Diplomatosis

The Edinburgh surgical sciences qualification (ESSQ)

Authors: Timothy M Brock 

Publication date:  05 Feb 2009

What is it?

The Edinburgh surgical sciences qualification (ESSQ) is an innovative programme developed by the University of Edinburgh and the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. It is a part time, modular course that is delivered entirely online. The course provides a strong grounding in basic sciences as applied to clinical surgery, and the level of learning is equivalent to the new intercollegiate membership of the Royal College of Surgeons syllabus (MRCS).

What do you do?

The course is delivered on a modular basis, with topics changing every two weeks. Students are given online case based scenarios, recommended reading, and multiple choice questions to complete before taking part in a focused, expert led discussion of each topic.

In the first year, modules are focused on applied anatomy, physiology, and pathology. In the second year, these address surgical management, preoperative and postoperative care, and academic surgery. The final year consists of a written dissertation on an agreed research topic, and allows students to take part in research in their chosen surgical specialty. The course is structured so that students can exit the course at year one to obtain a postgraduate certificate; at year two, a postgraduate diploma; and at the end of year three, a masters in surgical sciences (MSc). The qualifications are accredited by the University of Edinburgh.

Who is it suitable for?

The course is suitable for doctors in foundation and the early years of surgical training. It was designed to fit in with the busy schedules of aspiring surgeons, and the online nature of the course allows learning to be flexible and unrestricted—students this year are from all over the world.

The first two years are intended for people wishing to improve their basic surgical knowledge and they provide a taught syllabus similar to the mandatory intercollegiate membership of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) examination. The final year is intended for people who might wish to explore a career in academic surgery or to develop relevant surgical research skills.

Is there an exam?

In years one and two, assessment is primarily through an end of year multiple choice examination, but in-course participation is also assessed. The final year is assessed by a written dissertation.

Would you recommend the course to others?

My experience with the Edinburgh surgical sciences qualification has been a positive one. I have found the online course content to be both interesting and in depth. The tutors are approachable and along with the other students they facilitate excellent intellectual debate. Although 10 hours of study a week are recommended, the online nature of the course allows flexibility. I have found the scenario and tutor led group learning particularly advantageous and stimulating as I revise for my intercollegiate membership of the Royal College of Surgeons examinations.

Further information

• Entry requirements and further information regarding the ESSQ can be found at www.essq.rcsed.ac.uk

• The ESSQ costs £4650 over three years, which includes one attempt at the part A intercollegiate MRCS (Edinburgh) examination.

Competing interests: None declared.

Timothy M Brock foundation year one doctor South-East Scotland academic programme

 t.m.brock@doctors.org.uk