Dermatology in Clinical Practice MSc (University of Buckingham)
Validated by University of Buckingham
Dermatology is an increasingly popular clinical entity amongst medical trainees and nurses worldwide. This is particularly so in primary care settings, where skin disease is the greatest disease prompting consultation in children and the second biggest problem amongst adults.
The number of potential dermatological diagnosis has been estimated at 3000 and each can present in several ways. Although a substantial number of these cases involve chronic disease, many can be treated or cured. This means that increasing your knowledge through our flexible, 100% online MSc in clinical dermatology can add significant value to your patients, especially given the social stigmas surrounding skin disease. The programme is run in conjunction with the University of Buckingham, which houses a medical school accredited by the General Medical Council in May 2019.
Our Dermatology diploma 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
The GMC has high standards and an exceptionally rigorous process for accreditation giving confidence that doctors trained in a GMC accredited medical school will hold the skills and experience needed to meet the high standards that patients expect.
The GMC has commended the University of Buckingham, for its ‘excellent professional, academic and pastoral support that extends throughout the University and clinical learning environments’. Achieving this MSc in Dermatology from the University of Buckingham will improve your knowledge, skills, clinical outcomes and career prospects. Our Masters in Dermatology online course satisfies the growing international demand for dermatology courses. Having specialist knowledge in dermatology is an increasingly important asset for medical personnel. Our master's dermatology are designed to help healthcare professionals specialise in their career and aid the need for more dermatology professionals. As well, our courses represent cost-effective learning and provide students the opportunity to maximise their return on investment.
The Dermatology in Clinical Practice MSc is applicable to all GPs, Practice Nurses, Specialist Nurses and Pharmacists exposed to patients with dermatological conditions.
On completion of this dermatology course, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of evidence-based dermatology.
- Develop life-long learning, critical appraisal and advanced problem-solving skills that can be applied to dermatology in clinical practice.
- Critically evaluate the delivery of dermatology care.
- Lead complex tasks and processes in the delivery and advancement of dermatology practice.
- Build leadership skills within multi-agency, multi-cultural and/or international contexts within dermatology practice.
- Extend knowledge of research methods and their application to practice in dermatology.
You will also be able to demonstrate:
- A better understanding of skin disorders which are common in the community.
- Upskill in the diagnosis and management of dermatological disorders.
- Improved knowledge which is an essential complement to clinical practice.
- You are better equipped to undertake teledermatology, an increasingly important element of practice.
Faculty
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...
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 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...
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...
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.
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
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.
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 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.
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.
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Why Study a Dermatology (The University of Buckingham) 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.
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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.
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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 Dermatology in Clinical Practice MSc 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 seven 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 1,000 word proposal and 11,000 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 (MDT)
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply knowledge and understanding of dermatology in clinical practice to the care of patients.
- Critically evaluate dermatology literature and evidence-based guidance for dermatological conditions.
- Critically appraise appropriate management strategies in relation to systemic disease, side effects of drugs, and vasculitides.
Module Aims
To describe, diagnose and interpret the management of skin lesions in the context of guidance.
Module Content
- Skin lumps and bumps
- Benign skin lesions
- Melanoma and pigmented lesions
- Non-melanoma skin cancer
- Basic skin surgery
- Cryotherapy
Learning Outcomes
- Differentiate between benign and malignant lesions.
- Critically appraise the evidence base related to the management of skin lumps and bumps.
- Critically analyse and diagnose a wide variety of skin lesions and their referral and treatment guidance.
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
- Critically analyse the predilection for common dermatoses at various sites of the body.
- Demonstrate an ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to regional dermatoses.
- Demonstrate skills to formulate an evidence-based management plan for site-specific dermatoses.
Module Aims
To 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
- Critically appraise the evidence base relating to common inflammatory skin conditions.
- Demonstrate an ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to inflammatory dermatoses.
- Demonstrate skills to formulate an evidence-based management plan for common inflammatory dermatoses.
Module Aims
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
- Tropical dermatoses
- Infection related to systemic illness
- Photodermatoses
Learning Outcomes
- Critically appraise the evidence base for the identification and management of common skin infections, infestations, and photodermatoses.
- Demonstrate an ability to differentially diagnose, refer and manage skin infections, infestations, and photodermatoses.
- Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and ethical decision-making in managing complex dermatological cases.
Module Aims
- To develop an ability to identify common skin disorders in particular subgroups of the population and to understand the specific treatment pathways.
- Gain an understanding of the wider factors and global perspectives affecting dermatology.
Module Content
- Infant skin
- Acne and adolescent skin problems
- Pigmented skin
- Elderly skin
- Anti-aging
- Cosmetic treatments
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of the variety of the complex factors that affect the causes, perception of, and management of a variety of dermatological conditions.
- Demonstrate ability to differentially diagnose, refer and manage common skin diseases affecting specific populations.
- Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and ethical decision-making in managing skin conditions in a variety of sub-groups within the population.
Year 2
Module Aims
- To prepare students for an independent research-based project by developing skills in selecting, appraising, discriminating, using evidence and appropriate research/investigative methods to address relevant topics for investigation.
- The professional project module provides students with an opportunity to complete an important, substantial and potentially publishable study of their own choosing.
Module Content
- Quantitative Studies
- Statistical Analysis Interpretation
- Interpreting the Evidence
- Meta-analysis and Systematic Reviews
- Qualitative Studies
- Evidence Appraisal: Interpreting, Weighing and Synthesizing the Evidence
Audit, Governance and Quality Improvement, Health Economics - Preparing a Research Proposal: Research Committees, Consent, Ethics, Probity and Literature Review
Learning Outcomes
Students will then create a piece of work based upon a specific subject-related project relevant to the student’s practice. The students will have a further 24-weeks to complete this. This project may comprise:
- Systematic literature review and appraisal of the evidence
- Audit of non-patient data/organisational audit
- Review and implementation of evidence-based practice
- Literature review and qualitative or quantitative research proposal
- Case(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal
- Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment
Secondary data analysis
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 a 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 dermatology courses 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 (with an overall score of 6.5 and a minimum of 6.0 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 | £1042 | £10,637 |
| 1st May 2025 | £1039 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £1039 | |
| 1st September 2025 | £1039 | |
| 1st November 2025 | £1039 | |
| 1st January 2026 | £1039 | |
| 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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