Three NIHR Research Schools’ Mental Health Programme Master’s Scholarships

Overview

The Three NIHR Research Schools’ Mental Health Programme is offering Master’s Scholarships for 2026/27 to build future capacity in academic mental health research. The programme focuses on improving mental health and wellbeing in underserved populations through collaborative, multidisciplinary research across primary care, public health and social care.

This opportunity may be of particular interest to individuals in frontline health and care roles who have had limited access to research training and who wish to develop a long-term interest in mental health research.

Eligible courses include Master’s level programmes focusing on research and/or research training.

The Three NIHR Research Schools are committed to supporting equality, diversity and inclusion for all staff, members and students. Applications for scholarships for part-time study are welcome, where the course allows.

Value

• Full tuition fees for a UK-based Master’s programme
• Potential funding to backfill substantive employment costs (where applicable)
• Access to additional funded training and cohort development activities

Eligibility

Applications are welcome from candidates who have not yet applied to, or been accepted onto, a master’s programme. If you have secured a place or are in the process of paying tuition fees, you are eligible to apply. Applications are particularly welcomed from health and care professional groups not traditionally involved in research.  

Applicants must

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree at 2:1 or above in a relevant subject
• Not already hold a Master’s degree or higher
• Be a UK home student paying home-level fees
• Have been resident in the UK for at least five years prior to undergraduate study (for purposes other than study)
• Demonstrate a clear commitment to establishing a long-term interest in mental health research. Where applicable, successful applicants will be asked to provide that they have employer agreement for undertaking this period of study.

Course requirements

• Master’s level research or research-training focused programme
• Full-time (1–2 years) or part-time (maximum 2 years)
• Course must not extend beyond 30 November 2028

Application Process

Full details can be found on the NIHR SPCR website (via the ‘Apply’ button above).

Applications must be submitted via the GoodGrants online system.

Applications now open and will close at 13:00 on 26 March 2026.

Competition outcomes will be announced in May 2026.