NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme

The NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme [1] introduces you to health service management, provides support to develop your knowledge and skills and gives you hands-on experience.

You can specialise in one of six areas:

• general management [2]
• finance [3]
• human resources [4]
• health informatics [5]
• policy and strategy [6]
• health analysis [7]

During the Scheme you are employed on a fixed-term contract and receive a salary.

The Scheme lasts for two years (two and a half years if you’re specialising in finance). It includes:

• intensive foundation training [8]
• structured work placements, training alongside experienced clinicians and managers
• an education programme leading to either a professional or a postgraduate qualification, depending on your specialism
• specialist management development training including support and careers guidance

Additional Graduate Management Programme

In addition to the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme, the NHS Leadership Academy has developed a Graduate Management Programme in conjunction with the Department of Health, Skills for Care and social care employers. 

This programme consists of a 12-month work placement with a social care organisation, including a secondment within a healthcare setting. You’ll also complete two qualifications, which will challenge you to develop your knowledge and management skills.

Find out more about the Skills for Care Graduate Management Programme [9]

• Entry requirements and how to apply

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  You need at least a 2:2 degree in any subject to the apply for the Graduate Management Training Scheme. Degree-equivalent qualifications are considered. You apply through the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme website [10] where you’ll find lots more information and advice.

  Entry is competitive. The first stages involve an initial online application followed by a number of online tests. If successful, you then have interviews and attend an assessment centre to check you have the necessary communication, numeracy, planning and analytical thinking skills.

• What happens after the scheme?

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  At the end of the Scheme, you apply for management jobs. Although a position isn’t guaranteed, prospects are good and there is often rapid career progression. The scheme will work with you throughout the programme to ensure you obtain a suitable role after the Scheme has finished. Read about some of the Scheme's alumni and what they’ve achieved. [11]

   

• Further information

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  To find out more general information about the NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme, visit:

  • NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme website [10]
  • NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme Facebook page [12]

  Use the Match me tool [13] to see if the Scheme is right for you.

  For information about the different specialisms: 

  • financial management [14]
  • general management [15]
  • health analysis [16]
  • health informatics management [17]
  • human resources management [18]
  • policy and strategy management [19]