MSc in Health Professions Education 2026 at UGHE, Rwanda: Fully Funded Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc-HPE) 2026 at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda, offers an advanced academic opportunity for young African health professionals who want to become educational leaders, curriculum developers, clinical educators, academic researchers, and institutional reformers. Through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway, eligible applicants can apply for the opportunity to pursue specialized postgraduate training in health professions education.

The MSc-HPE program is designed to strengthen the quality of medical and health professions education across Africa by preparing professionals to develop innovative curricula, improve teaching and assessment practices, evaluate educational programs, and promote equity in healthcare education. It combines academic knowledge with practical leadership development, research, mentorship, and institutional engagement to help graduates contribute to meaningful improvements in health education and healthcare delivery.

The program lasts 18 months, consists of three semesters, carries 180 credits, and follows a blended learning model combining online study with in-person sessions. Applicants interested in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway should carefully review the eligibility requirements, required documents, and application deadlines before submitting their applications.

The application period opens on 6 October 2026 and closes on 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM Central Africa Time (CAT). Eligible applicants are encouraged to prepare their supporting documents and complete the online application before the deadline.

Overview of the MSc in Health Professions Education 2026

The Master of Science in Health Professions Education is a postgraduate degree developed to prepare experienced educators, healthcare professionals, and emerging academic leaders to improve the way health professionals are taught, trained, assessed, and supported throughout their careers.

Health professions education plays a vital role in developing competent doctors, nurses, public health practitioners, and other healthcare professionals. However, improving the quality of health education requires more than clinical expertise. Educational leaders must understand curriculum design, teaching methodologies, student assessment, program evaluation, accreditation, educational research, and institutional leadership.

The MSc-HPE program addresses these needs by providing specialized training in the principles and practices of health professions education. Students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to design effective learning experiences, support faculty development, evaluate educational outcomes, and implement improvements in academic and clinical training environments.

The program is particularly relevant to Africa, where strengthening health education institutions is essential to developing a skilled healthcare workforce capable of responding to regional and national health priorities.

Through its academic curriculum and practical learning opportunities, the program aims to prepare graduates to:

• Design and implement effective health professions curricula.
• Improve teaching and learning practices in medical and health sciences institutions.
• Develop fair, reliable, and effective assessment strategies.
• Evaluate educational programs and faculty performance.
• Strengthen institutional quality assurance and accreditation processes.
• Conduct educational research and contribute to academic scholarship.
• Lead educational reforms within universities, teaching hospitals, and other healthcare education institutions.
• Promote inclusive, equitable, and innovative approaches to health professions education.
• Support the professional development of educators and clinical faculty.
• Contribute to health education policy and institutional decision-making.

The program is offered at the University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda. This particular application pathway is intended for prospective candidates seeking the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program opportunity associated with the MSc-HPE.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UGHE

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports the development of talented young Africans by providing educational opportunities and encouraging scholars to contribute to positive change in their communities and countries.

Within the MSc-HPE pathway at UGHE, the scholarship program is intended to help eligible African candidates access advanced training that can strengthen their professional capabilities and leadership potential in health professions education.

The pathway is intended for applicants who want to complete the full master’s degree. Candidates must be prepared to participate throughout the 18-month program and meet the academic and practical requirements associated with the degree.

Applicants should understand two important conditions:

1. Candidates applying directly to the full MSc-HPE track through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program must commit to the entire 18-month program.
2. The available exit award for this scholarship pathway is the Master of Science in Health Professions Education. Students cannot choose to leave the program with a postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma instead.

The scholarship pathway is therefore particularly suitable for applicants who are committed to completing a full postgraduate qualification and applying their knowledge to health education, academic leadership, institutional improvement, and healthcare workforce development.

Applicants should consult the official UGHE application information for the applicable scholarship benefits, funding conditions, and any additional requirements.

Why Study Health Professions Education at UGHE?

