Program Overview

Introduction to the Postgraduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology

The Postgraduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology is a highly interactive, online distance learning programme designed to provide participants with a sound understanding of skin disease as it presents in practice. The programme enables General Practitioners to successfully manage dermatological problems in patients.

Programme Details

• Duration: 2 years (part-time) or 1 year (full-time)
• Mode: Part-time distance learning or full-time distance learning
• Start Date: 01 September 2026

Why Study This Course

The Postgraduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology is for practising General Practitioners or other practising doctors who regularly deal with patients with dermatological problems. The programme aims to equip doctors with a sound understanding of skin disease as it presents in practice and enable them to successfully manage dermatological problems in patients.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for the programme, applicants must:

• Hold an undergraduate degree in clinical medicine (MBBCh, BMBS, MBBS, or equivalent) awarded by a recognised institution
• Provide a copy of their degree certificate and transcripts
• Provide a copy of their IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills (or equivalent)
• Submit a personal statement confirming they are currently working and actively managing patients with part of their clinical practice involving the care of patients with skin problems
• Provide evidence of continuing professional registration with a relevant medical body

Course Structure

The Postgraduate Diploma consists of six 20-credit modules, totalling 120 credits, at Level 7. The modules are:

Year One

• Introduction to Practical Dermatology (MET601, 20 credits)
• Skin Lesions (MET602, 20 credits)
• Special Cutaneous Sites (MET603, 20 credits)

Year Two

• Inflammatory Dermatoses (MET604, 20 credits)
• Environmental Challenges in Practical Dermatology (MET605, 20 credits)
• Demographic Subgroups in Practical Dermatology (MET606, 20 credits)

Learning and Assessment

The course is delivered entirely online via Cardiff University's virtual learning environment. Assessment will be conducted in accordance with the Cardiff University Senate Assessment Regulations for Taught Programmes. Each module will be assessed by written work, objective structured tests/questions, and online activities.

Tuition Fees

• Home Status: ｣5,975 per year
• Overseas Status: ｣9,850 per year, with a deposit of ｣2,500 for the first year

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. Postgraduate loans may also be available for students starting their master's degree in September 2026 or later.

Career Prospects

The Postgraduate Diploma can form part of the portfolio of a general practitioner wishing to practice as a GPwSI/GPwER in dermatology.

Additional Costs

Students will need a reliable computer with high-speed internet access and appropriate software. Living costs in Cardiff are relatively affordable compared to other UK cities.