Online degree blends assessments with distance learning

A new online learning course will soon mean surgeons may be able to further expand their expertise.

The University of East Anglia (UEA) has created a degree to educate experts on how to properly conduct oncoplastic breast surgery, which can be accessed via the worldwide web.

Blending e-learning with mentoring and assessment techniques, it has been developed with the support of the Royal College of Surgeons, the Association of Breast Surgery and the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons.

One of the developers, professor Sam Leinster of medical education at UEA, commented that the project is innovative and exciting for young professionals.

"It means that in the final three years leading up to them becoming consultants, they will be receiving the highest quality of training in this field anywhere in the world," he said.

The Washington Post recently reported that Georgetown University is utilising online degrees to create extra places on courses.