The MSc-HPE program offers a specialized learning experience for professionals seeking to improve health education and advance into academic or institutional leadership positions. Its focus on African health education systems, practical application, and educational innovation makes it relevant to individuals who want to influence how healthcare professionals are trained.

1. Africa’s First Full Health Professions Education Pathway

UGHE describes its program as the first university in Rwanda and neighbouring countries to offer a full health professions education curriculum.

This focus provides a dedicated academic pathway for professionals who want to develop expertise in educational practice rather than relying solely on clinical qualifications or informal teaching experience.

Students can develop a deeper understanding of the principles that underpin effective health professions education, including curriculum development, assessment, faculty development, educational research, and institutional quality improvement.

2. Career Advancement and Professional Development

The program is designed to prepare graduates for a range of educational, academic, and leadership responsibilities.

Depending on their previous qualifications, professional experience, and career goals, graduates may pursue opportunities such as:

• Health professions educator.
• Medical or clinical education faculty member.
• Curriculum development specialist.
• Academic program coordinator or director.
• Faculty development specialist.
• Educational quality assurance professional.
• Accreditation and academic standards specialist.
• Educational researcher.
• Clinical teaching supervisor.
• Academic administrator or institutional leader.

The qualification can help professionals strengthen their expertise and prepare for greater responsibility within universities, medical schools, teaching hospitals, and other health education institutions. Specific career opportunities will depend on individual experience, employer requirements, and the relevant professional regulations.

3. A Learning Model Designed for Working Professionals

The MSc-HPE uses a blended delivery model that combines online learning with intensive in-person sessions.

This structure is intended to make advanced study more accessible to professionals who may have existing teaching, clinical, supervisory, or academic responsibilities. Online learning provides opportunities to engage with course material, while in-person sessions support practical learning, interaction, mentorship, and professional networking.

The blended format also supports the application of new knowledge to real educational settings. Students can connect academic concepts with challenges they encounter in their workplaces and develop approaches that may improve teaching, learning, and institutional practices.

Applicants should review the official program schedule and attendance requirements to understand the time commitment associated with online and in-person components.

4. Expert Faculty and International Academic Networks

Students benefit from learning within an academic environment that brings together educators and experts in health professions education.

Exposure to experienced faculty and international academic partnerships can help students explore established educational approaches, discuss emerging challenges, and develop a broader understanding of global developments in health education.

These learning opportunities can support professional growth, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas among individuals working in different healthcare and educational environments.

5. Practical Learning and Real-World Impact

The MSc-HPE emphasizes the relationship between educational theory and practical improvement.

Rather than focusing exclusively on academic concepts, the program addresses how educational methods can be applied to improve teaching quality, curriculum relevance, assessment systems, faculty development, and institutional performance.

Students are encouraged to consider how educational changes can be introduced, evaluated, and sustained within real institutions.

This practical emphasis is particularly relevant for professionals who want to improve educational standards at their universities, clinical training sites, or other health professions education settings.

6. Peer Mentorship and Professional Networking

The program provides opportunities to connect with other educators and academic professionals who share an interest in strengthening health professions education.

Peer learning and professional networking can help participants exchange experiences, discuss challenges, explore collaborative projects, and establish relationships that continue beyond their studies.

Developing these connections can be valuable for professionals who want to participate in regional education initiatives, contribute to academic collaborations, or expand their leadership responsibilities.

7. Equity, Inclusion, and Educational Innovation

Equity is an important element of the program’s educational approach.

Students explore how educational systems can respond to differences in access, learning needs, institutional resources, and professional opportunities. The curriculum also emphasizes inclusive education and digital innovation as elements of modern health professions training.

This approach encourages future educators to consider not only whether educational programs deliver knowledge effectively, but also whether they are accessible, fair, relevant, and responsive to the needs of diverse learners.

8. Leadership Development and Institutional Reform

The MSc-HPE is intended to prepare graduates to contribute to educational leadership at institutional, national, and regional levels.

