We asked Dr Natalie De Mello, Swansea University School of Medicine’s Lead for Enterprise, Partnerships and Innovation, about the new Masters course in Advanced Management (Healthcare Technologies) to find out more about the unique course, tailored for aspiring leaders who want to translate scientific and technological advances into impactful solutions to support health and wellbeing.

What inspired the creation of this programme?

A gap analysis was done to understand where training or qualifications were needed, and healthcare technologies was one of these areas. With only a handful of courses across the country addressing this gap, this is the first of its kind in Wales. Therefore, it is important for the strong bio-innovation sector in Wales that this gap is addressed. 

This programme was designed to meet the growing demand for leadership, innovation and strategic management skills in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors. 

Who is this course ideal for?

The course is open to those working in:

• Health and social care
• Life sciences
• Bio-engineering

The specialist modules enable students to develop advanced management and leadership skills that are used to create sustainable value and deliver impactful outcomes.

How is the course structured?

The course is run part-time over two years, beginning with core MBA modules in first year and progressing to specialist life sciences and innovation content in the second year. A research project is integrated into both years of study, allowing the students to apply their new skills in research to an ongoing project or area of research relevant to their employer or a local company.

This is an interdisciplinary programme, which will be taught across both Singleton Campus and Bay Campus.

What modules can students expect?

During the course, students will benefit from:

• Industry advisory input
  Representatives from NHS Wales, Cardiff & Vale UHB, and partner organisations in digital health, biotechnology, and other high-reliability industries will help develop modules and sessions. This will make sure your learning stays aligned with sector priorities, workforce development needs, and current innovation practices.
• Guest lectures and masterclasses
  Senior leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and practitioners from public, private, and third-sector organisations contribute to modules across the course. This gives you current, practice-based perspectives and opportunities to grow your professional network.
• A capstone major project
  This will be shaped with external organisations, who propose real-world challenges for you to work on. This strengthens the relevance, authenticity, and impact of your research.
• Access to Swansea University’s £22million School of Management
  The world’s largest business education association, connecting business schools, businesses and learners to create the next generation of leaders. You will also have access to sector-leading facilities at the Swansea Uni Medical School, due to the interdisciplinary nature of the course.

What makes this programme unique?

The curated modules in response to the gap analysis focus on the theoretical and practical steps needed to translate open innovation ideas into user-informed, tested solutions that will improve the lives of the population.  

What are the entry requirements?

All applicants will be considered on their own merits and experiences, and applications from students with a wide range of qualifications are encouraged to apply.

What career opportunities does this open up?

The course is designed to build leadership, innovation, and career-ready skills, whether you’re an experienced professional or an aspiring manager. Students will develop confidence and strategic thinking that they will need to lead change in complex organisations.

Throughout the programme, you’ll strengthen skills in:

• Leadership and innovation management
• Strategic thinking and decision-making
• Creativity and entrepreneurship
• Change management and transformation
• Professional communication and influencing

Graduates from other Swansea Uni MSc Advanced Management courses have progressed into leadership, strategy, innovation, and consultancy roles across the public, private, and third sectors in the UK and beyond. Many have gained promotions or moved into new specialist and management positions since studying the course. We expect successful students on this course to be well suited to grow into roles such as:

• Chief Technology Officer
• Head of Research, Development, and Innovation
• Project Manager in regulatory affairs or clinical trials

How can prospective students apply?

Applications can be submitted here. I’d recommend applying early, as the course may close once all places are filled. 

If you have any questions about the course or want some more info, get in touch on n.demello@swansea.ac.uk