Postgraduate Certificate Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine (Online Delivery)
Taught completely online, the Postgraduate Certificate has been specifically designed for doctors, dentists, dental therapists, pharmacists and nurses, and has been developed with the purpose of promoting and enhancing the professional knowledge underpinning practice in cosmetic medicine.
Increased regulatory requirements for those performing aesthetic procedures means this qualification would be an important milestone in the healthcare practitioner's journey to be an aesthetic practitioner. Such qualifications are also regarded as integral by the individuals' regulatory authorities, such as the GDC, GMC and NMC.
This online course is run with the collaborative partner Diploma MSc. On successful completion you will become a leader in your field, and can go on to study the Postgraduate Diploma and MSc in Cosmetic Medicine.
The online course lasts six months and is a part time distance learning course, with three modules, each of six weeks duration.
Module 1 – Anatomy, Physiology and Professional Issues
The module aim is to examine the sciences that underpin cosmetic medicine and the external professional and ethical issues that influence practice, recognising and addressing potential conflict areas.
Module 2 – Toxin Treatments
The module aim is to provide an in-depth exploration of botulinum toxin as a dominant mode of cosmetic facial muscle treatment; from an examination of the historical context to the complexities of current day practice.
Module 3 – Dermal Fillers
The aim of this module is to critically examine a variety of treatments aimed at addressing the ageing process, taking into account the evidence base, patient expectations and issues and short and long- term effects.
Teaching
Once you have secured your place on the course, you will be invited to our online Orientation and Study Skills week. This will give you the opportunity to participate in study skills workshops on Harvard Referencing, scientific and reflective writings, and levels of evidence in preparation for your studies.
Our courses are conducted entirely online through self-directed distance learning. You’ll receive guidance throughout your course with tutor-stimulated academic discussions, which are based on clinically-rich case scenarios. These usually occur within groups of 10-15 students, allowing you to clearly communicate with both your tutor and fellow students.
You will also participate in a combination of module activities that may be group and/or individual based, dependent on the module. These innovative teaching methods enable you to envisage the translation of your studies into your every day work and practice.
Due to the online nature of the course, you will be expected to regularly login and participate in the course - ideally on a daily basis. Students are recommended to spend around two hours per day on their studies.
Assessment
Each of the modules have the same assessment format:
- Academic Forum - 40%
- Reflective Journal - 10%
- Module activity - 20%
- Case based examination - 30%
Accreditations
This course is approved by the Welsh Aesthetics and Cosmetic Society.
Facilities
As part of your online studies you will have access to the Learning Resources Centre materials at the University of South Wales. FINDit is the University’s portal which allows you to search for over 13,000 full-text journal articles, news articles, conference proceedings and approximately 160 databases via one search box- the majority of these materials are accessible online. Interactive study skills modules are available to study via Blackboard to enable you to utilise the library services fully.
Lecturers
- Dr Karl New, course lead
- Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva, programme lead
Support
Our dedicated Student Support Team are available to help with any problems you may face. From navigating our online platform to advising you on deadlines, our team can assist with any questions or challenges you may have along the way.
We regularly revalidate courses for quality assurance and enhancement
At USW, we regularly review our courses in response to changing patterns of employment and skills demand to ensure we offer learning designed to reflect today’s student needs and tomorrow’s employer demands.
If during a review process course content is significantly changed, we’ll write to inform you and talk you through the changes for the coming year. But whatever the outcome, we aim to equip our students with the skillset and the mindset to succeed whatever tomorrow may bring. Your future, future-proofed.
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.
Applicants will typically have completed a recognised training course in aesthetic use of botulinum toxins and fillers. Current indemnification for cosmetic procedures is also required for applicants.
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.
Please upload the following documents with your application:
· A copy of your updated CV
· A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate. ·
· A copy of your proof of English competency
· Indemnity insurance certificate.
· Evidence of completing a minimum of 10 cosmetic procedures e.g. botulinum toxins and fillers in an aesthetic portfolio.
· Independent prescriber certification where appropriate
Full-time fees are per year. Part-time fees are per 20 credits. Once enrolled, the fee will remain at the same rate throughout the duration of your study on this course.
August 2023 - July 2024 Fees
Part-time UK: TBC
August 2024 - July 2025 Fees
Student Perks
At the University of South Wales, you’re investing in so much more than a degree. We strive to provide our students with the best possible experience, no matter what you chose to study. Whether it’s access to top of the range mac books and PCs, state-of-the-art facilities packed with industry-leading equipment and software, masterclasses and events led by industry experts, or a wide range of clubs and societies to meet likeminded people, better tomorrows start with extra perks.
Each course also has their own unique student benefits to prepare you for the real word, and details of these can be found on our course pages. From global field trips, integrated work experience and free course-related resources, to funded initiatives, projects working with real employers, and opportunities for extra qualifications and accreditations - at USW your future, is future-proofed.
Click here to learn more about student perks at USW.
Additional Costs
As a student of USW, you’ll have access to lots of free resources to support your study and learning, such as textbooks, publications, online journals, laptops, and plenty of remote-access resources. Whilst in most cases these resources are more than sufficient in supporting you with completing your course, additional costs, both obligatory and optional, may be required or requested for the likes of travel, memberships, experience days, stationery, printing, or equipment.
Funding
Funding to help pay for (or cover) course tuition fees and living costs
Whilst you’re studying, you’ll have two main financial obligations – tuition fees and living costs. There’s lots of financial help available from the University of South Wales and external funding sources, that may provide loans (which have to be paid back) and grants, scholarships and bursaries (that don't).
To learn about course fees, funding options, and to see if you are eligible for financial support, visit our Fees and Funding pages.
This course is run in partnership with Diploma MSC who have over 10 years` experience in delivering award-winning, online, Postgraduate Diploma, MSc and MBA distance education courses.
The course has direct relevance to the demands of working roles and will assist in career enhancement and support specialisation. You will be able to pursue a career as an Aesthetic Practitioner upon completion of this course.
A postgraduate qualification gives you a competitive advantage that will set you apart from other applicants.
It’s the community and friendships you’ll build that make this place special. Outside your studies you can experience our amazing sport facilities and Students’ Union.
Living in Halls is a great way to meet new people and make friends. We have high quality accommodation in Treforest, Cardiff and Newport.