Through leadership-focused coursework and practical experiences, students develop an understanding of educational management, quality improvement, policy engagement, and institutional change.

These skills can be particularly useful for professionals who aim to lead academic departments, manage health professions education programs, participate in curriculum reform, or contribute to decisions about educational standards and healthcare workforce development.

Program Structure, Duration, Credits, and Delivery Mode

The MSc-HPE follows a structured postgraduate curriculum combining foundational educational concepts with applied learning, leadership development, and research.

The key program details are as follows:

• Program name: Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc-HPE).
• Institution: University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda.
• Scholarship pathway: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
• Duration: 18 months.
• Structure: Three semesters.
• Total credits: 180 credits.
• Delivery mode: Blended learning, combining online study and in-person sessions.
• Qualification awarded: Master of Science in Health Professions Education, upon successful completion of the program.

The curriculum is designed to develop both the theoretical understanding and practical capabilities required for effective health professions education.

Students study curriculum and course design, innovative teaching methods, assessment, clinical teaching, global health equity, program evaluation, accreditation, educational leadership, research, and practical application.

The program also includes a leadership practicum and an HPE practicum or thesis pathway, according to the curriculum information provided.

MSc-HPE Curriculum and Course Modules

The program comprises modules that address the major responsibilities of health professions educators and academic leaders. The curriculum combines teaching methods, assessment strategies, institutional quality improvement, leadership, and educational research.

The following module details and credit allocations are based on the program information provided.

1. Principles of Curriculum and Course Design — HPE9111

Credits: 10

This module introduces the principles of designing curricula and individual courses for health professions education.

Students explore how learning objectives, course content, teaching activities, and assessment methods can be aligned to support effective learning. Curriculum design is an essential responsibility for educators who want to ensure that health professions training remains relevant to professional standards and healthcare needs.

The knowledge gained can support curriculum development, course revision, and educational planning within medical schools and other health training institutions.

2. Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods — HPE9121

Credits: 10

This module focuses on teaching strategies and learning approaches that can improve educational engagement and effectiveness.

Students explore methods for delivering educational content, facilitating participation, supporting different learning needs, and encouraging the development of professional knowledge and skills.

Understanding innovative teaching approaches can help educators move beyond traditional lecture-based methods and design learning experiences that promote active participation, critical thinking, and the practical application of knowledge.

3. Assessment in Health Professions Education — HPE9131

Credits: 20

Assessment is a central part of health professions education because it helps determine whether learners have developed the knowledge, competencies, and professional capabilities required for practice.

This module examines the principles of assessment and how assessment approaches can be used to evaluate student learning.

Students develop an understanding of the role of assessment in providing feedback, monitoring academic progress, identifying learning needs, and supporting educational quality.

The module’s 20-credit allocation makes it one of the larger components of the listed curriculum.

4. Clinical Teaching — HPE9141

Credits: 10

Clinical teaching involves helping healthcare learners develop professional knowledge and practical competencies within clinical and healthcare-related learning environments.

This module addresses the educational responsibilities associated with clinical instruction and supervision.

It is relevant to healthcare professionals who teach students, supervise trainees, or support learning in clinical settings. Effective clinical teaching helps connect theoretical learning with professional practice and encourages the development of safe, competent, and reflective healthcare practitioners.

5. Principles of Global Health Equity — HPE9151

Credits: 10

This module examines the importance of equity in health and health professions education.

Students consider how educational opportunities, institutional conditions, and broader social and health system factors can influence the development of healthcare professionals.

The module supports the program’s wider emphasis on inclusive education and preparing educators to contribute to healthcare systems that respond to the needs of diverse populations.

6. Program Evaluation and Faculty Appraisal — HPE9162

Credits: 10

Program evaluation helps institutions determine whether educational activities are achieving their intended objectives.

Faculty appraisal, meanwhile, supports the assessment and development of educators’ professional performance.

