Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education
Validated by University of South Wales
As the cornerstone of medical training globally, medical education is vital for the advancement of healthcare. Practitioners involved in teaching, assessing or mentoring roles in healthcare are increasingly required to have formal teaching qualifications such as our medical education diploma.
This Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education caters to the educational needs of a primary and secondary care audience, empowering healthcare educators to deliver the highest standard of teaching and learning. Grounded in the latest research and evidence-based principles, our 1 year online diploma in medical education aims to develop a global community of educators dedicated to excellence in leading the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Study part-time without interrupting your clinical responsibilities with our online medical education diploma; the flexible nature of our online platform allows you to log into our academic forum daily at a time that is convenient to you.
Taught by a diverse range of expert tutors united by their passion for medical education, we draw together a wealth of knowledge and practical experience globally, from different healthcare disciplines to provide a high-quality student experience.
Our diploma in medical education has triple-accreditation status, recognised by:
- The Academy of Medical Educators (AoME): we have obtained AccreditationPlus status, the highest level of accreditation by AoME, demonstrating our standards of excellence in accordance with their recognised framework and guidelines. Our curriculum is influenced by AoME standards, and students and graduates benefit from fast-tracked AoME membership without the typically lengthy application process and evidence requirements.
- The European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS-EACCME): our UEMS accreditation provides a quality mark and entitles students to accredited CPD points.
- The Royal College of Physicians (RCP): Our Medical Education programme has been approved by the RCP, enabling graduates to receive CPD points as accredited by the RCP.
On completion of this Diploma in Medical Education, students will develop:
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of specific issues at the forefront of theory and practice in medical education.
- Critical understanding of medical education theories and principles to inform educational practice.
- Advanced knowledge of educational methods and practice.
- Critical understanding of the intricacies of adult pedagogy and the ability to critically evaluate current research in Medical Education.
- Expertise in independent learning using the exploration of knowledge and enquiry to underpin practice.
- The ability to critically review and reflect on contemporary adult learning and medical education literature relating to the application of technology to apply to their own practice.
- An understanding of all elements of communication and the ability to select and use the most appropriate element for effective results.
- The ability to make judgements about the value of ideas or materials and select the most effective solution.
- Key skills in communication, enquiry and analysis, problem solving, IT skills, working with others and critical reflection.
Next Intake
1st September 2025
Apply By
29th August 2025
Commitment
Part time
Format
100% online
Duration
12 months
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Curriculum
Our online medical education diploma 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.Year 1
Aims of the module:
To cultivate a critical understanding of the context of medical education within the broader field of education, emphasising the importance of patient care.
Module Content:
Learning and teaching theories
Learning and teaching methods
Lesson planning
Practical skills for teaching;
Individuals
Small and large groups
Practical skills for teaching online learning
Current topics and controversies
Learning outcomes:
- Analyse and apply teaching methods and theories for effective learning.
- Critically evaluate the significance and impact of medical education with a focus on patient care.
Aims of the module:
To attain an in-depth comprehension of the principles and practices of assessment in medical education.
Module Content:
Performance /Testing
Formative assessment
Summative assessment
Constructing an assessment (case study)
Supervision and feedback (appraisal)
Current topics/controversies
Authenticity and situativity in assessment
Learning outcomes:
- Critically analyse various assessment methodologies in medical education.
- Implement formative and summative assessment strategies in the context of medical education.
Aims of the module:
To develop a thorough understanding of various evaluation models and their applications in medical education.
Module Content:
Regulatory context of Medical Education
Moore’s levels
Programme evaluation
Case Studies
Current topics and controversies
Learning outcomes:
- Critically evaluate and synthesise various models of evaluation in medical education.
- Design and implement evaluation methods to enhance educational practices and improve patient care.
Aims of the module:
To gain an in-depth understanding of integrating diverse digital programmes into medical education effectively.
