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Advanced Certificate of General Dermatology

Learn how to assess more complex cases and make differential diagnoses for various dermatological conditions.

Advanced Certificate of General Dermatology

CPD

29 hrs Education 49 hrs Performance 8.5 hrs Outcome

Delivery

Fully online
Learn from
anywhere

Duration

78 hours
Self-paced
Start anytime

Overview

Presented by noted dermatologists, this GP dermatology course will increase your clinical knowledge, teach you how to assess more complex and rare cases of the skin and hair, and make differential diagnoses for various dermatological conditions. 

Who it is for and what you will learn:

  • Learn various techniques allowing treatment of more complex cases in the primary care setting. 

  • This course is for medical doctors, International Medical Graduates, registered nurses, dermal therapists, pharmacists, and degree-qualified health professionals.

  • CPD-accredited and university-assured.

Your education pathway

Professional Certificate

Establish foundational clinical knowledge and essential skills.

Learn more

Advanced Certificate

Develop advanced techniques and diagnostic capabilities.

You are here

Professional Diploma

Master complex cases and achieve high-level clinical proficiency.

Learn more

Learning outcomes

  • Diagnose and treat dermatological emergencies in a timely manner.

  • Effectively manage vitiligo, psoriasis, skin infestations, sarcoidosis, lichen planus, and more.

  • Recognise dermatomyositis, an uncommon yet severe inflammatory skin disorder.

  • Manage difficult cases of atopic dermatitis, a prevalent inflammatory skin condition.

  • Increase your clinical skills to assess more complex and rare dermatology cases and make differential diagnoses for various dermatological conditions. 

  • Gain knowledge that is often lacking from undergraduate medical studies to confidently address your patients’ skin, hair, and nail concerns on a day-to-day basis. 

Course contents

Dermatololgical emergencies, Vitiligo treatments and Infestations
Dermatological Emergencies, Vitiligo Treatments, and Infestations is a comprehensive course designed for healthcare professionals to enhance their skills in diagnosing and managing a diverse range of dermatological conditions. Covering critical topics such as life-threatening skin emergencies, innovative treatments for vitiligo, and effective management of infestations, the course provides evidence-based, practical insights to improve patient outcomes. Presented by Dr. Christopher Ross, a leading dermatologist, the program combines theoretical knowledge with real-world applications using case studies and dermoscopic imaging.
Treatment of dermatomyositis and sarcoidosis
Treatment of Dermatomyositis and Sarcoidosis is an advanced course for healthcare professionals designed to enhance understanding and management of these challenging multisystem diseases. Covering systemic treatments, side effect management, and emerging therapies, this course equips practitioners with the tools to navigate complex cases effectively. With an emphasis on evidence-based practices, participants will learn to balance efficacy with safety, addressing the dermatological and systemic manifestations of dermatomyositis and sarcoidosis under the expert guidance of Professor Richard Usatine.
Systemic treatment options for psoriasis and Systemic treatment of Lichen Planus
The "Systemic Treatment Options for Psoriasis and Lichen Planus" course offers a thorough exploration of systemic therapies for managing psoriasis and lichen planus. Covering oral and biologic treatments, this course equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge to select the most appropriate therapeutic approaches for patients, based on individual health profiles. From traditional treatments like methotrexate and cyclosporine to cutting-edge biologics, participants will learn about the risks and benefits of each option. The course also addresses patient-specific considerations, ensuring a holistic approach to managing these chronic skin conditions.
Atopic dermatitis and Acne 2
"Atopic Dermatitis and Acne 2" is an advanced dermatology course that equips healthcare professionals with practical insights into diagnosing and managing atopic dermatitis and acne. The course explores systemic treatments for atopic dermatitis, from topical therapies to steroid-sparing options, and addresses differential diagnoses and treatment strategies for acne, including severe and hormonal forms. With a focus on evidence-based guidelines and real-world application, participants gain the skills to provide tailored care for these common dermatological conditions.
Patch testing and contact dermatitis and Cuteaneous lymphomas
Patch Testing, Contact Dermatitis, and Cutaneous Lymphomas is a specialised course designed for healthcare professionals to enhance their expertise in diagnosing and managing complex dermatological conditions. This course explores the techniques and interpretation of patch testing, differentiates between allergic and irritant contact dermatitis, and delves into the diagnosis and management of cutaneous lymphomas. Through case studies, clinical images, and evidence-based guidelines, participants will gain practical tools for addressing these challenging conditions in clinical practice.
Rare nail disorders and Cicatricial alopecia
Delve into the intricate world of rare nail disorders and cicatricial alopecia with this comprehensive course. Designed for medical professionals, it equips learners to diagnose, manage, and treat uncommon yet impactful conditions affecting nails and hair. Explore detailed insights into diverse nail abnormalities, their causes, and presentations, followed by an in-depth study of scarring and non-scarring alopecia. With evidence-based content, clinical case studies, and high-quality dermoscopic visuals, this course is a must for enhancing diagnostic precision and treatment efficacy in dermatological practice.
Hidradenitis suppurativa and Bullous pemphigoid
"Hidradenitis Suppurativa and Bullous Pemphigoid" is a specialised course aimed at healthcare professionals managing chronic inflammatory skin conditions. This program offers in-depth knowledge on identifying, staging, and treating hidradenitis suppurativa and bullous pemphigoid, incorporating evidence-based practices, lifestyle interventions, and advanced therapies. Through clinical cases, diagnostic insights, and treatment algorithms, participants will develop the expertise to improve patient outcomes and quality of life in complex dermatological care.
Challenging general dermatology cases
Deepen your expertise in dermatology with the "Challenging General Dermatology Cases" course. This advanced program provides an in-depth exploration of nine complex dermatology cases, focusing on accurate diagnosis, differential considerations, and innovative management strategies. With practical case studies, clinical images, and expert guidance, you'll gain confidence in managing rare and complicated conditions like dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, and cutaneous lymphomas. Perfect for practitioners looking to refine their diagnostic acumen and enhance treatment outcomes, this course equips you to tackle even the most challenging dermatological presentations.

