Postgraduate Diploma in Obesity and Weight Management
Validated by University of South Wales
Marking a decade of excellence in 2025, our Postgraduate Diploma in Obesity and Weight Management has empowered over 300 healthcare professionals globally. From the beginning, the programme has set the benchmark in obesity medicine, continually evolving to reflect the latest advancements and prepare practitioners for leadership in the field.
"Enhance your practice with leading insights in GLP-1 receptor agonists and emerging obesity therapies through our comprehensive obesity and weight management diploma. Our comprehensive Postgraduate Diploma delivers in-depth expertise, empowering you to navigate and excel in the rapidly transforming landscape of weight management. By joining this programme, you will develop the confidence and skills to support your career objectives, deliver optimal care, and set up a private weight management clinic." - Dr. Alun Davies, MBBCh MRCGP BSc (Hons) Dip SEM, Programme Leader on the MSc in Obesity and Weight Management, Learna and University of South Wales (USW), Medical Writer, Clinical Reviewer.
"We are proud at USW to validate this PG Diploma in Obesity and Weight Management, which integrates the most forward-thinking approaches in obesity medicine. The course offers a rigorous, evidence-based foundation, covering the latest treatment techniques like precision medicine, GLP1 receptor agonists, and metabolic surgery. Together, we are advancing a new level of care, equipping practitioners to remain at the cutting edge of healthcare transformation and make meaningful improvements to patient outcomes globally." – Dr. Karl New, PhD, Senior Lecturer - Physiology & Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, Sport and Exercise Research and Innovation Group, Learna/USW Programme Link Officer, University of South Wales (USW).
Next intake: March 2025Key Facts
"Our flexible, part-time obesity and weight management diploma uses a case-based, multidisciplinary approach, seamlessly connecting research and practical application. The obesity and weight management diploma is designed to accommodate your clinical and personal commitments, offering you the chance to explore advanced topics like gut microbiome research and tailored treatment strategies. You'll also engage with renowned experts committed to addressing one of the biggest challenges in healthcare. This is more than just a course; it's an opportunity to elevate your career and lead the way in obesity management." – Dr. Anish Kotecha, MRCGP, FAcadMEd, MBBCh, BSc, Head of Medical Education
Faculty
Programme Leader: Dr. Alun Davies, MBBCh MRCGP BSc (Hons) Dip SEM
Dr. Alun Davies is a renowned expert in obesity and diabetes, with a distinguished career in medical leadership and a proven track record in leading major drug launches and strategic...
Validating partner
University of South Wales
The University of South Wales (USW) is a modern, industry focused University located in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd in South Wales, UK. It was rated best in the UK for the Health Professions in the Guardian University Guide 2020 and, in the latest Complete University Guide 2022, is in the top 10 in the UK for Health Studies. USW is one of Britain’s largest and most exciting new universities attracting a cosmopolitan mix of students from across the globe.
Accreditors and Endorsers
UEMS - European Union of Medical Specialists
This postgraduate course has also been accredited by the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS)
SCOPE Accredited
SCOPE Accredited
Frequently Asked Questions
For a full list of our FAQs visit our FAQs page.
As each Medical Council has their own rules/regulations with regard to Postgraduate study we recommend that you contact your local Medical Council with regard to recognition.
Upon completion of the course the University would invite you to a graduation ceremony and provide your certificate which makes no reference to the fact that the course was studied online and is therefore typically recognised the same as any other UK University qualification.
Rest assured, the overall Postgraduate Diploma carries a total of 1,200 CPD points, with the MSc an additional 600 CPD points, and all official certifications are issued directly by the University.
When you study one of our programmes you may be surprised to find that there are no lectures or seminars. Your learning will be self-directed meaning that rather than being told information you find it for yourself (with tutor guidance and support). We do this via a series of clinically rich scenarios which your tutor will post on our academic forum which you and your classmates will research, respond to and discuss.
You will be assessed through the Academic Forum, Reflective Journal and Assignments. Learning will be carried out using our online learning platform: Moodle.
You can study whenever and wherever you want - our programmes are totally flexible to fit around your other work and life commitments.
The course is specifically designed so that part of your study is the application of theory to practice in your day job.
