Neurosurgery MSc

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The master's in neurosurgery is designed for healthcare professionals in the UK and overseas who want to specialise in Neurosurgery and develop both theoretical knowledge and research skills.

You will work with students from all over the world from a range of disciplines giving you clinically accurate and relevant information you can take straight into your clinical practice. We run the only MSc neurosurgery programme in the world, therefore, completing our MSc neurosurgery course will certainly give you a competitive advantage that will set you apart from other candidates.

MSc Neurosurgery

Next intake: September 2024Key Facts

Awarding University
University of Buckingham
Commitment
Part-time
Class Size
15 - 20
Application Deadline
30th August 2024
Course start date
2nd September 2024 (view full module dates)
Format
100% Online
Total Fees
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Entry into a master's in neurosurgery is highly competitive. Neurosurgery is a demanding speciality, requiring a broad knowledge of anatomy, neurology and physiology, in addition to critical appraisal and research skills. Neurosurgical trainees and specialist CNS nurses require specialist qualifications to progress their careers in neurosurgery. Gaining an MSc will certainly help improve your clinical outcomes, your knowledge and your career prospects.

On completion of this neurosurgery online course students will be able to:

  • Critically appraise current developments and guidance in neurosurgery.
  • Critically apply an advanced knowledge of neurosurgical conditions to healthcare decision making.
  • Critically evaluate current research in neurosurgery.
  • Demonstrate reflection and creativity in addressing complex problems in acute neurosurgery.


Next intake: September 2024 Key Facts

Awarding University
University of Buckingham
Commitment
Part-time
Format
100% Online
Duration
24 months
Class Size
15 - 20
Application Deadline
30th August 2024
Course start date
2nd September 2024 (view full module dates)
Total Fees

Why Study a Neurosurgery Master's 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.

knowledge

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.

Experts

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.

confidence

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 online neurosurgeon education course is suitable for:

  • Doctors
  • Nurses
  • Clinical Nurse Specialists

How Will I Learn?

You will be supported throughout your studies by a committed team of internationally recognised educational experts.

Our courses are conducted through our interactive online learning platform, log in daily whenever and wherever you want. No fixed timetable empowers you to study when it suits you

These usually occur within groups of 10-20 students, allowing you to clearly communicate with both your tutor and fellow students.

Curriculum

The master in neurosurgery is a two year course, consisting of seven modules (180 credits) with the first 120 credits deriving from the [Diploma in Neurosurgery](https://www.diploma-msc.com/p/diploma-in-neurosurgery "Diploma in Neurosurgery"). In the second year of the Neurosurgery MSc students will complete the professional project module, which consists of a 1,000 word proposal and 11,000 word professional project (dissertation).

Year 1

Module Aims
The module aims to address the investigation, diagnosis and management of brain and spine trauma, including critical appraisal of the evidence-base and neurosurgical approaches appropriate for CNS trauma.

Module Content
A systematic approach to the assessment and management of trauma patients.

  • Assessment of head injury
  • Primary and secondary brain injury
  • Management of intracranial pressure
  • Natural history of severe head injury
  • Principles of spinal injury
  • Principles of neurorehabilitation

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the assessment and investigation of patients with head and spine trauma.
  2. Critically interpret the evidence base to demonstrate application of knowledge to the management of traumatic brain and spine injury.
  3. Exercise initiative, personal responsibility and ethical decision-making in brain and spine trauma.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the evidence relating to the management of patients presenting with head and spine trauma.

Module Aims
To provide healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge to assess and manage patients with suspected brain and spine tumours.

Module Content
Applying a systematic approach to the assessment of patients with suspected mass lesions and gain an understanding of the spectrum of central nervous system neoplasia; the presentation and outcome.

  • Basics and investigations
  • Tumour presentations
  • High grade glioma
  • Low grade glioma
  • Extrinsic lesions
  • Pituitary tumours

Learning Outcomes

  1. Critically interpret and apply the evidence base in the assessment and management of patients with central nervous systems tumours.
  2. Demonstrate skills to appraise and reflect upon the differing needs of patients with central nervous system tumours.
  3. Critically apply combined professional knowledge of neuro-oncology to improve delivery in complex situations.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the evidence relating to the diagnosis, investigation and management of patients presenting with neuro-oncological disorders.
  5. Demonstrate leadership skills in coordinating academic activities, engaging and responding to colleagues' academic interrogation.

Module Aims
To provide students with the skills and knowledge to assess and manage patients presenting with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders and paediatric patients.

Module Content
This module applies a systematic approach to the understanding of CSF physiology and pathological processes causing raised intracranial pressure in both adults and children. The module also develops understanding of core conditions in paediatric neurosurgery, including the assessment of the acutely unwell child and imaging.

