Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine MSc
Validated by University of South Wales
There has been a dramatic growth in the popularity of cosmetic procedures worldwide in recent years, including dermal fillers, laser treatment and more. This fully flexible, part-time cosmetic master's has been specifically designed for doctors, dentists, dental therapists, pharmacists and nurses who wish to improve their knowledge, skills and experience in cosmetic medicine.
With the government introducing greater regulations around aesthetic medicine, maintaining trust in the surgeon-patient relationship all comes down to the right cosmetic training and credible qualification.
Our cosmetic master's has been approved by the Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom (RCP), enabling graduates of this programme to receive CPD points as accredited by the RCP
Next intake: March 2025Key Facts
This MSc in Cosmetic Medicine has been specifically designed to promote and enhance working professionals’ knowledge and ultimately their practice in cosmetic and aesthetic medicine, and complements separate, practice-based recognised prior learning (RPL) awards. Plus, our courses represent cost-effective learning and provide students the opportunity to maximise their return on investment.
On completion of this master's in cosmetic medicine you will be able to:
- Develop analytical and critical appraisal skills in both theory and research related to cosmetic medicine.
- Demonstrate critical application of research to cosmetic medicine practice.
- Professional decision making: incorporating evidence based rationale in a variety of diverse and complex situations related to cosmetic medicine.
- To be able to apply advanced problem-solving skills in clinical practice.
- Demonstrate leadership in the delivery and advancement of cosmetic medicine.
- Demonstrate leadership of teams in multi-agency, multi-cultural and/or international contexts.
- Demonstrate evaluation skills in the delivery of care to patients.
Faculty
Programme Leader
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva’s experience within the field of dermatology is incredibly vast, having achieved a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology, a Postgraduate Certificate...
Tutor
Dr. Rakshanda Raziextensive
Professional activity:
- Experience in the field of clinical and research-based dermatology.
- She has a Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology and an MSc in Clinical Dermatology. She is also...
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)
WACS - Welsh Aesthetic & Cosmetic Society
This postgraduate diploma, the postgraduate certificate in cosmetic and aesthetic medicine, awarded by the University of South Wales, has been accredited by the Welsh Aesthetic & Cosmetic Society.
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 Ana Cristina Diniz Silva
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva’s experience within the field of dermatology is incredibly vast, having achieved a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology, a Postgraduate Certificate in Dermoscopy and an MSc in Dermatology Skills & Treatment.
During her studies, she accumulated years worth of experience in cosmetic dermatology, including botulinum toxin injections (head and neck, hyperhidrosis sites), non-surgical lifting with silhouette threads, hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite fillers (nasolabial folds, facial contours, lips, tear trough, MD codes) and fractional laser treatment.
Currently, she works at a private medical clinical in Ser Nobre, Brazil as a Dermatology and Obesity Clinical Supervisor.
Tutor
Dr. Rakshanda Raziextensive
Professional activity:
- Experience in the field of clinical and research-based dermatology.
- She has a Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology and an MSc in Clinical Dermatology. She is also a board-certified member of the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Several years of experience in antiaging and aesthetic medicine with expertise in botox, fillers, chemical peels and laser treatments for hair removal, vascular lesions and skin resurfacing. Other areas of interest include pediatric and teledermatology.
- Currently, she is involved in pediatric dermatology research at a tertiary care hospital in Toronto Canada
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Why Study a Cosmetic Medicine Master's 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?
The master's in aesthetic medicine is aimed at doctors, dentists, dental therapists, pharmacists and nurses whose roles are evolving with increasing demand amongst these specialists for a postgraduate qualification to help support their professional learning and clinical development.
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
The MSc in Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine is a two year course, consisting of eight modules (180 credits) with the first 120 credits deriving from the Postgraduate Diploma. The second year of the cosmetic master's starts with an initial 10 week online module that will develop skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies. Students then complete the professional project module, which consists of a 1,500 word proposal and 10,500 word professional project (dissertation).Year 1
Aim of the module:
The aim of the module is to address the life sciences underpinning cosmetic medicine and the professional and ethical issues that arise in practice.
Synopsis of module content:
- Anatomy of the face – the skin, muscles, fat pads, blood vessels, nerves and bones within the face.
- Physiology and physiological changes relating to these structures.
- Facial structure functions and their relation to ageing.
- Facial assessments and treatment plans.
- Ethics for treating patients for financial gain (treatment dependent).
