Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine Postgraduate Diploma and MSc Courses
Why Study Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine with us?
Our Courses
Postgraduate Diploma Delivered over 1 year, the online, part-time, distance learning Postgraduate Diploma course is specially developed for busy health professionals. Formatted in 6 modules, 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 their skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies, the students then complete the professional project module which consists of a 1,500 word proposal and 10,500 word professional project.
Diploma MSc 2
These preventative cardiovascular medicine courses are a one-of-a-kind and have been developed to holistically address the approach to vascular disease. The breadth that the courses cover and their focus on integrating all of preventative care makes them truly unique. Our team of course authors and tutors are recognised experts and opinion leaders in their specialty areas; this fact, in conjunction with our affordable prices, promises a truly accessible course of the highest standard. Both the Postgraduate Diploma and Masters in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine courses are aimed at GPs; Secondary Care Trainees in Diabetes, Vascular Surgery, Cardiology, Medical Biochemistry; Junior Doctors, Paramedics, Dietitians, Allied Health Professionals, Specialist Nurses working in FH, Practice Nurses running CV clinics who wish to develop their skills in this area of work. The preventative cardiovascular medicine courses can be completed online and are available 24/7, giving you the flexibility to learn at a time that suits your busy schedule. Discount for HEART UK members. HEART UK members receive a 10% discount. This will require validation. Please contact us to find out more.
Diploma MSc 3
Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine Postgraduate Diploma Course Modules
Our online 1 year Postgraduate Diploma in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine is designed to be practical and clinically focused. Our course will provide an integrated approach to preventative cardiovascular medicine and focus on applying scientific principles to direct patient care. Module 1 - Principles of Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine Candidates will establish an understanding of the concept of risk and how this applies to traditional and emerging risk factors for cardiovascular disease. They will study the science behind cardiovascular function and how this relates to clinical practice, as well as emerging methods of risk calculation. On completion of this module the student should have: The ability to appraise and apply the use of cardiovascular risk assessment tools in clinical practice and discuss the utility of emerging tools for cardiovascular risk assessment, including imaging techniques. An understanding of the pathophysiology of vascular disease and examine its application to current clinical practice. Module 2 - Cardiovascular Risk Management Factors, other than lipid status and hypertension, may have an important impact on cardiovascular risk. Smoking, nutrition, diabetes mellitus and physical activity are of particular importance. The impact of these factors on cardiovascular disease will be evaluated in detail. Topical issues such as macronutrient and micronutrient content of diet and their impact on cardiovascular disease will be evaluated. Candidates will evaluate the role of legislation in prevention of cardiovascular disease. Candidates will assess and employ strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease. On completion of this module the student should: Understand and apply clinical strategies to reduce smoking. Understand and appraise the role of dietary modification in the reduction of cardiovascular disease. Be able to critically evaluate the role of obesity and physical activity in contributing to cardiovascular disease.
Module 3 - Lipid Metabolism in Clinical Practice Lipid metabolism in health and disease and how this relates to clinical presentation. Familial hypercholesterolaemia, the commonest cause of inherited premature cardiovascular disease, will be considered in detail, including the role of family cascade testing in clinical practice. This will also include evaluation of how molecular testing and modern biochemical analysis is enhancing our understanding of lipid disorders in clinical practice. On completion of this module the student should: Understand lipid metabolism in both health and disease and demonstrate expertise in how different lipid disorders present in clinical practice and their underlying pathophysiology. Understand and critically evaluate diagnostic techniques used in the clinical assessment of lipid disorders Module 4 - Management of Lipid Disorders Management strategies for lipid disorders. Specific non-pharmacological interventions for lipid disorders as well as current and emerging pharmacological therapies will be evaluated. On completion of this module the student should have: The ability to demonstrate a critical understanding of the management of lipid disorders. The ability to critically appraise the potential role of novel therapies in the management of lipid disorders.
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, but also enhanced my critical thinking and writing skills." - Dr Kevin Fernando
Module 5 - Hypertension: Diagnosis and Management Candidates will consider the pathophysiology of hypertension, including genetic determinants. They will evaluate both primary and secondary causes of hypertension. Diagnostic aspects will be considered, such as use of ambulatory monitoring and the use of tests to evaluate secondary hypertension. Modern management of hypertension will be considered in detail, including resistant hypertension. On completion of this module the student should have: The ability to demonstrate a critical understanding of the pathophysiology of hypertension and its diagnosis in clinical practice. The ability to critically evaluate the use of current drugs used to treat hypertension and their limitations. The ability to critically appraise future targets for the treatment of hypertension. Module 6 - Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine in Special Situations A detailed understanding of the role of preventative cardiovascular medicine in conditions where this is of particular or emerging importance. The examples of diabetes mellitus, renal disease and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection will be considered in detail. The importance of preventative cardiovascular medicine in individuals with mental health conditions and chronic inflammatory disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis will be evaluated. Preventative cardiovascular medicine in children and older people will also be explored in detail. On completion of this module the student should have: The ability to critically evaluate the role of chronic disease in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. The ability to discuss strategies for reducing cardiovascular disease in patients with specific medical conditions.
Diploma MSc 6
Assessments The course puts assessment at the heart of learning by using clinical scenarios to facilitate problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based care. The scenarios act as both the focus for learning and assessment thus embedding assessment within the learning process. Each of the 6 modules has the same assessment format. Due to the online nature of the course, students are expected to login and participate in the course regularly throughout the module (ideally on a daily basis). Students are split into groups of 10-15 students and are assigned a dedicated expert tutor who: Facilitates clinical case discussions with the group. Monitors, assesses and marks each student throughout the module. Students use the following skills gained during the lectures to engage with the different activities : Clinical case scenarios with case based discussion - 40% Reflective journal- 10% Module assignment- 20% Case based examination - 30% 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.
Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine Postgraduate Diploma Entry Requirements
Diploma MSc 7
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 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)
Diploma MSc 8
Module 1 - Research Methodologies and Critical Evaluation Synopsis of module content: Basic 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. Basic statistical tests and their applications including T-Tests, ANOVA, Chi-Squared Tests. Methodologies as applied to Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine research. Fundamentals of evidence based practice and its application into the clinical setting. Establishing patient registers and the value of disease specific registers. Research into educational principles for both medical practitioner and patient. Understanding what may work for the patient as well as the educator. On completion of this module the student should have: The ability to interpret research in preventative cardiovascular medicine. The ability to display a critical understanding of the clinical implications of research and its impact upon healthcare delivery and service development. The knowledge to implement evidence based practice into care.
Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine MSc Course Modules
The Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine Masters of Science aims to create professionals who can independently access information and use the information to critically assess, evaluate and disseminate the evidence base related to Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine. It will develop problem-solving and clinical skills together with preparing students to take a leadership role in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine. Our course is the only one of its kind that is accessible online and is the fastest route to the PGDip/MSc. It is proven to upskill and advance the careers of our graduates.
Entry Requirements and Teaching Methods
Diploma MSc 9
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 module content: 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 the student should be able to: produce an extensive piece of literature which may be suitable for peer-reviewed publication. critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements or change. Incorporated knowledge of the research process in developing services appropriately. Teaching Methods Module 1 - Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal: MSc teaching methods for this module are similar to the Postgradaute 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 We require the successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine (120 credits) either from the University of South Wales or from another UK University. Students may apply for the two-year MSc consisting of 8 modules (180 credits), the first 120 credits of which being the Postgraduate Diploma. Applicants should submit copies of the following with their application: 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 Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine MSc course provides a progression route for the Postgraduate Diploma course in Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine.
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 Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine 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
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