  • CSF physiology and raised intracranial pressure
  • Adult hydrocephalus
  • CNS embryology and developmental disorders
  • Paediatric tumours of CNS
  • CNS infection
  • Assessment and considerations of the paediatric surgical patient

Learning Outcomes

  1. Critically interpret and apply the evidence base in the assessment and management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders in children.
  2. Demonstrate skills to appraise, reflect upon, and adapt treatments to a range of cerebrospinal fluid disorders in children and adults.
  3. Critically apply combined professional knowledge of cerebrospinal fluid disorders and paediatrics to improve delivery in complex situations.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the evidence base relating to the diagnosis, investigation and management of CSF disorders/paediatric neurosurgery.

Module Aims
To provide healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge to assess and manage patients with vascular disorders of the central nervous system.

Module Content
Using a systematic approach to the assessment and management of patients with vascular disorders of the CNS, this module covers the core conditions in vascular neurosurgery, including aneurysmal brain haemorrhage, ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke and explores the evidence base for interventions.

  • Neurosurgical vascular anatomy, imaging and clinical correlation
  • Cerebral blood flow and subarachnoid haemorrhage
  • Cerebral aneurysms
  • Vascular anomalies
  • Assessment and management of spontaneous ICH
  • Assessment and neurosurgical management of cerebral ischaemia

Learning Outcomes

  1. Critically interpret and apply the evidence base in the assessment and management of vascular disorders of the central nervous system.
  2. Critically appraise, reflect upon, and adapt treatment depending on the evidence-base for vascular pathology of the central nervous system.
  3. Critically apply combined professional knowledge of neuro-vascular disorders to improve delivery in complex situations.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the evidence base relating to the diagnosis, investigation and management of neuro-vascular disorders.

Module Aims
To provide students with the skills and knowledge to assess and manage patients with conditions affecting the spine.

Module Content
This module covers the range of spinal degenerative conditions, how they present and appropriate investigations.

  • Spinal anatomy and imaging
  • Spinal trauma and instability
  • Spinal tumours
  • Degenerative lumbar spine
  • Degenerative spine – cervical and thoracic
  • Spinal infection and vascular abnormalities

Learning Outcomes

  1. Critically analyse the evidence base and available treatments to plan and manage common spinal conditions.
  2. Critically appraise common spinal conditions including appropriate examination, assessment and management.
  3. Evaluate and apply evidence based practice to the delivery of spinal services and outcome assessment.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of spinal anatomy and its relation to pathology.
  5. Critically appraise and evaluate the evidence relating to the diagnosis, investigation and management of spinal disorders.

Module Aims
To provide students with the skills and knowledge to assess and manage the acutely unwell neurosurgical inpatient..

Module Content
This module covers the range of medical emergencies associated with neurosurgical diseases. Students will review common neurosurgical emergencies and review the evidence base for interventions.

  • Assessment of postoperative deterioration
  • Seizures and epilepsy
  • Electrolyte disorders
  • Endocrine emergencies
  • Post-operative CNS infection
  • Systemic post-operative complications

Learning Outcomes

  1. Critically interpret and apply the evidence base in acute medical neurosurgical emergencies.
  2. Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of safe intervention and care in an acute neurosurgical setting.
  3. Reflect on learning from prior experience and challenge preconceptions in order to holistically integrate new knowledge in neurosurgical complications.
  4. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the diagnosis, investigation and management of common complications of neurosurgical interventions.
  5. Implementation of evidence into practice.
  6. Coordinate, engage and evaluate clinical debate with colleagues.

Year 2

Aims of the module:

To prepare students for an independent research-based project by developing skills in selecting, appraising, discriminating, using evidence and appropriate research/investigative methods to address relevant topics for investigation. The professional project module provides students with an opportunity to complete an important, substantial and potentially publishable study of their own choosing.

Synopsis of the module content:

This module will start by focussing on research methods using the Academic Forum. Students will learn about research methodologies and critical appraisal over a period of 8-weeks. Indicative content:

  • Quantitative Studies
  • Statistical Analysis Interpretation
  • Interpreting the Evidence
  • Meta-analysis and Systematic Reviews
  • Qualitative Studies
  • Evidence Appraisal: Interpreting, Weighing and Synthesizing the Evidence
  • Audit, Governance and Quality Improvement, Health Economics
  • Preparing a Research Proposal: Research Committees, Consent, Ethics, Probity and Literature Review
  • Following the research methods, students will submit a professional project proposal for their chosen topic, this includes a proposal form and ethics application. Students are given a 4-week period after the research methods to complete this.

