This two-year part-time masters programme, taught entirely online, is offered by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and the University of Edinburgh, and leads to the degree of Master of Surgery (ChM).
Based on the UK Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum, it provides the opportunity for trainees in urology to select those advanced modules relevant to their declared specialty and supports learning for the Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) examinations.
The programme is designed to run alongside clinical training and complement in-the-workplace assessment.
Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.
Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.
The programme runs on a semester basis over two years and involves approximately 10 hours of study each week, in a flexible modular manner. It is anticipated that some of this study would receive credit or mirror 'in-the-workplace' activities.
The online distance learning nature of this programme is perfect for doctors working unsociable shift patterns. You will have access to high-quality, interactive online resources, e-journals and online textbooks, as well as dedicated technological support.
Year 1
Compulsory modules will cover the basic elements of the specialty of urology, including oncology, andrology, stone disease, reconstructive urology, paediatric urology and renal transplantation. Each module is based around relevant surgical cases and includes discussion board and video master classes.
Year 2
Academic modules will explore research and teaching methodology, whilst enabling students to develop the ability to analyse published evidence and enhance their interactive and written clinical communication skills. Students will also have the opportunity to complete an academic research project in Year 2 e.g. Original research or a Systematic Review in a relevant area of work. Following completion of the programme, students are encouraged to seek publication of their study in a peer-reviewed journal.
Students are supported throughout the programme through asynchronous discussions with e-tutors who are all leading clinicians in their field. Students also have access to a large learning resource, including subscriptions to key online books and journals. A written examination (MCQ) is held in the second year, following completion of core modules.
Graduates will be able to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of their chosen surgical subspecialty and to apply this knowledge to the systematic assessment and management of surgical patients in the elective, urgent and emergency clinical setting.
We are pleased to deliver an innovative Level 7 Masters, MCh in Surgery with four individual awards in the specialist surgical pathways of:
-Orthopaedics and Regenerative Medicine
-Otorhinolaryngology
-Urology
-Ophthalmology
The specialist surgical field of orthopaedics has been central in the use of regenerative medicine. The focus in modern orthopaedics is changing as research exposes ever greater knowledge widening the spectrum of therapeutic options encompassing reconstruction, regeneration and substitution (Kim, S-J. and Shetty, A.A., 2011; Shetty, A.A. and Kim, S-J., 2013; Kim, J-M., Hans, J.R. and Shetty, A.A., 2014).
Research methods, studies in regenerative medicine and other emerging technologies feature poorly in the standard curriculum of the orthopaedic trainee. This limits the quality of research output, reduces the potential for innovation and slows the rates of adoption of transformative treatments for patients, while leaving the surgeon unable to critically evaluate new treatments.
This programme targets this deficiency with a strong emphasis on research methodology and critical analysis that is based on a platform formed of in-depth scientific knowledge and proven by translation into clinical practice.
Otorhinolaryngology (Ear, Nose and Throat surgery – ENT) is a diverse surgical specialty that involves the management of both children and adults. In contrast to other surgical specialties the management of a significant number of conditions requires a non-surgical approach. An understanding of the pathogenesis and progression of pathology is essential. This surgical specialty is rapidly evolving. Significant progress has been made through regenerative medicine and technology, some locally through mobile platforms.
Entry into Otorhinolaryngology is competitive. This is often despite the fact that whilst at University many medical students may have had little, if any, formal training in ENT. Some junior trainees entering the specialty have had limited exposure which may affect their decision making.
The MCh in Surgery (Otorhinolaryngology) course aims to prepare a trainee to meet the challenges of the current and future challenges in Otorhinolaryngology. It provides an evidence based approach for the management of patients, and provides a foundation for those who will eventually undertake formal exit examinations in this specialty.
Urology is a surgical specialty dealing with the problems associated with the urinary tract and it deals with cancer, non-cancer, functional problems and diseases (Khan, F., Mahmalji, W., Sriprasad, S. and Madaan, S., 2013). In urology many problems can be managed with medications (for example treating erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms have become largely by pharmaceutical agents) and this underpins the importance of understanding the basic science and molecular biology as applied to the specialty.
