Perioperative Medicine

Perioperative Medicine is a rapidly evolving and exciting field committed to providing excellent care to surgical patients. This new Master’s programme, delivered via e-learning, will address the challenges posed by the high-risk surgical patient and is designed to equip those involved in managing surgical care with extensive knowledge, underpinned by best evidence, and encourage a deep understanding of the specialty.

Students learn by walking the patient journey, from diagnosis to discharge. Developing an understanding of the individual needs of patients and how to assess risk and outcomes will be followed by an outline of the surgical inflammatory response. Students will be introduced to statistical study design as it applies to research and understand changes in guidance. Quality, safety and leadership matters are covered in great detail.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, flexible study, up to five years) is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, flexible study, up to two years) is offered.

Core modules

• The Landscape of Perioperative Medicine
• Towards a New Model in Perioperative Care
• Data and Statistics in Perioperative Care
• Quality, Safety and Leadership in Perioperative Care
• The Evolving Paradigm in Perioperative Care
• Perioperative Pain and Cancer Disease
• Perioperative Issues for an Ageing Population
• Special Topics in Perioperative Care

Optional modules

There are no optional modules for this programme.

Dissertation/report

Students will undertake a piece of original research (which might include a systematic review), developed and presented in the style of a nominated peer-reviewed journal and students will be encouraged to publish this work as part of their learning experience.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered entirely through distance e-learning methodology. A wide range of learning styles are catered for within the programme material including vodcasts, podcasts, formal written text, online seminars, case reviews and graphics. The MSc adopts a range of examination styles including short answer questions, short essay writing, reflective practice and contributing to case-based discussions. The examination process will include both summative and formative assessment and help develop students’ writing styles.

A minimum of a second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in biomedical science or nursing or a medical degree, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

This course is currently subsidised for all students currently enrolled and is reviewed annually.