- Validated by
-
- Duration
- 12 months
- Apply by
- 6th Sep 2026
Total fees
£5,200Next intake
September 2026
Apply by
6th Sep 2026
Commitment
Part time
Format
100% online
Duration
12 months
About this programme
Develop a broader understanding of medical education through our university-validated Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education. This Level 7 qualification is designed for healthcare professionals who want to examine teaching, assessment, curriculum design, educational leadership, media, and evaluation within contemporary healthcare education while continuing to work.
Comprising six modules (120 credits), the programme provides a comprehensive exploration of medical education across the full educational process. You'll examine how learning is planned, delivered, assessed, evaluated, and developed, while considering the role of leadership and digital technologies in supporting high-quality healthcare education.
Recognised through AoME AccreditationPlus, the programme combines academic study with the flexibility of 100% online, part-time learning and dedicated academic support. With March and September intakes, you can begin your studies at a time that suits your professional commitments.
Who can study this Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education?
This Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education is suitable for healthcare professionals who have educational responsibilities and want to develop a broader understanding of medical education through structured postgraduate study. Whether your role includes teaching, supervision, assessment, mentoring, curriculum development, or educational leadership, the programme provides an opportunity to examine the principles that underpin effective healthcare education.
The programme is particularly suitable for:
- Foundation and resident doctors preparing for specialty training
- Specialty and SAS doctors with teaching or supervisory responsibilities
- Educational supervisors, clinical tutors, and programme leads
- Healthcare professionals involved in teaching, assessment, mentoring, or curriculum development
- Medical educators seeking a university-validated postgraduate qualification
- International healthcare professionals wishing to develop their knowledge of medical education
By studying a wider range of educational topics, you'll develop a comprehensive understanding of medical education that can be applied across a variety of healthcare settings.
What will you study on this Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education?
The Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education comprises six 20-credit modules (120 credits) that examine the key components of medical education. Together, these modules provide a comprehensive understanding of how educational programmes are planned, delivered, assessed, evaluated, and developed within healthcare.
You'll begin by examining the core principles of medical education through modules focusing on educational practice, assessment, and evaluation. These modules explore educational theory, teaching approaches, learner engagement, assessment methods, feedback, programme evaluation, and reflective practice, providing a strong academic foundation for educational responsibilities within healthcare.
The programme then broadens its focus to examine curriculum design, educational leadership, and the use of media within medical education. You'll consider curriculum planning, constructive alignment, digital learning, educational technologies, leadership, quality assurance, and the development of educational programmes that respond to the changing needs of healthcare.
Throughout the programme, you'll study:
- Practice of Medical Education – educational theory, teaching approaches, curriculum planning, and learning within healthcare.
- Assessment – assessment methods, feedback, workplace-based assessment, and supporting learner development.
- Evaluation – approaches to evaluating educational activity and supporting continuous improvement.
- Media – digital learning, educational technologies, and media within medical education.
- Leadership – educational leadership, professional standards, and leading educational activity.
- Curriculum – curriculum design, constructive alignment, programme development, and quality assurance.
Together, these six modules provide a broad understanding of contemporary medical education, preparing you to contribute to teaching, assessment, curriculum development, and educational leadership within healthcare.
Year 1
Module 1 Module 1: The Practice of Medical Education +
Aims of the module:
To cultivate a critical understanding of the context of medical education within the broader field of education, emphasising the importance of patient care.
Module Content:
Learning and teaching theories
Learning and teaching methods
Lesson planning
Practical skills for teaching;
Individuals
Small and large groups
Practical skills for teaching online learning
Current topics and controversies
Learning outcomes:
- Analyse and apply teaching methods and theories for effective learning.
- Critically evaluate the significance and impact of medical education with a focus on patient care.
Module 2 Module 2: Assessment +
Aims of the module:
To attain an in-depth comprehension of the principles and practices of assessment in medical education.
Module Content:
Performance /Testing
Formative assessment
Summative assessment
Constructing an assessment (case study)
Supervision and feedback (appraisal)
Current topics/controversies
Authenticity and situativity in assessment
Learning outcomes:
- Critically analyse various assessment methodologies in medical education.
- Implement formative and summative assessment strategies in the context of medical education.
Module 3 Module 3: Evaluation +
Aims of the module:
To develop a thorough understanding of various evaluation models and their applications in medical education.
Module Content:
Regulatory context of Medical Education
Moore’s levels
Programme evaluation
Case Studies
Current topics and controversies
Learning outcomes:
- Critically evaluate and synthesise various models of evaluation in medical education.
- Design and implement evaluation methods to enhance educational practices and improve patient care.
Module 4 Module 4: Media +
Aims of the module:
To gain an in-depth understanding of integrating diverse digital programmes into medical education effectively.