This module introduces concepts related to evaluating educational programs and reviewing faculty contributions. These skills can help academic leaders identify strengths, recognize areas for improvement, and make informed decisions about educational quality and staff development.

7. Quality Assurance and Accreditation in HPE — HPE9172

Credits: 10

Quality assurance and accreditation are important for maintaining and improving the standards of health professions education.

This module explores the principles and practices associated with educational quality, institutional accountability, and accreditation processes.

Students develop an understanding of how academic institutions can evaluate their educational provision, identify gaps, strengthen procedures, and support continuous improvement.

These competencies are particularly relevant to educators and administrators involved in institutional reviews, curriculum oversight, and academic quality management.

8. Educational Leadership and Management — HPE9182

Credits: 10

Educational leaders must be able to guide teams, manage academic activities, support educators, and implement changes that improve learning outcomes.

This module focuses on leadership and management in educational settings.

Students explore the responsibilities associated with leading programs, coordinating people and resources, making decisions, and supporting institutional development.

The module is relevant to professionals preparing for academic management, educational program leadership, and institutional reform.

9. Educational Leadership Practicum — HPE9192

Credits: 30

The Educational Leadership Practicum is a substantial practical component of the curriculum.

It is intended to connect leadership concepts with the realities of educational institutions and the challenges involved in improving academic practice.

Through practical engagement, students can develop their ability to analyze institutional needs, identify opportunities for improvement, and consider how leadership strategies can support educational change.

The 30-credit allocation highlights the importance of applied leadership development within the degree.

10. Theories of Teaching and Learning — HPE9211

Credits: 10

This module introduces theoretical perspectives that explain how people learn and how teaching practices can support learning.

An understanding of teaching and learning theories helps educators make informed choices about instructional methods, learner engagement, feedback, and educational design.

Students can use these concepts to evaluate their existing teaching approaches and develop strategies that are better aligned with learning objectives and learner needs.

11. Educational Research and Scholarship — HPE9221

Credits: 20

Educational research is important for understanding learning challenges, evaluating teaching practices, and generating evidence that can improve health professions education.

This module introduces research and scholarship within educational settings.

Students develop a foundation for examining educational questions, engaging with academic literature, and contributing to evidence-informed practice.

The skills developed through this module can support research projects, scholarly writing, program evaluation, and the use of research evidence in educational decision-making.

12. Practicum in Health Professions Education or Thesis in HPE — HPE9241

Credits: 30

The program information identifies a 30-credit component associated with a practicum in health professions education or a thesis in HPE.

The practicum pathway provides an opportunity to apply learning to practical educational challenges. It is relevant to students who want to develop and demonstrate their ability to improve educational practice within a professional setting.

The thesis pathway provides an academic research option through which students can investigate a question related to health professions education and contribute to the field’s evidence base.

Applicants should confirm the detailed structure, selection process, and requirements of these options directly with UGHE.

Curriculum clarification: The supplied module list includes the code HPE9231 without a corresponding module name or credit allocation. The information provided does not establish whether this represents a separate module or a formatting omission. The detailed curriculum should therefore be confirmed with the university before publication as a definitive module-by-module study plan.

Total Credits and Academic Commitment

The stated total for the MSc-HPE is 180 credits over three semesters and 18 months.

The curriculum includes foundational educational modules, advanced assessment and research components, leadership development, and practical application. Several modules carry 10 credits, while assessment and educational research carry 20 credits each, and the listed practicum components carry 30 credits each.

Applicants should recognize that completing a blended master’s program requires a sustained commitment to academic work, practical learning, and scheduled in-person participation.

Candidates applying through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway must be prepared to complete the full master’s degree. The supplied program information states that students in this pathway are not eligible to exit with a postgraduate certificate or postgraduate diploma.

Eligibility Criteria for MSc-HPE 2026

Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements associated with the MSc-HPE and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission or scholarship selection. Applicants should provide accurate information and supporting documentation for all applicable eligibility conditions.

