Dear colleagues!

There is a burning question on my mind. Has anybody done one oft these two part-time distance learning MSc programs - MSc Neonatology (University of Southampton - https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/neonatology-masters-msc) or MSc Neonatal Medicine (Cardiff University - https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught/courses/course/neonatal-medicine-msc-part-time)? If so, what was your experience with it? Would you do it all over again? Was it worth its money? Was it compatible with working full-time?

Initially I wanted to join a PhD program, but unfortunately this is almost impossible right now and probably for the next few years at my hospital as there are almost exclusively neonatal clinicians working here although it's a (relatively new) university hospital. That's why I am searching for academic alternatives and found these two already mentioned programs.

Hi,

I did MS in Neonatology with the University of Southampton, it is an excellent experience.

I am a better neonatologist after completing each module, this is the bottom line.

Of course, the degree depends hugely on self learning, but who and how can motivate you, that is the essence of how effective that kind of learning.

Each module is divided into 3 parts: 1- online discussion about a subject , the tutor starts a thread and stimulate the participants to engage in the discussion and show your expertise,  your knowledge and your efforts to search new evidence. So it is not about a lecture you read and retain some information and forget them later. 

There is a mark for online contribution in the discussions (quality and quantity)

2- mcq exam at the end .

3- Assignment.

Four  years after completing the haemodynamics module, as an example,  I am still on the track , at a higher level of knowledge and understanding. Ironically most of NICUs are adopting traditions and dogmas for managing hypotension and PPHN, and it is so challenging to change, but maintaining up-to-date insightful knowledge, you will be capable of implementing improvements.

A great advantage of the degree us that you will gain a  huge experience in academic writing , through the online discussions and the assignments. 

Evidence based practice, this degree is the real chance to understand, practice and be capable to teach EBP.

Money wise , yes costly, but there is a chance to do modules as CPD , with less expensive fees.

Time and convenience,  even if u do one module per year, that is very good.

If you do Neonatal nutrition in 3 and half months then work on teaching and improving practice in your unit , for the rest of the year then move to another module. This is how it should work,  not just a line in my CV , it is a way of life as a good neonatologist 

It is convenient, yes a hard work but generally convenient. 

Good luck

Omayma Hemida 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for the information. 

 

Do you know how much does it cost? 

Hi. This is Chakradhar. I had my PGD in neonatology CPD mode from Southampton. I have studied and finished my Academic MSc in Neonatal Medicine from Cardiff University. It standalone module based study. There six modules in PGD from cardiff. First year includes 3modules namely Acute respiratory care, Acute cardiac care and neonatal critical care. Second year includes acute neurological care, gut and  nutrition and neonatal & paediatric transport. After successfully completing the pg diploma in neonatal medicine, you should apply for MSc dissertation year (3rd year) and work under two supervisors, 1. a senior neonatologist supervisor and 2.second supervisor for any other assistance. You are evaluated on basis of 1.weekly group discussion which contributes 5% of your final scores, quality eb discussion given priority rather than quantity of statements, 2. Weekly mcqs 3. Formative and summative assignments. You will enjoy the evidence based  teachings from experienced faculty. Other self modules teach you regarding plagiarism, paraphrasing, EBM, research tools, referencing system..... many more.

     I had completed all 5 Note modules from Southampton (ESN) by CPD mode. Included modules were 1.neonatal nutrition 2.neonatal neurology 3.neonatal pharmacology 4. Hemodynamics and cardiology and 5.neonatal pulmonology. Dr Mike and Dr Neelum Gupta will interact with students during discussion. 50 hours live sessions with direct contact with students and 200hrs indirect learning. 

     I had enjoyed both the degrees and working confidently in my nicu with bedside echo, cUSS, Cranial doppler ultrasound, lung USS and abdomen esp early identification of NEC.. etc.

     Regarding Fees structure, it  hikes every year slightly. It's online, standalone module based learning, convenient, you can study from your office or home. Vast online library available .... all literature available at your fingertips.