Postgraduate Diploma in Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine
Validated by University of South Wales
There has been a dramatic growth in the popularity of cosmetic procedures worldwide in recent years, including dermal fillers, laser treatment and more. As demand rises and regulations tighten, a diploma in cosmetics is a critical step to building a credible and successful career in aesthetic medicine. Maintaining trust in the surgeon-patient relationship hinges on receiving the right cosmetic training and earning a credible qualification.
Unlike most level 7 diploma in aesthetics, our diploma in cosmetic medicine is university validated. This means that you graduate with an internationally recognised qualification from an established higher education institution. What's more, with our flexible, online cosmetic diploma that fast-track career progression for our students, you're potentially earning a postgraduate-level salary sooner.
Our cosmetic diploma has been approved by the Royal College of Physicians of the United Kingdom (RCP), enabling graduates of this programme to receive CPD points as accredited by the RCP.
Next intake: 1st September 2025Key Facts
This flexible, part-time diploma in cosmetic medicine has been specifically designed to promote and enhance working professionals’ knowledge and ultimately their practice in cosmetic medicine, and complements separate, practice-based recognised prior learning (RPL) awards.
Our aesthetic medicine courses have been specifically designed for doctors, dentists, dental therapists, pharmacists and nurses who wish to improve their knowledge, skills and experience in cosmetic and aesthetic medicine.
On completion of this diploma in cosmetics you will be able to:
- Develop analytical and critical appraisal skills in both theory and research related to cosmetic medicine.
- Demonstrate critical application of research to cosmetic medicine practice.
- Professional decision making: incorporating evidence based rationale in a variety of diverse and complex situations related to cosmetic medicine.
- To be able to apply advanced problem-solving skills in clinical practice.
- Demonstrate leadership in the delivery and advancement of cosmetic medicine.
- Demonstrate leadership of teams in multi-agency, multi-cultural and/or international contexts.
- Demonstrate evaluation skills in the delivery of care to patients.
Faculty
Programme Leader
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva’s experience within the field of dermatology is incredibly vast, having achieved a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology, a Postgraduate Certificate...
Tutor
Dr. Rakshanda Raziextensive
Professional activity:
- Experience in the field of clinical and research-based dermatology.
- She has a Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology and an MSc in Clinical Dermatology. She is also...
Validating partner
University of South Wales
The University of South Wales (USW) is a modern, industry focused University located in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd in South Wales, UK. It was rated best in the UK for the Health Professions in the Guardian University Guide 2020 and, in the latest Complete University Guide 2022, is in the top 10 in the UK for Health Studies. USW is one of Britain’s largest and most exciting new universities attracting a cosmopolitan mix of students from across the globe.
Accreditors and Endorsers
UEMS - European Union of Medical Specialists
This postgraduate course has also been accredited by the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS)
WACS - Welsh Aesthetic & Cosmetic Society
This postgraduate diploma, the postgraduate certificate in cosmetic and aesthetic medicine, awarded by the University of South Wales, has been accredited by the Welsh Aesthetic & Cosmetic Society.
Royal College of Physicians
This programme of study provided by Learna is approved for CPD purposes by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK. The credits awarded are 48 external credits for the learning in the diploma section and a further 20 for the learning in the MSc section.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a full list of our FAQs visit our FAQs page.
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 and The University of Wolverhampton accept 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 other 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. This discount is not available during February and August and not available in combination with the Early Bird Discount.
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.
Next intake: 1st September 2025 Key Facts
Programme Leader
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva
Dr Ana Cristina Diniz Silva’s experience within the field of dermatology is incredibly vast, having achieved a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology, a Postgraduate Certificate in Dermoscopy and an MSc in Dermatology Skills & Treatment.
During her studies, she accumulated years worth of experience in cosmetic dermatology, including botulinum toxin injections (head and neck, hyperhidrosis sites), non-surgical lifting with silhouette threads, hyaluronic acid and calcium hydroxyapatite fillers (nasolabial folds, facial contours, lips, tear trough, MD codes) and fractional laser treatment.
Currently, she works at a private medical clinical in Ser Nobre, Brazil as a Dermatology and Obesity Clinical Supervisor.
Tutor
Dr. Rakshanda Raziextensive
Professional activity:
- Experience in the field of clinical and research-based dermatology.