We typically suggest that students aim to log into the Moodle platform daily. We recommend a "little and often" approach for reading, reflection and/or posting. High achieving students will typically spend 1-2 hours dedicated to their studies a day; 10 hours per week is sufficient time to spend on the platform.
Those who cannot dedicate more time than once/twice per week may struggle with the demands of this postgraduate programme.
Yes, everything is done entirely online through our learning platform, Moodle. You do not need to attend the University.
Postgraduate Diploma courses
In order to be eligible for our Postgraduate Diploma courses you need to hold a medical degree or undergraduate degree in a health related science and be working within the field that you wish to study, as the course is designed to further your knowledge within your chosen subject and is not designed to introduce these as new topic areas.
We have two intakes a year in March and September. Click the following link for the up to date application deadlines and module dates: Module Dates.
The Action Taker Discount offers savings based on your programme: £150 off for PGCert and £250 off for PGDip/2-year MSc programmes. To qualify, you must pay the deposit within 7 days of acceptance. This discount is not available during February and August and not available in combination with the Early Bird Discount. The Action Taker Discount will be applied to your final payment. To take advantage, act quickly after acceptance to secure your savings.
Next intake: March 2025 Key Facts
Programme Leader: Dr. Alun Davies, MBBCh MRCGP BSc (Hons) Dip SEM
Dr. Alun Davies is a renowned expert in obesity and diabetes, with a distinguished career in medical leadership and a proven track record in leading major drug launches and strategic initiatives across both UK and global markets.
Currently serving as Head of General Medicine at Amgen UK, Dr. Davies has held senior roles that showcase his exceptional expertise. As Senior Director in Medical Affairs for Obesity at Eli Lilly, he led the UK medical strategy for the obesity therapy area, overseeing the regulatory filing and NICE submission for Tirzepatide. Prior to this, he played a pivotal role as Global Medical Manager at Novo Nordisk, where he spearheaded the global launch of the first oral GLP-1 therapy and expanded its primary care strategy across key international markets.
Dr. Davies has also contributed significantly to clinical research, leading global Phase 3 trials and generating real-world evidence that underpinned the success of groundbreaking treatments. His work in medical education and collaboration with cross-functional teams has had a transformative impact on patient care and therapeutic innovation.
A graduate of Cardiff University, Dr. Davies qualified as a GP in 2012 and has a special interest in sports and exercise medicine. He is the founder and Clinical Director of “Weight Loss Wales,” the first fully virtual weight loss clinic, and serves as the Lead Clinician for the Primary Care Obesity Society, reflecting his unwavering commitment to advancing patient care and medical excellence.
Dr. Davies’ leadership and expertise make him an invaluable asset to the Obesity and Weight Management programme, inspiring healthcare professionals to tackle the challenges of obesity with innovative, evidence-based approaches.
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Why Study an Obesity & Weight Management Postgraduate Diploma with Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
100% Flexible
Our courses are 100% online. No fixed study times mean you can log in and learn whenever and wherever.
Multidisciplinary - study in a group of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
Expert Led
All of our programmes are authored and developed by world leading experts in their field.
Our faculty are selected due to their subject expertise, experience and teaching abilities to ensure the highest standards of educational excellence.
Career Boosting
Get a University Validated postgraduate qualification in just 1 calendar year instead of 2 academic years.
40% of our alumni reported an increase in salary 2 years after studying with us.
Who is this course for?
Our diploma in weight management are specifically designed for health professionals aiming for leadership roles in the field of weight and obesity management. The programmes are ideal for:
General Practitioners (GPs): Seeking to expand their expertise and provide specialised care to patients struggling with obesity.
Doctors and Physicians: Looking to deepen their understanding and improve their clinical practice in obesity management.
Nurses and Nurse Practitioners: Aspiring to play a pivotal role in obesity treatment and patient education.
Surgeons: Specialising in bariatric surgery or other surgical interventions related to obesity.
Physiotherapists: Interested in the physical rehabilitation and mobility aspects of obesity management.
Dietitians and Nutritionists: Wanting to enhance their knowledge in developing comprehensive dietary plans for weight management.
Psychologists and Counsellors: Focused on the psychological and behavioural aspects of obesity and weight management.