Meet your instructors

Dr Christopher Ross Dr Christopher Ross BSc (BiomedSc) (Hons) BMBS FACD Dr Christopher Ross

Dermatologist

Dr Christopher Ross is an Adelaide-based Dermatologist who completed a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science with Honours at Adelaide University in 2004, before completing his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at Flinders University in 2008.

Dermatology training was conducted at Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Flinders Medical Centre and Royal Adelaide Hospital; he was awarded Fellowship of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD) in 2016. Dr Ross has published multiple articles in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology and has written and presented several courses in General Dermatology with HealthCert for teaching purposes.

Dr Ross has a keen interest in rural dermatology, providing outreach services to Darwin and rural South Australia. He also holds the position of Visiting Medical Specialist at Flinders Medical Centre, providing care and teaching to Dermatology registrars. Dr Ross has an interest in all general dermatology including acne, eczema, psoriasis and hair loss.

Dr Ross become a founding member of DermoDirect, which is an online teledermatology service that provides a valuable expert service to rural areas of Australia. He also is a founder of Diagnode, the telehealth platform behind Dermodirect.

Professor Richard Usatine Professor Richard Usatine MD PhD Professor Richard Usatine

Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Texas, USA

Founder and medical director of the University Health System Skin Clinic in San Antonio, USA

Professor Richard Usatine is the Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Texas. He is the author of nine books and over 120 papers, founder of the Interactive Dermatology Atlas on the web, and is the most recognised skin cancer presenter in the USA. Since 2000, he has been chosen yearly by his peers to be included in The Best Doctors in America. He is also the national chair of the yearly Skin Course put on by the American Academy of Family Physicians, and is the founder and medical director of the University Health System Skin Clinic in San Antonio.

Prof Usatine has been involved in Global Health through his work in Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Haiti and Ethiopia. In 2000, Prof Usatine was recognised as the national recipient of the Humanism in Medicine Award, by the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Professor Richard Usatine Professor Richard Usatine MD PhD Professor Richard Usatine

Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Texas, USA

Founder and medical director of the University Health System Skin Clinic in San Antonio, USA

Professor Richard Usatine is the Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Texas. He is the author of nine books and over 120 papers, founder of the Interactive Dermatology Atlas on the web, and is the most recognised skin cancer presenter in the USA. Since 2000, he has been chosen yearly by his peers to be included in The Best Doctors in America. He is also the national chair of the yearly Skin Course put on by the American Academy of Family Physicians, and is the founder and medical director of the University Health System Skin Clinic in San Antonio.