- She has a Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology and an MSc in Clinical Dermatology. She is also a board-certified member of the American Academy of Dermatology.
- Several years of experience in antiaging and aesthetic medicine with expertise in botox, fillers, chemical peels and laser treatments for hair removal, vascular lesions and skin resurfacing. Other areas of interest include pediatric and teledermatology.
- Currently, she is involved in pediatric dermatology research at a tertiary care hospital in Toronto Canada
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Why Study a Cosmetic Medicine Postgraduate Diploma with Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
100% Flexible
Our courses are 100% online. No fixed study times mean you can log in and learn whenever and wherever.
Multidisciplinary - study in a group of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
Expert Led
All of our programmes are authored and developed by world leading experts in their field.
Our faculty are selected due to their subject expertise, experience and teaching abilities to ensure the highest standards of educational excellence.
Career Boosting
Get a University Validated postgraduate qualification in just 1 calendar year instead of 2 academic years.
40% of our alumni reported an increase in salary 2 years after studying with us.
Who is this course for?
The diploma in aesthetic medicine is aimed at doctors, dentists, dental therapists, pharmacists and nurses whose roles are evolving with increasing demand amongst these specialists for a level 7 diploma in aesthetics to help support their professional learning and clinical development.
How Will I Learn?
You'll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform, which allows you to engage with clinical cases, complete assignments, and collaborate with fellow students at times that suit your schedule. There's no fixed timetable—simply log in daily to participate in the week's activities.
Learn through engaging discussion
Our teaching approach is highly interactive, using small groups of 10-20 students to foster a collaborative environment where you can engage in thoughtful discussions and receive guidance from your tutor. You'll have access to learning resources and discussion forums that encourage ongoing interaction and deeper engagement with the material.
Throughout your studies, you'll receive support from a dedicated expert tutor and our Student Support Team, ensuring you have the resources needed to navigate the course successfully.
Curriculum
Our online diploma in cosmetics allows you to study for just one calendar year and is a part-time, distance-learning course. The course is worth 120 credits and comprises six modules of 20 credits, each running over a period of six weeks.Module aims:
The module aim is to examine the sciences that underpin cosmetic medicine and the external professional and ethical issues that influence practice, recognising and addressing potential conflict areas.
Content summary:
This module will cover the anatomy of the face – the skin, the muscles, the fat pads, the blood vessels, nerves and bones within the face. The physiology and physiological changes relating to these structures as we age will be explored. The relevant functions of the important structures in the face will be discussed as they are related to facial ageing, particularly with regard to the changing functions of the anatomical structures with the ageing process. Assessment of the face will be explored, and treatment plans for patients will be introduced as a concept for treating the face, whilst bearing in mind the ethics of treating patients for financial gain depending on the treatments performed. Some of the medicolegal aspects of care will be covered, including the need to be aware of standards of care, consent and documentation.
Learning outcomes:
- Critically apply in-depth anatomical and physiological knowledge of the face to the selection of appropriate cosmetic medical treatments.
- Exercise judgement in decision-making, negotiating the complex interacting professional and ethical issues surrounding aesthetic medicine practice
Module aims:
The module aim is to provide an in-depth exploration of botulinum toxin as a dominant mode of cosmetic facial muscle treatment; from an examination of the historical context to the complexities of current day practice.
Content summary:
- Botulinum and botulism history.
- Botulinum toxin pharmaceutical history and licences.
- Clostridia as bacteria. Indications for use, common complications and their treatment.
- Patient selection, injection techniques, indications, safety adverse effects and combination treatments.
- Ethics.
- Short and long-term implications of treatment.
Learning outcomes:
- Critically apply the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of botulinum use in cosmetic and medical treatment.
- Critically appraise the use of botulinum toxin in aesthetic treatments.
Module aims:
The aim of this module is to critically examine a variety of treatments aimed at addressing the ageing process, taking into account the evidence base, patient expectations and issues and short and long-term effects.
Content summary:
- Anatomy of facial fat pads and physiological effects of ageing
- Dermal fillers
- Hyaluronic acids (HAs), different manufacturers, cross linking (BDDE), length of fibre, duration of effect, fibroblasts (HA production, hyaluronidase).