Healthcare Professionals Running Clinics: Looking to lead and innovate in their practice, providing holistic care to those affected by obesity.
By joining our obesity diploma, you will be at the forefront of tackling one of the most critical health issues of our time, equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a significant impact in the field.
How Will I Learn?
You'll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform, which allows you to engage with clinical cases, complete assignments, and collaborate with fellow students at times that suit your schedule. There's no fixed timetable—simply log in daily to participate in the week's activities.
Learn through engaging discussion
Our teaching approach is highly interactive, using small groups of 10-20 students to foster a collaborative environment where you can engage in thoughtful discussions and receive guidance from your tutor. You'll have access to learning resources and discussion forums that encourage ongoing interaction and deeper engagement with the material.
Throughout your studies, you'll receive support from a dedicated expert tutor and our Student Support Team, ensuring you have the resources needed to navigate the course successfully.
Curriculum
Our online Obesity and Weight Management Postgraduate Diploma allows you to study for just one calendar year and is a part-time, distance-learning course. The course is worth 120 credits and comprises six modules of 20 credits, each running over a period of six weeks.Module Aims
Develop a critical understanding and knowledge of adipose tissue, fat deposition and storage, and human energy balance.
Module Content
- The histology and physiology of the adipocyte and adipose tissue.
- Regional distribution of body fat: sex-specific characteristics of subcutaneous, visceral and gluteo-femoral adiposity. The role of adipose tissue as an endocrine organ and its role in health and disease.
- Adipose tissue and inter-organ communication.
- Appetite regulation and the role of adipose tissue, the brain, gastrointestinal tract and other organs and tissues (e.g. liver and skeletal muscle) in the complex neuro-endocrine regulation of food intake, energy expenditure and body composition.
- Introduction to the assessment of energy intake, energy expenditure and body composition and their application in clinical weight management.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a comprehensive and critical knowledge of adipose tissue biology and the regulation of energy homeostasis and body composition through the integrated actions of various organs and tissues.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the methods used to assess human body composition, energy intake and energy expenditure and knowledge of the application of these methods in the setting of clinical weight management.
Module Aims
To critically explore obesity as a chronic disease, its epidemiology and the global burden of obesity, and obesity-related comorbidities in populations.
Module Content
- The strengths and limitations of body mass index and the definition of obesity.
- Justification for classifying obesity as a disease.
- Global trends in obesity, its relationship to population health and differences in the identification of obesity in different ethnic populations.
- Abdominal obesity, metabolic syndrome and comorbidity, including obesity and cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and ectopic lipid.
- Obesity assessment in children and adults.
- Obesity phenotypes: overall, central and peripheral obesity.
- Ectopic fat and health.
- The economic and societal impact of obesity on a multi-level including regional, national and international levels.
- The primary prevention of obesity and the complex systems approach.
Learning Outcomes:
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the epidemiology and global burden of obesity, and enhanced skills in the clinical assessment and staging of individuals living with obesity.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the economic and societal impact of obesity and the wider determinants of weight gain and obesity that operate across the life course, including environmental, socioeconomic, cultural and behavioural determinants in the context of the global burden of obesity.
Module Aims
To develop a critical understanding of the medical, genetic, and environmental factors that can cause weight gain and obesity.
Module Content
- Genes (e.g. FTO, LEP/POMC/MC4, PPAR-gamma ) and genetic conditions associated with obesity and obesity phenotypes (e.g. Bardet-Biedel syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome).
- Epigenetics and gene-environment interactions in relation to obesity.
- Endocrine disorders and other conditions predisposing to weight gain and obesity (e.g. Cushing Syndrome, hypothyroidism and pregnancy).
- Drugs and their association with weight gain, including glucocorticoids, oral contraceptives and psychotropic agents.
- Environmental endocrine disruptors and other biological agents (e.g. viruses) and obesity.
- The gut microbiota
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of genetics, inherited conditions and gene-environment interactions linked with weight gain and obesity.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of selected medical conditions, drugs and other biological factors in relation to weight gain and obesity.
Module Aims
To enhance the knowledge and clinical skills required to effectively evaluate and treat obesity with emphasis on personalised care, nutrition, physical activity and behavioural modification.
