Medical Secretary Diploma (Short)

Course Duration: Open for 12 months – complete within 3-12 months to suit you!

Qualification: NCFE CQ10460 accredited Level 3 Diploma plus 250 CPD points

Our home study/distance learning Medical Secretary Diploma (Short) is designed to train you to a professional standard for a rewarding career as a top Medical Secretary or Administrator, focusing on just the core 4 units.  This is a great entry course for those looking to train quickly with enough skills to apply for Medical Secretary and Administrator jobs.

The course is suitable for beginners as well as those already working as a Medical Secretary or Administrator who are looking to gain recognition for their knowledge and skills or who wish to have a refresher course.

This is a shorter course compared to the Medical Secretary Diploma (Full) course which covers a wider range of skills and knowledge and the Medical Secretary Diploma (Full) course also includes the AMSPAR/City & Guilds Medical Terminology exam.

The qualification is accredited by NCFE CQ at Level 3 and is also CPD recognised (Continuous Professional Development).  You will receive certificates listing the units you have studied.  You can add on the remaining units to gain the full Diploma.

Many NHS Trusts including hospitals and medical centres have trained their staff on this course over the years and it is well recognised in the medical profession.


Accreditation by NCFE CQ and CPD

NCFE CQ10460 – Medical Secretary Diploma Level 3

CQ10464 – Teeline Shorthand Diploma Level 3 (Additional Option/Cost)

Level 3 is advanced level and the course has been benchmarked using Ofqual’s QCF level descriptors to allow you to consider the depth of study, and level of difficulty involved.  Further information about NCFE Awarding Body and accreditation.


Course Overview

Course Material  There are 2 text books included in this course plus a wide range of course material including demonstration videos, worked examples, build up exercises, information booklets, audio files, interactive typing program etc.

Tutor Support  Qualified and experienced tutors will be working with you throughout the course providing feedback to submitted work, guidance and tutoring via email with the option to book phone/video calls when required.

Accessing Your Course  You will access your course online from your computer, tablet or phone on the move or from home via your Learning Hub Account.

Course Open  Up to 12 months, giving you plenty of flexibility and “time out” for holidays, illness, moving house etc.

Studying  From as little as 2 hours a week or more to suit you – you decide! However, outstanding students and those who study full time can be fast-tracked and potentially complete within 3 months.

100% Complete at home  The whole course, including Assessments can be completed at home – except the external City & Guilds Medical Terminology exam if you choose to sit this.

Careers Advice  CV design, interviews, support whilst applying for jobs included and for up to 2 years after completion.

Students’ Success  Students are successful in gaining a new job, promotion or have more job security upon successful completion of their course.  Some students secure a new job part way through their course.


Course Content

You will study a wide range of topics covering medical terminology which is key knowledge for a Medical Secretary/Administrator.

Basic Term Construction
•     Digestive System
•     Respiratory System
•     Cardiovascular System
•     Blood and Lymphatic System
•     Oncology
•     Renal System
•     Male Reproduction System
•     Female Reproductive System
•     Pregnancy, Childbirth and Paediatrics
•     Muscular System
•     Nervous System
•     Connective System
•     Infection and Disease
•     Pathology and Drugs
•     Sensory Organs
•     Endocrine System
•     Revision and Mocks

  • Medical Audio Transcription
  • Medical Documents
  • Touch Typing and Speed Development – Interactive Program

Teeline Shorthand is a very useful skill to have for taking down notes from telephone conversations, instructions and of course for minute taking at business meetings.  Having this skill enhances your CV and enables you to stand out from the crowd as well as helping you to cope with your various roles and responsibilities.

Further details can be found here: Teeline Shorthand


We have specific start dates when you can start a course, with limited places available.

Tuesday 7th - Last few places

Tuesday 4th - Places available
Tuesday 11th - Places available
Tuesday 18th - Places available
Tuesday 25th - Places available

Next Step

If you would like to ask any questions, or would like some course and careers advice about working as a Medical Secretary for the NHS, medical centres, pharmaceutical companies or private hospitals, please contact our Careers Adviser, Penny Lewis.

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