Dermatology in Clinical Practice MSc (USW)
Validated by University of South Wales
This master's in dermatology online course is designed for busy clinicians and for those individuals who want to upgrade their knowledge and obtain a stronghold in their clinical practice. This dermatology MSc course carries great weightage both professionally and in personal clinical practice too. The MSc in clinical dermatology is applicable to all GPs, Practice Nurses, Specialist Nurses and Pharmacists exposed to patients with dermatological conditions. Our MSc flexible, part-time dermatology programme is run in conjunction with The University of South Wales (USW).
A modern, industry industry-focused University, rated best in the UK for the Health Professions in the Guardian University Guide 2020. Also rated top 10 in the UK, in the latest Complete University Guide 2022 for Health Studies. Our high-quality and reasonably priced dermatology course is a very well-reputed programme, led and taught by experts in their field. That means you will come away with the best experience possible, and our students are a testament to this.
Our Dermatology 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
On top of being good value for money, this master's in dermatology satisfies the growing international demand for a dermatology MSc and on completion, you will be able to develop life-long learning, critical appraisal and advanced problem-solving skills that can be applied to dermatology in clinical practice.
The is very beneficial in upgrading skills and clinical knowledge and has the capacity to give tremendous recognition among recruiters and patients with its high-quality, well-structured teaching and learning curriculum. Plus, we understand that time is of the essence, and we've designed our programmes to help you complete your education faster, giving you a jump-start on your career.
On completion of the MSc dermatology online course, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the care of patients with dermatological conditions.
- Critically evaluate current research in practical dermatology.
- Deliver management strategies for the investigation and treatment of patients with dermatological conditions.
- Critically appraise current and potential practical dermatological treatments for use in a variety of population groups.
- An applied understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in an appropriate clinical setting.
- In depth knowledge and understanding of the discipline informed by current scholarship and research.
- Advanced level critical skills designed to deal with complex problems.
Faculty
Programme Leader
Prof Christian Aldridge BSc (Hons), MBChB, MRCP
Current post: Consultant Dermatologist, Prince Charles and Royal Glamorgan Hospitals
- Consultant Dermatologist
- Chair of the All Wales Skin Cancer Network
- Teledermatology Lead at...
Tutor
Dr Cecilia Grossmith
Dr Cecilia Grossmith first became interested in dermatology in 2001, having been a GP for many years and finding skin complaints a major part of general practice....
Tutor
Dr Deepa M.L Hemnani
Dr Deepa M.L Hemnani is a Dermatologist working in the capacity of Assistant professor with "Dow University of Health Sciences" Karachi, Pakistan, which is a renowned...
Tutor
Dr Michael Boffa
As Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Michael Boffa's regular duties include outpatient clinics in General & Paediatric Dermatology, Urgent referrals, Skin Surgery and Laser sessions, supervision of the nurse-led...
Programme Leader
Dr Thomas King
Dr Thomas King is currently an ST6 dermatology Specialist Trainee at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals and has recently accepted a consultant dermatology post at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals.
With...
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)
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
Prof Christian Aldridge BSc (Hons), MBChB, MRCP
Current post: Consultant Dermatologist, Prince Charles and Royal Glamorgan Hospitals
- Consultant Dermatologist
- Chair of the All Wales Skin Cancer Network
- Teledermatology Lead at Prince Charles Hospital
- Honorary Visiting Consultant for Gibraltar Health Authority
- Cardiff Medical School Examiner
- Melanoma UK Dermatology Advisor
Prof Aldridge’s main interests are skin cancer, mole surveillance and skin cancer surgery. He has published in this field and remains committed towards early diagnosis and prompt intervention in the management of skin cancer.
Tutor
Dr Cecilia Grossmith
Dr Cecilia Grossmith first became interested in dermatology in 2001, having been a GP for many years and finding skin complaints a major part of general practice. After completing the Post Graduate Diploma in Dermatology in 2002, Dr Grossmith started as a clinical assistant and GPwSI. After several years of experience, she was regraded to associate specialist. Most of Dr Grossmith's work is in secondary care largely skin cancer diagnostics and treatment, but she also has a GPwSI role in Community Dermatology which provides more variety of patients and conditions.
Tutor
Dr Deepa M.L Hemnani
Dr Deepa M.L Hemnani is a Dermatologist working in the capacity of Assistant professor with "Dow University of Health Sciences" Karachi, Pakistan, which is a renowned and well reputed medical university in Pakistan.
She is particularly interested in Clinical Dermatology, especially inflammatory conditions, advanced clinical therapies, Paediatric Dermatology and Dermatopathology.
As an Assistant Professor, Dr Hemnani has been involved in teaching responsibilities of undergraduate and dermatology residents, who are being trained in fellowship program with associated hospital. The main focus here is clinical dermatology in a government sector hospital including Civil Hospital Karachi, which is the largest tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.
Tutor
Dr Michael Boffa
As Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Michael Boffa's regular duties include outpatient clinics in General & Paediatric Dermatology, Urgent referrals, Skin Surgery and Laser sessions, supervision of the nurse-led Leg Ulcer, Phototherapy and Patch Test services, care of inpatients admitted to the Dermatology Ward, ward consultations at Mater Dei and other hospitals and supervision of non-consultant colleagues and trainees, as necessary. Since 1997, he has run a once-monthly General Dermatology clinic at Gozo General Hospital, and works as Consultant Dermatologist in private practice.
