Why Master of Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Enhance your clinical experience and expand your surgical skillset with the Master of Minimally Invasive Surgery from Adelaide University.
Minimally invasive surgery is revolutionising the way surgeons perform complex procedures – offering greater precision, smaller incisions and advanced technologies like laparoscopy and robotics.
These techniques significantly reduce recovery times, minimise scarring and lower the risk of complications, making them the preferred approach across various specialties, from gynaecology to urology.
Work at the cutting edge of medical advancements. Open doors to a wide range of career opportunities and become a leader in surgery, research and education. Shape the future of surgery and improve the outcomes and quality of life of your patients.
Overview
Adelaide University’s Master of Minimally Invasive Surgery is designed for surgeons who aspire to make minimally invasive techniques a central aspect of their practice.
Combining supervised clinical placements with research and online study, this degree offers a comprehensive clinical foundation in laparoscopic surgery – providing surgeons from various subspecialties with the expertise needed to excel in this advanced field.
You’ll emerge with a professional qualification that positions you for senior appointments in surgical units, where you’ll confidently and skilfully perform laparoscopic procedures.
The degree also offers opportunities for specialisation, allowing you to focus on an area of choice, such as colorectal surgery, renal transplantation, upper gastrointestinal surgery, vascular surgery, urology or gynaecology.
With access to state-of-the-art training facilities and expert guidance, you’ll develop the skills and knowledge to practise at the forefront of surgical innovation and patient care.
Key features
Study in state-of-the-art facilities with advanced technologies.- Participate in a supervised clinical placement at a government or non-government hospital.
- Access online tutorials and webinars.
- Develop expertise using both low- and high-fidelity laparoscopic training devices.
- Create a research publication suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
- Attend technical clinical workshops in Adelaide.
What you'll learn
The Master of Minimally Invasive Surgery is an intensive one-year program designed to enhance your expertise across three key areas: theory, research and clinical practice.
Theory: You will complete four quadmesters of coursework, which involves studying the provided materials and completing assignments. Each course is designed to deepen your understanding of the principles and techniques of minimally invasive surgery.
Research: Over four quadmesters, you will focus on research methods and ethics. In the first quadmester, you’ll identify a research project you wish to pursue, laying the groundwork for a research publication suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
Clinical Practice: This component includes hands-on clinical experience, online robotic surgery training through the Da Vinci platform and immersive clinical weekends. The experiences are designed to ensure you acquire the practical skills necessary for successful minimally invasive surgery.
Throughout the program, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of anatomy and pathophysiology and develop the skills to perform minimally invasive surgery using high- and low-fidelity laparoscopic devices.
Improve your knowledge of ergonomics and its application in surgery. Work under the supervision of experts who will support your training and teach you to identify and manage operative and post-operative complications. Enhance your ability to critically review and understand relevant literature and advance your research skills by producing a research publication for peer review.
Please note: The surgical position is not automatically offered with the Master of Minimally Invasive Surgery and students are personally responsible for obtaining a suitable position. Job dates should coincide with Adelaide University quadmester dates.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 48 units for all Core courses
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory I
|
Course code
MDST5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Research & Development I
|
Course code
MDST5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory II
|
Course code
MDST5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery-Clinical Practice I
|
Course code
MDST5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory III
|
Course code
MDST5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory IV
|
Course code
MDST5006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimal Invasive Surgery Clinical Practice II
|
Course code
MDST5007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Minimal Invasive Surgery Research & Development II
|
Course code
MDST5008
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory I
|
Course code
MDST5000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory II
|
Course code
MDST5003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Research & Development I
|
Course code
MDST5002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery-Clinical Practice I
|
Course code
MDST5004
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory III
|
Course code
MDST5005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Minimally Invasive Surgery Theory IV
|
Course code
MDST5006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Minimal Invasive Surgery Clinical Practice II
|
Course code
MDST5007
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Minimal Invasive Surgery Research & Development II
|
Course code
MDST5008
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
This degree provides you with the advanced skills and professional qualification required to make minimally invasive techniques a central part of your surgical career. Whether you're a colorectal surgeon looking to perform complex procedures with precision, a gynaecologist aiming to offer your patients faster recoveries with fewer scars, or a urologist specialising in cutting-edge robotic surgeries, this program will give you the skills and qualification to excel.
Industry trends
The global market for minimally invasive surgery is projected to grow significantly, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.9% from 2024 to 2030 (Minimally Invasive Surgery Market Report 2023). This growth will be fuelled by advancements in technology, such as the integration of robotics and artificial intelligence, which are enhancing the precision and success rates of these procedures.
The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and obesity – particularly in aging populations – is also bolstering demand for minimally invasive surgery. Patients and healthcare providers are increasingly opting for these procedures because they offer reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Ask Adelaide University
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