Prof Usatine has been involved in Global Health through his work in Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Haiti and Ethiopia. In 2000, Prof Usatine was recognised as the national recipient of the Humanism in Medicine Award, by the Association of American Medical Colleges.

XL xA/Prof. Caterina Longo
Dr Christopher Ross Dr Christopher Ross BSc (BiomedSc) (Hons) BMBS FACD Dr Christopher Ross

Dermatologist

Dr Christopher Ross is an Adelaide-based Dermatologist who completed a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science with Honours at Adelaide University in 2004, before completing his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at Flinders University in 2008.

Dermatology training was conducted at Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Flinders Medical Centre and Royal Adelaide Hospital; he was awarded Fellowship of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD) in 2016. Dr Ross has published multiple articles in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology and has written and presented several courses in General Dermatology with HealthCert for teaching purposes.

Dr Ross has a keen interest in rural dermatology, providing outreach services to Darwin and rural South Australia. He also holds the position of Visiting Medical Specialist at Flinders Medical Centre, providing care and teaching to Dermatology registrars. Dr Ross has an interest in all general dermatology including acne, eczema, psoriasis and hair loss.

Dr Ross become a founding member of DermoDirect, which is an online teledermatology service that provides a valuable expert service to rural areas of Australia. He also is a founder of Diagnode, the telehealth platform behind Dermodirect.

Dr Zoe Apalla Dr Zoe Apalla MD PhD Dr Zoe Apalla

First Dermatology Department of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

Dr Zoe Apalla was board certified in dermatology in 2008 at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. She was trained in dermatopathology at the St John’s Institute of Dermatology in London in 2010 and obtained her PhD degree at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2013.

Zoe has worked as a consultant in the First Dermatology Department of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki since 2010. She oversees the Supportive Oncology Outpatient Clinic and the Skin Cancer Outpatient Clinic, and the department’s dermatopathology laboratory. She also holds General Dermatology and Inflammatory Dermatoses Outpatient Clinics.

Zoe’s main research fields include skin oncology, melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, topical treatments, photodynamic therapy and dermatoscopy. She has published more than 100 peer-reviewed scientific articles in international journals and has lectured at many international and national congresses and meetings.

Dr Jonathan Karnes Dr Jonathan Karnes MD Dr Jonathan Karnes

Family Physician

Dr Jonathan B. Karnes is a family medicine physician with special fellowship training in dermatology. He is employed by MDFMR Dermatology Services and is a member of Maine General Medical Center's active staff. He is also a faculty member in the Maine Dartmouth Family Medicine Residency program.

Jonathan’s special interest areas include:

  • Advancement flaps

  • Burn therapy (excluding burns requiring grafting)

  • Cryotherapy of skin lesions

  • Destruction of malignant skin lesions by electrosurgery or cryosurgery

  • Excision/biopsy of skin lesions without grafting

  • Fricke graft for small skin defects

  • Incision and drainage of superficial abscesses and haematomas

  • Intermediate and complex facial repairs

  • Local infiltration anaesthesia with minor nerve blocks

  • Patch tests for allergy diagnosis

  • Phototherapy

Dr Christopher Ross Dr Christopher Ross BSc (BiomedSc) (Hons) BMBS FACD Dr Christopher Ross

Dermatologist

Dr Christopher Ross is an Adelaide-based Dermatologist who completed a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science with Honours at Adelaide University in 2004, before completing his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery at Flinders University in 2008.

Dermatology training was conducted at Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Flinders Medical Centre and Royal Adelaide Hospital; he was awarded Fellowship of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD) in 2016. Dr Ross has published multiple articles in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology and has written and presented several courses in General Dermatology with HealthCert for teaching purposes.

Dr Ross has a keen interest in rural dermatology, providing outreach services to Darwin and rural South Australia. He also holds the position of Visiting Medical Specialist at Flinders Medical Centre, providing care and teaching to Dermatology registrars. Dr Ross has an interest in all general dermatology including acne, eczema, psoriasis and hair loss.

Dr Ross become a founding member of DermoDirect, which is an online teledermatology service that provides a valuable expert service to rural areas of Australia. He also is a founder of Diagnode, the telehealth platform behind Dermodirect.