- This module includes mandatory formative assessment activities, to support students learning and development prior to summative assessment tasks.
On completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Critically apply in-depth anatomical and physiological knowledge of the face to the selection of appropriate cosmetic medical treatments.
- Critically analyse the professional and ethical issues surrounding aesthetic medicine.
Aim of the module:
Address botulism as a disease and the pharmacology of botulinum toxins and treatments.
Synopsis of module content:
- Botulinum and botulism history.
- Botulinum toxin pharmaceutical history and licenses.
- Clostridia as bacteria.
- Indications for use, common complications and their treatment.
- Patient selection, injection techniques, indications, safety, adverse effects and combination treatments.
On completion of this module the student should be able to:
- Critically apply the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of botulinum use in cosmetic and medical treatment.
- Critically appraise the use of botulinum toxin in aesthetic treatments.
Aim of the module:
Teach candidates about facial fillers, volume loss, facial fat pads and how treatment of a volume depleted face can have an impact on the ageing face.
Synopsis of module content:
- Anatomy of facial fat pads and physiological effects of ageing.
- Dermal fillers.
- Hyaluronic Acids (HA), different manufacturers, cross linking (BDDE), length of fibre, duration of effect, fibroblasts (HA production, hyaluronidase).
- Indications for Has, complications associated with the administration of Has and the treatment of complications.
- Avoiding complications.
- Managing patient expectations.
- Non HA fillers – permanent/temporary, synthetic/autologous.
- Dermal fillers for specific regions – lips, hands.
On completion of this module the student should be able to:
- Critically analyse the evidence base for the augmentation of facial fat pads with dermal fillers.
- Critically evaluate the use of dermal fillers in aesthetic treatments.
Aim of the module:
- To understand skin in terms of: Embryology, structure and function.
- To understand the effects of aging/sun/cigarette smoking upon the skin, and how treatments such as lasers and dermal peels can alter the skin elements.
Synopsis of module content:
- Normal skin anatomy and physiology – layers of epidermis, layers of dermis, functions of epidermal layers/elements, function of dermis cells/non cellular elements.
- How the skin changes with ageing and environmental damage in all aspects and layers.
- Different types of Fitzpatrick skin types, the effect of ultraviolet light on the skin, sun tanning, sun protection, sun damage on the skin, skin ablative treatments, skin non ablative treatments, lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments.
- IPL Treatments – what are they, how do they work what are the different parameters that can be used in laser treatments, dermal peels, and skin repair and emerging treatments.
On completion of this module the student should be able to:
- Critically appraise the processes affecting damage to the skin.
- Critically evaluate a variety of skin treatments.
Aim of the module:
The aims of the module are to understand hair growth and hair loss and relate that to medical treatments for hair removal and hair replacement.
Synopsis of module content:
- Normal hair growth cycles.
- Hair colour and variations.
- Hair follicle anatomy, physiology and pathology, and how is this related to hair follicle pharmacological treatment.
- What medical conditions are related to unwanted hair – polycystic ovary syndrome, folliculitis barbae, hormonal conditions, etc.
- Hair aesthetics – hair removal with laser and IPL systems, specifically excluding mechanical hair removal (shaving, plucking, de-epilation, waxing, electrolysis, etc.)
- How does laser hair removal produce a reduction in hair growth, which lasers can be used, what is the difference between each type of laser, what is the difference between laser hair removal and IPL hair removal.
- Difference between hair reduction using “pain free” hair removal systems and using more traditional methods that have greater pain associated with them.
- What is hair loss – how does it manifest itself, what are the different types of male hair loss patterns, and how can they be treated. What are the non-surgical methods of treatment (light therapy, hair stimulation non-surgical therapy) and what evidence is there to suggest their efficacy.
- What drug treatments are available for hair loss, how do they work, how effective are they, what are their side effects, what are their pharmacological properties.
- What surgical methods are available for hair loss.
On completion of this module the student should be able to demonstrate:
- Critically apply knowledge of normal hair growth, hair follicle anatomy, physiology on a variety of hair pathologies.
- Evaluate and appropriately recommend treatments used in hair removal.
- Evaluate and appropriately recommend non-surgical methods used for the treatment of hair stimulation.
Aim of the module:
The module aims to develop an understanding of the hormonal mechanisms underlying ageing and other effective anti-ageing strategies.
