Postgraduate Diploma
Dermatology (The University of Buckingham)
- Validated by
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- Duration
- 12 months
- Apply by
- 6th Sep 2026
Total fees
£6,237Next intake
September 2026
Apply by
6th Sep 2026
Commitment
Part time
Format
100% online
Duration
12 months
About this programme
Dermatology is an increasingly popular clinical entity amongst medical trainees and nurses worldwide. This is particularly so in primary care settings, where skin disease is the greatest disease prompting consultation in children and the second biggest problem amongst adults.
The number of potential dermatological diagnosis has been estimated at 3000 and each can present in several ways. Although a substantial number of these cases involve chronic disease, many can be treated or cured. This means that increasing your knowledge in dermatology through our flexible, 100% online postgraduate courses in dermatology can add significant value to your patients, especially given the social stigmas surrounding skin disease. This diploma in dermatology is run in conjunction with the University of Buckingham, which houses a medical school accredited by the General Medical Council in May 2019.
The GMC has high standards and an exceptionally rigorous process for accreditation giving confidence that doctors trained in a GMC accredited medical school will hold the skills and experience needed to meet the high standards that patients expect. The GMC has commended the University of Buckingham, for its ‘excellent professional, academic and pastoral support that extends throughout the University and clinical learning environments’. Achieving this PGDip from the University of Buckingham will improve your knowledge, skills, clinical outcomes and career prospects.
Our dermatology diploma online course satisfies the growing international demand for dermatology courses. With the increasing need for dermatology professionals worldwide, this course equips you with critical, in-demand skills, ensuring you stay at the forefront of your field. As well, our courses represent cost-effective learning and provide students the opportunity to maximise their return on investment.
The online Dermatology in Clinical Practice Postgraduate Diploma is applicable to all GPs, Practice Nurses, Specialist Nurses and Pharmacists exposed to patients with dermatological conditions.
On completion of this online diploma in dermatology, you will be able to:
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of evidence-based dermatology.
- Develop life-long learning, critical appraisal and advanced problem-solving skills that can be applied to dermatology in clinical practice.
- Critically evaluate the delivery of dermatology care.
- Lead complex tasks and processes in the delivery and advancement of dermatology practice.
- Build leadership skills within multi-agency, multi-cultural and/or international contexts within dermatology practice.
- Extend knowledge of research methods and their application to practice in dermatology.
You will also be able to demonstrate:
- A better understanding of skin disorders which are common in the community.
- Upskill in the diagnosis and management of dermatological disorders.
- Improved knowledge which is an essential complement to clinical practice.
- You are better equipped to undertake teledermatology, an increasingly important element of practice.
Accredited for CPD by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK
Who can study this Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology (The University of Buckingham)?
The Dermatology in Clinical Practice Postgraduate Diploma is applicable to all GPs, Practice Nurses, Specialist Nurses and Pharmacists exposed to patients with dermatological conditions.
What will you study on this Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology (The University of Buckingham)?
The Dermatology in Clinical Practice Postgraduate Diploma is a one year course, consisting of six modules (120 credits).
Year 1
Module 1 Module 1: Dermatology in clinical practice overview +
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 (MDT)
Learning Outcomes
- Critically apply knowledge and understanding of dermatology in clinical practice to the care of patients.
- Critically evaluate dermatology literature and evidence-based guidance for dermatological conditions.
- Critically appraise appropriate management strategies in relation to systemic disease, side effects of drugs, and vasculitides.
Module 2 Module 2: Lumps, bumps and skin cancer +
Module Aims
To describe, diagnose and interpret the management of skin lesions in the context of guidance.
Module Content
- Skin lumps and bumps
- Benign skin lesions
- Melanoma and pigmented lesions
- Non-melanoma skin cancer
- Basic skin surgery
- Cryotherapy
Learning Outcomes
- Differentiate between benign and malignant lesions.
- Critically appraise the evidence base related to the management of skin lumps and bumps.
- Critically analyse and diagnose a wide variety of skin lesions and their referral and treatment guidance.
Module 3 Module 3: Lesions at specific sites +
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
- Critically analyse the predilection for common dermatoses at various sites of the body.
- Demonstrate an ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to regional dermatoses.
- Demonstrate skills to formulate an evidence-based management plan for site-specific dermatoses.
Module 4 Module 4: Inflammatory dermatoses +
Module Aims
To 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
- Critically appraise the evidence base relating to common inflammatory skin conditions.
- Demonstrate an ability to solve diagnostic conundrums relating to inflammatory dermatoses.
- Demonstrate skills to formulate an evidence-based management plan for common inflammatory dermatoses.
Module 5 Module 5: Skin infections +
Module Aims
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
- Tropical dermatoses
- Infection related to systemic illness
- Photodermatoses
Learning Outcomes
- Critically appraise the evidence base for the identification and management of common skin infections, infestations, and photodermatoses.
- Demonstrate an ability to differentially diagnose, refer and manage skin infections, infestations, and photodermatoses.
- Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and ethical decision-making in managing complex dermatological cases.
Module 6 Module 6: Dermatology in specific populations +
Module Aims
- To develop an ability to identify common skin disorders in particular subgroups of the population and to understand the specific treatment pathways.
- Gain an understanding of the wider factors and global perspectives affecting dermatology.
Module Content
- Infant skin
- Acne and adolescent skin problems
- Pigmented skin
- Elderly skin
- Anti-aging
- Cosmetic treatments
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of the variety of the complex factors that affect the causes, perception of, and management of a variety of dermatological conditions.
- Demonstrate ability to differentially diagnose, refer and manage common skin diseases affecting specific populations.
- Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and ethical decision-making in managing skin conditions in a variety of sub-groups within the population.
How will I learn?
You’ll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform: clinical cases, assignments and collaboration with fellow students at times that suit your rota. There is no fixed timetable — log in daily to take part in the week’s activities.
Groups are small, typically 10–20 students, so discussion stays close to practice. A dedicated tutor and the Student Support Team stay with you through the module.
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100% flexible
Online, with no campus days. Study around clinic, nights and family life.
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Case-based
Two or three clinically rich scenarios each week, discussed with peers and marked by your tutor.
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About 10 hours a week
A little and often — daily login beats a weekly cram.
Assessment methods
This Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology in Clinical Practice places assessments at the heart of the learning process through the employment of clinical scenarios to enhance problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based care. Since the scenarios act as a focus for learning and assessment, the two are intrinsically linked.
The six modules on the course have the same assessment format and for all modules, you will be assigned a dedicated expert tutor. Your tutor will then facilitate case discussions with the group, whilst monitoring, assessing and marking your work throughout.
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.
Assessments are built into the learning. Each week you work through clinical cases with your tutor; those discussions are the core of both the teaching and the marks.
Academic Forum 40% +
- Case problems reflective of day-to-day practice/research will be presented for the students to consider and answer every week.
- Students discuss the concepts being presented in the case within their online group discussion forum, facilitated throughout the module by their tutor and marked by them at the end of the module.
- The content of the academic forum is based on the learning outcomes for the module.
Reflective Journal 10% +
The online reflective journal is a learning portfolio that requires students to record and critically reflect on their learning. Reflection is an important aspect of the programme since the professionals will be able to spend time considering how their practice compares to the themes being discussed in the module. The tutor provides feedback to the student weekly and marks it at the end of the module. Reflective practice is a requirement for healthcare professionals for professional re-validation and professional development.
Module Activity 20% +
This can be either a Group Activity or an Individual Activity:
Group activity
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 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.
or
Individual activity
Designed to stimulate and demonstrate personalised learning, creativity and problem solving with application to each student’s own practice area.
Examples of individual activities might include either a written assignment, developing an academic poster presentation, a blog or social media project.
All students must complete the same assignment for each module which is pre-determined by the Programme Leader before the modules commence.
Exam 30% +
- Case problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination with multiple-choice questions directly test the reasoning and knowledge objectives of the module.
- The online exam is marked automatically.
- The examination tests related theory and problem-solving skills.
Entry requirements
Since our courses are conducted entirely online, they are 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 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 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 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.
If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry. The University of Buckingham run a number of English language programmes to prepare you for your academic studies. You can also contact our admissions team on admissions@learna.ac.uk 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@learna.ac.uk to find out more.
Faculty
Programme Director
Dr Thomas King
Tutor
Dr Cecilia Grossmith
Tutor
Dr Michael Boffa
Tutor
Dr Deepa M.L Hemnani
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Accreditors and Endorsers
University of Buckingham
The University of Buckingham is the only independent university in the UK with a Royal Charter, and also one of the smallest with around 2,700 students, who study for honours degrees in two intensive years of study. The University houses its own medical school and was ranked first for student satisfaction in 2018, 2019 and 2020 by the Complete University Guide.
Royal College of Physicians
Accredited for CPD by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK.
Royal College of Physicians
Accredited for CPD by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK.
Dates
Dates for Postgraduate Certificate / Postgraduate Diploma / MSc Year 1 September 2026 Intake
| Module | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Induction Week | 7th September 2026 | 11th September 2026 |
| Module 1 | 14th September 2026 | 25th October 2026 |
| Module 2 | 9th November 2026 | 20th December 2026 |
| Module 3 | 11th January 2027 | 21st February 2027 |
| Module 4 | 8th March 2027 | 18th April 2027 |
| Module 5 | 3rd May 2027 | 13th June 2027 |
| Module 6 | 28th June 2027 | 8th August 2027 |
Dates for MSc Year 2 October 2026 Intake
| Module | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Module 1 (USW) | 12th October 2026 | 20th December 2026 |
| Module 2 (USW) | 4th January 2027 | 25th July 2027 |
| Module 1 (UoB) | 12th October 2026 | 25th July 2027 |
| Module 1 (UoB eMBA) | 12th October 2026 | 9th May 2027 |
Course fees and payment options
Course fees
- Deposit for September 2026
- £528
- Total course fees (UK & international)
- £6,237
Payment options
- Option 1: Upfront payment in full (discount available).
- Option 2: Interest-free monthly payments throughout the course.
Spread the cost with Lendwise, who offer financing options for up to 8 years.
Payment plan breakdown
| Instalment | Amount |
|---|---|
| Deposit | £528 |
| 1st May 2026 | £519 |
| 1st June 2026 | £519 |
| 1st July 2026 | £519 |
| 1st August 2026 | £519 |
| 1st September 2026 | £519 |
| 1st October 2026 | £519 |
| 1st November 2026 | £519 |
| 1st December 2026 | £519 |
| 1st January 2027 | £519 |
| 1st February 2027 | £519 |
| 1st March 2027 | £519 |
Deposits are non-refundable. Prices are subject to review following each intake. Lendwise finance is subject to eligibility.
Frequently asked questions
Are the courses recognised outside of the UK? +
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.
How do online courses work? +
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.
How much time will I need to spend on the course each week? +
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.
Is the course completely online? +
Yes, everything is done entirely online through our learning platform, Moodle. You do not need to attend the University.
My international degree was taught in English - do I still need to take an English test to prove my English proficiency? +
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).
Do you offer any payment plans or funding support? +
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.
What discounts are available, and how much can I save? +
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.