1. Age Requirement

Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application, subject to exceptions for applicants with disabilities.

Candidates should ensure that their age meets the applicable criteria and consult UGHE if they require clarification about how the age requirement or disability-related exception is applied.

2. African Citizenship and Residency Requirement

Applicants must be residents and citizens of an African country or hold refugee status in an African country.

This requirement means that the scholarship pathway is intended for eligible applicants connected to African countries under the stated citizenship, residency, or refugee-status criteria.

Applicants should not assume that citizenship alone or residence alone automatically establishes eligibility in every case. Candidates should review the official application guidance and provide the relevant identification or refugee documentation.

3. Bachelor’s Degree in a Health-Related Field

Applicants must have matriculated and successfully graduated with a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field.

This academic requirement establishes that candidates must already possess an undergraduate qualification relevant to healthcare or a related discipline.

Applicants should prepare official academic transcripts and their degree certificate as evidence of successful completion.

Candidates who are uncertain whether their undergraduate discipline qualifies as health-related should contact the admissions team before submitting an application.

4. Professional Experience or Teaching Potential

Professional experience in teaching, supervision, or educational leadership within health-related higher education institutions is preferable.

Relevant experience may include teaching healthcare students, supervising trainees, participating in academic program development, supporting faculty activities, or contributing to educational leadership.

The program information also recognizes that early-career applicants may demonstrate clear teaching potential.

Applicants should explain their relevant experience and professional goals clearly in their application. Where appropriate, they can highlight their involvement in educational activities, their motivation to become health professions educators, and their plans for contributing to the improvement of health education.

5. Institutional Endorsement for Employed Applicants

Applicants who are currently employed must provide a signed and stamped recommendation letter confirming institutional support.

The letter must also confirm that the applicant will receive dedicated time to participate in both online learning and in-person sessions.

This requirement is important because the blended learning format involves more than independent online study. Candidates need to ensure that their professional responsibilities can be managed alongside the academic commitments of the program.

Applicants should request the letter from the appropriate institutional authority and verify that it contains the required signature, stamp, and confirmation of support.

6. Applicants Who Already Hold a Master’s Degree

Candidates who already hold a master’s degree are not eligible to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program under the stated criteria.

Applicants should carefully consider this condition before beginning the application process. The restriction is specifically stated for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway described here.

Candidates who have previously completed a master’s degree should contact UGHE if they wish to clarify whether any separate, non-scholarship admission route exists.

Priority Groups Encouraged to Apply

The program particularly seeks talented and committed young Africans who are motivated to create a lasting impact in their communities and professional environments.

The priority groups identified in the program information include:

• Young women: Applicants who want to strengthen their professional skills and contribute to more effective and equitable health education.
• Refugees and displaced persons: Eligible applicants whose experiences and aspirations can contribute to inclusive educational and healthcare systems.
• Persons with disabilities: Eligible candidates who can benefit from advanced education and contribute to more accessible and inclusive professional environments.

These priority groups are encouraged to consider the opportunity, but applicants must still meet the applicable eligibility requirements.

Applicants should consult the official scholarship information for details about selection priorities, disability-related provisions, and any additional support arrangements.

MSc-HPE 2026 Application Dates and Timeline

Applicants must pay close attention to the published admissions schedule to avoid missing the application deadline.

The dates provided for the 2026 admissions cycle are as follows:

Admissions stage	Date
Application opens	6 October 2026
Application deadline	25 October 2026, at 11:59 PM CAT
Admissions interviews	November 2026
Final admission decision	December 2026

Application Opening Date: 6 October 2026

The online application period opens on 6 October 2026. Applicants should use the available time to review the program requirements, gather supporting documents, and complete the application carefully.

Application Deadline: 25 October 2026

The application closes on 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM Central Africa Time (CAT).

Applicants should submit their completed applications before the stated deadline. Waiting until the final hours may leave insufficient time to resolve technical problems, correct missing information, or upload documents.

