Gastroenterology Postgraduate Diploma and MSc Courses
Postgraduate Diploma Delivered over 1 year, the online part-time distance learning Postgraduate Diploma course is especially developed for busy health professionals. Formatted in 6 modules (120 credits), each of 6 weeks duration; the course is designed to be practical and clinically focused. MSc The MSc runs over 1 calendar year. Starting with an initial 12 week online module to develop skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies, the students then begin the professional project module which consists of a 1,500 word proposal and 10,500 word professional project.
Why Study Gastroenterology with us?
Diploma MSc 2
The Postgraduate Diploma and MSc online courses in Gastroenterology have been designed to help physicians interested in the field of Gastroenterology to further their knowledge and improve their clinical judgement. The theoretical courses are designed to facilitate a better understanding of common gastroenterology disorders typically found in the community and will enable students to up-skill in diagnostic and management of gastroenterological disorders. Students will also be able to be better equipped to read and interpret endoscopy reports, an increasingly important element of practice. This is not a course that will assess or develop endoscopic procedures, as this is not the focus nor would it be possible to achieve without residential training and supervision. This course is therefore designed to improve knowledge, which is an essential complement to clinical practice. With increasing competition for employment in the healthcare arena, and increasing specialisation, the purpose of the course is to promote and enhance professional skills and knowledge amongst students that have a direct relevance and application to the demands of their working roles. Applicants taking our courses in gastroenterology will typically be GPs, doctors, nurses, physicians and pharmacists. For healthcare professionals who successfully complete a qualification, career progression would likely be facilitated, as well as the direct opportunity to improve patient care. Students may apply for the MSc in Gastroenterology as a two-year course, firstly completing the Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits), followed by the MSc (60 credits).
Diploma MSc 3
Gastroenterology Postgraduate Diploma Course Modules
The Postgraduate Diploma in Gastroenterology has been specifically designed to help physicians interested in the field of gastroenterology to further their knowledge and improve their clinical judgement. We believe that the course answers the need for enhancing professional skills and knowledge in the field of gastroenterology, as there is increasing competition for employment in the healthcare arena, as well as increasing specialisation. Module 1 - Oesophagus Aims of the module: To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the oesophagus. Synopsis of the module content: Oesophagus: anatomy and physiology. Oesophagus diagnostic test. Oesophagus and Barrett’s Oesophagus. Vomiting. Oesophageal dysmotility. Oesophageal Cancer. On completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the oesophagus to a variety of oesophageal diseases. Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the oesophagus. Module 2 - Stomach Aims of the module: To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the stomach. Synopsis of the module content: Stomach: anatomy and physiology Gastroscopy Peptic ulcer disease Helicobacter pylori Gastric cancer Pernicious Anemia On completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the stomach to a variety of diseases affecting the stomach. Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the stomach.
Module 3 - Pancreas Aims of the module: To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the Pancreas Synopsis of the module content: Anatomy and physiology of Pancreas Pancreatic function tests Pancreatic insufficiency Acute Pancreatitis Chronic Pancreatitis Pancreatic Cysts Pancreatic cancer Neuroendocrine Tumours On completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the pancreas to a variety of diseases affecting the pancreas. Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the pancreas. Module 4 - Liver Aims of the module: To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the Liver Synopsis of the module content: Anatomy and physiology of the liver Liver function tests Cirrhosis and complications Cancer Drug and alcohol induced liver injury Viral liver disease Biliary disease On completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the liver to a variety of diseases affecting the liver. Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the liver.
Rutu Dave
Diploma MSc 4
"When I enrolled into the course I had no idea about the opportunities it would provide me with. Having my first paper published through this course helped me overcome my apprehensions of academic writing and made me more confident to pursue it further. " - Rutu Dave
Dr Kevin Fernando
Diploma MSc 5
"Little did I know that the MSc was going to be a significant stepping stone in my medical career! Both the diploma and MSc were invaluable in terms of expanding my knowledge and management of Diabetes Medicine, but also enhanced my critical thinking and writing skills." - Dr Kevin Fernando
Module 5 - Small Bowel and Nutrition Aims of the module: To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the small bowel. Also to learn about basic principles of managing nutrition in health and disease. Synopsis of the module content: Anatomy and physiology of the small bowel Basic principles of nutrition Coeliac disease Crohn’s disease PEG feeding Bile salt malabsorption On completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the small bowel to a variety of diseases affecting the small bowel. Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the small bowel. Analyse the impact of nutrition on diseases of the small bowel. Module 6 - Colon Aims of the module: To develop a critical understanding of the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the colon Synopsis of the module content: Colonic anatomy and physiology Irritable Bowel Syndrome Ulcerative Colitis Infective diarrhoea Clostridium difficle Colonic cancer Stoma: colostomy and ileostomy Colonoscopy, screening and diagnosis On completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically apply anatomical and physiological functions of the colon to a variety of diseases affecting the colon. Critically appraise current methods of diagnosing and treating diseases of the colon.