This surgical field is constantly evolving with technology being the main driver. Improvements have been made through lasers, optics, gadgets and robotics (Jeong, Kumar and Menon, 2016). Regenerative medicine is fast evolving in urology. The architectural simplicity of hollow structures (such as bladder) and tubes (such as the ureters and urethra) make them particularly amenable.
Despite the fact that many medical students may not have had a urology placement during their training (Derbyshire and Flynn, 2011) the specialty is very much sought after. Getting into urological training is very competitive. Doctors typically undertake research, obtain higher degrees and publish papers in peer-reviewed journals in order to advance their surgical training. A MCh in Surgery (Urology) will therefore be significantly valuable to you for not only your professional knowledge and skills but also to help you reach your goals of becoming a Consultant.
The MCh in Surgery (Urology) will prepare you to meet the challenges of current and future urologic medicine and surgery. All this provides a platform for further advancement of your scientific knowledge, innovative and forward thinking, career progression and camaraderie with fellow students.
Ophthalmology is a surgical specialty dealing with disorders of the eye and visual pathways. Although the treatment of eye conditions involves a range of therapeutic options, including medicine, laser and surgery, the surgical field in particular is constantly evolving with technology being the main driver. Improvements are being made through lasers, optics, and minimally invasive surgical procedures with enhanced outcomes for patients.
There is very little ophthalmology teaching in modern medical school curricula. However, the speciality is highly sought after with intense competition for a limited number of training positions. Therefore, doctors typically undertake research, obtain higher degrees and publish papers in peer-reviewed journals in order to advance their surgical training and improve their chances of achieving a training number. A MCh in Surgery (Ophthalmology) will provide you with a solid foundation and valuable qualification to enhance selection onto a career pathway in this highly competitive field, culminating in a Consultant appointment. The MCh in Surgery (Ophthalmology) will prepare you as a trainee surgeon to meet the challenges of current and future ophthalmology. Specifically, you will be taught to critically analyse and evaluate data through learning research methodology. You will then learn to apply this to clinical practice and to evaluate the different treatment options and new technologies with respect to patient benefit and outcomes. There will be the opportunity of studying a range of conditions and treatments in depth. All this provides a platform for further advancement of your scientific knowledge, innovative and forward thinking. A unique aspect of the MCh programme is the teaching of regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine is fast evolving in ophthalmology, and this programme will help you to appreciate this area of medicine as applied to eye conditions. This is especially so in retinal conditions, optic neuropathies and glaucoma. The knowledge gained is critical not just for the local students from the United Kingdom but to any trainee from anywhere in the world.
The theme of regenerative medicine will run through each of the specialist pathway modules with its application, research and emerging technologies being critically explored. Although a key component and theme through this programme will be regenerative medicine, a further theme that will run through each of the modules is the teaching of practical surgical skills in each of the pathways and modules through simulation
The Master of Science by Research (Health Sciences) enables you to undertake supervised research studies in one or more of the Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine's research areas and groups such as Anatomy, Evidence-Based Practice, Nutrition & Dietetics, Stem Cells, Urology and much more.
The Master of Science by Research (Health Sciences) enables you to undertake supervised research studies in one or more of the Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine's research areas and groups. It is an internationally recognised research degree and is a pathway to PhD studies. Potential areas for research opportunity include: Anatomy Evidence-Based Practice Nutrition & Dietetics Genetics Health Professions Education Immunology Indigenous Health Medical Ethics Medical Research Neuroscience Physiology/Pharmacology Physiotherapy Public Health Sports and Exercise Science Sports Management Stem Cells Urology Bond University research students have access to the specialist expertise of our internationally published academics as well as state-of-the-art facilities.