Module Content
- Analysis of specific obesity treatment guidelines.
- Behaviour change theories and models and the clinical evaluation of the patient living with obesity to understand the obstacles to changes in behaviour and the implementation of specific strategies of behavioural modification.
- Psychological strategies to promote behaviour change, including cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing.
- Key concepts in human nutrition (e.g. glycaemic index and glycaemic load).
- Hydration and obesity.
- The evidence for nutritional interventions in personalised weight management and their application in clinical practice, including appraisal of selected and specific dietary approaches such as low-fat, low-carbohydrate and plant-based diets.
- Appraisal of physical activity interventions and increased energy expenditure in the personalised management of obesity, including the effect of different exercise programmes on BMI, adiposity, fat distribution and obesity-related risk factors.
- Critically appraising the role and responsibilities of the multi-disciplinary team in the implementation and delivery of personalised weight management.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a critical understanding and application of physical activity, nutritional and behavioural interventions in the context of obesity and the personalised care of the person living with obesity.
- Demonstrate a critical awareness of the need to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and to use appropriate language, compassion and ethical behaviour when communicating with patients and their families who are living with obesity.
Module Aims
To enhance the knowledge and clinical skills required to effectively evaluate and treat obesity with emphasis on personalised care, pharmacotherapy and new and emerging therapies.
Module Content
- Analysis of specific guidelines for obesity pharmacotherapy.
- The role and clinical applicability of medical therapies in weight management.
- The pharmacological effects, mechanism of action, efficacy and adverse events associated with licensed medical therapies used in weight management and evaluation of the evidence.
- Unlicensed therapies used in weight management, their pharmacological properties, evidence regarding their use, controversies and legalities of use, and the associated adverse effects.
- Previously licensed/used medical therapies, their pharmacology and reasons for withdrawal with an emphasis upon pharmacovigilance and post marketing surveillance.
- The role of emerging therapies in weight management with emphasis upon the physiological basis for potential therapies.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of medical therapies used in the clinical treatment of obesity and application of this understanding to the personalised care of the person living with obesity.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of past, current, new and emerging therapies for weight management and the role of pharmacovigilance in evaluating their adverse effects.
Module Aims
To enhance the knowledge and clinical skills required to effectively evaluate and treat obesity with personalised care and surgery, and to manage the post-bariatric surgery patient.
Module Content
- Analysis of specific obesity treatment guidelines.
- Surgical approaches involved in the management of weight related disorders and evaluation of the evidence.
- Short and long-term risks associated with surgical interventions in weight management.
- The identification of patients for bariatric procedures and the role of the multi-disciplinary team.
- The critical role of the multi-disciplinary team in the management of the patient with obesity before and after bariatric surgery, including the management of post-operative nutrition and physical activity.
- The health economics of bariatric procedures and medical therapies.
- An understanding and appreciation of the need for the reversal of certain bariatric procedures. An appreciation of the health economics of bariatric procedures as well as medical therapies.
- An understanding and appreciation of the need for the reversal of certain bariatric procedures.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of surgical interventions used in the clinical treatment of obesity and application of this understanding to the personalised pre- and post-surgical care of the person living with obesity.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the health economic evaluation of surgical and medical interventions for obesity.
Assessment Methods
This programme emphasises learning through active participation in case-based discussions, reflection, and real-life scenarios. Students engage with clinical cases that mirror everyday practice, fostering problem-solving and evidence-based application from the very beginning.
Across the modules, assessments are integrated with learning. Each week, you will work through two to three clinical cases, discussing and reflecting on them with peers under the guidance of an expert tutor. These discussions form the core of your learning and are also the basis for your assessments.
Our innovative teaching methods are designed to help you translate this learning into real-world clinical practice. You'll need to regularly log in to participate in discussions, ideally on a daily basis, and commit approximately two hours per day to your studies. Our dedicated Student Support Team is available to assist with any challenges you may encounter, from navigating our online platform to managing deadlines.
