Skin Anatomy and Physiology Micro-credential

This flexible micro-credential is designed for anyone who has graduated from a biological, biomedical, biochemical, bioengineering, life-science, or clinical background such as doctors or nurses. Professionals working in industry with pharmaceuticals or personal care, or academics in research environments are also more than welcome to apply.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this micro-credential, you will be able to:

• To identify key structures of skin anatomy.
• To describe the role of skin stem cells in skin renewal.
• To recognize how the skin contributes significantly to the innate immune system.
• To explain the beneficial role of the skin microbiome in skin health.
• To examine differences in skin pigmentation, and skin interactions with light.

• Skin Anatomy & Histology.
• Skin Stem Cells.
• Skin Immune System.
• Skin Microbiome.
• Skin Interaction with Light.
• Skin Pigmentation.

This micro-credential has been developed by experts in the field of skin physiology at the Charles Institute of Dermatology with up-to-date information in a fast-moving field. The graduates of this course will hold a micro-credential, demonstrating a postgraduate aptitude for Skin Anatomy and Physiology which may benefit their career progression. The increased understanding gained from this course may also contribute to increased performance, or new innovations in your line of work.

This micro-credential is designed to be completed independently, in your own time. We call this asynchronous learning which we hope can empower potential students who may be working already in industry or working in part-time jobs with moving hours to be able to fit this course into their schedule. The course is made up of a series of interactive online lectures, which are complemented by online resources such as papers, videos and transcripts of the lessons. 

This course is 2.5 ECTS and takes approx. 6 weeks to complete.

Applicants should have a BSc (NFQ Level 8 or international equivalent) in a Biology-based or Life Sciences-based degree from a recognised Irish or international third-level institution in subjects allied to medicine i.e., anatomy, physiology & pathology; pharmacology, toxicology; pharmacy; analytical Sciences; and laboratory Practice. Professional experience in pharmaceutical or personal care industries are also considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proof of English proficiency as per UCD's minimum English language requirements.

All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

• 20 Question MCQ exam of 45 minutes in length.

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment.

A related micro-credential that might be of interest to you is Hair Follicle Anatomy and Physiology.

If you have any questions about this micro-credential, or would like to speak to a UCD staff member, please contact (opens in a new window)microcredentials@ucd.ie.

Please note: Learners can avail of only one form of funding per application. 

Micro-Credentials Learner Fee Subsidy-Human Capital Initiative Pillar 3

The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy has been introduced to enable more learners to address critical skills gaps and engage with lifelong learning through micro-credentials. The HCI Pillar 3 Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidy is funded by Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. 

HCI Micro-credential Learner Fee Subsidies are available on identified micro-credentials only and in fixed numbers from March 2024 until October 2025.  

Please see Eligibility Criteria for further information.