Candidates should also account for the time difference between their location and Central Africa Time when planning their submission.

Admissions Interviews: November 2026

The admissions interviews are scheduled for November 2026.

Applicants should monitor their email and any official application portal for interview invitations and instructions. They should also ensure that the contact information submitted in the application is accurate and accessible.

The supplied information does not specify exact interview dates, formats, or interview criteria. Candidates should refer to official communications from UGHE for these details.

Final Decisions: December 2026

Final decisions are scheduled for December 2026.

Applicants should follow official communications from the university for admission outcomes and any subsequent instructions relating to enrollment, scholarship conditions, and participation in the program.

Documents Required for the Application

Applicants are expected to submit a fully completed online application and upload the supporting documents required for their circumstances.

Based on the information provided, the required documents include:

1. Passport, National ID, or Refugee ID

Applicants should upload an accepted identification document, such as a passport, national identity card, or refugee identification document.

The document should correspond to the applicant’s circumstances and support the information entered in the application.

2. Official Academic Transcripts

Applicants must provide official academic transcripts showing their undergraduate academic record.

Transcripts help the admissions team verify the applicant’s previous studies and academic preparation for postgraduate education.

3. Bachelor’s Degree Certificate

Applicants must upload their degree certificate as proof that they have successfully completed a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field.

Candidates should ensure that their documents are legible and that the information matches the details entered in the application.

4. Employer Recommendation Letter, Where Applicable

Applicants who are currently employed must provide the required institutional endorsement letter.

The letter should be signed and stamped and must confirm institutional support, including dedicated time to participate in online and in-person learning activities.

Applicants should arrange this document in advance to avoid delays during the submission process.

5. Required Scholarship Application Information

The online application includes information required for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Applicants should complete all relevant personal, academic, and demographic sections accurately and follow any additional instructions displayed in the official application system.

The university may provide further instructions about document formats, verification, or other supporting information. Candidates should follow the current official application requirements.

How to Apply for the MSc-HPE 2026 Scholarship

Applicants should follow the official UGHE application process and ensure that they are applying through the correct Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway.

Step 1: Review the Eligibility Requirements

Before starting the application, confirm that you meet the age, African citizenship and residency or refugee-status requirements, undergraduate degree requirements, and applicable scholarship restrictions.

Check whether you need an employer endorsement letter and whether your previous qualifications meet the stated criteria.

Step 2: Access the Official Online Application

Visit the official University of Global Health Equity website and locate the MSc-HPE admissions information for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway.

Use the official application link provided by the university rather than relying on unofficial third-party websites.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Enter the required personal, academic, demographic, and scholarship-related information.

Ensure that all information is accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. Review your entries before moving to the submission stage.

Step 4: Upload the Required Documents

Prepare and upload the applicable identification document, official academic transcripts, bachelor’s degree certificate, and employer recommendation letter if required.

Check that each file is complete, readable, and uploaded to the correct section of the application.

Step 5: Review the Entire Application

Before submitting, check all sections for missing information, incorrect entries, and incomplete uploads.

The application instructions state that incomplete submissions and multiple applications will not be considered.

Applicants should therefore submit one fully completed application and avoid creating duplicate submissions.

Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline

Submit the completed application before 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM CAT.

Applicants should retain any submission confirmation or reference information provided by the application system.

Step 7: Monitor Official Communications

After submitting the application, regularly check your email and the official application portal for updates.

If shortlisted, follow the university’s instructions regarding interviews and any additional admissions requirements.

Application Link and Official Contacts

Applicants should use the official UGHE website to access current program information and the correct application portal.

Official institution: University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda.

Application route: MSc-HPE admissions through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway.

Application deadline: 25 October 2026, at 11:59 PM CAT.

Application and scholarship inquiries: mfsp@ughe.org

Admissions inquiries: admissions@ughe.org

Click HERE to Apply

Applicants experiencing problems with the application process can contact the relevant email address for assistance.