The Master of Science by Research (Health Sciences) provides you with research expertise for careers in the university, industry or research sectors.
This online programme is jointly offered by the University of Edinburgh and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. It covers the UK Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum.
This programme gives you first-rate preparation for the Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) examination, with additional emphasis on acquired knowledge and its application.
The third-year MSc research project also serves as an opportunity to develop an academic career in surgery.
This programme is affiliated with the University's Global Health Academy.
Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.
Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.
Delivered through an online learning environment, students accumulate credits through a series of modules leading to a certificate, diploma or masters qualification.
At the certificate and diploma levels, students must attend an end-of-year examination, held in Edinburgh for UK-based students or with a pre-approved partner institution for international students.
Year 1: certificate
Year 2: diploma
Year 3: masters
The final year involves a masters research project in which you will plan, execute and develop a research paper, potentially involving clinical or laboratory research.
This programme is designed to let you study towards your MRCS in a flexible way.
Students will study at the world-renowned Queen Square, and will be taught by internationally recognised experts in the field. Students have the opportunity to interact freely with our neurologists, and undertake a specialist attachment during the second six months of their programme.
Students gain knowledge of the clinical features and scientific basis of the following neurological areas and disorders: nerve and muscle; epilepsy; pain; movement disorders and Parkinson's disease; neuro-otology and neuro-ophthalmology; stroke; neuropsychiatry and cognition; infections of the nervous system; multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology; autonomic function and neuro-urology; neuro-oncology and ITU neurology.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of five core modules (105 credits), one optional module (15 credits) and a research project (60 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma (full-time six months is offered).
Core modules
Optional modules include
Students can choose one 15-credit module from the available options below:
Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an independent research project, which takes the form of a scientific investigation and culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through lectures, seminars, clinical teaching (including outpatients, inpatients, workshops, training for history taking and clinical examination and case demonstrations). Assessment is through written examination, MCQ, short case clinical examination, viva voce, continuous assessment and the research dissertation.
Placement
Students are offered the opportunity to undertake a clinical attachment with one or two consultants at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery from April to September each year.
International Students will bear any costs incurred in acquiring certification equivalent to DBS in their home country.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Clinical Neurology MSc
This programme provides an excellent basis for a clinical or research career in clinical neurology and related disciplines.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
For students starting out on their clinical careers the programme will give them skills and experience to move towards specialist training. For more established clinicians it is an opportunity to refresh and refine their clinical practice. All students benefit from exposure to the scientific underpinning of neurology, and the opportunity to undertake an original research project, and a specialist attachment, studying alongside the internationally renowned neurologists at Queen Square.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The mission of the UCL Institute of Neurology is to carry out high-quality research, teaching and training in basic and clinical neurosciences. Together with our associated hospital, the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, we form the world-renowned Queen Square and promote the translation of research that is of direct clinical relevance to improved patient care and treatment.
Students are given the opportunity to experience the full range of activities of a world-famous specialist hospital.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Institute of Neurology
83% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
This flexible, inclusive, engaging distance learning postgraduate level programme responds to the desire of current graduates working within the area of health and social care as they seek to develop their practice and in order to better equip them to meet the demands of advanced practice roles and responsibilities. Changing health and social care requirements demand highly knowledgeable and skilled graduates from the health and social care professions. The programme particularly extends the knowledge base necessary for practitioners to function at an advanced level, to develop into expert or advanced practitioners, advisers, managers or educators within their particular area of expertise offering sound judgement, personal responsibility and initiative, in complex and unpredictable professional environments. There is emphasis upon the application of knowledge to practice, thus enhancing the leadership capacity.
This programme leads to the academic awards of PGCert/PGDip/MSc in Applied Health Studies.
The Postgraduate Certificate is awarded after completing 60 credits at level 7 and for this students have the option to study a suite of 3 twenty-credit ‘generic’ modules (Advanced Communication and Education Approaches in Health and Social Care Practice, Decision Making and Accountability in Health and Social Care, Enhancing Patient Safety in Healthcare) or 2, thirty-credit clinical modules in neuroscience or 3 twenty credit modules in urology, continence care, or stoma care (all at level 7).
