Orthopaedics

Module Aims:
To equip healthcare professionals with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the fundamental aspects of trauma and orthopaedics, focusing on anatomy, biomechanics, the healing process, X-ray interpretation, and clinical examination techniques.

Module Summary

• Fundamentals of trauma and orthopaedics
• Detailed anatomy relevant to T&O
• Biomechanics of musculoskeletal systems
• Healing processes of bones and tissues
• Principles and techniques of X-ray interpretation
• Clinical examination methods in orthopaedics

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a systematic understanding of anatomy, biomechanics, healing processes, X-ray interpretation, and clinical examination in trauma and orthopaedics (T&O).
2. Critically analyse and evaluate complex information and research findings related to advanced principles of trauma and orthopaedic care.
3. Apply advanced knowledge to clinical scenarios, in a range of settings, by synthesising and interpreting complex findings that are communicated effectively for patient management within a multidisciplinary team approach.

Module Aims:
To equip students with an advanced knowledge and understanding of orthopaedic trauma and emergencies. This module focuses on the principles and practices of managing acute injuries, emergency interventions, and post-traumatic care in orthopaedics.

Module Summary:

• Introduction to orthopaedic trauma and emergencies
• Classification and management of fractures
• Emergency care protocols and triage
• Surgical and non-surgical interventions
• Case studies and practical applications

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a critical knowledge and understanding of the principles governing the management of orthopaedic trauma and emergencies, including comprehensive fracture classification and the application of rigorous emergency care protocols.
2. Systematically analyse and critically evaluate complex trauma cases to develop and justify evidence-based management plans grounded in current evidence and best practices.
3. Apply advanced knowledge of emergency interventions, including initial stabilisation and appropriate surgical or non-surgical treatments.

Module Aims:
To equip students with an in-depth knowledge of paediatric orthopaedics, focusing on both elective and trauma cases. This module aims to equip students with the knowledge and understanding necessary to diagnose, manage, and treat orthopaedic conditions in children.

Module Summary:

• Introduction to paediatric orthopaedics
• Common elective orthopaedic conditions in children
• Trauma-related orthopaedic injuries in children
• Diagnostic methods and imaging techniques and non-accidental injury (NAI)
• Surgical and non-surgical treatment options
• Postoperative care and rehabilitation

Learning Outcomes:

1. Critically apply a systematic understanding of the principles and practices of paediatric orthopaedics to a range of settings, encompassing both elective and trauma-related conditions.
2. Critically appraise and synthesise information from clinical assessments and imaging studies to formulate and justify advanced management plans for paediatric orthopaedic patients.
3. Apply and critically evaluate advanced clinical skills in diagnosing, treating, and managing paediatric orthopaedic conditions, ensuring evidence-based practice and patient-centred care.

Module Aims:
To equip healthcare professionals with an advanced understanding of the spine, covering both trauma and elective conditions, with an emphasis on diagnosis, management, and treatment strategies.

Module Summary:

• Anatomy and biomechanics of the spine
• Pathophysiology of spinal trauma
• Elective spinal conditions
• Diagnostic imaging of the spine
• Surgical management of spinal conditions
• Non-surgical management and rehabilitation

Learning Outcomes:

1. Critically evaluate the latest research and evidence-based practices related to the anatomy, biomechanics, pathophysiology, and treatment options for spinal conditions, both traumatic and elective.
2. Critically implement knowledge into a patient-centred approach to diagnose, manage, and treat a variety of spinal conditions, considering the individual’s needs, preferences, and overall well-being.
3. Demonstrate advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills that may be applied when integrating diagnostic imaging interpretation, developing comprehensive treatment plans, and implementing evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for spinal conditions in a range of multidisciplinary settings.

Module Aims:
To equip students with an advanced understanding of the anatomy, pathology, clinical examination, and treatment modalities related to the upper limb in the field of orthopaedics.

Module Summary:

• Anatomy and biomechanics of the upper limb
• Common injuries and conditions of the shoulder
• Common injuries and conditions of the elbow
• Common injuries and conditions of the wrist and hand
• Surgical treatment options for upper limb conditions
• Non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation

Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the anatomical and pathological features of the upper limb, and critically evaluate the latest research and evidence-based practices relating to clinical and imaging techniques used in diagnosis and treatment.
2. Critically evaluate the latest research and evidence-based practices related to upper limb conditions and their management.
3. Select and adapt appropriate advanced problem solving strategies, and clinical examination methodologies to interpret complex imaging results to design patient-centred treatment plans for upper limb disorders, applying a shared decision-making approach.

Module Aims:
To equip students with an advanced understanding of the anatomy, biomechanics, pathophysiology, and clinical management of conditions affecting the lower limb, including the hip, knee, ankle, and foot.

Module Summary:

• Anatomy and biomechanics of the lower limb
• Common injuries and conditions of the hip
• Common injuries and conditions of the knee
• Common injuries and conditions of the ankle and foot
• Surgical treatment options for lower limb conditions
• Non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation

Learning Outcomes:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the anatomical, biomechanical, and pathological aspects of lower limb conditions, and the principles of their management.
2. Critically analyse complex clinical cases involving the lower limb, systematically evaluate the latest evidence-based treatment options, and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to construct patient specific treatment and management strategies.
3. Synthesise advanced clinical assessment skills to conduct comprehensive clinical assessments of lower limb conditions, critically interpret diagnostic imaging, and formulate evidence-based treatment plans in a range of multidisciplinary settings.

Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal:

• 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, forest plots and meta-analyses.
• Calculations used in the assessment of research data such as relative risk, absolute risk and number needed to treat. Statistical tests and their applications including t-tests, ANOVA and chi-square.
• Qualitative research methods.
• Fundamentals of evidence-based practice and its application into the clinical setting.
• Principles of health economics, audit and quality improvement/assurance systems.
• Establishing patient registers and the value of disease-specific registers.
• Research into educational principles for both healthcare practitioner and patient.

Professional Project:
This module will depend on the creation of a piece of work based upon a specific clinically related 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(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal.
• Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment.

Learning Outcomes:

• Select and apply different methodological perspectives and tools to answer research questions in the field.
• Critically analyse and interpret relevant research in the subject area.
• Design and undertake a research/development project.
• Critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements or change.
• Incorporate knowledge of the research process in developing services appropriately.

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.