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Dermatologists are experts in skin disease. If you want to become one, you’ll need to complete a dermatology course and have a medical degree. This guide tells you about studying dermatology at postgraduate level.
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Dermatology is concerned with issues of the skin, nails and hair. Issues include skin cancer, acne, eczema and psoriasis. As a dermatologist, you could be:
A postgraduate dermatology course will give you the skills needed for a career in the scientific field of skin disease. Most students will already be qualified doctors with medical experience who want to gain a thorough understanding of scientific and clinical dermatology.
Complete a dermatology training course, and you’ll be able to practice professionally as a dermatologist. You’ll learn through classes taught by clinical experts, in industry-standard facilities and on practical experiences with real patients.
On a research course, you could benefit from funding partnerships with research councils like:
As well as clinical skills and an ability to use evidence when dealing with complex issues, you’ll gain transferable skills like:
Qualification options include masters, doctorates, certificates and diplomas in dermatology. Each has a slightly different focus and style of teaching.
Taught masters in dermatology
Courses usually offer a Master of Science (MSc) degree. You’re taught by specialists who show you how to develop your clinical skills. You learn how to identify, diagnose and treat dermatological diseases and provide expert clinical services. Courses are usually for those who already have a medical degree.
Research in dermatology
Research and doctorate degrees are usually Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), where you spend a significant amount of time completing a large research project. You work with supervisors but have more independence than on a taught course.
Certificate and diplomas in dermatology
Postgraduate certificates (PGCert) and diplomas (PGDip) are shorter versions of the master’s qualification. These are good for medical professionals looking to deepen their understanding without committing to a full master’s degree.
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What are postgraduate degrees
Most graduates work as clinical dermatologists or medical professionals who provide dermatology services.
Many continue their studies or training and earn higher qualifications in dermatology. Roles include:
For a master’s dermatology course, you’ll usually need:
For a PhD course, you’ll usually need:
Examples of postgraduate dermatology courses available in the UK:
Potential module topics and research themes include:
On a taught master’s course (MSc/PGCert/PGDip), you could learn through lectures, workshops, seminars, conferences, journal clubs and self-directed study. Assessment could be through coursework, practical exams, presentations, essays, mini clinical exams and a dissertation.
On a research degree (MPhil/PhD), you’ll work with expert supervisors but receive less support than on a taught course. You could be assessed through formal progress reports, an independent research project and oral exams, known as vivas.
It depends on your chosen course. Generally, full-time courses last:
Other subjects you could study similar to dermatology include:
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