The Postgraduate Diploma can be completed over a minimum of one year part-time (dependant on module availability) and requires the completion of 2 thirty-credit compulsory modules at level 7, Advanced Methods in Research and Development in health and Social Care and Global Perspectives in Transforming Health.
The MSc involves the completion of a 60 credit level 7 evidence based project.
This is a fully online part-time programme, students are expected to engage regularly with the programme and online activity and interaction will be monitored and recorded.
Work-based learning forms a key element in these programmes especially but not exclusively for the completion of the clinical modules and their assessment. Most, if not all, students undertaking the Applied Health Studies programmes at either undergraduate or postgraduate level will be working in some capacity within a health and social care environment. This will enable students to combine procedural knowledge with declarative knowledge in context in order to produce professional knowledge, impacting positively on employability and career progression.
91% of staff in the School hold a recognised teaching qualification and
76% of staff are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy and 5 staff are Senior Fellows. Six hold Fellowships of the Centre for Higher Education Research and Practice (CHERP). One member of staff has received the University’s Distinguished Teaching Award Fellowship while another 2 have received the University’s Distinguished Research Fellow and Distinguished Research Fellowship Award. The School has a track record of academic promotions up to, and including, professorial level for Learning and Teaching related activities
Results of the 2014 Research Excellence Framework show that 96% of Nursing and Health Science research was judged to be of international excellence or world leading.The Institute of Nursing & Health Research takes the lead in delivering research and evidence based practice education to ensure that students are exposed to research active staff and are given the opportunity to reflect upon the impact research and evidence have on practice.
The School has an active Educational and Professional Issues Research Group which links with CHERP and several members of the Subject Team have been awarded CHEP (Ulster) Development Funding, Teaching Development Grants from the Higher Education Academy which has supported innovations in the areas of small group teaching and online assessment.
In additon, a number of the Subject team are both current and previous presidents of their specialty's relevant European associations, EANN and EAUN.
Students on this programme are expected to be working or aspiring to work within the fields of healthcare and/or social care. On completion of this programme of study we expect students to continue in their employment with an enhanced range of transferable and subject specific skills to benefit their employer, communities, individual patients/clients and their families. We also expect graduates to achieve a higher personal profile within their organisation thus enhancing their prospects of promotion and/or career development. A number of students may progress to postgraduate and doctoral level studies and choose from a range of courses available in the School of Nursing and the wider University.
This postgraduate programme in Health and Wellbeing aims to develop highly knowledgeable and skilled graduates from the health and social care professions. It extends the knowledge base necessary for practitioners to function at an advanced level and t o develop into expert or advanced practitioners within their particular area of expertise. There is an emphasis on the application of knowledge to practice and the development of leadership skills.
This programme leads to the academic awards of PgCert/PgDip/MSc in Health and Wellbeing. Students may exit with a Postgraduate Certificate in Health and Wellbeing after completing 60 credits or with a Postgraduate Diploma in Health and Wellbeing after completing 120 credits.
For the Postgraduate Diploma there are two 30 credit compulsory modules (Health and Wellbeing: Challenges and Controversies and Advanced Research Methods), Students may then decide to study a suite of optional ‘generic’ modules in Applied Healthcare Ethics, Professional Decision-making and Accountability, Therapeutic Communication Skills and Leadership in Professional practice to the value of 60 credits or, alternatively opt to study modules within of the following subject specific 60 credit pathways: Neuroscience, Case management, Diabetes Care, Stroke Care, Urology, Continence, Stoma Care or Forensic Healthcare. For the award of the Master’s degree in Health and Wellbeing a further 60 credits must be completed in the form of the master’s dissertation project.
This degree covers a broad range of healthcare issues allowing for careers in health and social care, education, leisure and health promotion and management.