- Indications for HAs, complications associated with the administration of HAs. Treatment and avoidance of complications.
- Managing patient expectations.
- Non-HA fillers – permanent/temporary, synthetic/autologous.
- Dermal fillers for specific regions – lips, hands.
Learning outcomes:
- Critically analyse the evidence base for the augmentation of facial fat pads with dermal fillers.
- Critically evaluate the use of dermal fillers in aesthetic treatments.
Module aims:
The module aim is to examine internal and external factors that affect skin condition and the effect of treatments on skin elements.
Content summary:
- Normal skin anatomy and physiology – layers of epidermis, layers of dermis, functions of epidermal layers/elements, function of dermis cells/non cellular elements.
- How the skin changes with ageing and environmental damage in all aspects and layers.
- Different types of Fitzpatrick skin types, the effect of ultraviolet light on the skin, sun tanning, sun protection, sun damage on the skin, skin ablative treatments, skin non ablative treatments, lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments.
- IPL Treatments – what are they, how do they work, what are the different parameters that can be used in laser treatments, dermal peels, and skin repair and emerging treatments.
Learning outcomes:
- Critically analyse, interpret and evaluate the evidence base relating to the processes affecting damage to the skin.
- Exercise judgement in choosing and critically evaluating appropriate skin treatments from the variety of treatments available.
Module aims:
The aims of the module are to understand hair growth and hair loss and relate that to medical treatments for hair removal and hair replacement.
Content summary:
- Normal hair growth cycles.
- Hair colour and variations.
- Hair follicle anatomy, physiology and pathology, and how this is related to hair follicle pharmacological treatment.
- Medical conditions related to unwanted hair – polycystic ovary syndrome, folliculitis barbae, hormonal conditions, etc.
-Hair aesthetics – hair removal with laser and IPL systems, specifically excluding mechanical hair removal (shaving, plucking, de-epilation, waxing, electrolysis, etc.) - How does laser hair removal produce a reduction in hair growth? Which lasers can be used? What is the difference between each type of laser, and what is the difference between laser hair removal and IPL hair removal?
- Difference between hair reduction using “pain free” hair removal systems and using more traditional methods that have greater pain associated with them.
- What is hair loss – how does it manifest itself, what are the different types of male hair loss patterns, and how can they be treated? What are the non-surgical methods of treatment (light therapy, hair stimulation non-surgical therapy) and what evidence is there to suggest their efficacy?
- What drug treatments are available for hair loss? How do they work, and how effective are they? What are their side effects? What are their pharmacological properties?
- What surgical methods are available for hair loss?
Learning outcomes:
- Critically apply knowledge of normal hair growth, hair follicle anatomy, physiology on a variety of hair pathologies.
- Evaluate and appropriately recommend treatments used in hair removal.
- Evaluate and appropriately recommend non-surgical methods used for the treatment of hair stimulation.
Module aims:
The module aims to critically examine the hormonal mechanisms underlying ageing and explore the various strategies used to combat the effects of ageing.
Content summary:
- The physiology of aging including hormonal changes in testosterone, growth hormone and the menopause.
- Menopause, andropause and somatopause.
- Hormonal replacement as anti-ageing therapy.
- Vitamins and anti-ageing.
- The role of nutrition in anti-ageing.
- Role of exercise as an anti-ageing strategy.
- Exercise for the ageing person.
- Platelet-rich plasma infusions and their effect in aesthetics and ageing.
- Injection lipolysis, derma-rollers and micro needling.
- Ultrasonic therapies and radiofrequency.
Learning outcomes:
- Critically apply the scientific evidence base to appraise the interaction between the ageing process and the endocrine system.
- Critically evaluate investigations and treatments available for age-related hormonal deficiencies.
- Critically appraise a range of anti-ageing strategies.
Assessment Methods
This programme emphasises learning through active participation in case-based discussions, reflection, and real-life scenarios. Students engage with clinical cases that mirror everyday practice, fostering problem-solving and evidence-based application from the very beginning.
Across the modules, assessments are integrated with learning. Each week, you will work through two to three clinical cases, discussing and reflecting on them with peers under the guidance of an expert tutor. These discussions form the core of your learning and are also the basis for your assessments.
