Dermatology in Clinical Practice MSc (USW)

Validated by University of South Wales

University of South Wales
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Develop advanced knowledge of dermatology and strengthen your research and critical appraisal skills with an MSc in Dermatology in Clinical Practice. Validated by the University of South Wales, this 180-credit, Level 7 master’s programme combines the study of common and complex skin conditions with research relevant to dermatological care in primary and secondary healthcare settings.

The programme examines how dermatological conditions present, the evidence used to assess and manage them, and the importance of appropriate referral. You'll study skin cancer and lesion recognition, inflammatory dermatoses, skin infections, conditions affecting specific areas of the body, and dermatology across different patient populations. The master’s stage builds on this knowledge through research methodologies, critical appraisal, and an independent Professional Project, giving you the opportunity to investigate a dermatology-related question relevant to your professional interests or practice.

Accredited for CPD by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK, this MSc provides university-validated postgraduate study for healthcare professionals seeking to develop their understanding of dermatology and research. Studied 100% online and part-time over two years, the programme combines tutor-supported case discussions, independent study, and evidence-based learning, allowing you to continue working alongside your studies.

Total Fees

£9,920 View options

Next Intake

March 2027

Apply By

March 2027

Commitment

Part time

Format

100% online

Duration

24 months

What will you study on this Master's in Dermatology (The University of South Wales)?

The MSc comprises 180 credits of postgraduate study. The first 120 credits consist of six 20-credit modules covering dermatology in clinical practice, followed by a further 60 credits of research methodologies, critical appraisal, and independent project work.

You'll begin by examining the principles of dermatology in clinical practice, including skin structure and function, approaches to assessing skin conditions, and the use of current guidance to support evidence-based decision-making. You'll also consider teledermatology, imaging-supported consultations, and appropriate referral pathways, particularly where dermatological conditions are initially assessed in primary or community care.

The programme then examines benign and malignant skin lesions, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. You'll study lesion recognition, differential diagnosis, and the importance of identifying suspicious presentations that require further investigation or referral. You'll also consider dermatological conditions affecting specific areas of the body, including the face, scalp, nails, flexures, palms, soles, and perineum.

You'll develop your understanding of inflammatory dermatoses, including eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, urticaria, and bullous eruptions, alongside bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic skin infections. The programme also examines dermatological presentations in children, adolescents, and older people, as well as conditions affecting pigmented skin and the relationship between skin disease, systemic conditions, and medicines.

The second year develops your ability to evaluate dermatological research and apply research methodologies to a focused question. You'll examine research design, critical appraisal, and evidence-based practice before undertaking a supervised Professional Project. This provides an opportunity to investigate an area of dermatology relevant to your professional context, such as the assessment of skin conditions, patient management, service evaluation, or the application of current evidence.

During the programme, you'll study:

  • Dermatology in Clinical Practice Overview – Develop your understanding of skin structure and function, dermatological assessment, evidence-based management, and referral pathways. Examine the role of teledermatology and multidisciplinary care in supporting the assessment and management of skin conditions.
  • Lumps, Bumps and Skin Cancer – Study benign and malignant skin lesions, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer. Consider lesion recognition, differential diagnosis, assessment, and referral decisions, alongside the importance of identifying suspicious or changing lesions.
  • Lesions at Specific Sites – Examine dermatological conditions affecting particular areas of the body, including facial rashes, the scalp and hair, nails, flexures, palms and soles, and the perineum. Consider how anatomical location can influence presentation, assessment, and management.
  • Inflammatory Dermatoses – Develop your understanding of inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis, urticaria, and bullous eruptions. Consider their underlying mechanisms, presentation, differential diagnosis, and evidence-based management approaches.
  • Skin Infections – Examine bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic skin conditions, including cellulitis and infestations. Consider assessment, differential diagnosis, treatment approaches, and the recognition of presentations requiring further investigation or referral.
  • Dermatology in Specific Populations – Study dermatological conditions affecting children, adolescents, older people, and individuals with pigmented skin. Consider acne, photodermatoses, drug eruptions, vasculitis, ulceration, and the relationship between dermatological presentations and systemic disease.
  • Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal – Develop your understanding of research design, research methodologies, and the critical appraisal of medical literature. Examine approaches to evaluating research quality, interpreting findings, and applying evidence to questions relevant to dermatological care.
  • Professional Project – Undertake a supervised, independent research project relevant to dermatology or your professional context. Depending on your research question and the approved project requirements, this may involve a literature-based investigation, service evaluation, audit, or another appropriate research approach.

Throughout the MSc, you'll apply your learning through case-based discussions, reflection, group activities, and critical appraisal of evidence, developing your understanding of dermatological conditions alongside the research skills required for master’s-level study.

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

  1. Resolve diagnostic conundrums and institute appropriate management strategies in relation to systemic disease, side effects of drugs and vasculitides.
  2. 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

  1. Differentially diagnose a wide variety of skin lesions.
  2. Differentiate between benign and malignant lesions and an understanding of the appropriate referral pathway and treatment guidance.
  3. 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

  1. A critical understanding of the predilection for common dermatoses at various sites of the body.
  2. An ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to regional dermatoses.
  3. 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

  1. A critical understanding of the evidence relating to common inflammatory skin conditions.
  2. An ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to inflammatory dermatoses.
  3. 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

  1. A critical awareness of the evidence basis for the identification and management of common skin infections/infestations/photodermatoses.
  2. An ability to develop and decipher a differential diagnosis for skin infections/infestations/photodermatoses.
  3. 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

  1. A critical awareness of the evidence basis relating to the identification and treatment of common skin disorders in various populations.
  2. An ability to develop and decipher a differential diagnosis for common skin diseases affecting specific populations.
  3. A critical awareness of the appropriate management strategy and referral pathways for individuals from sub-groups of 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.

