MSc Clinical Dermatology

The MSc Clinical Dermatology has been developed to meet the needs of practitioners with a special interest in skin disease. Benefiting from shared, inter-professional learning, the programme is unique in that it recruits UK, EU and international doctors, nurses and pharmacists who learn together through a blended approach of both online and face to face learning. 

The MSc Clinical Dermatology is aimed at practitioners wanting to undertake further specialist training and develop career aspirations in dermatology. This postgraduate course offers a structured academic programme with an emphasis on the management of long term, chronic skin conditions. Aesthetic practitioners with clinical experience in dermatology who wish to increase their knowledge of chronic skin disease, are welcome, but should note that aesthetic procedures are not taught on this programme.

Course Structure:

To gain an MSc student must complete:

Three compulsory modules:

1. Therapeutics for Skin Conditions; Evidence Based Practice and Service Development Project AND
2. 3 specialist modules OR
3. 2 specialist modules and 1 module of common interest.

 
The programme is offered full-time (12 months) and part-time (2-5 years). 

The full-time pathway is designed for international students studying full-time on a Tier 4 visa.  International students are required to attend all taught sessions in addition to significant further study outside of the formal teaching.

International students who are residing in the UK, on an appropriate visa, can study full-time or part-time.

The part-time pathway is designed for UK and EU students and is designed to be studied alongside employment. Part-time students are expected to study approximately 10-20 hours per week in order to successfully complete this programme, in addition to attending the taught sessions.

Each module represents a total of 300 hours of student effort.  The teaching pattern for modules varies, those delivered face to face tend to have two blocks of teaching of 2-3 days each. Online modules have more spread out contact times.

Studying Clinical Dermatology can lead to a full Masters degree or to interim awards of post graduate certificate (PGCert) or post graduate diploma (PGDip). 

Each module has 30 credits at Level 7.  In order to gain a Masters degree, 6 modules must be successfully completed giving 180 credits.  A PGCert requires 60 credits (2 modules) and a PGDip 120 credits (4 modules).

Why should I choose this course? 
This course delivers high quality education that receives positive feedback from students and external examiners, year on year.  The blended approach means that some modules deliver the stimulation of classroom-based learning whilst other modules allow for the convenience of online learning.  This allows for maximum flexibility for professionals who continue to work full-time whilst studying.  In addition students are able to select some optional modules from our sister pathways- MSc Skin Integrity and Wound Management and MSc Skin Lesion Management.  Mixing with students from a variety of professional backgrounds and from different countries and health care systems, adds further depth to the learning experience.

Who should apply?
Clinicians wishing to develop expertise and gain knowledge in dermatology and skin disease including hospital doctors, family practitioners, aesthetic practitioners, specialist nurses and pharmacists. The majority of students are self-funded, although some obtain awards from their respective Governments, scholarships and employers.

*Disclaimer: this programme is designed and intended for educational purposes only. Completion of the course and possession of the MSc does not allow the practitioner to consider themselves a specialist in dermatology. The current British Association of Dermatologists guidelines outline the essential requirements for fulfilling the role of (a) General Practitioner with an Extended Role (GPwER) in Dermatology and
(b) Consultant Dermatologist in the UK.

Local guidelines apply to overseas students who should consult with the relevant governing body.

Learning Outcomes:

• develop methods of inquiry and skills required to research and advance dermatology practice using an in-depth current and relevant evidence base.
  
  
• provide knowledge and understanding to foster the further development of critical, contemporary, evidence based and patient-centred practice in dermatology.
  
  
• develop a systematic advanced knowledge and understanding of the application of specialist dermatology to practice in the context of multi-professional and inter-professional working in the contemporary healthcare setting
  
  

Assessment:
The MSc Clinical Dermatology is assessed using a variety of assessment strategies including:  written assignments, presentations, patient information leaflet, short-answer tests, projects and clinical performance (OSCE). Students are expected to apply knowledge gained from their clinical practice to their coursework.

Completion of a service development project at the end of the programme provides opportunity to learn more about implementing a change project including: service need identification, stakeholder involvement, project planning, implementation and evaluation.  Students will be supported by a specialist supervisor for this project. Many students go on to implement their specific project, making changes in dermatology practice, leading teams, and enhancing patient care.

What our students say
“The MSc Clinical Dermatology has been one of the most rewarding academic experiences I have undertaken, and that is in no small part due to the exceptional support and teaching from you and the team. It has been one of the most supportive, well-organised and thoughtfully delivered courses I have had the pleasure of completing”.

“Achieving an MSc with commendation means a great deal to me, and I sincerely appreciate all the guidance, encouragement, and support you and the entire team have provided throughout the programme. Your teaching, leadership, and dedication to student development made a significant difference to my learning experience and professional growth”

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