MSc Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
Master of Science
Duration
MSc 3 Years PT, PGDip 2 years PT, PGCert 1 Year PT
Entry requirements

We require a medical or dental degree (eg MBBS, BDS, LDS, MBChB) or overseas equivalent from an institution that is recognised and approved by the UK General Medical Council (GMC) or the General Dental Council (GDC). No other applicants will be considered for this course. Please note we cannot consider applicants with a homeopathic or Ayurvedic medicine degree.

You must also have been practicing in your field following graduation.

Full entry requirements

Number of places/applicants
24 places available
How to apply

Please apply via our online application form . See the application and selection section for details of the supporting documents we require.

We recommend that you apply as early as possible. We reserve the right to close applications early if the course is full.

Course options

Full-time Part-time Full-time distance learning Part-time distance learning
MSc N N N Y
PGDip N N N Y
PGCert N N N Y

Course overview

  • This course is aimed at qualified medical and dental practitioners who want to gain a deep understanding of the evidence base of cosmetic medicine.
  • Learn from leading experts in aesthetic research, regulation and clinical practice.
  • Complement online theoretical learning with practical-laboratory workshops and hands-on clinical sessions with patient volunteers.
  • Study at a university ranked 8th in the UK and among the top 35 in the world for Medicine (QS Rankings 2023).

Open days

Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying at Manchester is like. Find out about our  upcoming open days.

Fees

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

  • MSc (part-time distance learning)
    UK students (per annum): £6,400 per annum Year 1 and 2 ; Year 3 £3,200
    International, including EU, students (per annum): £13,800 year 1 , £13,800 year 2 and £6,900 year 3
  • PGDip (part-time distance learning)
    UK students (per annum): £6,400
    International, including EU, students (per annum): £13,800
  • PGCert (part-time distance learning)
    UK students (per annum): £6,400
    International, including EU, students (per annum): £13,800

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The fees quoted above will be fully inclusive for the course tuition, learning from real patients, equipment for all clinical workshops, assessment, administration, and computational costs during your studies.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of courses lasting more than a year for UK students (fees are typically fixed for international students for the course duration at the year of entry).

For general fees information please visit: postgraduate fees . Always contact the department if you are unsure which fee applies to your qualification award and method of attendance. 

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

For the latest scholarship and bursary information please visit the fees and funding page.

Contact details

School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health
Contact name
Postgraduate Admissions Team
Telephone
0161 529 4539
Email
Website
https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/medicine/masters/
School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Entry requirements

Academic entry qualification overview

We require a medical or dental degree (eg MBBS, BDS, LDS, MBChB) or overseas equivalent from an institution that is recognised and approved by the UK General Medical Council (GMC) or the General Dental Council (GDC). No other applicants will be considered for this course. Please note we cannot consider applicants with a homeopathic or Ayurvedic medicine degree.

You must also have been practicing in your field following graduation.

English language

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through a secure and approved testing system.

We ask for English language proof if you are from non-majority English speaking countries (a list of majority English speaking countries, as defined by the UK Home Office, can be found here ).

Specifically, we require a minimum of:

  • IELTS: 7.0 overall with 7.0 in all components
  • TOEFL: 100 overall with 25 in all components

See further information about requirements for your country .

We may also accept evidence of a confirmed place on a University Pre-sessional English language course , if your current IELTS scores are:

  • Minimum 6.5 overall (with 6.5 in each component) plus enrolment and attendance on the 6-week pre-sessional course (PS6).
  • Minimum 6.0 overall (with 6.0 in each component) plus enrolment and attendance on the 10-week pre-sessional course (PS10).

Please note, we must approve this before you apply for the English course.

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Relevant work experience

You need to be able to demonstrate relevant work experience in your chosen pathway.

Other entry requirements

Accreditation of prior or experiential learning (APL or APEL) towards this course will be awarded in line with the University's AP(E)L policy (PDF, 51KB). Please refer to the policy to ensure you meet the criteria before submitting a case for consideration.

Computer requirements

You must also have access to a computer with fast and reliable internet connection. There is a minimum level of computer skills required, including the ability to:

  • navigate the University's learner management systems to locate teaching and learning materials and to access and submit assessments (with initial basic training);
  • work efficiently with Word (or similar) and PowerPoint software;
  • use the internet to browse websites;
  • navigate e-learning software.

