The University of Surrey has partnered with the International Institute of Health Sciences Multiversity (IIHS) to launch the BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Top-Up) programme. This new collaboration will allow students who have completed the IIHS Advanced Diploma in Nursing to progress to a full honours degree awarded by the University of Surrey.
The partnership brings together Surrey’s Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences and IIHS in a joint effort to enhance nursing and health education, support professional development, and contribute to global health. The collaboration focuses on several key areas such as joint programme delivery, continuing professional development courses designed for international audiences, and faculty and student exchange opportunities.
In addition, Surrey’s School of Psychology is also exploring future articulation pathways for the BSc Psychology programme and the MSc Psychology Conversion programme, potentially offered as an MSci.
The Advanced Diploma in Nursing offered by IIHS prepares students with strong training in clinical practice, patient care management, and evidence-based healthcare. Its broad curriculum includes subjects such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, community health, and leadership in nursing practice. Through this training, students develop critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills, strong communication and teamwork abilities, and an understanding of ethical, legal, and research principles relevant to global healthcare.
Building on this foundation, the BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Top-Up) programme helps students further develop their professional values, communication, and interpersonal skills. The programme also introduces advanced topics such as leadership, organisational theory, public health, and research methods. Students will also gain an understanding of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) standards and testing process.
Graduates of the top-up degree will have the opportunity to sit for the NMC test of competency, which can help them meet regulatory requirements and prepare them for a career in nursing both locally and internationally.
Commenting on the launch, Dr Kithsiri Edirisinghe, CEO and Dean of Undergraduate Studies at IIHS, said: “By partnering with the University of Surrey, we now offer our students a direct pathway to a globally recognised BSc in Nursing. This opens doors to diverse career and further study opportunities in the global healthcare field. This collaboration strengthens our mission to deliver world-class education.”
Professor Roberto La Ragione, Interim Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean for the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences (FHMS) at Surrey, and Professor of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, commented: “We are pleased to partner with IIHS to build on the strength of their Advanced Diploma in Nursing and extend our expertise in professional nursing education to an international cohort. Through this programme, we aim to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for professional practice and a rewarding career in healthcare. This collaboration creates new opportunities for learners, and reinforces our joint commitment to patient-centred practice and workforce development.”
Dr Shelini Surendran, Associate Dean International at FHMS and Associate Professor in Biosciences, added: “Sri Lanka is establishing itself as a regional education hub, and this partnership ensures students across Asia can access top-tier UK healthcare education at IIHS. By bridging academic excellence with accessibility, we provide students with a clear pathway to their professional goals.”
