Gastroenterology MSc
Validated by University of South Wales
Are you looking to advance your career in gastroenterology? Our comprehensive Gastroenterology MSc is designed to provide GPs, nurses, and other allied healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this specialised field. The MSc in gastroenterology covers a wide range of topics, including the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal system, diagnostic techniques, treatment modalities, and the management of common gastrointestinal disorders.
Fast-track your career with our quick-to-complete part-time programme, designed to help you jump-start your career. Our expert faculty will guide you through the programme, which will ensure you stay up-to-date with this rapidly evolving field. This qualification will also enhance your professional profile and open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in gastroenterology.
The second year of our master's in gastroenterology focuses on a professional project, around a topic of interest in the field, providing opportunities for publication upon completion.
Our Gastroenterology programme 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
Our MSc gastroenterology course explores knowledge required for professional development in the field of gastroenterology, taught by carefully selected world-class educators. This part-time programme allows you to work around your daily schedule, which means that you will gain a competitive advantage in the healthcare arena and specialisation without interfering with your work and life commitments.
Healthcare professionals who successfully complete our distance learning MSc gastroenterology will be able to advance their careers and have a direct impact on patient care. On successful completion of this flexible MSc gastroenterology course, you’ll be able to:
- Articulate professional decisions, incorporating an evidence-based rationale, in a variety of diverse and complex situations related to gastroenterology.
- Demonstrate the critical application of gastroenterology research to clinical practice.
- Apply life-long learning and advanced problem-solving skills to clinical practice.
- Showcase leadership in the delivery and advancement of gastroenterology-related care, as well as team leadership in multi-agency, multicultural, and/or international settings.
As an important note, endoscopic procedures are not included as a course objective as this would be impossible to achieve without residential training and supervision.
Faculty
Programme Leader - Dr Peter Neville
Current Post: Consultant Physician / Gastroenterologist, Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil. Cwm Taf UHB
- Gained Certificate of Postgraduate Medical Education in 2009
- Endoscopy Trainer at Welsh Institute of Minimally Invasive...
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 - Dr Peter Neville
Current Post: Consultant Physician / Gastroenterologist, Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil. Cwm Taf UHB
- Gained Certificate of Postgraduate Medical Education in 2009
- Endoscopy Trainer at Welsh Institute of Minimally Invasive Therapy (WIMAT), Cardiff University
- Extensive local, regional and national postgraduate training experience. Faculty Member of BSG Taster Course, and BSG Management Course for trainees
- Training Programme Director in Gastroenterology for Wales Deanery 2006 - 2014
Peter commenced as a Consultant Gastroenterologist in Cwm Taf, having decided to move from Nevill Hall Hospital, where he had been for the previous 15 years. There was an opportunity to set up a resident ERCP service, and a subspecialty liver service which Peter found very exciting.
Peter has over 29 years of experience as a healthcare professional and has worked as a Consultant Gastroetronologist for more than 20 years.
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Why Study a Gastroenterology 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?
Applicants taking our online MSc gastroenterology will typically be:
- GPs
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Physicians
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 gastroenterology 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 MSc gastroenterology 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
Module Aims
To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the oesophagus.
Module Content
- Oesophagus: anatomy and physiology.
- Oesophagus diagnostic test.
- Oesophagus and Barrett’s Oesophagus.
- Vomiting.
- Oesophageal dysmotility.
- Oesophageal Cancer.
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the oesophagus to a variety of oesophageal diseases.
- Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the oesophagus.
Module Aims
To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the stomach.
Module Content
- Stomach: anatomy and physiology
- Gastroscopy
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Helicobacter pylori
- Gastric cancer
- Pernicious Anemia
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the stomach to a variety of diseases affecting the stomach.
- Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the stomach.
Module Aims
To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the Pancreas
Module Content
- Anatomy and physiology of Pancreas
- Pancreatic function tests
- Pancreatic insufficiency
- Acute Pancreatitis
- Chronic Pancreatitis
- Pancreatic Cysts
- Pancreatic cancer
- Neuroendocrine Tumours
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the pancreas to a variety of diseases affecting the pancreas.
- Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the pancreas.
Module Aims
To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the Liver
Module Content
- Anatomy and physiology of the liver
- Liver function tests
- Cirrhosis and complications
- Cancer
- Drug and alcohol induced liver injury
- Viral liver disease
- Biliary disease
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the liver to a variety of diseases affecting the liver.
- Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the liver.
Module Aims
- To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the small bowel.
- Also to learn about basic principles of managing nutrition in health and disease.
Module Content
- Anatomy and physiology of the small bowel
- Basic principles of nutrition
- Coeliac disease
- Crohn’s disease
- PEG feeding
- Bile salt malabsorption
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the small bowel to a variety of diseases affecting the small bowel.
- Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the small bowel.
- Analyse the impact of nutrition on diseases of the small bowel.
Learning Outcomes
To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the colon
Module Content
- Colonic anatomy and physiology
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Infective diarrhoea
- Clostridium difficle
- Colonic cancer
- Stoma: colostomy and ileostomy
- Colonoscopy, screening and diagnosis
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the colon to a variety of diseases affecting the colon.
- Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the colon.
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 gastroenterology 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 gastroenterology medicine.
- Display a critical understanding of the clinical implications of research and its impact upon healthcare delivery and service development.
Module Aims
To develop an ability to critically evaluate areas of professional practice.
To critically appraise specific areas of clinical, research and organisational practice.
To develop skills in independent research and study.
To 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
- 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.
- 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.
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.
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 flexible MSc gastroenterology is conducted entirely online, it's accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals without any international surcharges.
Applicants this gastroenterology courses 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 | £840 | £9,440 |
| 1st May 2025 | £840 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £840 | |
| 1st September 2025 | £840 | |
| 1st November 2025 | £840 | |
| 1st January 2026 | £840 | |
| 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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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.
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