Medicine BSc

Our curriculum is delivered through a range of teaching styles which include small-group teaching, problem-based learning, lectures, vocational and clinical studies, labs and e-learning. You will gain experience of a clinical environment from year 1. The MBChB follows a “spiral curriculum” where subject material is revisited at different stages of the curriculum with increasing depth and clinical focus.

You will undertake two periods of elective study, and can select from over 20 intercalated degree options, allowing flexibility to study areas of personal interest in more depth. Our Wolfson Medical School Building offers you extended access to library facilities, and a first-class clinical skills suite.

We have strong links with the Postgraduate Deanery, ensuring a smooth transition from undergraduate study to postgraduate training, and produce highly trained, competent graduates who are equipped for the Foundation Training programme, for higher training, and the challenges of medicine in the 21st century.

Phase 1

Phase 1 occupies the first half of year 1. It is an overview of basic biomedical sciences, providing you with the knowledge required to engage in the rest of the undergraduate programme. You will undertake vocational & professional studies, have your first clinical skills sessions and undertake a clinical visit to an A&E ward or general practice.

Phase 2

Phase 2 occupies the second part of year 1 and the whole of year 2. It covers the anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry (and related biomedical sciences) of the major clinical systems, as well as vocational & professional studies, communication skills and clinical skills.

Phase 3

Phase 3 occupies the first half of year 3 and covers clinical systems with a focus on pathophysiology. There are major contributions from pathology, microbiology, haematology, clinical biochemistry and clinical pharmacology; and the small-group teaching focuses on clinical cases, using case-based learning, with a clinical tutor. You will have a series of communication skills tutorials and visits to general practice and hospital. You will also receive clinical procedural skills and clinical examination teaching.

Phase 4

Phase 4 occupies the second half of year 3, all of year 4 and the first half of year 5. It is based in hospitals and in general practice, with dedicated academic days. Teaching is structured around 5–10 week clinical attachments, and you rotate through general medicine & surgery, obstetrics & gynaecology, child health, general practice, psychiatry and a variety of hospital sub-specialties.

Preparation for Practice (PfP)

Preparation for Practice (PfP) is the final component of the course following the final exams. It involves shadowing foundation-year doctors in hospital and includes a lecture programme. Successful completion of Preparation for Practice is a prerequisite to graduate.