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Aesthetics (Minimally-invasive Aesthetics) MS

London, Bloomsbury and London, Hampstead (Royal Free Hospital)

This is the programme information for 2025 entry

If you require details of the previous year's programme, Aesthetics (Minimally-invasive Aesthetics) MS (2024), click here

UK students International students

Study mode

UK tuition fees (2025/26)

£16,000

£8,000

Overseas tuition fees (2025/26)

£33,000

£16,500

Duration

1 calendar year

2 calendar years

Programme starts

September 2025

Applications accepted

All applicants: 14 Oct 2024 – 29 Aug 2025

Applications close at 5pm UK time

Applications open

Apply for this course

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally be a medical graduate with a primary medical qualification that has been listed on the World Directory of Medical Schools. We will consider applicants with an undergraduate BDS qualification in dentistry or an Advanced Nurse practitioner qualification that are registered with NMC or a prescribing pharmacist registered with GPhc. In addition, all applicants must have a minimum two years of training in their field, ideally with some elements of aesthetic practice.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

The full-time and part-time versions of this programme are taught primarily online with some teaching taking place on campus in London. As such, international students who apply to this programme are not eligible to apply for a regular Student visa for full-time study in the UK.

To attend the on-campus teaching sessions for this course, international students will ordinarily use a UK Standard Visitor visa for study.

Please note that UK immigration rules are subject to change by the UK Government, as such, there is no guarantee that the current rules referred to here will be in place for the duration of your study with UCL.

Should you have any questions regarding visa compliance, please contact the UCL Student Immigration Compliance Team.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

Our MS in Minimally Invasive Aesthetics programme is designed for UK and international healthcare professionals seeking to master evidence-based, minimally invasive aesthetic practices that prioritise patient safety and satisfaction.

We are one of a few renowned universities worldwide to offer a Master of Surgery (MS) in minimally invasive aesthetics, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and the practical application of aesthetic techniques. Our curriculum goes beyond the classroom, with hands-on training that prepares you for real-world challenges.

Join a programme that not only enhances your expertise but also connects you with the best minds in the field, empowering you to elevate your practice to the highest standards of safety and innovation.

You will be part of a diverse cohort of professionals, including dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and doctors, each bringing unique perspectives and skills. You'll engage in small, focused group work and individual study, both in person and online, fostering a collaborative learning environment. You'll also have the opportunity to pursue a research project on a topic of your choice (or one from our curated list), under the guidance of experienced supervisors.

This innovative blended-learning programme is designed to fit seamlessly into your professional life, combining flexible online study with hands-on, in-person training on pre-scheduled dates each term. You can advance your skills in minimally invasive aesthetic procedures without compromising your clinical commitments.

Focused on the head and neck, our curriculum delivers cutting-edge theoretical knowledge through online modules, complemented by state-of-the-art cadaver-based training at the renowned Charles Wolfson Centre. You will learn directly from world-leading experts at the Centre of Excellence for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Royal Free Hospital, as well as other distinguished national and international aesthetic practitioners and surgeons.

UCL's reputation speaks for itself. For medicine, we are ranked sixth worldwide by QS (2024) and seventh worldwide by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (2024). We are committed to providing an unparalleled educational experience.

The MS Aesthetics programme offers a second pathway in Aesthetic Surgery.

Who this course is for

Our programme is ideal for clinicians worldwide who are eager to conduct high-quality research and delve into evidence-based aesthetic practices. Designed with your busy schedule in mind, this Master of Surgery programme allows you to continue working in your clinic or profession while advancing your skills to enhance patient safety and care.

Our blended-learning approach connects you with an international cohort, offering a unique opportunity to learn from a global team of experts. This diverse environment enriches your educational experience, providing insights from various cultures and practices. Upon graduation, you’ll join a prestigious international alumni network, forging academic bonds that span the globe.

We invite prospective applicants to join us for virtual informal chats to learn more about the program. To schedule a meeting, please email adminaesthetics@ucl.ac.uk.

Read about what it takes to study for a Master's at UCL

What this course will give you

This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities.

