Postgraduate Certificate in Thyroid Medicine
Validated by University of South Wales
Our brand-new Postgraduate Certificate in Thyroid Medicine is designed just for you. When you enrol in this thyroid course online, your commitment and interest in this vital area will help you stand out professionally in the field.
As the UK's first PGCert, this thyroid course online fills a crucial skills gap in the healthcare industry. Imagine having the qualifications that make you an expert, an authority that your peers look up to. In just 6 months, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of thyroid physiology, thyroid nodules, hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism, all while continuing your current practice.
This Postgraduate Certificate in Thyroid Medicine is a specialised programme for healthcare professionals who have already achieved a university undergraduate qualification in a relevant medical field.
Next intake: March 2025Key Facts
Delivered entirely online through our renowned learning platform, this course fits seamlessly into your busy life. You’ll learn from leading experts in thyroid medicine and engage in scenario-based discussions that you can immediately apply to your clinical practice. This means you'll start seeing improved patient outcomes right away.
Upon completing this thyroid certificate course, you’ll be able to:
- Apply lifelong learning and advanced problem-solving skills directly to your practice, enhancing your management of patients with thyroid diseases.
- Demonstrate a systematic knowledge of the presentation, investigation, and evidence-based management of thyroid disorders.
- Critically evaluate the evidence base in managing patients presenting with thyroid disorders.
Take this opportunity to advance your career faster than you ever imagined. Stand out, become an authority in thyroid medicine, and provide the highest levels of care to your patients. Join us today and take the first step toward a brighter, more impactful future in healthcare.
Faculty
Dr Peter Taylor
Dr Peter Taylor is a Clinical Senior Lecturer and practising Consultant Physician for Diabetes and Endocrinology at Cardiff University and the University Hospital of Wales.
His additional roles and responsibilities...
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.
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
Dr Peter Taylor
Dr Peter Taylor is a Clinical Senior Lecturer and practising Consultant Physician for Diabetes and Endocrinology at Cardiff University and the University Hospital of Wales.
His additional roles and responsibilities include:
- Member of the Society for Endocrinology Clinical Committee
- Co-convenor of the SfE Thyroid Network
- 2020 SfE Leadership and Development Awards program.
Dr Taylor has also received awards at both national and international conferences, and has published over 50 academic publications, including key publications in JAMA, Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology and Nature Communications.
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Why Study a Thyroid Medicine Postgraduate Certificate 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 thyroid course is designed for healthcare professionals who work with patients presenting with thyroid disorders. As thyroid disorders increase in prevalence, this topic area is relevant to a broad range of healthcare professions, including:
- Nurses - primary care nurses and specialist nurses
- Specialists, Junior Doctors
- Clinical biochemists
- GPs and trainees
- Allied health professionals
- Dieticians
We cater to an international audience, acutely aware of the impact thyroid diseases are having on a global scale. Unlike many of our competitors, there are no international surcharges for students located outside of the UK who wish to study on this certificate course in thyroid disorders management, as we aim to make high-quality healthcare education accessible to all.
How Will I Learn?
You'll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform, which allows you to engage with clinical cases, complete assignments, and collaborate with fellow students at times that suit your schedule. There's no fixed timetable—simply log in daily to participate in the week's activities.
Learn through engaging discussion
Our teaching approach is highly interactive, using small groups of 10-20 students to foster a collaborative environment where you can engage in thoughtful discussions and receive guidance from your tutor. You'll have access to learning resources and discussion forums that encourage ongoing interaction and deeper engagement with the material.
Throughout your studies, you'll receive support from a dedicated expert tutor and our Student Support Team, ensuring you have the resources needed to navigate the course successfully.
Curriculum
Our online Thyroid Medicine Postgraduate Certificate allows you to study for just six months and is a part-time, distance-learning course. The course is worth 60 credits and comprises three modules of 20 credits, each running over a period of six weeks.Module aims:
This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles of thyroid physiology including the anatomy, regulation and metabolism of thyroid hormones. Students will gain a solid foundation in thyroid physiology and the ability to apply this knowledge in the assessment and management of thyroid nodules to optimise patient care outcomes.
Content summary:
Indicative content to include topics outlined below and/or any other relevant current topics to fulfil the module aims and learning outcomes:
- Thyroid Anatomy and Physiology
- Thyroid Hormone Synthesis and Metabolism
- Thyroid Function Tests and Interpretation
- Thyroid Nodules: Evaluation and Risk Stratification
- Thyroid Nodules: Management Approaches
- Thyroid Nodules: Challenging Cases and Emerging Research
Learning outcomes:
- Develop a systematic understanding of thyroid anatomy and physiology, together with a critical knowledge of the presentation, diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules.
- Synthesise evidence-based management strategies for patients with thyroid nodules, with a multidisciplinary approach, integrating and critically applying knowledge from various research studies and guidelines.
Module aims:
This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology, clinical presentation and management of hypothyroidism, exploring evidence-based pharmacological interventions and hormonal replacement therapies to gain insight into treatment approaches for different patient populations.
Content summary:
Indicative content to include topics outlined below and/or any other relevant current topics to fulfil the module aims and learning outcomes:
- Introduction to Hypothyroidism
- Diagnostic Approach and Laboratory Evaluation
- Clinical Management of Hypothyroidism
- Hypothyroidism in Special Populations
- Hypothyroidism and Cardiovascular Health
- Multidisciplinary Approach and Future Directions
Learning outcomes:
- Critically evaluate the impact of hypothyroidism on various organ systems and the potential consequences of untreated or undertreated hypothyroidism, employing critical thinking skills to systematically analyse and prioritise diagnostic tests and treatment options to improve patient outcomes.