Dr Boffa's interests lie in all aspects of Clinical Dermatology including systemic treatments, particularly methotrexate, for severe psoriasis, cutaneous oncology and laser treatment of dermatological conditions. On being appointed Consultant Dermatologist with the Health Department in Malta, he worked to introduce pulsed dye laser as a new service in the health service. In 2001, Dr Boffa founded the Malta Eczema Society - a support group for eczema sufferers and their families and have campaigned to increase awareness throughout society about eczema and the problems it may cause. In the long-term, together with colleagues in his hospital department, he wishes to further improve the range and quality of services available for patients and develop clinical and research interests.
Programme Leader
Dr Thomas King
Dr Thomas King is currently an ST6 dermatology Specialist Trainee at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals and has recently accepted a consultant dermatology post at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals.
With a passion for dermatology, medical dermatology and medical education, Dr King has a master’s degree in medical education and his career aim is to develop his interest in undergraduate and postgraduate medical education at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals as a consultant.
He currently teaches medical students from the University of Sheffield in tutorials, clinics and theatre.
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Why Study a Dermatology (The University of South Wales) 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?
Our MSc dermatology is applicable to all GPs, Practice Nurses, Specialist Nurses and Pharmacists exposed to patients with dermatological conditions.
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 Dermatology in Clinical Practice MSc 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 Dermatology MSc course 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 a 10,500-word professional project (dissertation).Year 1
Module Aims
To develop a critical understanding of the description of dermatological conditions, referral pathways, imaging and management.
Module Content
- The language of dermatology
- Therapeutics
- Drug eruptions
- Vasculitis
- Cutaneous manifestations of systemic disease
- Guidance, teledermatology and the multi-disciplinary team
Learning Outcomes
- Resolve diagnostic conundrums and institute appropriate management strategies in relation to systemic disease, side effects of drugs and vasculitides.
- Demonstrate acuity in using health care resources for the benefit of the patient in such areas as the role of the multidisciplinary team, referral pathways and evidence-based, guidance in dermatological conditions.
Module Aims
To be able to describe, diagnose and interpret the management of skin lesions in the context of guidance.
Module Content
- Skin lumps and bumps
- Benign skin lesions
- Non-melanoma skin cancer
- Melanocytic Naevi
- Melonoma
- Surgical Approach to Skin Disease
Learning Outcomes
- Differentially diagnose a wide variety of skin lesions.
- Differentiate between benign and malignant lesions and an understanding of the appropriate referral pathway and treatment guidance.
- Critical appraisal of the evidence relating to the management of skin lumps and bumps.
Module Aims
To accurately describe, identify and institute an appropriate management strategy for dermatoses at specific areas of the body.
Module Content
- Facial rashes
- Nails
- Scalp and hair
- Perineal dermatoses
- Flexural dermatoses
- Palmar and plantar dermatoses
Learning Outcomes
- A critical understanding of the predilection for common dermatoses at various sites of the body.
- An ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to regional dermatoses.
- An ability to formulate an appropriate management plan for site specific dermatoses utilising evidence.
Module Aims
To accurately describe, identify and institute an appropriate management strategy for inflammatory dermatoses.
Module Content
- Differential diagnosis of inflammatory dermatoses
- Atopic eczema
- Contact dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Urticaria
- Bullous eruptions
Learning Outcomes
- A critical understanding of the evidence relating to common inflammatory skin conditions.
- An ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to inflammatory dermatoses.
- An ability to formulate an evidence-based management plan for common inflammatory dermatoses.
Module Aims
To be able to describe, diagnose and interpret the management of skin infections in the context of guidance.
Module Content
- Differential diagnosis of skin infections
- Cellulitis and ulceration
- Infestation
- Infection related to systemic illness
- Photodermatoses
Learning Outcomes
- A critical awareness of the evidence basis for the identification and management of common skin infections/infestations/photodermatoses.
- An ability to develop and decipher a differential diagnosis for skin infections/infestations/photodermatoses.
- A critical awareness of the appropriate management strategy and referral pathways for infections/infestations and photodermatoses.
Module Aims
To develop an ability to identify common skin disorders in particular subgroups of the population and to understand the specific treatment pathways
Module Content
- Infant skin
- Acne and adolescent skin problems
- Pigmented skin
- Elderly skin
- Anti-aging
- Cosmetic treatments
Learning Outcomes
- A critical awareness of the evidence basis relating to the identification and treatment of common skin disorders in various populations.
- An ability to develop and decipher a differential diagnosis for common skin diseases affecting specific populations.
- A critical awareness of the appropriate management strategy and referral pathways for individuals from sub-groups of the population.
Year 2
Module Aims
To help students recognise, understand, interpret and apply methods used in healthcare research and critically appraise the various methodologies in pain management research, thus developing leadership skills.
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.
- Basic statistical tests and their applications including t-Tests, ANOVA, Chi-Square.
- Methodologies as applied to interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary pain management research.
- Principles of evidence-based practice and its application into the clinical setting.
- 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 pain management.
- Compare and contrast the different research methods in healthcare with an emphasis on pain management.
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-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal.
- Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment.
Learning Outcomes
- Produce an extensive piece of literature, which may be suitable for peer-reviewed publication.
- Critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements for change.
- Incorporated 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 MSc in clinical dermatology is 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 6.5 (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.
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 | £920 | £9,920 |
| 1st May 2025 | £920 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £920 | |
| 1st September 2025 | £920 | |
| 1st November 2025 | £920 | |
| 1st January 2026 | £920 | |
| 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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