Diploma MSc 6
Teaching Methods Our courses are conducted entirely online through self-directed distance learning. However, you will receive guidance throughout with tutor-stimulated academic discussions, which are based on clinically-rich case scenarios. These usually occur within groups of 10-15 students, allowing you to clearly communicate with both your tutor and fellow students. You will participate in a combination of group and individual activities, which are recorded in a reflective journal. This innovative teaching method enables you to envisage the translation of your studies into your every day work and practice. 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. Online Induction Day Once you have secured your place on the course, you will be invited to an online Induction Day webinar. This will give you the opportunity to participate in study skills workshops on Harvard referencing, scientific and reflective writings, and levels of evidence in preparation for your studies. It is not compulsory for you to attend our Induction Day but it is recommended, as it'll provide you with a sturdy introduction to the course. Entry Requirements Health professionals working within a clinical setting, both UK and overseas, with a related Healthcare Science degree (including international qualifications) are eligible to apply for the PG Diploma in Gastroenterology course. Applicants without the above academic criteria but relevant/suitable experience can apply. Applications will be judged on the individual specifics of background and qualifications including ability to work at Postgraduate level (applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at Postgraduate level and demonstrate requisite clinical/professional knowledge). Applicants should submit copies of the following with their application: Qualification certificates One written reference English language qualification (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
Module 1 - Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal: Aims of the module: This module is designed to help students recognise, understand, interpret and apply methods used in healthcare research and critically appraise the various methodologies specific to Gastroenterology research. Synopsis of the module content: Terminology used in epidemiology and research studies such as prevalence, incidence, sensitivity, specificity, false positive and false negatives. Interpreting graphical representation of epidemiological and statistical data such as Kaplan-Meier Curves, Forrest Plots and Meta-analyses. Calculations used in the assessment of research data such as relative risk, absolute risk, number needed to treat. Statistical tests and their applications including t-Tests, ANOVA, Chi-Square. Qualitative research methods. Fundamentals of evidence based practice and its application into the clinical setting. Principles of health economics, audit and quality improvement / assurance systems. Establishing patient registers and the value of disease specific registers. Research into educational principles for both health care practitioner and patient. Understanding what may work for the patient as well as the educator. On completion of this module, students will be able to: Analyse and interpret research in gastroenterology medicine. Display a critical understanding of the clinical implications of research and its impact upon healthcare delivery and service development. Module 2 - Professional Project Aims of the module: To develop an ability to critically evaluate areas of professional practice. To critically appraise specific areas of clinical, research and organisational practice. To develop skills in independent research and study. To develop skills relevant to scientific publications. Synopsis of the module: The module will depend on the creation of a piece of work based upon a specific clinically related project relevant to the student’s practice. This project may comprise: Literature review and appraisal of the evidence. Audit of practice including organisational or clinical. Review and implementation of evidence-based practice. Qualitative or quantitative research (formal research involving human subjects is not anticipated). Case(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal. Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment. On completion of this module, students will be able to: Design and undertake research and development in order to produce an extensive piece of literature which may be suitable for peer-reviewed publication. Critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements or change. Incorporate knowledge of the research process in developing services appropriately.
Gastroenterology MSc Course Modules
Diploma MSc 7
Diploma MSc 8
Teaching Methods Module 1 - Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal MSc teaching methods for this module are similar to the Postgraduate Diploma course modules however it is run over 12 weeks. Module 2 - Professional Project To produce the professional project, students continue to use the online course; however much of the work is self-directed. Students are expected in the first 8 weeks to interact with their tutor on a weekly basis. Students select a specific project and submit a project summary/proposal (approximately 1500 words). Once the proposal has been approved, the professional project (10,500 words) itself is then completed through online guidance and supervision offered by the tutor. The student and tutor will interact regularly (weekly) on the dedicated students/tutor discussion area or through any other means of communication deemed appropriate by both parties (telephone/SKYPE/email). Note of any verbal communication with the tutor is recorded in the student's journal by the student. Entry Requirements Entry to the one year MSc programme will require the successful completion of the Gastroenterology Postgraduate Diploma in (120 credits) either from the University of South Wales or from another UK University. Students may apply for the Masters in as a two-year course consisting of 8 modules (180 credits), the first 120 credits of which being the Postgraduate Diploma. Applicants will also be expected to meet the below criteria: Qualification certificates One written reference
Graduates of this course will receive a Master of Science award from the University of South Wales, Diploma MSc’s collaborative partner. The Gastroenterology MSc course provides a progression route for the Postgraduate Diploma course in Gastroenterology.
What do our students think?
Since 2010, over 1000 students have progressed their medical career by enrolling in one of our qualifications. We ourselves have learned a lot during this time and continually seek to improve the student learning experience. Here is what some of our previous students have said:
"I found the online learning very interesting. It enabled me to save money and time." Dr Imad Eddin Rahamtalla, Doctor "I strongly recommend Diploma MSc to all those busy physicians who are working in remote areas and wish to upgrade their knowledge." Dr Junaid Zaffar, Diabetologist. "The learning was fun and enjoyable. The course was awesome and it increased my confidence." Dr Sankar Nath Jha, Assistant Professor "I found learning with Diploma MSc interesting, it helped to update my academic knowledge" Dr Prasanth Kinattupurayil, Doctor "I love that it was flexible and that I could log in at my convenience. I found this course to be very in-depth, informative, challenging and stimulating." Kerri-Ann Best PGDip, RD "I feel that the diploma MSc program helped me consolidate my practical knowledge of Gastroenterology and understand the global perspective of the disease as well. The PG Diploma has helped me grow professionally and helped me accomplish my dream of increasing patient education & awareness regarding the disease." Hemi Soneja PGDip MSc
Ty Bevan House, Cleeve Drive, Llanishen, Cardiff CF14 5GF Tel: +44 (0) 29 2192 1312 email: admissions@diploma-msc.com
/DiplomaMSc @DiplomaGastro
