Postgraduate Diploma in Orthopaedics
Validated by University of Buckingham
Orthopaedics is one of the most impactful medical specialties—where a single intervention can restore function and dramatically improve a patient’s quality of life. Whether it’s treating fractures, performing joint replacements, or managing musculoskeletal conditions, this field is hands-on, rapidly-evolving, and highly rewarding.
In general practice, at least 20% of patient visits are musculoskeletal-related and musculoskeletal cases make up 20-30% of A&E attendances, highlighting the need for specialists in this area.
Our flexible, online one-year Postgraduate Diploma in Orthopaedics is designed to enhance your expertise and broaden your career prospects. You will gain in-depth knowledge of musculoskeletal conditions, master evidence-based treatment strategies, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to drive innovation in orthopaedic care.
Next intake: September 2025Key Facts
This comprehensive orthopaedics diploma programme offers a rigorous academic framework, practical clinical insights, and a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address the growing demand for orthopaedic expertise. The curriculum takes a case-based learning approach and is structured around the latest advancements in musculoskeletal medicine, including trauma management, degenerative joint diseases, paediatric orthopaedics, and sports injuries. Designed by leading experts in the field, this programme equips you with the knowledge and practical skills required to excel in modern orthopaedic practice.
Take the next step in your orthopaedic career with this advanced qualification and make a meaningful impact in musculoskeletal healthcare.
Faculty
Programme Leader
Dr Firas Arnaout MD MSc FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Dr Firas Arnaout is a highly experienced Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a distinguished career in trauma and orthopaedics. He holds an MSc in...
Validating partner
University of Buckingham
The University of Buckingham is the only independent university in the UK with a Royal Charter, and also one of the smallest with around 2,700 students, who study for honours degrees in two intensive years of study. The University houses its own medical school and was ranked first for student satisfaction in 2018, 2019 and 2020 by the Complete University Guide.
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.
We currently offer two discounts: the Early Bird Discount and the Action Taker Discount. The Early Bird discount allows you to save up to £500 or more, available only to self-funders and is a limited-time offer that runs for the entirety of November for the March cohort or the entirety of May for the September cohort. Our Action Taker Discount allows you to save up to £150 off for PGCert and £250 off for PGDip/2-year MSc programmes. To qualify for Action Takers, 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.
For Early Bird Discounts, the discount is visible if your application and acceptance are completed within the required timeframe. For Action Taker Discounts, it will reflect once conditions are met.
Next intake: September 2025 Key Facts
Programme Leader
Dr Firas Arnaout MD MSc FRCS (Tr&Orth)
Dr Firas Arnaout is a highly experienced Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a distinguished career in trauma and orthopaedics. He holds an MSc in Trauma & Orthopaedics from Warwick University and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS Tr&Orth) as well as the European Board of Orthopaedics & Traumatology.
Dr Arnaout has held consultant roles at leading hospitals in the UK and internationally. He is also the Founder and Director of Education at Orthopaedic Academy, an innovative platform dedicated to surgical training and mentorship.
With a strong academic and research background, he has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and authored acclaimed orthopaedic textbooks, including the award-winning 'Concise Orthopaedic Notes'. His contributions have been recognised through multiple accolades, such as the Outstanding Orthopaedic Surgeon Excellence Award and the Best Teaching Webinar Series awarded by the British Orthopaedic Trainee Association.
As Programme Leader for the Postgraduate Diploma and MSc in Orthopaedics, Dr Arnaout combines his extensive clinical expertise and passion for surgical education, ensuring students receive advanced knowledge and practical insights from a leading authority in the field.
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Why Study an Orthopaedics 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?
This online Orthopaedics course is aimed at:
Nurses- Enhance skills for when working in wards, dealing with orthopaedic issues in a range of settings. Gain a better understanding of the subject to better treat patients within the field. Address shortage of specialists in the subject area, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Doctors- Widen portfolio of medical expertise to further career opportunities within the discipline of orthopaedics. Gain in-depth knowledge of the latest surgical and biomechanical techniques to meet local, regional and national needs for managing orthopaedic trauma. Address shortage of specialists in the subject area, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Our target market is not limited to the categories mentioned above, and all those who wish to learn how to apply the fundamentals of orthopaedics to benefit suffering patients.