A prestigious institution: Study at a renowned university in the heart of London, affiliated with the Royal Free Hospital, a recognised centre of excellence in Plastic Surgery.
Comprehensive curriculum: Engage with an extensive, regularly updated curriculum grounded in the latest evidence-based literature, ensuring you stay at the forefront of minimally invasive aesthetic procedures.
World-class faculty: Learn from an internationally recognised faculty of leaders in education and research, supported by a dedicated team of clinical lecturers committed to providing the best possible student experience in minimally invasive aesthetic techniques.
Research opportunities: Collaborate directly with experienced academics to develop a new research project or contribute to existing studies, with a focus on clinical applicability and career advancement.
Global research collaborations: If based outside the UK, you can participate in research collaborations with local institutions, expanding your impact and network.
Patient-centred approach: Develop a mindset rooted in evidence-based practice, with patient safety as the central focus of all minimally invasive aesthetic procedures.
Professional networking: Build a robust network with fellow professionals, laying the foundation for future innovations and collaborations in the field.

Read about what you'll get out of a graduate programme

The foundation of your career

In an increasingly competitive landscape, a qualification of this calibre from a world-leading institution will distinguish you from other practitioners. It provides healthcare professionals with a significant advantage when seeking advanced training programmes in minimally invasive aesthetic surgery. Additionally, this qualification opens doors for you to contribute to the delivery of specialised short courses or engage in research in minimally invasive aesthetic procedures, should you choose to pursue this career path.

Employability

With the potential introduction of new regulations and guidelines in minimally invasive aesthetics, our programme will equip you with a professional competence framework in minimally invasive aesthetic procedures and techniques. You will graduate with enhanced core skills, including critical thinking, scholarly writing, independent learning, and a solid grounding in the scientific method, all of which will benefit your current and future career.

As a graduate, you may also have the opportunity to return to the programme as a tutor or supervisor, contributing to the next generation of minimally invasive aesthetic practitioners. Many of our graduates go on to present at national and international conferences and publish in leading journals within the growing field of minimally invasive aesthetics. If you intend to pursue further education, such as obtaining a PhD, our international team of lecturers and tutors will provide guidance and support throughout the process.

Networking

Our programme offers regular networking opportunities, including events featuring expert speakers, where you can gain valuable insights and connect with leaders in the field. We encourage students to enhance their skills and expand their professional networks by attending and participating in conferences, providing further opportunities to engage with the broader aesthetics community.

Teaching and learning

In a typical week, you will study 2-3 topics through live online lectures, pre-recorded content, and online resources. Each topic requires up to two hours of engagement with lectures and materials, plus an equal amount of time for independent study, formative and summative assessments, and participation in online Q&A sessions.

There will be one face-to-face teaching day per core module in Terms 1 and 2, plus 2.5 days of face-to-face cadaver-based interactive training during Terms 2 and 3 for pathway-specific modules. This hands-on experience, taught through simulations and work with cadavers, is a rich opportunity to work in small groups with peers and experienced minimally invasive aesthetic practitioners and technical instructors.

We use a variety of formative and summative assessments, which include:

scenario-based online quizzes
peer-marking
coursework
e-poster presentation
virtual oral presentation
critical reflective case study
critical appraisal of existing literature
Objective Structured Clinical and Practical Examination (OSCPE).

Your weekly schedule will depend on the duration of your programme.

On the one-year, full-time programme, you will have approximately 12 hours of teaching and 10 hours of independent learning a week.
On the two-year, part-time programme, you will have approximately six hours of teaching and five hours of independent learning a week.
During the cadaver-based interactive session you will have six to nine hours of teaching a day.

The research project spans the entire academic year (or two years for part-time students). From November, you will meet regularly with your research supervisors to discuss progress and receive feedback. You will have opportunities to present your work to supervisors and peers and gain peer feedback.

A Postgraduate Diploma will be offered on successful completion of five taught modules (all core modules plus two pathway specific).

Modules

On the full-time programme, you will complete five taught modules: two in term one and three in term two. The modules are predominantly distance learning with selected in campus sessions as outlined below:

Two and a half days in term one (the half-day is for induction).
One day in term two.
Two sets of cadaver-based interactive trainings each belonging to one module and involving two and a half days of on-campus sessions. One set will be in delivered in term two while the other set will be delivered in term three.

