Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UGHE: Fully Funded Master of Science in Health Professions Education (18 Months Blended Learning)
Direct Entry Track – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Duration: 18 months (3 semesters)
Total Credits: 180 credits
Delivery Mode: Blended (Online and In-Person Learning)
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc-HPE) is an advanced program that equips current and emerging health educators with the skills and knowledge to design, deliver, and evaluate high-quality, equitable, and innovative health professions education programs across Africa.
This program description refers specifically to the Direct Entry Track fully funded by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Applications through this page are intended for candidates seeking admission under this scholarship.
The MSc-HPE is designed for experienced educators, clinicians, and academic leaders who aspire to influence policy, lead institutions, and contribute to educational research in health professions education (HPE). Graduates are prepared to navigate the complexities of health education systems, lead with confidence, and drive innovation that enhances both learning and healthcare outcomes.
By integrating theory with practice, the program produces professionals who can:
- Lead health professions institutions and programs.
- Develop evidence-based curricula and teaching strategies.
- Implement quality assurance mechanisms.
- Engage in educational research and scholarship.
- Shape policy and institutional reform at national and international levels.
The blended delivery model combines flexible online coursework with intensive in-person sessions, offering hands-on learning, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Grounded in the principles of equity, excellence, and relevance, the MSc-HPE prepares graduates to become transformative educators and leaders in Africa’s health sector.
Why Study HPE at UGHE?
- Africa’s First Comprehensive HPE Pathway: The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is the first institution in Rwanda and neighboring countries to offer a full Master’s program dedicated to HPE.
- Career Advancement: Gain qualifications to serve as educators, curriculum developers, deans, clinical faculty, program directors, or quality assurance leaders.
- Community of Practice: Join a continent-wide network of educators committed to transforming health education systems.
- Flexible Learning: Designed for working professionals through online study and in-person sessions at UGHE’s campus.
- Expert Faculty and Global Networks: Learn from UGHE’s faculty and international partners with extensive experience in health professions education.
- Real-World Application: Integrates academic learning with leadership, quality assurance, and institutional reform.
- Peer Mentorship: Build mentorship and professional networks that promote growth and collaboration.
- Equity and Innovation Focus: Every module emphasizes global health equity, inclusivity, and digital innovation.
- Fully Funded Opportunity: Eligible candidates may qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which provides comprehensive financial support.
Program Structure and Modules
Participants in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Direct Entry Track must complete the full 18-month MSc-HPE program. No exit awards (such as postgraduate certificates or diplomas) are available. The degree is conferred only upon successful completion of all required modules.
| Module Code | Module Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| HPE9111 | Principles of Curriculum and Course Design | 10 |
| HPE9121 | Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods | 10 |
| HPE9131 | Assessment in HPE | 20 |
| HPE9141 | Clinical Teaching | 10 |
| HPE9151 | Principles of Global Health Equity | 10 |
| HPE9162 | Program Evaluation and Faculty Appraisal | 10 |
| HPE9172 | Quality Assurance and Accreditation in HPE | 10 |
| HPE9182 | Educational Leadership and Management | 10 |
| HPE9192 | Educational Leadership Practicum | 30 |
| HPE9211 | Theories of Teaching and Learning | 10 |
| HPE9221 | Educational Research and Scholarship | 20 |
| HPE9231 / HPE9241 | Practicum in HPE or Thesis in HPE | 30 |
| Total Credits | 180 |
Admissions Information
Key Dates
| Process | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | 22 October 2025 |
| Application Closes | 30 November 2025 at 11:59 PM CAT |
| Admissions Interviews | December 2025 |
| Final Decision | January 2026 |
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: 35 years or under at the time of application (exceptions apply for applicants with disabilities).
- Citizenship/Residency: Must be a citizen, resident, or hold refugee status in an African country.
- Education: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field from a recognized institution, with official transcripts and degree certificates.
- Experience: Professional experience in teaching, supervision, or educational leadership within health-related higher education institutions is preferred. Early-career applicants with demonstrable teaching potential are also encouraged to apply.
- Institutional Endorsement: Applicants currently employed must submit a signed and stamped institutional recommendation letter confirming employer support and dedicated study time.
- Academic Restrictions: Applicants who already hold a master’s degree are not eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Application Process
- Complete the online application form, including both MSc-HPE and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program components.
- Upload all required documents, including:
- Passport, National ID, or Refugee ID
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate(s)
- Employer recommendation letter (if applicable)
- Submit one complete application. Incomplete or multiple submissions will not be reviewed.
Who They’Are Looking For
The program seeks passionate and committed young Africans, especially:
- Women in health professions education
- Refugees and displaced persons
- Persons with disabilities
Ideal candidates are motivated by a vision to advance equitable and high-quality health professions education in Africa.
Important Disclaimer
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) and the Mastercard Foundation do not charge any fees for applications to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Applicants are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to local authorities. Fraudulent activity should also be reported to mfsp@ughe.org.
Contact Information
For inquiries or assistance with the application process:
Email: mfsp@ughe.org | admissions@ughe.org
To learn more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, please visit the official UGHE website.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
