MSc Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine / Course details

Our MSc Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine course is specifically designed for qualified medical or dental practitioners who want to develop their knowledge of cosmetic medicine.

This is an intensive part-time course encompassing the science of skin ageing and aesthetics, the application of evidence-based practice, and the clinical assessment and management of patients presenting with aesthetic problems.

You will be encouraged to develop a translational, professional approach to learning throughout the course, which can be applied to your future learning.

In addition, supervision and training is provided by national and international leaders working in aesthetic research, regulation, and clinical practice. The combination of research and clinical expertise in skin ageing and aesthetic medicine at The University of Manchester and Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust will enable you to learn from an interdisciplinary faculty of dermatologists, plastic surgeons, oculoplastic surgeons, maxillo-facial surgeons, dentists, and psychologists, in addition to skin ageing and wound research basic scientists.

The theoretical component of this course is delivered online. You are also required to attend a virtual online induction session at the beginning of the course. There are two compulsory on-campus clinical practical sessions in Year 1 and Year 2 (exact dates to be confirmed).

We aim to develop professionals with the ability to apply scientific principles and the latest evidence base to the practice of skin ageing and aesthetic medicine.

You will develop clinical knowledge to apply to the specialist practical skills and critical awareness required for non-surgical procedures, supported by leading experts in the field.

On completion of the course, you will be able to demonstrate a number of competencies and have enhanced knowledge and skills including:

For PGCert, PGDip and MSc

• application of skin anatomy and science in relation to aesthetics and ageing;
• the ability to assess patients' requirements and suitability for aesthetic intervention;
• application of consent and ethical practice in aesthetic medicine;
• procedural skills in minimally invasive and aesthetic injectable procedures including rejuvenation techniques, dermal fillers and botulinum toxin injections;
• assessment and treatment of complications of these procedures;
• developing an evidence-based approach to aesthetic medicine and practice;

Only for PGDip and MSc

• explain clinical malpractice and legislation of manufacturing of drugs and devices in the aesthetic field of practice;
• procedural skills in some lasers;
• advise on the role of invasive aesthetic procedures;

Only for MSc

• critically appraise and conduct high quality research in aesthetic and ageing medicine.

High-quality teaching

This course has been recognised as a gold standard for education in aesthetic practice by Health Education England. It aligns directly with the outcomes of the UK Department of Health review on cosmetic practice and General Medical Council guidance in this area.

Personal support

You will receive one-to-one tutor support throughout the course, with small group sessions and training with volunteer models during the clinical sessions.

Learn from the experts

Staff on the course include members of the Centre for Dermatology , which is recognised as a global leader in basic science, translational and clinical research in skin health and disease and is 1st in the UK for dermatology research (RAND analysis).

This course has been designed using established educational theory and practices to enhance student experience and learning.

The University of Manchester's virtual learning environment guides participants through unit content, assessment submission and programme information.

Our units use blended teaching methods aligned with learning outcomes and assessment. The course contains e-learning case work, small group work, interactive forums, clinical debriefs, and practical sessions with volunteer models. You will be taught in small ratios (1:5) to maximise opportunities for clinical learning.

We hold two on campus clinical practical sessions during the first 24 months of the course, one in each of the two first years. Both of these will be scheduled in the first semester and dates should be circulated in September. Attendance at clinical sessions is compulsory for all students.

An initial Induction Day is held in online at the start of Years 1, 2 and 3 to familiarise participants with the online e-learning software and library resources. Attendance at the Induction Day is also compulsory for all students.

This course is led by an experienced team of dermatology experts.

You will be required to pass group and written assignments for each unit. Those with a highly practical element will also include assessments of procedural skills.

The master's element of the course will be assessed through a written dissertation (10,000 - 15,000 words).

The contact days take place on campus at The University of Manchester, or in purpose-built educational facilities at Salford Royal Foundation Hospital, a leading university teaching hospital in the UK. Facilities here include clinical skills laboratories, seminar rooms with teleconferencing, and networking facilities.

Extensive library facilities on site directly link to The University of Manchester network. You will receive access to The University of Manchester's library services and other facilities throughout the University.