How Foundational Knowledge is Developed
The programme is structured so that foundational knowledge is introduced through carefully designed clinical cases. Each case is crafted to highlight essential concepts and progressively deepen your understanding as you apply critical thinking and evidence-based analysis. This hands-on approach ensures that you are not only acquiring theoretical knowledge but also learning how to apply it in a practical, clinical setting.
This programme is suited for professionals who thrive in an online, discussion-based learning environment. Please note that this course focuses on interactive, applied learning through peer collaboration and case discussions. You will be fully supported, encouraged and led through the programme to success and graduation!
- Every week students are presented with two/three clinical case-based scenarios that are reflective of every day clinical practice and research.
- Tutors will post a number of questions and prompts to aid students in a formal discussion of each case.
- These discussions are facilitated throughout by your tutor and are then assessed at the end of every module.
The reflective journal is used by students throughout each module to monitor personal progress. This is guided by weekly feedback from your tutor and is graded at the end of every module. The journal typically includes the following:
- Initial expectations and reasons for taking the course.
- Module and/or personal learning objectives.
- Description of events, issues and learning points within current personal practice.
- Change in every day practice due to knowledge gained on each module.
- A description of what has been learned during the module.
For this assessment, students will work on a group assignment and/or an individual assignment.
- Group assignments are designed to hone skills in the multidisciplinary, holistic approach to modern treatments and patient management by requiring group participation in a single piece of work.
- Individual assignments are designed to hone skills in academic career progression through such tasks as reviewing papers, developing scientific posters or abstracts, peer-reviewing, social media activities, patient information leaflets and essays.
- Students are provided with case-based problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination.
- The exam consists of 30 'Single Best Answer' questions.
- Students are required to complete the exam online within the set time.
Entry requirements
Since our diploma in obesity management are conducted entirely online, they are accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.
Applicants to our diploma in obesity management will typically hold a first degree or equivalent (including international qualifications) in a relevant professional healthcare or management field.
Registered healthcare professionals or experienced managers working in the healthcare field, without these recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be taken into account. In some cases, applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment in order to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at postgraduate level, and demonstrate the requisite clinical and professional knowledge.
Documents Required
- A copy of your updated CV including your address and date of birth.
- A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate.
- The name and email address of someone who is able to provide a reference, this can be a work colleague, employer or former tutor.
- A detailed personal statement explaining why you would like to undertake the course.
- A copy of your proof of English competency (see below).
English Language Requirements
Proficiency in the English language is also essential to completing our courses. If English is NOT your first language, we ask for proof of competency during the application process. We are able to accept an IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.
If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry. You can also contact our admissions team on admissions@learna.ac.uk for more information on the qualifications we accept.
Course Fees
Option 1: Upfront Payment in full. Option 2: Interest free payments every other month for the duration of the course.
| Date | Instalments | Up-Front Payments |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit | £820 | £4,900 |
| 1st May 2025 | £816 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £816 | |
| 1st September 2025 | £816 | |
| 1st November 2025 | £816 | |
| 1st January 2026 | £816 |
† Deposits are non-refundable
†† Prices are subject to review following each intake
Option 3: Lower your monthly payments by spreading the cost for between 2 and 8 years with a loan from our lending partner Lendwise*.
*Subject to eligibility criteria.
Learna | Diploma MSc has a partnership with Lendwise which is a leading private student loan provider, to help UK students fund their course fees should they require financing. Lendwise is a UK-based education finance platform through which candidates can fund their postgraduate and professional qualification studies at leading educational institutions.
A Lendwise loan comes with a fixed interest rate for the duration of the loan (between 2 and 8 years) and no early repayment penalties. The interest rate offered will depend on the overall applicant profile and the application process is entirely online.*
*Other sources of funding are available.
Learna | Diploma MSc does not offer financial advice, recommend or endorse any financial product. You should always check the suitability of the product that is of interest to you. If you are in any doubt as to its suitability, we suggest that you seek independent professional advice.
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We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online diploma courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
Our courses are some of the most affordable of their kind, providing value for money without compromising on quality. We also don't apply an international surcharge. No fixed timetable means you can log in & learn on the go, at your convenience.
Being totally online means we can select the very best tutors and resource editors, no matter where they’re located.
Connect with multidisciplinary people around the world to expand your insights & broaden your career prospects.
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