The NZSCM Members

The Enrolment Process

The Enrolment Process

Starting your journey towards the NZSCM Diploma of Cosmetic Medicine begins here. We welcome applications from vocationally registered medical doctors who are ready to extend their skills through advanced training in cosmetic medicine. The programme builds on your existing medical training with structured workshops, supervised practice, and formal assessment.

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Complete the online application form and upload the required documents:

  • Current Curriculum Vitae

  • Annual Practicing Certificate

  • Certificate of Professional Status (COPS)

  • Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certificate

  • Proof of medicolegal protection/indemnity insurance

  • Professional headshot/photo

An application fee of $1150 (inc. GST) applies. Once your application is received, an invoice will be issued, and the process will begin when payment is confirmed.

Step 2: Interview

Eligible applicants are invited to attend an interview with members of the NZSCM Education Leadership team. This is an opportunity to discuss your interest in cosmetic medicine, your clinical background, and your readiness for postgraduate training.

Step 3: Acceptance

Following the interview, successful applicants will receive a formal offer of enrolment. Once accepted, you will be provided with access to the programme schedule, orientation materials, and details of your first workshops.

Step 4: Training Begins

Your two-year structured training begins with online learning and in-person workshops. Over the course of the programme, you’ll complete practical assessments, written examinations, and an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination). In the third year, you’ll complete your logbook and undergo a practice visit assessment, the final step before graduation.

Enrolment FAQs

Who can apply for the Diploma?

The NZSCM Diploma of Cosmetic Medicine is open only to doctors who hold vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand. Applicants must also have a current practising certificate, indemnity insurance, a Certificate of Professional Status (COPS), a current ACLS certificate, and a professional CV and photo.

Why is the Diploma only open to vocationally registered doctors?

The Diploma is designed to support advanced competency for vocationally registered doctors. This ensures that all trainees have the medical background needed to safely provide cosmetic treatments and meet the high standards expected for patient care in New Zealand.

Do I need to be a Fellow of the RNZCGP before enrolling?

Yes. The Diploma is intensive and cannot be combined with GPEP training. GPs must hold their FRNZCGP fellowship before enrolling. This ensures you can give the Diploma the focus it requires and meet all clinical and academic demands.

This requirement does not apply to doctors who already hold vocational registration in other scopes.

Do I need to be practicing in a cosmetic medicine I start the training?

Yes. You must be in a position to practice what you learn straight after each workshop. The workshops alone will not give you enough exposure to build the skills required for advanced competency. To progress, you need to treat patients regularly and complete logbooks throughout the programme. Many trainees start small by locuming in a cosmetic clinic, renting a room, or adding services to their current practice. You must be actively practicing to succeed.

When do applications open?

You can submit an application at any time. However, the formal selection process including interviews and offers begins in early September for the following year’s intake. We recommend applying before then so your application is ready to be considered as soon as the process starts.

What is the enrolment process?

You’ll complete an application form and upload the required documents. Once your interview is scheduled, you’ll be invoiced for the application fee. After the interview with the Education Leadership Faculty, successful applicants receive a formal offer of enrolment and access to programme materials before the first workshops.

How long does the programme take?

The Diploma is taught over two years, with structured workshops, lectures, exams, and practical training. In the third year, trainees ensure their logbook requirements are complete and undergo a practice visit assessment, the final step before graduation.

What is the time commitment?

Plan for at least 8 hours a week across reading, study, peer group meetings, and treating practice patients. In addition, there are 6–7 in-person workshop weekends each year, held in Auckland.

What does the programme cost?

The application fee is $1150 (incl. GST). Training programme fees are charged annually. A full schedule of fees and financial considerations is available from the NZSCM office.

Is the Diploma eligible for student loan?

No. The Diploma is not NZQA-accredited, so it does not qualify for StudyLink student loans. Fees must be paid directly by the trainee or employer.

What qualification will I receive?

Graduates are awarded the NZSCM Diploma of Cosmetic Medicine, recognised by the Medical Council of New Zealand. Completion of the Diploma also provides eligibility to apply for full NZSCM membership.

Can nurses or dentists enrol in the Diploma?

No. Currently the Diploma is only open to vocationally registered doctors. Nurses and dentists are, however, welcome to attend NZSCM’s Annual Conference and the Anatomy Weekend.