Students will then create a piece of work based upon a specific subject-related project relevant to the student’s practice. The students will have a further 24-weeks to complete this. This project may comprise:

  • Systematic literature review and appraisal of the evidence
  • Audit of non-patient data/organisational audit
  • Review and implementation of evidence-based practice
  • Literature review and qualitative or quantitative research proposal
  • Case(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal
  • Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment
  • Secondary data analysis

Learning outcomes:

  1. Critically analyse and interpret research to assess its application to delivery/service development.
  2. Critically appraise different methodological approaches and tools used to answer research questions in your field of practice.
  3. Design and undertake a professional project related to your field of practice in order to produce an extensive piece of literature which may be suitable for peer-reviewed publication.
  4. Create evidence-based recommendations to add to the knowledge base of your subject area.
  5. Develop a critical understanding of the interrogation of academic literature.
  6. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of ethical considerations in the performance of research.
  7. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of research methodologies in quantitative and qualitative research.
  8. Demonstrate critical evaluation skills enabling an in-depth critique of the academic literature.
  9. Demonstrate the ability to create academic work of a publishable standard.
  10. Evaluate ethical considerations in research and the process of engagement with ethical committees.

Assessment Methods

The Neurosurgery MSc course places assessments at the heart of the learning process through the employment of clinical scenarios to enhance problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based care. Since the scenarios act as a focus for learning and assessment, the two are intrinsically linked.

The first seven modules on the neurosurgeon education course has the same assessment format and for all modules, you will be assigned a dedicated expert tutor. Your tutor will then facilitate case discussions with the group, whilst monitoring, assessing and marking your work throughout.

You will also participate in a combination of module activities that may be group and/or individual based, dependent on the module.These innovative teaching methods enable you to envisage the translation of your studies into your every day work and practice.

For the final module of the neurosurgeon education course you will be required to produce a piece of work based upon a project that is relevant to your practice. Once you have selected a specific project, you will submit a project summary/proposal of approximately 1,000 words.

Following the approval of your proposal you will then complete a 11,000 word professional project.To produce the professional project you will continue to study online. Much of the work is self-directed, however you will receive guidance from your tutor throughout the module.

Due to the online nature of the course, you will be expected to regularly login and participate in the course - ideally on a daily basis. Students are recommended to spend around two hours per day on their studies.

Our dedicated Student Support Team are also available to help with any problems you may face. From navigating our online platform to advising you on deadlines, our team can assist with any questions or challenges you may have along the way.

Year 1

  • 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.

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.

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.
  • 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.

Year 2

This module runs over an 8 week period and is designed to develop skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies. The module consists of mandatory formative assessment activities to support your learning and development prior to the Professional Project module.

  • Students will work with their supervisor to submit a professional project proposal for their chosen topic.

  • Students will deliver an abstract (1000 words) outlining their proposal and, if deemed necessary, develop and submit documentation for the University’s ethical committee approval.

  • Students will create a dissertation, the theme of which has been developed in discussion with their tutor.
  • Supervision will normally involve direct online support involving planned progress, supporting research activity and reading student work.
  • Supervisors and students will agree on a communications plan, which may involve emails or online chats. Some students may employ the use of freely available chat or audio conferencing facilities for live discussion with supervisors.
  • Students will have access to online forums where they can develop their research capabilities together.
  • All communications with tutors will be logged on the Professional Project forum by the student, and consist of brief summaries of discussion.

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 (with an overall score of 6.5 and a minimum of 6.0 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.

If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry, you can also contact our admissions team on admissions@diploma-msc.com for more information on the qualifications we accept.

Course Fees

Total Course Fees for UK & International Students for September 2024:
£10,637
Application deadline - TBC

Option 1: Upfront Payment in full. Option 2: Interest free payments every other month for the duration of the course.

DateInstalmentsUp-Front Payments
Deposit£1042£10,637
1st November 2024£1039
1st January 2025£1039
1st March 2025£1039
1st May 2025£1039
1st July 2025£1039
1st September 2025£733
1st November 2025£733
1st January 2026£733
1st March 2026£733
1st May 2026£733
1st July 2026£735

† Deposits are non-refundable

†† Prices are subject to review following each intake

Option 3: Lower your monthly payments by spreading the cost for between 2 and 8 years with a loan from our lending partner Lendwise*.

*Subject to eligibility criteria.

lendwise

Learna | Diploma MSc has a partnership with Lendwise which is a leading private student loan provider, to help UK students fund their course fees should they require financing. Lendwise is a UK-based education finance platform through which candidates can fund their postgraduate and professional qualification studies at leading educational institutions.

A Lendwise loan comes with a fixed interest rate for the duration of the loan (between 2 and 8 years) and no early repayment penalties. The interest rate offered will depend on the overall applicant profile and the application process is entirely online.*

*Other sources of funding are available.
Learna | Diploma MSc does not offer financial advice, recommend or endorse any financial product. You should always check the suitability of the product that is of interest to you. If you are in any doubt as to its suitability, we suggest that you seek independent professional advice.

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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.

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