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

  1. Critically analyse and interpret research to assess its application to delivery/service development.
  2. Evaluate and synthesise diverse methodological approaches and research tools to formulate and investigate complex questions within your field of practice.

Module Aims

  • To formulate the research question that you seek to answer.
  • 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 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

  1. Synthesise advanced knowledge of research to conceptualise, plan, and execute an original investigation that contributes significant insights to a chosen field of practice.
  2. Critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements or change in a chosen healthcare setting.
  3. Incorporate knowledge of the research process in developing services appropriately.

Course Fees & Payment Options

Course Fees

  • Deposit for March 2027: £460 †
  • Total Course Fees (UK & International) for March 2027: £9,920 ††

Payment Options

  • Option 1: Upfront payment in full (discount available).
  • Option 2: Interest-free monthly payments throughout the course.

Payment Plan Breakdown

Master's (MSc)

First Year Payments

Deposit10 Monthly PaymentsFinal Payment
£460 †£460£460

Total first year payments: £5,520

Second Year Payments

11 Monthly PaymentsFinal Payment
£366£374

Total second year payments: £4,400

Additional Financing

Spread the cost with Lendwise, who offer financing options for up to 8 years. ††††

† Deposits are non-refundable
†† Prices are subject to review following each intake
†††† Subject to eligibility criteria.

Entry requirements

Since our courses are conducted entirely online, they are accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.

Applicants will typically hold an undergraduate bachelor's degree (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 successfully completed the 1-year Postgraduate Diploma and wish to top up your qualification to an MSc, you can apply for the corresponding 1-year MSc programme. Please contact our admissions department admissions@diploma-msc.com to find out more.

Faculty

Accreditors, Endorsers & Partners

University of South Wales
University of South Wales
ELCAS - Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Services
ELCAS - Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Services
Royal College of Physicians
Royal College of Physicians

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.

All of our courses are delivered in English, so proficiency in the English language is essential for success. If English is not your first language, we require proof of competency as part of your application. We accept the following as proof of English Language skills:

We Accept a Range of English Language Qualifications
While IELTS and TOEFL are among the most commonly used English tests, we understand that students come from diverse backgrounds — and we’re happy to work with you to accept a wide range of other recognised English language qualifications.

We accept IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Our most commonly accepted test, IELTS is globally recognised and widely used for university admissions.

We accept TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Another widely accepted test, TOEFL assesses your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in an academic setting.

We accept English Medium of Instruction (EMI) Letters
Many of our international students provide an EMI (English Medium Instruction) letter from their previous institution. This letter should confirm that you were taught in the medium of English. It is a popular and widely accepted form of proof, especially if you have completed prior academic studies in English.

Our University partners Requirements
The University of South Wales accepts an overall score of 6.0 (minimum of 5.5 for each band) and The University of Buckingham accepts an overall score of 6.5 (minimum of 6.0 for each band).

Our Flexible Instalment Plan is designed to offer ultimate flexibility to pay for your programme. You have the choice of two payment options:

Make an Upfront Payment in Full: For those who prefer to settle their fees upfront, you can pay the full amount at the beginning of your programme.

Interest-Free Payments: Alternatively, you can choose to spread your payments out with interest-free instalments every month for the duration of your course.

These options are separate from our existing lending partners, which you can explore further on our programme pages. We believe that education should be accessible to all, and our Flexible Instalment Plan is just one of the ways we are committed to supporting you in your academic journey.

We currently offer two discounts: the Early Bird Discount and the Action Taker Discount. The Early Bird discount allows you to save up to £500 or more, available only to self-funders and is a limited-time offer that runs for the entirety of November for the March cohort or the entirety of May for the September cohort. Our Action Taker Discount allows you to save up to £150 off for PGCert and £250 off for PGDip/2-year MSc programmes. To qualify for Action Takers, you must pay the deposit within 7 days of acceptance.

For Early Bird Discounts, the discount is visible if your application and acceptance are completed within the required timeframe. For Action Taker Discounts, it will reflect once conditions are met.

Who can study this Master's in Dermatology (The University of South Wales)?

The MSc is for registered healthcare professionals who want to develop advanced knowledge of dermatology alongside research and critical appraisal skills. Its focus on dermatology in clinical practice makes it particularly relevant to:

  • GPs and other primary care doctors
  • Hospital doctors and doctors in training
  • Practice nurses and dermatology nurses
  • Nurses working in community and multidisciplinary services
  • Pharmacists with an interest in dermatological conditions and therapeutics
  • Allied health professionals working in relevant healthcare roles
  • International healthcare professionals working in primary or secondary care

The programme provides postgraduate academic study of dermatology and research. It does not confer specialist dermatologist registration, independent prescribing authority, or an expanded professional scope.

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!

  • 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.

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