Medical graduates (in related fields such as Biomedical Science and/or Dietetics): Following the completion of this programme students will be able to extend their knowledge and understanding of the speciality of orthopaedics, while furthering their career progression opportunities.
Operating department staff and allied health professionals: The successful completion of this programme would allow operating department staff and allied health professionals to further their knowledge surrounding orthopaedics, which would increase their ability to effectively treat and assist any patients.
Surgical Care Practitioners (SCPs)
International practitioners: Following the completion of this programme international practitioners would have an increased knowledge of common orthopaedic conditions, such as musculoskeletal disorders. This will aid in their diagnosis, treatment and care of patients who otherwise would not be able to access treatment due to a shortage of Orthopaedic surgeons in their area.
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 diploma in geriatric care 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:
To equip healthcare professionals with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the fundamental aspects of trauma and orthopaedics, focusing on anatomy, biomechanics, the healing process, X-ray interpretation, and clinical examination techniques.
Module Summary
- Fundamentals of trauma and orthopaedics
- Detailed anatomy relevant to T&O
- Biomechanics of musculoskeletal systems
- Healing processes of bones and tissues
- Principles and techniques of X-ray interpretation
- Clinical examination methods in orthopaedics
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of anatomy, biomechanics, healing processes, X-ray interpretation, and clinical examination in trauma and orthopaedics (T&O).
- Critically analyse and evaluate complex information and research findings related to advanced principles of trauma and orthopaedic care.
- Apply advanced knowledge to clinical scenarios, in a range of settings, by synthesising and interpreting complex findings that are communicated effectively for patient management within a multidisciplinary team approach.
Module Aims:
To equip students with an advanced knowledge and understanding of orthopaedic trauma and emergencies. This module focuses on the principles and practices of managing acute injuries, emergency interventions, and post-traumatic care in orthopaedics.
Module Summary:
- Introduction to orthopaedic trauma and emergencies
- Classification and management of fractures
- Emergency care protocols and triage
- Surgical and non-surgical interventions
- Rehabilitation and post-traumatic care
- Case studies and practical applications
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate a critical knowledge and understanding of the principles governing the management of orthopaedic trauma and emergencies, including comprehensive fracture classification and the application of rigorous emergency care protocols.
- Systematically analyse and critically evaluate complex trauma cases to develop and justify evidence-based management plans grounded in current evidence and best practices.
- Apply advanced knowledge of emergency interventions, including initial stabilisation and appropriate surgical or non-surgical treatments.
Module Aims:
To equip students with an in-depth knowledge of paediatric orthopaedics, focusing on both elective and trauma cases. This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and understanding necessary to diagnose, manage, and treat orthopaedic conditions in children.
Module Summary:
- Introduction to paediatric orthopaedics
- Common elective orthopaedic conditions in children
- Trauma-related orthopaedic injuries in children
- Diagnostic methods and imaging techniques
- Surgical and non-surgical treatment options
- Postoperative care and rehabilitation
Learning Outcomes:
- Critically apply a systematic understanding of the principles and practices of paediatric orthopaedics to a range of settings, encompassing both elective and trauma-related conditions.
- Critically appraise and synthesise information from clinical assessments and imaging studies to formulate and justify advanced management plans for paediatric orthopaedic patients.
- Apply and critically evaluate advanced clinical skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing paediatric orthopaedic conditions, ensuring evidence-based practice and patient-centred care.
Module Aims:
To equip healthcare professionals with an advanced understanding of the spine, covering both trauma and elective conditions, with an emphasis on diagnosis, management, and treatment strategies.
Module Summary:
- Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Spine
- Pathophysiology of Spinal Trauma
- Elective Spinal Conditions
- Diagnostic Imaging of the Spine
- Surgical Management of Spinal Conditions
- Non-Surgical Management and Rehabilitation
Learning Outcomes:
- Critically evaluate the latest research and evidence-based practices related to the anatomy, biomechanics, pathophysiology, and treatment options for spinal conditions, both traumatic and elective.
- Critically implement knowledge into a patient-centred approach to diagnose, manage, and treat a variety of spinal conditions, considering the individual’s needs, preferences, and overall well-being.
- Demonstrate advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills that may be applied when integrating diagnostic imaging interpretation, developing comprehensive treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for spinal conditions in a range of multidisciplinary settings.
