Melbourne Academy of Surgical Anatomy
Welcome to MASA:
The Melbourne Academy of Surgical Anatomy
Offering lifelong learning opportunities in surgical education and training
An exciting development as part of the Department of Anatomy and Physiology in the School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Melbourne.
Where leading surgeons develop positive impact and improve patient outcomes
Want to be a world leader in clinical anatomy?
MASA offers lifelong learning opportunities in surgical education and training, micro-credentials, research and commercialisation. Surgery is at our core, but MASA supports the full breadth of the clinical application of anatomy.
Tap into internationally recognised, specialised short courses and customised training programs that are designed to set the brightest minds apart.
- Building on the long history of surgical anatomy training and expertise at the University of Melbourne.
- Access an extensive collection of ProSections, developed from one of Australasia’s biggest and oldest Body Donor Programs.
- Receive targeted examination support from awarding-winning teachers.
- Draw on the expertise from industry and surgical leaders in the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct.
- Be taught by internationally-renowned anatomists and surgeons with expertise in a range of specialties.
Surgical complications cost lives and have financial implications for the economy. Elite training and specialisation decrease incidence and related time in hospitals.
If you practice in surgery and medicine, MASA is how to keep your edge.
Why choose MASA at the University of Melbourne
Since 1853 this University has been contributing to the health and wellbeing of our society. At MASA we train the very best clinicians, work on internationally competitive research and graduate the brightest students in surgical anatomy.
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School of Biomedical Sciences
Melbourne has been teaching and researching biomedical sciences for almost 160 years. In 2020, we celebrate five years since the School’s inception – now, the largest of its kind in Australia.
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Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences
The Faculty is renowned for global leadership in health research, policy and practice. Our six Schools recognise the strength of partnerships and collaboration.
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Body Donor Program
The University has one of the longest running donor programs in the country, established over 100 years ago. Its important purpose is anatomical examination and the teaching and study of anatomy.
School of Biomedical Sciences - Advancing Human Health
Watch below on Vimeo.

Research and Teaching Excellence
Outstanding facilities, more than 85 research groups and a commitment to discovery makes the School of Biomedical Sciences in demand among the brightest minds in biomedical research.
Our expertise in Anatomy extends from our undergraduate, Masters and MD programs including Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Science and Nursing to our Graduate Diploma in Surgical Anatomy. We also offer short courses in continuing and professional skills development, sub-discipline specialty training, advanced learning for fellows and consultant surgeons, through to industry training and engagement.
Immerse yourself in world leading research, clinical collaborations and student opportunities in our research intensive laboratories such as the Taylor Research Group and Fogg Lab of Surgical Anatomy.
MASA: at the heart of the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct
Be part of the largest biomedical precinct in the southern hemisphere – a hub of innovation, exceptional collaboration opportunities and cutting-edge facilities.

Surgeons must be very careful
When they take the knife!
Underneath their fine incisions
stirs the culprit - Life!
Emily Dickinson

Graduate Diploma in Surgical Anatomy
Looking to further your career in surgery or radiology?
Learn from world-leading experts and gain the perfect preparation for the Generic Surgical Sciences Exam and Surgical Education Training (SET) applications.
- 6 months intensive
- Accredited by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
- Taught by leading anatomists and surgeons
- Build confidence in anatomical knowledge
- Strengthen your portfolio with targeted approaches in teamwork, communication and technical ability
What they say
This is an exciting time for biomedicine worldwide, and the School of Biomedical Sciences is at the forefront of teaching and research with an ultimate aim of advancing human health.
Professor Jennifer Wilkinson-Berka
Head of the School of Biomedical Sciences
The Graduate Diploma of Surgical Anatomy offers you the unique and unparalleled opportunity to take your anatomical knowledge, dissection ability and communication skills to the next level.
Associate Professor in Clinical Anatomy PhD, FRCPS (Glasg)
Contact us
Prof Jennifer Wilkinson-Berka Head, School of Biomedical Sciences jennifer.wilkinsonberka@unimelb.edu.au |
Fanoula Mouratidis Office Manager to Head of School fanoula@unimelb.edu.au |
Prof Matt Watt Head, Department of Anatomy and Physiology matt.watt@unimelb.edu.au |
A/Prof Quentin Fogg Head of Surgical Anatomy Research Group quentin.fogg@unimelb.edu.au |