Anatomical Sciences (PG Certificate / Diploma / PG Professional Development)

The Anatomical Sciences programme is a unique opportunity to explore aspects of human anatomy through the flexibility of online learning.

This is a postgraduate level qualification for medical, biomedical, allied health professionals and those in holistic practice with an interest in human anatomy. The programme is taught by leading academics who are passionate about teaching and research, who are making an impact on an international level. 

Being a part of the University of Edinburgh’s Postgraduate Certificate in Anatomical Sciences has been an excellent experience. The programme is really well-structured, with a diverse range of multi-media teaching.

Kaumal Baig
Anatomical Sciences graduate

What will you learn?

The Anatomical Sciences programme will develop your knowledge of:

  • basic human anatomy covering several different body systems 
  • human development

Optional courses in year 2 allow you to focus on areas of your interest including:

  • medical and anatomical visualisation techniques
  • microscopic structure of tissues and organs
  • how technology is used to replicate the human anatomical form and function

Year 1 (Certificate)

In Year 1 you will develop your knowledge of basic human anatomy and human development with courses in human anatomy, embryology, and neuroanatomy. 

Year 2 (Postgraduate Diploma) 

On successful completion of Year 1, you will expand your anatomical knowledge in Year 2 with compulsory courses in Advanced Human Anatomy. You will explore the upper limb, lower limb and thorax regions in Advanced Human Anatomy 1, and then the abdomen, pelvis, and head and neck regions in Advanced Human Anatomy 2.

In year 2 you will also choose two courses from the following options:

Please note that Diploma Optional Courses availability will be subject to student demand. Course availability and allocations will be finalised in consultation with students.

Full course information is available on the university Degree Programme Table.

Course information

Programme structure

Why Choose Edinburgh?

  • There is a long and distinguished tradition of anatomy teaching in Edinburgh, with the first Chair of Anatomy appointed here in 1705. Today our courses are taught by leading academics who are passionate about teaching and research, and who are making an impact on an international level.   
  • Edinburgh is ranked 23rd in the world for Life Sciences Medicine and Biological Sciences and 16th in the world for Anatomy and Physiology (QS World University Rankings by subject, 2023).
  • Our graduates are ranked 26th in the world by employers (QS World University Rankings 2023).
  • The University of Edinburgh is 4th in the UK based on the quality and breadth of its research - known as research power - and is Scotland’s top ranked institution, according to Times Higher Education's REF 2021 power ratings.

Entry Requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 October 2024. 

  • A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a medical, biomedical, or relevant bioscience topic.
  • We may also consider your application if you are in a profession allied to medicine or have relevant work experience; please contact the programme team to check before you apply. You may be admitted to the Professional Development Programme in the first instance with a view to joining the Postgraduate Certificate after satisfactory performance.

Information about international qualifications and English language requirements can be found on the University Programme Degree Finder. 

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees are standard for all students regardless of location or nationality.   We offer a 10% scholarship in postgraduate degree tuition fees for all alumni who have graduated with an undergraduate degree from the University of Edinburgh.

A breakdown of fees can be found on the University Programme Degree Finder. 

Deposit 

You will need to pay a £200 non-refundable deposit before an unconditional offer can be made.   This contributes towards your tuition fees. 

Tuition fee deposits

A full breakdown of the fees can be found on the University Programme Degree Finder.   

 

Speak to a current student

Want to speak to a current student about their experience of studying online? You can chat with a current student through our student portal, Unibuddy.

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