Synopsis of module content:
- The physiology of aging including hormonal changes in testosterone, growth hormone and the menopause.
- Menopause, andropause and somatopause.
- Hormonal replacement as anti-ageing therapy.
- Vitamins and anti-ageing.
- The role of nutrition in anti-ageing.
- Role of exercise as an anti-ageing strategy.
- Exercise for the ageing person.
- Platelet-rich plasma infusions and their effect in aesthetics and ageing.
- Injection lipolysis, derma-rollers and micro needling.
- Ultrasonic therapies and radiofrequency.
On completion of this module the student should be able to:
- Critically apply the scientific evidence base to appraise the interaction between the ageing process and the endocrine system.
- Critically evaluate investigations and treatments available for age-related hormonal deficiencies.
- Critically appraise a range of anti-ageing strategies.
Year 2
Module Aims
This module is designed to help students recognise, understand, interpret and apply methods used in healthcare research and critically appraise the various methodologies specific to cosmetic research.
Module Content
Terminology used in epidemiology and research studies such as prevalence, incidence, sensitivity, specificity, false positive and false negatives.
Interpreting graphical representation of epidemiological and statistical data such as Kaplan-Meier Curves, Forrest Plots and Meta-analyses.
Calculations used in the assessment of research data such as relative risk, absolute risk, number needed to treat.
Statistical tests and their applications including t-Tests, ANOVA, Chi-Square.
Qualitative research methods.
Fundamentals of evidence-based practice and its application into the clinical setting.
Principles of health economics, audit and quality improvement/assurance systems.
Establishing patient registers and the value of disease specific registers.
Research into educational principles for both healthcare practitioner and patient.
Understanding what may work for the patient as well as the educator.
Learning Outcomes
- Analyse and interpret research in cosmetic medicine.
- Display a critical understanding of the clinical implications of research and its impact upon healthcare delivery and service development.
Module Aims
- Develop an ability to critically evaluate areas of professional practice.
- Critically appraise specific areas of clinical, research and organisational practice.
- Develop skills in independent research and study.
- Develop skills relevant to scientific publications.
Module Content
The module will depend on the creation of a piece of work based upon a specific clinically related project relevant to the student’s practice.
This project may comprise:
- Literature review and appraisal of the evidence.
- Audit of practice including organisational or clinical.
- Review and implementation of evidence-based practice.
- Qualitative or quantitative research (formal research involving human subjects is not anticipated).
- Case(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal.
- Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment.
Learning Outcomes
- Design and undertake research and development in order to produce an extensive piece of literature which may be suitable for peer-reviewed publication.
- Critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements or change.
- Incorporate knowledge of the research process in developing services appropriately.
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!
Year 1
- 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.
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.
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.
- 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.
Year 2
This module runs over an 8 week period and is designed to develop skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies. The module consists of mandatory formative assessment activities to support your learning and development prior to the Professional Project module.
Students will work with their supervisor to submit a professional project proposal for their chosen topic.
Students will deliver an abstract (1000 words) outlining their proposal and, if deemed necessary, develop and submit documentation for the University’s ethical committee approval.
- Students will create a dissertation, the theme of which has been developed in discussion with their tutor.
- Supervision will normally involve direct online support involving planned progress, supporting research activity and reading student work.
- Supervisors and students will agree on a communications plan, which may involve emails or online chats. Some students may employ the use of freely available chat or audio conferencing facilities for live discussion with supervisors.
- Students will have access to online forums where they can develop their research capabilities together.
- All communications with tutors will be logged on the Professional Project forum by the student, and consist of brief summaries of discussion.
Entry requirements
Since our master's in aesthetic medicine are conducted entirely online, they are 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 field, such as a medical or nursing degree.
Registered healthcare professionals 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. The University of South Wales 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.
Should you have already successfully completed the 1 year Postgraduate Diploma and wish to convert to the MSc and complete only the second year of the programme this is possible. Please contact our admissions department admissions@diploma-msc.com to find out more.
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 | £800 | £9,200 |
| 1st May 2025 | £800 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £800 | |
| 1st September 2025 | £800 | |
| 1st November 2025 | £800 | |
| 1st January 2026 | £800 | |
| 1st March 2026 | £733 | |
| 1st May 2026 | £733 | |
| 1st July 2026 | £733 | |
| 1st September 2026 | £733 | |
| 1st November 2026 | £733 | |
| 1st January 2027 | £735 |
† 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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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.
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