FAQs about STP entry requirements

Answers to some commonly asked questions about the STP entry requirements.

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Can I check if my degree and experience makes me eligible for the STP?

The NSHCS recruitment team are unable to confirm degree eligibility. All applicants will need to have their qualifications checked for eligibility and relevance – this will happen in the shortlisting process. You will find the degree requirements and guidance on relevant degrees at https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/programmes/stp/applicants/entry-requirements/

What is a relevant degree?

Due to the extensive variation in degrees available, it is not possible to provide a definitive list of relevant degrees for entry to the STP. You can find a list of commonly accepted degrees in the entry requirements section. Before you apply ensure you review the job description and person specification for the training, and the information about your preferred healthcare science specialty on the Health Careers website.

I am currently in the final year of my undergraduate degree. Am I eligible to apply?

Yes. You will be asked to provide your anticipated undergraduate outcome on the application form. If successfully offered a post, you must provide the NSHCS recruitment team with evidence that you have achieved an eligible outcome. We will contact you directly to advise what evidence is required. You must provide evidence of your grade by the end of July in order to commence the STP in September. If you fail to provide evidence by the deadline, or do not meet the outcome required to meet the entry criteria any offered place will be withdrawn.

I do not meet the entry requirements with my undergraduate qualification alone and I am relying on completion of my current higher degree to meet the entry criteria. Am I eligible to apply?

If successfully offered a post, you must provide the NSHCS recruitment team with evidence that you have completed and achieved the higher degree. We will contact you directly to advise what evidence is required. You must provide evidence by the end of August in order to commence the STP in September. If your qualification is not going to be complete and confirmed by this deadline then you should apply for the STP in the following year.

I am currently enrolled on an academic course, which is not required to meet the STP entry criteria. Am I eligible to apply?

Yes, however there could be implications for starting the STP as this could affect your registration for the MSc. If you gain a place on the STP you should contact the NSHCS recruitment team with details of your outstanding studies and anticipated timeline for completion. Admittance on to the course will be at the discretion of the NSHCS. These discussions will only take place after an offer has been made and we are unable to advise applicants on their individual circumstances prior to this. As part of your application, you will be asked declare your availability to commence the STP in the coming September and must use your own discretion when making an application.

What if I do not achieve my predicted grade?

If you apply based on a predicted grade and are not successful in achieving a grade that meets the entry criteria, you will not be eligible for the programme and your offer will be withdrawn. You must notify the NSHCS recruitment team of your final result by the deadline, which will be provided to you.

If I already have a masters degree in this field, can I skip the masters component of the STP?

No, the STP combines full-time work with a part-time MSc and both must be completed.

Is the programme looking to recruit new or more experienced graduates?

The national shortlisting panels will judge which applicants closely match the person specification. The focus is on whether an applicant has the required skills, knowledge and experience and this could have been gained in a number of different ways. Successful applicants might have a variety of relevant qualifications, experience and potential.

Is there an age limit for the programme?

No, there is not an age limit for applying to the STP.

Do we need any kind of work experience as direct-entry applicants?

Work experience is not an essential requirement to apply for the STP.

Does not having a driving license impact my application negatively?

No, although you must be willing to travel for the requirements of the programme.