The University of Surrey has announced a new delivery partnership with the International Institute of Health Sciences Multiversity (IIHS) in Sri Lanka for its BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Top-Up) programme. The partnership will allow graduates of the IIHS Advanced Diploma in Nursing to progress to a full honours degree. 

This strategic partnership between IIHS and Surrey’s Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences reflects a shared commitment to excellence in nursing and health education, workforce development and global health. The key themes of the partnership include: 

• Collaborative programme delivery 

• Continuing professional development courses co-designed for international audiences 

• Faculty and student exchange opportunities 

• The School of Psychology has ambitions to deliver articulation programmes for both the BSc Psychology programme and our MSc Psychology Conversion programme, as an MSci.  

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. By offering a UK-accredited BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies top-up, we will equip graduates with the knowledge, skills and confidence required for professional practice and a rewarding career in healthcare. This collaboration not only opens new pathways for individual learners, but it also reinforces our shared commitment to excellence in patient-centred practice and workforce development. 

Professor Roberto La Ragione, Interim Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean for the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences (FHMS), Professor of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology

The IIHS Advanced Diploma in Nursing equips students with rigorous training in clinical practice, patient-care management and evidence-based healthcare. Its comprehensive curriculum –including anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, mental health nursing, community health and leadership in nursing practice – ensures learners develop: 

• Critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills 

• Effective communication and teamwork capabilities 

• A sound understanding of ethical, legal and research principles in global healthcare 

  
Our BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Top-Up) draws upon this solid foundation, enabling students to: 

• Consolidate and extend their professional values, communication and interpersonal skills 

• Explore advanced topics such as leadership, organizational theory, public health and research methods 

• Gain insight into the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) standards and test processes 

Graduates of the Top-Up programme can choose to sit the NMC test of competency to meet regulatory requirements, supporting them to embark on a successful nursing career.  

By partnering with the prestigious and highly ranked 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. 

Dr Kithsiri Edirisinghe, CEO & Dean of Undergraduate Studies, IIHS

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. 

Dr Shelini Surendran, Associate Dean International FHMS, Associate Professor in Biosciences