Other ways to study this topic

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CPD accreditation and course details

CPD Accreditation and Activities

Accredited CPD activities in this certificate

Each module in this certificate is an RACGP and ACRRM approved CPD activity. The certificate provides 50 hours of CPD for medical professionals in Australia.*

RACGP Activity Number ACRRM Activity Number Activity Title Education Hours Performance Hours
406987 38939 Dermatololgical emergencies, Vitiligo treatments and Infestations 4.5 6.0
406991 38940 Treatment of dermatomyositis and sarcoidosis 4.0 6.0
407010 38941 Systemic treatment options for psoriasis and Systemic treatment of Lichen Planus 4.0 6.0
1431426 38942 Atopic dermatitis and Acne 2 4.0 6.0
1431450 38943 Patch testing and contact dermatitis and Cuteaneous lymphomas 4.0 6.0
1431474 38944 Rare nail disorders and Cicatricial alopecia 4.0 6.0
1431491 38945 Hidradenitis suppurativa and Bullous pemphigoid 4.0 6.0
1431505 38946 Challenging general dermatology cases 0.5 7.0
Total hours 29.0 49.0

*When the optional outcome measurement activity (minimum 5 hours) is completed. See our FAQs for more information about annual CPD requirements.

View the CPD Hours for all HealthCert Education activities. 

Outcome measurement

The purpose of outcome measurement activities is to improve your clinical confidence in managing an identified learning gap. Outcome measurement activities are not a requirement of our Professional Certificate of Advanced Certificate courses; they are a requirement for Australian CPD purposes.

HealthCert Education provides a variety of outcome measurements activities to suit your needs:

  • Outcome Improvement Activities relating to specific topics within a course. They are designed to examine current clinical care, align clinical practice with best practice standards, and identify opportunities for improvement. These activities are accredited with RACGP and ACRRM.

  • Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) options on a specific topic or your identified area. A generic template and guides are provided. PDSAs are self-submitted activities.

  • Additional activities with guides include Test Measurement, Pathology Results, Practice Meetings, Peer Review, Practice Accreditation, Project Management, Student Supervision, and Pick your own topics (General Practice and Log Book methods). These are self-submitted activities.

Entry Requirements

The Advanced Certificate of General Dermatology is tailored for general practitioner training and suitable for medical doctors, degree-qualified medical professionals, registered nurses, pharmacists, and dermal therapists.

The prerequisite for this course is the successful completion of the Professional Certificate of General Dermatology (or qualification deemed equivalent). HealthCert also recommends successful completion of at least 25 cases of general dermatology prior to enrolment.

Participants do not have to pass an IELTS test but, as the courses are delivered in English, proficiency in listening, reading and writing English is assumed.

Participants will require access to a computer/laptop, an internet connection and a basic level of technology proficiency to access and navigate the online learning portal.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

Professionally recognised qualifications and prior studies may be recognised for entry into this course if the learning outcomes match exactly. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for an individual assessment of your prior qualifications and experience.

Certification

This certificate course meets the minimum 50 hours CPD annual requirement across all three mandatory CPD activity types, provided an outcome measurement activity with a minimum of five hours is completed. You may use an optional HealthCert outcome measurement activity or develop your own.

Outcome measurement activities are not a requirement of Professional or Advanced Certificates.

Upon successful completion of the course requirements, course participants will receive the Advanced Certificate of General Dermatology and CPD hours.

This certificate course:

  • Is quality-assured by Bond University.

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).

  • Is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP).

  • Is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP). The HKCFP recognises all courses endorsed by the RACGP. Hours are calculated differently.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Dubai. The number of CPD hours must be stated on the certificate. Please contact PLD@dhcr.gov.ae for more information.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in the UK. CPD events overseas, applicable to a doctor’s scope of practice, may be submitted for revalidation. Please confirm with your Responsible Officer.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Canada through the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Contact mainprocredits@cfpc.ca for more information.

  • Meets World Federation of Medical Education standards.

  • Qualifies for certified clinical attachments in General Dermatology in Austria at the University of Vienna.

  • Provides credit for Postgraduate Diploma in General Dermatology which is studied online at the Rila Institute of Health Sciences which in turn provides credit for a Master of Science in Dermatology awarded by the University of Plymouth (UK).