Our innovative teaching methods are designed to help you translate this learning into real-world clinical practice. You'll need to regularly log in to participate in discussions, ideally on a daily basis, and commit approximately two hours per day to your studies. Our dedicated Student Support Team is available to assist with any challenges you may encounter, from navigating our online platform to managing deadlines.
How Foundational Knowledge is Developed
The programme is structured so that foundational knowledge is introduced through carefully designed clinical cases. Each case is crafted to highlight essential concepts and progressively deepen your understanding as you apply critical thinking and evidence-based analysis. This hands-on approach ensures that you are not only acquiring theoretical knowledge but also learning how to apply it in a practical, clinical setting.
This programme is suited for professionals who thrive in an online, discussion-based learning environment. Please note that this course focuses on interactive, applied learning through peer collaboration and case discussions. You will be fully supported, encouraged and led through the programme to success and graduation!
- Every week students are presented with two/three clinical case-based scenarios that are reflective of every day clinical practice and research.
- Tutors will post a number of questions and prompts to aid students in a formal discussion of each case.
- These discussions are facilitated throughout by your tutor and are then assessed at the end of every module.
The reflective journal is used by students throughout each module to monitor personal progress. This is guided by weekly feedback from your tutor and is graded at the end of every module. The journal typically includes the following:
- Initial expectations and reasons for taking the course.
- Module and/or personal learning objectives.
- Description of events, issues and learning points within current personal practice.
- Change in every day practice due to knowledge gained on each module.
- A description of what has been learned during the module.
For this assessment, students will work on a group assignment and/or an individual assignment.
- Group assignments are designed to hone skills in the multidisciplinary, holistic approach to modern treatments and patient management by requiring group participation in a single piece of work.
- Individual assignments are designed to hone skills in academic career progression through such tasks as reviewing papers, developing scientific posters or abstracts, peer-reviewing, social media activities, patient information leaflets and essays.
- Students are provided with case-based problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination.
- The exam consists of 30 'Single Best Answer' questions.
- Students are required to complete the exam online within the set time.
Entry requirements
Since our courses are conducted entirely online, they are accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.
Applicants will typically hold a first degree or equivalent (including international qualifications) in a relevant professional healthcare field, such as a medical or nursing degree.
Registered healthcare professionals without these recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be taken into account. In some cases, applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment in order to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at postgraduate level, and demonstrate the requisite clinical and professional knowledge.
Documents Required
- A copy of your updated CV including your address and date of birth.
- A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate.
- The name and email address of someone who is able to provide a reference, this can be a work colleague, employer or former tutor.
- A detailed personal statement explaining why you would like to undertake the course.
- A copy of your proof of English competency (see below).
English Language Requirements Proficiency in the English language is also essential to completing our courses. If English is NOT your first language, we ask for proof of competency during the application process. We are able to accept an IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.
If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry. The University of South Wales run a number of English Language Programmes at the Centre for International English to prepare you for your academic studies. You can also contact our admissions team on admissions@diploma-msc.com for more information on the qualifications we accept.
Should you have already successfully completed the 1 year Postgraduate Diploma and wish to convert to the MSc and complete only the second year of the programme this is possible. Please contact our admissions department admissions@diploma-msc.com to find out more.
Course Fees
- Deposit for 1st September 2025: £400 †
- Total Course Fees for UK & International Students for 1st September 2025: £4,800 ††
Payment Options
- Option 1: Upfront Payment in full. Pay-in-full discount is available.
- Option 2: Apply for Interest-free payments each month for the duration of the course.
Payment Plan Breakdown
| Deposit | 10 Monthly Payments | Final Payment |
| £400 † | £400 | £400 |
Total payments: £4,800
You may also be interested in:
- Spread the cost with Lendwise, who offer financing options for up to 8 years. ††††
† Deposits are non-refundable
†† Prices are subject to review following each intake
†††† Subject to eligibility criteria.
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Why Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online diploma courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
Our courses are some of the most affordable of their kind, providing value for money without compromising on quality. We also don't apply an international surcharge. No fixed timetable means you can log in & learn on the go, at your convenience.
Being totally online means we can select the very best tutors and resource editors, no matter where they’re located.
Connect with multidisciplinary people around the world to expand your insights & broaden your career prospects.
Our programmes produce 90% fewer emissions than campus-based learning.
