Urology MSc/PG Diploma

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Please note that this new programme is currently under development and, subject to final approval, will start in September 2014.

This innovative Masters course offers you an excellent opportunity to develop a scientific understanding of urology and urological diseases as well as a thorough grounding in best clinical practice in urology.

The value of studying urology is that there is a great diversity of urological conditions such as infections, stones, incontinence and cancers that effect over 50% of the population at some time in their life. There are a wide range of urological treatments ranging from medicines to cutting edge surgical treatments such as robotic and other minimally invasive therapies to major complex multidisciplinary operating. 

Course fact file

Type of Course: Taught, continuing professional development

Details

The programme aims to allow you to understand the research process and a key part will be the planning, execution and reporting of an independent research project within urology chosen by you after discussion with your allocated supervisor, leading to the submission of a Master’s dissertation.

The discipline of urology manages over a third of all solid malignancies and for this reason there is a strong oncological element to the syllabus. Cancer research at the University has received several accolades including being ranked as one of the best centres in the UK for number and quality of publications in Cancer at the last UK Research assessment exercise.

Some of the taught component will be delivered at the Birmingham Cencer Research UK Centre which is an internationally-renowned centre for translational cancer research, combining high-quality basic science and trials infrastructure with the largest clinical referral base in Europe.

Other elements of this programme will be delivered in one of the prestigious hospitals affiliated to the University of Birmingham – i.e. University Hospital Birmingham (QE), University Hospital North Staffordshire, City Hospital, New Cross Hospital, Russells Hall Hospital, amongst others. The hospitals in the Midlands are well recognised as leaders in the varied disciplines of urology. This component gives students an opportunity to gain a clinical perspective on urology in the United Kingdom.

To hear Dr Prashant Patel talk about why urology is an attractive speciality please click here.

Why study this course

The course:

  • is taught by experts in their field within the CRUK centre in Birmingham and prestigious regional hospitals
  • offers urology trainees an integrated teaching programme within the MSc to fulfill the ARCP requirements
  • will contribute to career development and increase your personal knowledge of the practices and principles of clinical urology
  • will give you the ability to improve the standards of urology practice at your institute or place of work 
  • will provide an excellent foundation for those progressing to take professional exams in the field of urology

Modules

The taught component will comprise of core
modules in:

  • Anatomy, embryology and genetics in urology
  • Urological physiology and nephrology
  • Imaging, investigation and technology
  • Research methods and statistics
  • Microbiology and pathology
  • Oncology and pharmacology

In addition to the above you could tailor six of the following eight optional modules:

  • Emergency urology and trauma
  • Lower urinary tract symptoms and andrology
  • Urolithiasis and urinary tract infection
  • Upper tract malignancy
  • Incontinence and urogynaecology
  • Lower tract malignancy
  • Clinical trials module
  • Urological nursing and prescribing (module in development)

Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree at 2.1 level or equivalent and 6 months urology experience would be desirable. Overseas candidates must meet the University’s English Language requires e.g. IELTS 7.0 (with no less than 6.5 in any band).

For students interested in clinical urology and who possess/are eligible for GMC registration, employment opportunities may be available to run in parallel with the course and we encourage applications in this field.

International students:

Academic requirements

We accept a range of qualifications, our country pages show you what qualifications we accept from your country.

English language requirements

You can satisfy our English language requirements in two ways:

English to IELTS 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each component) or TOEFL Internet based 95 overall with no less than 22 in any band.

Learning and teaching

As a Birmingham student, you will be joining the academic elite and will have the privilege of learning from world-leading experts, as well as your peers. From the outset you will be encouraged to become an independent and self-motivated learner. We want you to be challenged and will encourage you to think for yourself.

You will have access to a comprehensive support system that will assist and encourage you, including personal tutors and welfare tutors who can help with both academic and welfare issues.

Employability

Careers Support for Postgraduates

Careers Network – We can help you get ahead in the job market and develop your career.

We recognise that as a postgraduate student you are likely to have specific requirements when it comes to planning for your next career step. Employers expect postgraduates to have a range of skills that exceed their subject knowledge. Careers Network offers a range of events and support services that are designed for all students, including postgraduates looking to find their niche in the job market.

Here are just a few ways in which we can help postgraduates to get ahead:

  • Careers Networking opportunities
  • Effective careers strategy toolkit
  • Year planner for all postgraduate students
  • Masters Career Coaching Workshops
  • One to one careers guidance

The Careers Network also have subject specific careers consultants and advisers for each College so you can be assured the information you receive will be relevant to your subject area. They also have a dedicated careers website for international students where you can find useful resources and information. 

 
“We have hired some fantastic Birmingham graduates and postgraduates in the past, and believe that they have the experience and intelligence to understand the challenges of working with Procter and Gamble.”

In an independent survey, over 75% of employers regarded a postgraduate Masters-level qualification as ‘essential’ or ‘preferred’ when recruiting.
‘Talent Fishing: What Businesses want from Postgraduate’ A CIHE Report for Department of Business Innovation and Skills, March 2011.

For more information visit the Careers Network website.