Module Aims:
To equip students with an advanced understanding of the anatomy, pathology, clinical examination, and treatment modalities related to the upper limb in the field of orthopaedics.
Module Summary:
- Detailed anatomy of the upper limb
- Common upper limb pathologies
- Clinical examination techniques for the upper limb
- Imaging modalities for diagnosing upper limb conditions
- Surgical and non-surgical treatment options
- Rehabilitation and post-operative care
Learning Outcomes:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the anatomical and pathological features of the upper limb, and critically evaluate the latest research and evidence-based practices relating to clinical and imaging techniques used in diagnosis and treatment.
- Critically evaluate the latest research and evidence-based practices related to upper limb conditions and their management.
- Select and adapt appropriate advanced problem solving strategies, and clinical examination methodologies to interpret complex imaging results to design patient-centred treatment plans for upper limb disorders, applying a shared decision-making approach.
Module Aims:
To equip students with an advanced understanding of the anatomy, biomechanics, pathophysiology, and clinical management of conditions affecting the lower limb, including the hip, knee, ankle, and foot.
Module Summary:
- Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Lower Limb
- Common Injuries and Conditions of the Hip
- Common Injuries and Conditions of the Knee
- Common Injuries and Conditions of the Ankle and Foot
- Surgical Treatment Options for Lower Limb Conditions
- Non-Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation
Learning Outcomes:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, biomechanical, and pathological aspects of lower limb conditions, and the principles of their management.
- Critically analyse complex clinical cases involving the lower limb, systematically evaluate the latest evidence-based treatment options, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to construct patient specific treatment and management strategies.
- Synthesise advanced clinical assessment skills to conduct comprehensive clinical assessments of lower limb conditions, critically interpret diagnostic imaging, and formulate evidence-based treatment plans in a range of multidisciplinary settings.
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!
- Case problems reflective of day-to-day practice/research will be presented for the students to consider and answer every week.
- Students discuss the concepts being presented in the case within their online group discussion forum, facilitated throughout the module by their tutor and marked by them at the end of the module.
- The content of the academic forum is based on the learning outcomes for the module.
The online reflective journal is a learning portfolio that requires students to record and critically reflect on their learning. Reflection is an important aspect of the programme since the professionals will be able to spend time considering how their practice compares to the themes being discussed in the module. The tutor provides feedback to the student weekly and marks it at the end of the module. Reflective practice is a requirement for healthcare professionals for professional re-validation and professional development.
This can be either a Group Activity or an Individual Activity:
Group activity
Designed to stimulate and test the students’ ability to work as a team in taking the subject area forward. A group task is set, the group elects a leader using the online forum and the leader allocates tasks to group members. The leader is responsible for managing, collating and submitting the activity (online) at the end of the module. The tutor provides formative guidance part way through the module and marks the assessment at the end.
or
Individual activity
Designed to stimulate and demonstrate personalised learning, creativity and problem solving with application to each student’s own practice area.
Examples of individual activities might include either a written assignment, developing an academic poster presentation, a blog or social media project.
All students must complete the same assignment for each module which is pre-determined by the Programme Leader before the modules commence.
- Case problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination with multiple-choice questions directly test the reasoning and knowledge objectives of the module.
- The online exam is marked automatically.
- The examination tests related theory and problem-solving skills.
Entry requirements
Our distance learning diploma in orthopaedics is conducted entirely online and is accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.
Applicants 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 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.
If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry. The University of Buckingham run a number of English Language Programmes at the Centre for International English to prepare you for your academic studies. You can also contact our admissions team on admissions@diploma-msc.com for more information on the qualifications we accept.
Course Fees
- Deposit for September 2025: £750 †
- Total Course Fees for UK & International Students for September 2025: £4,500 ††
Payment Options
- Option 1: Upfront Payment in full. Pay-in-full discount is available.
- Option 2: Apply for Interest-free payments each month for the duration of the course.
Payment Plan Breakdown
| Deposit | 10 Monthly Payments | Final Payment |
| £750 † | £340 | £350 |
Total payments: £4,500
You may also be interested in:
- Spread the cost with Lendwise, who offer financing options for up to 8 years. ††††
† Deposits are non-refundable
†† Prices are subject to review following each intake
†††† Subject to eligibility criteria.
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Why Learna
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.
Our programmes produce 90% fewer emissions than campus-based learning.