Before submitting any personal information or supporting documents, verify that the application portal and communications are associated with the official university.

Important Scholarship Fraud Warning

The University of Global Health Equity and the Mastercard Foundation do not charge application fees for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Applicants should be cautious of individuals or organizations that request payment in exchange for an application, scholarship selection, admission, or preferential treatment.

To protect themselves against fraud, applicants should:

• Use official university application channels.
• Avoid paying individuals who promise scholarship approval.
• Never rely on unofficial messages as proof of selection.
• Verify suspicious communications with UGHE.
• Report suspected fraudulent activity to the relevant local law enforcement authorities.

The university has provided mfsp@ughe.org as a contact for reporting fraudulent activity related to the scholarship program.

Applicants should remain vigilant throughout the application and selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions About MSc-HPE 2026 at UGHE

What is the MSc in Health Professions Education?

The MSc in Health Professions Education is a postgraduate master’s degree that prepares professionals to improve the teaching, assessment, curriculum design, leadership, and evaluation of educational programs for healthcare professionals.

Which university offers the program?

The program is offered by the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Rwanda.

Is the MSc-HPE available through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The program information provided describes a pathway through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for eligible applicants seeking the scholarship.

Applicants should use the official application process and confirm the applicable scholarship conditions.

How long does the MSc-HPE take to complete?

The program lasts 18 months and is structured into three semesters.

How many credits does the program carry?

The stated total is 180 credits.

Is the program online or on campus?

The program follows a blended learning model combining online study with in-person sessions.

Applicants should confirm the scheduled attendance requirements with UGHE.

Who can apply for the scholarship pathway?

The stated criteria include applicants aged 35 or younger, subject to exceptions for applicants with disabilities, who meet the African citizenship and residency or refugee-status requirements and hold a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field.

Professional teaching, supervision, or educational leadership experience is preferable, although early-career applicants may demonstrate teaching potential.

Can applicants who already hold a master’s degree apply?

Applicants who already hold a master’s degree are not eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program under the criteria provided for this pathway.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM CAT.

When will interviews and final decisions take place?

Admissions interviews are scheduled for November 2026, while final decisions are scheduled for December 2026.

Can students leave the program with a postgraduate certificate or diploma?

No. Applicants applying directly to the full MSc-HPE track through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program must commit to the complete 18-month program. The stated exit award for this pathway is the MSc in HPE upon successful completion.

Is there an application fee?

The university and the Mastercard Foundation do not charge fees to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Where can applicants ask questions?

Applicants can contact mfsp@ughe.org for scholarship and application-process inquiries or admissions@ughe.org for admissions-related questions.

Conclusion

The Master of Science in Health Professions Education 2026 at the University of Global Health Equity offers an advanced educational pathway for professionals who want to improve healthcare education across Africa. Through its combination of curriculum design, teaching and learning methods, assessment, educational research, quality assurance, leadership development, and practical learning, the program aims to prepare graduates to strengthen academic institutions and contribute to the development of a competent healthcare workforce.

The 18-month blended program carries 180 credits and is intended for candidates who are committed to completing the full master’s degree. Through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program pathway, eligible young African applicants can pursue this opportunity in line with the published scholarship criteria.

Candidates should carefully review the age requirements, citizenship and residency or refugee-status conditions, undergraduate degree requirements, master’s-degree restriction, and document requirements before applying. Applicants who are employed should also arrange the required institutional endorsement letter in advance.

The application deadline is 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM CAT, with interviews scheduled for November and final decisions expected in December 2026. Interested candidates should consult the official UGHE website, complete one fully documented application, and submit it before the deadline.

For eligible applicants who aspire to become health professions educators, educational researchers, academic leaders, and advocates for equitable health education, the MSc-HPE offers an opportunity to develop the specialized knowledge and practical leadership skills needed to contribute to lasting improvements in health professions education across Africa.

Explore more at Opportunities for Youth (OFY).