The remainder of the academic year is used for assessment and examinations. All assessments are designed so they can be completed virtually except for the Objective Structured Clinical and Practical Examination (OSCPE) for two of the taught modules. This exam normally runs in one day for both modules during term three and you are expected to attend the college for this purpose.

You will also conduct a research project throughout the year. You will normally submit your summative assessments for this module in July or early August.

Please note that we continually review and improve our modules and that the content of our website is prepared in advance, so the above information may be subject to change. Exact dates of on-campus sessions will be provided to all students at the start of the academic year.

On the part-time programme, you will complete five taught modules over two years.

Year one

You will complete two modules in term one, and one module in term two. The modules are predominantly distance learning with selected in campus sessions as outlined below:

one and a half days in term one (the half-day for induction)
one day in term two.

Year two

You will take the remaining two taught modules in term two. The modules are predominantly distance learning with selected in campus sessions as outlined below:

Two sets of cadaver-based interactive trainings each belonging to one module and involving two and a half days of in campus sessions. One set will be in delivered in term two while the other set will be delivered after the Easter break.

The remainder of the academic year is used for assessment and examinations. All assessments are designed so they can be completed virtually except for the OSCPE for two of the taught modules. This exam normally runs in one day for both modules during term three and you are expected to attend the college for this purpose.

You will also conduct a research project throughout year two. You will submit your summative assessments for this module in July or early August.

Please note that we continually review and improve our modules and that the content of our website is prepared in advance so the above information may be subject to change. Exact dates of on-campus sessions will be provided to all students at the start of the academic year.

Compulsory modules

Advanced Minimally Invasive Aesthetics

Skin in Aesthetic Practice

Fundamentals of Aesthetics

Minimally Invasive Aesthetics

Principles of Aesthetics

Research Project

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

There are two specialist pathways for students to choose from: MS Aesthetic Surgery and MS in Minimally Invasive Aesthetics. Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MS in Aesthetics (Minimally-invasive Aesthetics). Upon successful completion of 120 credits, you will be awarded a PG Dip in Aesthetics (Minimally-invasive Aesthetics).

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.

Fees and funding

Fees for this course

UK students International students

Fee description	Full-time	Part-time
Tuition fees (2025/26)	£16,000	£8,000
Tuition fees (2025/26)	£33,000	£16,500

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees.

Additional costs

For Full-time and Part-time offer holders a fee deposit will be charged at 10% of the first year fee.

There is no fee deposit required for PG Dip and PG Cert applicants.

Further information can be found in the Tuition fee deposits section on this page: Tuition fees.

We aim to minimise the additional costs to students beyond your tuition fees. However, please be aware of the following costs that you are expected to meet.

Travel to other sites: this may be needed during your study for the allocated dates that you come to the college. Find out about the cost of using public transport at Transport for London.
Textbooks: the library has a range of books that can be borrowed, and some books may have an online copy. You may decide to purchase your own textbook or print course documents to support your individual learning. For this, we suggest allowing approximately £250 per year.

UCL’s main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1-2 is £114.50. This price was published by TfL in 2024. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide.

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.

See all the ways you can fund your studies

Next steps

There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications. Further information can be found at Application fees.

We require the following documentations before we can consider your application:

Any relevant degree certificates
Transcripts of your studies to date
Curriculum vitae (CV)
Personal statement or statement of purpose that should include:
- Your reasons for choosing UCL and MS Aesthetics (Minimally Invasive Aesthetics).
- What particularly attracts you to our programme.
- Any relevant work experience you have in minimally invasive aesthetic.
- How your academic and professional background meets the demands of this challenging programme.
- Your future aspiration and how our programme can help you achieve it.
Two academic references with the following notes:
- Correct details of your referees.
- Email addresses should end with an institutional domain. We do not accept references from personal email addresses.
Proof of your English language ability if English in not your first language.

We will contact your referees directly.

Please ensure all your supporting documents are in English. For non-English documents, please provide an official certified English translation.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

This programme only requires one reference in support of your application. Your reference should be academic unless you have been out of university education for more than four years. Further information regarding references can be found on this Selecting your references page.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.