Application and selection

How to apply

Please apply via our online application form . See the application and selection section for details of the supporting documents we require.

We recommend that you apply as early as possible. We reserve the right to close applications early if the course is full.

Advice to applicants

We require the following documents before we can consider your application: 

  • Transcript of your studies to date.
  • Degree certificate (if you have already graduated).
  • Personal statement or statement of purpose.
  • Curriculum vitae (CV).
  • An academic reference. You will be required to provide the name and contact details of two referees during completion of the application form.
Your referees will be contacted directly and asked to provide a letter of reference. When providing referee details, you must ensure the email addresses are accurate and official, typically ending with an institutional domain. We do not accept references provided from a personal email address, eg Hotmail or Gmail.

If any of the supporting documents are not in English, you must also provide us with official or certified English translations.

If English is not your first language, we also require proof of your English language ability. If you have already taken an English language qualification, please include your certificate with your application. We may be able to accept evidence of GMC/GDC registration in lieu of a formal English language test. We may be willing to consider your application without any evidence of English, but if we choose to make you an offer, the conditions will include IELTS (or equivalent qualification).

How your application is considered

This is a highly competitive course. All applications are first reviewed to ensure they meet the minimum academic entry qualifications. Additional achievements demonstrating evidence of scholarship within individual applications are considered after this point.

Overseas (non-UK) applicants

This course is designed to support students who may not be resident in the EU and who wish to take the opportunity to study with international experts in the field of skin ageing and aesthetic medicine, with the majority of course content delivered through e-learning, including expert videos, blogs, and case-based units.

The PGDip/MSc offers clinical learning through two face-to-face residential sessions to maximise your exposure to clinical learning with a pragmatic timetable. Attendance at the residential sessions is compulsory.

Disclosure and Barring Service check

A Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) check will be required for UK residents. Overseas students are required to provide a Police/Government Office Certificate of Good Conduct. This is usually completed once students have arrived at the University. Please contact sbs.pgtadmin@manchester.ac.uk for further guidance. Overseas students will also be required to provide a letter of good conduct from their relevant police service.

Deferrals

Deferrals are considered on an individual basis. Successful applicants may defer entry to the course for up to one year.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful, you may apply again.

Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.

Course details

Course description

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).

Aims

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.

Special features

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).

Teaching and learning

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.

Coursework and assessment

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).

Course unit details

Our MSc consists of nine units over three years. Completing the first eight units leads to a PGDip in Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine, with a focus on the more clinical aspects of the field. The ninth unit offers students the opportunity to undertake an individual piece of research and is written as a dissertation.

Year 1

  • Fundamentals of Skin Ageing
  • Skin Rejuvenation
  • Injectables in Aesthetic Medicine
  • Personal and Professional Portfolio Year 1

Year 2

  • Lasers in Aesthetic Medicine
  • Invasive Aesthetic Medicine
  • Research Methods and Governance
  • Personal and Professional Portfolio Year 2

Year 3 (MSc)

  • Dissertation

Course unit list

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Research Methods & Governance BIOL61432 15 Mandatory
Personal and Professional Portfolio 2 BIOL61450 15 Mandatory
Personal and Professional Portfolio 1 BIOL67500 15 Mandatory
Fundamentals of Skin Ageing BIOL67501 15 Mandatory
Injectables in Aesthetic Medicine BIOL67502 15 Mandatory
Skin Rejuvenation BIOL67510 15 Mandatory
Lasers in Aesthetic Medicine BIOL67530 15 Mandatory
Invasive Aesthetic Medicine BIOL67540 15 Mandatory

Course collaborators

This course is run in collaboration with The Dermatology Centre at Salford Royal Foundation Trust, one of the largest clinical dermatology units in the UK.

Facilities

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.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service.

Careers

Career opportunities

With the announcement that the UK government intends to introduce a licensing regime for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, it is likely all aesthetic practitioners in the UK will need to provide evidence of their training credentials.

Our course not only aligns with the Health Education England training framework for non-surgical cosmetic interventions, but goes beyond this to offer integrated knowledge and the application of critical skills enveloped within high quality professional behaviours.

Graduates of this course will acquire a comprehensive knowledge base that can be applied to their future or current clinical practice.

Accrediting organisations

This course is a JCCP Approved Education and Training Provider. On award of the Post Graduate Diploma/MSc in Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine you will be eligible to join the JCCP register with specific regard to dermal fillers and injectable toxin