Community Dermatology Essentials
Course length
6 months part-time
Start date
27 October 2026
Location
Online, with two in person sessions in York
Designed specifically for primary care health professionals, including nurses, pharmacists, physician associates and other clinicians working in community settings, our unique dermatology course develops the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to assess and manage patients with skin conditions in primary care.
Through a combination of expert-led teaching and interactive case-based learning, you will gain valuable experience in applying dermatology knowledge to real clinical scenarios, helping you to make informed decisions in everyday practice.
Our emphasis on discussion, reflection and shared learning ensures that participants can immediately translate new knowledge into clinical practice.
This six month programme offers an in-depth learning experience, with ongoing case-based discussion and practical application that supports lasting development of clinical competence.
Contact Us
postgraduate@hyms.ac.uk 01904 321690
Who is this short course for?
Our course for Primary Care Professionals addresses an unmet need for better training in the diagnosis and management of patients with skin conditions seen in the community and is designed for a range of clinicians, including GPs, advanced care practitioners, such as nurses, pharmacists and paramedics, as well as physician assistants who provide first point of primary care.
Teaching and assessment
What you will learn
The curriculum is mapped to the skin conditions most commonly encountered in primary care, including skin infections, acne, eczema, psoriasis, hair and nail disorders, pigment disorders and skin health in older adults.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Recognise and manage benign, pre-malignant and malignant skin lesions
- Recognise and manage common rashes, skin infections and hair and nail disorders
- Prescribe topical treatments effectively
- Managing diagnostic uncertainty
How is this short course delivered?
Delivered flexibly over six months, the course has been designed to fit around the demands of full-time employment. A shorter and more flexible alternative to many dermatology programmes, it combines two in-person full-day sessions - one at the beginning and one at the end of the course - with ten online evening sessions, enabling you to fit learning around work and personal commitments.
The course is delivered by experienced dermatologists with expertise in teaching and community practice, ensuring content reflects the challenges of primary care.
Time commitment
The time commitment is approximately 173 hours across the module, comprising two full day in-person sessions based in York on 27 October 2026 and 27 April 2027, with 10 two hour online sessions and self-directed learning, including reading, a weekly case log, discussion preparation, session reflection and assessment revision between the face to face events.
Assessment
You will produce a learning portfolio of case diaries.
Applying
Entry requirements and fees
Entry requirements
Applicants should be currently working as clinicians managing skin conditions in the community.
The majority of teaching is delivered online. You will need a reliable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone to access classroom sessions. You should be able to travel to York to a venue close to the railway station for the two in person sessions, currently scheduled for 27 October 2026 and 27 April 2027.
Tuition fees
The fee for this short course for the academic year 2026/27 is £1,200.
Fees are reviewed annually and may change.
applying
How to apply
The deadline for applications is 6 October 2026.
If you have any enquiries, please email postgraduate@hyms.ac.uk.