Module Content:
Educational media and technology (media in the context of lesson planning)
Presentation skills
Simulation (Augmented Reality/virtual Reality)
Big data, big “clinical” data
Emerging technologies
Ubiquitous web Internet of Things
mobile
digital ecology
Social media
Laurillard's Conversational Framework
Learning outcomes:
- Justify and critically appraise the role of media in medical education.
- Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies in the field of medical education.
Aims of the module:
To build a profound understanding of the significance of effective leadership in enhancing patient care and medical education.
Module Content:
Leadership
Monitoring the performance of healthcare professionals
Academy of Medical Educators (AoME) domains
Policy and strategy
Ethics
Scholarship
Learning outcomes:
- Exhibit a comprehensive understanding of AoME professional standards for medical educators.
- Critically assess the role and impact of leadership in medical education.
Aims of the module:
To acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to plan and develop a medical education curriculum effectively.
Module Content:
Curriculum planning and application
Programmes of learning (theories, curricular design, QA, assessment methods, evaluation)
Service user involvement
Biggs’ Constructive Alignment
Learning outcomes:
- Master the ability to design and justify a comprehensive course curriculum, including planning and development strategies.
- Critically evaluate medical education curricula from multiple perspectives.
Course Fees & Payment Options
Course Fees
- Deposit for 1st September 2025: £420 †
- Total Course Fees (UK & International) for 1st September 2025: £5,040 ††
Payment Options
- Option 1: Upfront payment in full (discount available).
- Option 2: Interest-free monthly payments throughout the course.
Payment Plan Breakdown
Postgraduate Diploma
| Deposit | 10 Monthly Payments | Final Payment |
| £420 † | £420 | £420 |
Total payments: £5,040
Additional Financing
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.
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.
Faculty
Programme Leader - Professor Steve Davies MB BCh, FRCP, MD
Steve is a clinician and authority in medical education, with over 20 years of leadership in digital learning innovation. A pioneer in online postgraduate training, Steve is one of the...
Programme Leader - Dr Karuna MAcadMEd, MBBCh, MRCGP, DRCOG, DCH, MBA
Karuna is an experienced medical educator with a strong background in primary care and a longstanding commitment to developing future clinicians. She has spent over a decade teaching clinical skills,...
Tutor - Dr Paul Grant
Current Post: Clinical Training Environment Lead, Medefer (Virtual Hospital)
An experienced Endocrinologist, Dr Paul Grant completed his certificate of specialist training (CCT) in Diabetes & Endocrinology in 2013 from the...
Tutor
Dr. Aqsa Chaudhry
Dr. Aqsa Chaudhry holds a Master of Health Professions Education (MHPE) from Jinnah Sindh Medical University and serves as a Lecturer at the Sindh Institute of Oral...
Tutor
Dr. Kathrin Rac
Dr Kathrin Rac holds a Diploma in Medical Education from the University of South Wales and extensive clinical and teaching experience across multiple medical disciplines, with a...
Tutor
Dr. Gabriela Benderz
Dr. Gabriela Benderz, MRCVS, is an experienced online medical tutor and academic leader, currently serving as Pro-Dean of Academic Teaching Deputy at EDU. A degree smarter. She...
Tutor
Danny Clegg
Daniel (Danny) Clegg is a Course Leader and Lecturer at the University of South Wales, specialising in Rheumatology, Dermatology, and Pain Management postgraduate programmes. With a Master of...
Tutor
Dr. Detina Zalli
Dr. Detine is a Senior Lecturer in Genomic Medicine at Imperial College London, bringing extensive expertise in medical education, curriculum development, and online learning. Holding a Ph.D....
Accreditors, Endorsers & Partners
University of South Wales
AoME - Academy of Medical Educators
UEMS - European Union of Medical Specialists
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.
Who is this course for?
The medical education diploma is suitable for:
- Doctors
- GPs
- Healthcare Professionals
And those with related undergraduate degrees (e.g. Pharmacists) or equivalent professional qualifications and background experience who wish to develop their skills and knowledge as medical educators.
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.