Course Overview

The Certificate of Advanced Studies in Gynaecological Cancers (CAS-GC) is the first competence-based academic programme specifically focused on advancing knowledge and clinical expertise in the management of patients with gynaecological malignancies.

Delivered over 17 months on a part-time basis, the programme combines six online modules with three in-person seminars, offering a comprehensive and flexible learning experience.

Upon successful completion of the course and final exam, participants will be awarded an academic certificate jointly issued by the European School of Oncology and the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI). 
The certificate assigns 14 ECTS credits, corresponding to 381 hours of didactic workload, and is accompanied by a diploma supplement issued by USI.

Programme Details

• Duration: 17 months
• Credits assigned: 14 ECTS
• Structure: 6 online modules + 3 in-person seminars
• Academic partner: Università della Svizzera italiana (USI)
• Next cohort start date: May 2025

ESO College Membership

Participation in this programme grants eligibility to enrol in ESO College.
Members who complete the course and pass the final exam earn 400 ESO College Credits, unlocking access to further professional benefits and opportunities.
Visit ESO College dedicated section for more information on membership and benefits.

Key Dates

• Applications open: 1 September 2024
• Application deadline: 31 December 2024
• Programme start: May 2025 (exact date TBD)
• Seminar 1: 18–21 June 2025 – ESMO Gynaecological Cancers Annual Congress, Vienna, Austria
• Seminar 2: 1–5 February 2026 – Learning to Care Seminar, Padova, Italy
• Seminar 3 + Final Exam: September 2026 – Lugano, Switzerland (exact date TBD)

Contacts

Alexandra Zampetti
azampetti@eso.net

Admission

Admission is via competitive application only. A maximum of 25 participants per cohort will be selected. Applications must be submitted with all required documentation before the published deadline.

Attendance

Attendance at all seminars and modules is mandatory in order to be eligible for the final certificate.

Insurance

Participants must arrange their own personal and travel insurance. ESO accepts no liability for events related to seminar attendance.

Eligibility Criteria

This programme is open to medical doctors with a master’s degree or equivalent, and at least 2 years’ residency in a relevant oncology setting

Additional criteria that may strengthen your application:

• Further professional experience related to the course of studies or completion of an additional qualification in oncology
• Publications (impact factor > 10)
• At least 1 year of international oncology experience.

Admission to the certificate is competitive and limited to 25 selected participants.

Who Should Apply

The ideal candidate profile includes:

• Completed oncology specialisation at least 2 years ago
• Being engaged in clinical trials or research
• Fluency in English
• Age up to 50 years
• Being based in Europe, the Mediterranean region, or Latin America

Priority will be given to candidates who

• Are ESO College members
• Have attended previous ESO activities

How to Apply

Candidates must complete an online application form and upload the following PDF or JPEG documents:

• Recommendation letter (on official letterhead, signed)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copy of medical or science degree (original + certified English translation)
• Transcript of records (original + certified English translation)
• Proof of professional experience in oncology (employment/reference letters)
• Supporting documents for additional qualifications

Selection Process

The current two-step selection method ensures a transparent and unbiased selection of top candidates for participation in this activity:

• Automated Scoring using a predefined system
• Committee Evaluation of qualitative answers

The tuition fee is 4'900 EUR for all participants.

What’s Included

• Access to all online modules
• Registration and accommodation for 3 in-person seminars
• Participation in all required exams

Travel expenses are not included.

Financial Aid

A CAS Financial Aid Fund is available for candidates unable to cover the full fee. Requests are reviewed on a case by case basis.

Cancellation

All cancellation requests must be sent in writing and will be evaluated individually.

Chairs

• Cristiana Sessa, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), Bellinzona, CH
• Andrea Papadia, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Lugano, CH
• Alina Sturdza, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, AT

Programme Coordinator

• Ilaria Colombo, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), Bellinzona, CH

Conceptual Development and Organisation

• Alexandra Zampetti, ESO, CH
• Mina Curcic, USI, CH