- Synthesise the knowledge from clinical research and current guidelines into the development of evidence-based care plans for patients presenting with hypothyroidism in a variety of settings and applying a multidisciplinary team approach.
Module aims:
This module provides an in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations and management of hyperthyroidism. Students will explore the various causes of hyperthyroidism, critically analysing the underlying mechanisms and associated risk factors.
Content summary:
Indicative content to include topics outlined below and/or any other relevant current topics to fulfil the module aims and learning outcomes:
- Introduction to Hyperthyroidism and its Clinical Presentation
- Etiology and Pathophysiology of Hyperthyroidism
- Diagnostic Evaluation of Hyperthyroidism
- Management of Hyperthyroidism: Medical Approaches
- Management of Hyperthyroidism: Radioactive Iodine Therapy and Surgery
- Complications and Long-Term Follow-Up in Hyperthyroidism
Learning outcomes:
- Critically evaluate the effectiveness of different therapeutic interventions for hyperthyroidism, employing critical thinking skills to select the most appropriate treatment option based on individual patient characteristics and preferences.
- Develop the ability to critically apply the knowledge and synthesise the evidence into diagnostic and management strategies for patients presenting with hyperthyroidism, in a variety of settings.
Assessment Methods
This programme emphasises learning through active participation in case-based discussions, reflection, and real-life scenarios. Students engage with clinical cases that mirror everyday practice, fostering problem-solving and evidence-based application from the very beginning.
Across the modules, assessments are integrated with learning. Each week, you will work through two to three clinical cases, discussing and reflecting on them with peers under the guidance of an expert tutor. These discussions form the core of your learning and are also the basis for your assessments.
Our innovative teaching methods are designed to help you translate this learning into real-world clinical practice. You'll need to regularly log in to participate in discussions, ideally on a daily basis, and commit approximately two hours per day to your studies. Our dedicated Student Support Team is available to assist with any challenges you may encounter, from navigating our online platform to managing deadlines.
How Foundational Knowledge is Developed
The programme is structured so that foundational knowledge is introduced through carefully designed clinical cases. Each case is crafted to highlight essential concepts and progressively deepen your understanding as you apply critical thinking and evidence-based analysis. This hands-on approach ensures that you are not only acquiring theoretical knowledge but also learning how to apply it in a practical, clinical setting.
This programme is suited for professionals who thrive in an online, discussion-based learning environment. Please note that this course focuses on interactive, applied learning through peer collaboration and case discussions. You will be fully supported, encouraged and led through the programme to success and graduation!
The online reflective journal is a learning portfolio that requires the students to record and critically reflect on their learning. Reflection is an important aspect of the programme as the professionals will be able to spend time considering how their practice compares to the themes being discussed in the module. The tutor provides regular feedback to the student and marks it at the end of the module.
Reflective practice is a requirement for healthcare professionals for both professional re-validation and professional development.
Case problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination with multiple-choice ‘single best answer’ questions directly test the reasoning and knowledge objectives of the module. The online examination is marked automatically.
The group activity is designed to stimulate and test the students’ ability to work as a team in taking the subject area forward. A group task is set, the group elects a leader using the online forum (designed to put leadership skills into practice) and the leader allocates tasks to group members.
The leader is responsible for managing, collating and submitting the activity (online) at the end of the module. The tutor provides formative guidance part way through the module and marks the assessment at the end.
Examples of individual activities might include either a written assignment, poster, blog or social media project.
All students must complete the same assignment for each module that is predetermined by the programme Leader before the modules commence. Students are not provided with an option to choose.
Students are required to critically analyse clinically focused case-based scenarios, discussion threads and weekly questions posed by their tutors via the Academic Forum (an online discussion board) and designed to meet the module learning outcomes. Here, students make their own researched and referenced contributions and interact with the tutor and their fellow students. There is no didactic teaching, instead, students are posed questions and prompted to search the literature, read it critically and respond. Engagement is encouraged by the tutor prompting students to respond and the use of automated activity monitoring software.
At the end of each module, the tutor allocates marks to each student based on a marking rubric. The rubric takes into account the following elements:
· Promptness and initiative
· Delivery of post (spelling and grammar)
· The relevance of post and referencing
· Expression within the post
Entry requirements
Since our thyroid medicine online course is conducted entirely online, it is accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.
Applicants will typically hold a first degree or equivalent (including international qualifications) in a relevant professional healthcare or management field.
Registered healthcare professionals working in the healthcare field, without these recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be taken into account. In some cases, applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment in order to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at postgraduate level, and demonstrate the requisite clinical and professional knowledge.
Documents Required
- A copy of your updated CV including your address and date of birth.
- A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate.
- The name and email address of someone who is able to provide a reference, this can be a work colleague, employer or former tutor.
- A detailed personal statement explaining why you would like to undertake the course.
- A copy of your proof of English competency (see below).
English Language Requirements
Proficiency in the English language is also essential to completing our courses. If English is NOT your first language, we ask for proof of competency during the application process. We are able to accept an IELTS overall score of 6.0 (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.
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 | £850 | £2,550 |
| 1st May 2025 | £850 | |
| 1st July 2025 | £850 |
† 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.
Being totally online means we can select the very best tutors and resource editors, no matter where they’re located.
Connect with multidisciplinary people around the world to expand your insights & broaden your career prospects.
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