Accreditation
Lerna | University of South Wales
Duration
24 Months
Tuition Fees
£9,000
Study Mode
Blended

Academic publication opportunities, advanced clinical credibility, and progression into leadership roles.
ABOUT THIS COURSE
The MSc in Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine is a comprehensive programme designed for healthcare professionals who wish to combine clinical mastery with academic research. Delivered online with blended learning, it provides flexibility for busy practitioners while ensuring rigorous training across all major areas of aesthetic practice.
Developed by Learna in partnership with the University of South Wales, this MSc builds upon the Postgraduate Diploma, adding advanced modules in research methodologies and a professional project. It is a recognised qualification that supports career progression into leadership, academia, and advanced clinical practice.
Doctors, dentists, and nurses seeking advanced postgraduate training and research in cosmetic medicine.
Clinical modules in anatomy, toxins, fillers, skin, hair, anti‑ageing plus research and project work.

Academic publication opportunities, advanced clinical credibility, and progression into leadership roles.
LEARNING PATHWAY
The MSc is completed over two years, part‑time, through blended online learning. Year one covers the six diploma modules, while year two focuses on research and a professional project.
You will engage in tutor‑led discussions, case‑based learning, and reflective practice, ensuring knowledge translates directly into your everyday clinical work.
The Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Aesthetic Medicine is delivered through a blended academic and clinical model, combining structured theoretical learning with supervised applied practice. Assessment is evidence-based and mapped against nationally recognised qualification standards.
*Anatomy of the face: skin, muscles, fat pads, blood vessels, nerves, bones.
*Physiological changes and ageing.
*Facial assessments and treatment planning.
Ethics in aesthetic practice.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Apply advanced anatomical and physiological knowledge to cosmetic treatments.
2. Analyse professional and ethical issues in aesthetic medicine.
*History of botulinum and botulism.
*Pharmacology and licensing of botulinum toxins.
*Patient selection, injection techniques, safety, adverse effects.
Managing complications and combination treatments.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Apply pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of botulinum use in practice.
2. Critically appraise the role of botulinum toxin in aesthetic treatments.
*Facial fat pad anatomy and ageing effects.
*Hyaluronic acid fillers: types, duration, complications.
*Non‑HA fillers: temporary, permanent, synthetic, autologous.
Region‑specific applications (lips, hands).
Learning Outcomes:
1. Analyse evidence for facial augmentation with fillers.
2. Evaluate dermal filler use in aesthetic treatments.
*Skin anatomy, physiology, and ageing.
*Environmental damage: sun, smoking, lifestyle factors.
*Fitzpatrick skin types and UV effects.
Ablative and non‑ablative treatments: lasers, IPL, dermal peels.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Appraise processes affecting skin damage.
2. Evaluate a variety of skin treatments.
*Hair growth cycles, colour variations, follicle anatomy.
*Medical conditions linked to unwanted hair.
*Laser and IPL hair removal methods.
Hair loss patterns, non‑surgical and surgical treatments.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Apply knowledge of hair growth and follicle anatomy to pathologies.
2. Recommend treatments for hair removal and hair loss.
3. Evaluate non‑surgical hair stimulation therapies.
*Physiology of ageing: hormonal changes, menopause, andropause.
*Hormonal replacement, nutrition, vitamins, and exercise strategies.
*Platelet‑rich plasma, injection lipolysis, derma‑rollers, micro‑needling.
Ultrasonic therapies and radiofrequency.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Appraise endocrine changes in ageing.
2. Evaluate treatments for age‑related hormonal deficiencies.
3. Critically assess anti‑ageing strategies.
*Epidemiology and research terminology.
*Statistical tests and applications.
*Evidence‑based practice and health economics.
Qualitative research methods.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Analyse and interpret research in cosmetic medicine.
2. Understand clinical implications of research for healthcare delivery.
*Independent research project relevant to clinical practice.
*Literature review, audit, or case‑based analysis.
Development of skills for scientific publication.
Learning Outcomes:
1. Design and undertake research suitable for peer‑reviewed publication.
2. Critically evaluate practice and suggest improvements.
ELIGIBILITY

ADMISSION CRITERIA
Registered healthcare professional (doctor, dentist, nurse).
Evidence of at least 10 cosmetic procedures in the past 12 months.
Current indemnification for cosmetic procedures.
Completion of Postgraduate Diploma in Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine.
book your coursE
Secure your spot on any available intake below, spaces are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment. Alternatively, our flexible booking options, allows you to start now, learn at your own pace and schedule your practical training sessions at a later date.
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
Not sure which date works for you?
Schedule a free consultation with our academic team to explore course eligibility, professional pathways, and accreditation requirements. Receive personalised guidance to support your training and career progression.
Feel free to book a quick call for a proper catch-up, or leave us a message using the form below and we’ll be right with you.
Faqs
The Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Aesthetic Medicine is delivered through a blended academic and clinical model, combining structured theoretical learning with supervised applied practice. Assessment is evidence-based and mapped against nationally recognised qualification standards.
Yes, it is accredited by the University of South Wales and recognised worldwide.
Yes, the professional project is designed to support publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
Dedicated tutor guidance, peer discussions, and Learna’s student support team throughout the programme.
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