  • Has been independently developed with subject experts and does not receive education grants from any pharmaceutical company.

To learn more about the delivery of certificates in Australia and overseas, please visit our FAQs.

Pathways

Professional Diploma Pathway

This course is the second stage of the professional diploma pathway. The full pathway is: Professional Certificate of General Dermatology, Advanced Certificate of General Dermatology, Professional Diploma of General Dermatology.

Postgraduate Pathway

This pathway is suitable for doctors who are mainly interested in clinical academic study. The Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology is studied through the Rila Institute of Health Sciences and awarded by the University of Plymouth (UK).

There are three modules in the Postgraduate Diploma. Medical professionals who successfully complete the HealthCert Professional Certificate of General Dermatology, Advanced Certificate of General Dermatology and Professional Diploma of General Dermatology will be eligible to apply for Accreditation of Prior Certified Learning (APCL) for module 3 of the Rila Institute/Plymouth University Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology.

The Postgraduate Diploma is mainly delivered online. No practical workshops will be required due to the APCL from the HealthCert qualifications. Overall there will be a time saving of 40 per cent of the postgraduate program due to the APCL. Exams will be held in Perth, Western Australia.

When the Postgraduate Diploma has been successfully completed, medical professionals can apply for credit from the Postgraduate Diploma to the Master of Science in the specialism awarded by the University of Plymouth

Certified Clinical Attachments Pathway

Clinical Attachments in Dermatology are optional and available on a 1:1 or small group basis. These provide the opportunity to observe skin cancer medicine treatments and ask questions of the expert performing the treatments.

Clinical Attachments in Dermatology are currently available at the University of Vienna under the supervision of Professor Harald Kittler.

University quality-assured and CPD-accredited education provider

This organisation is an RACGP-accredited CPD provider under the RACGP CPD Program.

RACGP logo
ACRRM logo
AMA
Bond-Sep-09-2026-05-46-43-7981-AM
Griffith
IDS-1
Graz
Vienna
University of South Wales
Torrens
NSCC-2
Rila
UQ logo

Frequently asked questions

What are the costs and payment options of the course?

Fees will vary based on the program and study option selected (fully online vs online + optional practical workshop). Payments can be made upfront or in monthly instalments. Special rates and various payment options are available. GP registrars and doctors in training enjoy a scholarship of up to $500. Talk to us to learn more.

What is the Alumni Support Program?

Completion of any HealthCert course or attendance at an event will enable you to access the HealthCert Alumni Program which includes:

  • Access to special alumni rates for new courses when they are released.

  • Special alumni price for HealthCert Conferences.

  • Exclusive advanced access to HealthCert events.

  • Regular Alumni Webinars pertaining to the course(s) you have attended. These will provide content review of the course and an opportunity to discuss case studies.

  • Access to the video lectures as seen during the course(s) that you have attended.

How will I receive my certificate?

HealthCert Education is pleased to issue digital credentials for alumni. Digital credentials are a permanent online record of your successful completion of a HealthCert course and are issued to all course participants in addition to PDF certificates. If you are based in Australia, you also have the option to order a hard copy of your digital certificate for a small additional fee.

How long will the course take to complete?

The recommended study duration of this certificate course is listed at the top of this page. The estimated duration includes study of the pre-course activities and readings, online lectures, live tutorials, and online assessment. This self-paced course offers the flexibility of 100% online study in your own time, at your own pace, in your own home or office, with no mandatory face-to-face requirements. You are not required to be online at specific times but can view and replay video lectures at your convenience.

Is this course recognised in my country?

All HealthCert courses meet World Federation of Medical Education standards. This certificate course qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) in Australia. It is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) in New Zealand. It is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP) in China. It is a self-submitted activity in Dubai and the United Kingdom. It is a self-submitted activity through the College of Family Physicians in Canada. If you live or work outside one of the above-mentioned countries, please contact us on admin@healthcert.com to discuss whether this course can be recognised in your country.

Cancellation policy: What happens if I can't attend a practical workshop?

Course/workshop cancellations and transfers policy

Should you be unable to attend a course or practical workshop you have registered for, please inform us asap at admin@healthcert.com so we can make your place available to waitlisted doctors.

Charges may apply for course/workshop cancellations and/or transfers. Click here for details.

What our alumni say

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