrating concepts from materials science, chemistry, physics, nanotechnology, and engineering. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of how material properties can be engineered at the atomic and molecular level to enhance performance and functionality. This course is designed to meet the evolving demands of industries requiring innovative and sustainable materials, such as aerospace, automotive, energy, healthcare, and electronics. You will engage in cutting-edge research, explore emerging materials, and contribute to the development of transformative technologies, driving innovation, improving product development, and enhancing manufacturing processes. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to address challenges in areas like lightweight materials for energy-efficient transportation, clean energy generation, sustainable construction, and biocompatible medical materials.

MSc Applied Acoustics

This MSc Applied Acoustics is a top-up degree designed for professionals who already hold the Institute of Acoustics (IOA) Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control. It offers a convenient distance learning route to a master's qualification, allowing you to build upon your existing knowledge and gain advanced skills in noise assessment and control. The program focuses on a research-based investigation, culminating in a thesis on an acoustics topic of your choice, which can be tailored to your current role and employer's needs if you are employed in the field. The University of Derby has over 30 years of experience in delivering acoustics courses and is a leading centre for the IOA Diploma in the Midlands.

MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science

This MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Science is designed to prepare you for a career as a high-level sport and exercise professional, whether working with elite athletes or promoting public health. The program offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests and career aspirations through a variety of module options. You can choose to specialize in Psychology or Performance Analysis, with pathways developed in line with industry demands. The Psychology pathway, in particular, is endorsed by the Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES), providing a direct route to their accreditation program upon completion. You will gain significant practical experience through applied placements and internships, benefiting from the guidance of industry-experienced mentors. The course emphasizes building strong research skills, enabling you to apply the latest scientific findings in real-world settings. Through extensive partnerships with leading athletes, sports teams, and organizations, you'll have opportunities to work directly with clients and gain valuable professional experience.

PG Cert Advancing Integrated Urgent Care Practice

This online Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) is designed for healthcare professionals looking to advance their skills in integrated urgent care, particularly in remote consultation settings. Over one year of part-time study, you will develop your clinical decision-making abilities, deepen your understanding of urgent care practices, and enhance your capacity for advanced or specialist roles within primary care, out-of-hours services, or community settings. The program focuses on developing your professional autonomy and competence, fostering an awareness of interprofessional roles for better collaboration, and advancing your clinical thinking. You will explore essential aspects like consultation skills, legal and ethical considerations, person-centred care, safeguarding, and medicines optimisation, with a specific emphasis on the unique challenges and safeguarding risks associated with remote consultations. This course is ideal for practitioners seeking professional development (CPD) and can serve as a stepping stone towards further postgraduate study, such as a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinically Enhanced Integrated Urgent Care.

PhD

Research Degrees (MPhil/PhD/Professional Doctorates)

Undertaking a research degree such as an MPhil, PhD, or Professional Doctorate at the University of Derby is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a subject you are passionate about, set your own work goals, and make a significant contribution to your field. You will benefit from a skilled supervisory team and a supportive research community. The university fosters an interdisciplinary approach across six academic themes to address real-world challenges.