Module Content:
Educational media and technology (media in the context of lesson planning)
Presentation skills
Simulation (Augmented Reality/virtual Reality)
Big data, big “clinical” data
Emerging technologies
Ubiquitous web Internet of Things
mobile
digital ecology
Social media
Laurillard's Conversational Framework
Learning outcomes:
- Justify and critically appraise the role of media in medical education.
- Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies in the field of medical education.
Module 5 Module 5: Leadership +
Aims of the module:
To build a profound understanding of the significance of effective leadership in enhancing patient care and medical education.
Module Content:
Leadership
Monitoring the performance of healthcare professionals
Academy of Medical Educators (AoME) domains
Policy and strategy
Ethics
Scholarship
Learning outcomes:
- Exhibit a comprehensive understanding of AoME professional standards for medical educators.
- Critically assess the role and impact of leadership in medical education.
Module 6 Module 6: Curriculum +
Aims of the module:
To acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to plan and develop a medical education curriculum effectively.
Module Content:
Curriculum planning and application
Programmes of learning (theories, curricular design, QA, assessment methods, evaluation)
Service user involvement
Biggs’ Constructive Alignment
Learning outcomes:
- Master the ability to design and justify a comprehensive course curriculum, including planning and development strategies.
- Critically evaluate medical education curricula from multiple perspectives.
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.
-
100% flexible
Online, with no campus days. Study around clinic, nights and family life.
-
Case-based
Two or three clinically rich scenarios each week, discussed with peers and marked by your tutor.
-
About 10 hours a week
A little and often — daily login beats a weekly cram.
Assessment methods
The online medical education diploma places assessments at the heart of the learning process through the employment of real life scenarios to enhance problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based practice. 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. 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. Our dedicated Student Support Team are also 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.
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% +
- 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.
Reflective Journal - 10% +
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.
Module Assignment - 20% +
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.
Case-Based Examination - 30% +
- 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.
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 6.0 (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 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
Professor Steve Davies MB BCh, FRCP, MD
Programme Director
Dr Karuna Chellaram Hathiramani MAcadMEd, MBBCh, MRCGP, DRCOG, DCH, MBA
Tutor
Dr Paul Grant
Tutor
Dr. Aqsa Chaudhry
Tutor
Dr. Kathrin Rac
Tutor
Dr. Gabriela Benderz
Tutor
Danny Clegg
Tutor
Dr. Detina Zalli
Tutor
Conrad W. Wanyama
1 / 9
Accreditors and Endorsers
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.
AoME - Academy of Medical Educators
The Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate and Masters in Medical Education have been accredited with AccreditationPlus by AoME
ELCAS - Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Services
The Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCAS) is a key Ministry of Defence (MoD) initiative established to promote lifelong learning and support career development for members of the UK Armed Forces, both during and after their service. The scheme provides significant financial assistance towards the cost of higher-level learning, helping service personnel achieve valuable, nationally recognised qualifications.
Royal College of Physicians
Accredited for CPD by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK.
AoME - Academy of Medical Educators
The Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate and Masters in Medical Education have been accredited with AccreditationPlus by AoME
ELCAS - Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Services
The Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCAS) is a key Ministry of Defence (MoD) initiative established to promote lifelong learning and support career development for members of the UK Armed Forces, both during and after their service. The scheme provides significant financial assistance towards the cost of higher-level learning, helping service personnel achieve valuable, nationally recognised qualifications.
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
- £437
- Total course fees (UK & international)
- £5,200
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 | £437 |
| 1st May 2026 | £433 |
| 1st June 2026 | £433 |
| 1st July 2026 | £433 |
| 1st August 2026 | £433 |
| 1st September 2026 | £433 |
| 1st October 2026 | £433 |
| 1st November 2026 | £433 |
| 1st December 2026 | £433 |
| 1st January 2027 | £433 |
| 1st February 2027 | £433 |
| 1st March 2027 | £433 |
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.
Why study a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education? +
A Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education provides a broader understanding of healthcare education, including teaching, assessment, curriculum design, educational leadership, media, and evaluation.
Can I study the Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education online? +
Yes. The programme is delivered entirely online, allowing you to study alongside your professional and personal commitments from anywhere in the world.
What will I study on the Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education? +
You'll study six modules covering educational practice, assessment, evaluation, media, leadership, and curriculum design. Together, these modules provide a comprehensive understanding of contemporary medical education within healthcare.
Who is this the pgdip in Medical Education suitable for? +
The programme is suitable for healthcare professionals involved in teaching, supervision, mentoring, assessment, curriculum development, or educational leadership. It is particularly relevant for doctors and other healthcare professionals who wish to broaden their understanding of medical education through postgraduate study.