medical education in uk

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Medical schools training boost for region’s healthcare

Medical school leaders in the North East and Yorkshire have welcomed an increase in the number of places for students training to become doctors, which will help to improve the health and wellbeing of people in this region.

Earlier this year the government announced a substantial increase in the number of medical school training places at six universities in the North East and Yorkshire, from autumn 2025, including Sunderland (17 additional places) and Leeds (16 additional places).

The government’s Office for Students used analysis provided by NHS England to target under-doctored areas in its allocation of the medical training places. The expansion, which involves an additional 350 medical school places across England, is part of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan .

Professor Scott Wilkes, Head of the School of Medicine at the University of Sunderland (pictured left), said: “We are delighted to have been awarded more medical school training places. It’s testament to delivering our philosophy of making medicine accessible to talented students who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to become a doctor.

“More importantly, they follow an innovative curriculum with a significant generalist focus to meet the needs of society including the ageing population with multiple long-term health conditions. We know that data shows medical students tend to work where they train or their families live and in role modelled medical specialties. For the North East that’s great news.”

Professor Mark Kearney, Executive Dean of the University of Leeds’ Faculty of Medicine and Health (right), said: “The University of Leeds is one of the best places in the UK  to train as a doctor, and the ability to extend this opportunity further through an extra 16 funded medical school places is very welcome.

The supportive comments of senior course leaders at two of the region’s medical schools come as young people in the North East and Yorkshire considering a career in healthcare finalise their undergraduate plans following publication of A Level results. For more information about working in health visit the NHS Careers website .

Overall, university medical schools in the North East and Yorkshire will offer an additional 52 student places in 2025-26. The other additional places are at Hull and York universities: 8; Newcastle upon Tyne: 2; and Sheffield: 9.

“The expansion signals the confidence stakeholders have in the region to deliver these doctors which we will do collectively. This will be good news for our patients and communities as we continue to try to support the healthcare needs of our region.”

The NHS Long Term Workforce Plan sets out an ambition to train more doctors in England than ever before – growing the number of medical school places from 6,000 to 7,500 per year nationally.

• Medicine | The University of Sunderland
• School of Medicine | University of Leeds

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Alice Walton Net Worth 2024: What To Know About The World's Richest Woman And Walmart Heiress

Alice walton is the world's first ever female centi-billionaire.

Alice Walton, the daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton, has officially surpassed Françoise Bettencourt Meyers to become the richest woman in the world in 2024. According to Bloomberg's Billionaires Index, Walton's net worth has soared to an astounding $95 billion, making her the first female centi-billionaire in history. This impressive milestone is largely attributed to the significant increase in Walmart's stock price, which has risen by 44% this year, adding $25 billion to Walton's wealth.

Who Is Alice Walton?

Alice Walton was born on October 7, 1949, in Newport, Arkansas, into a family that would revolutionise retail. Her father, Sam Walton, established Walmart, now the largest retailer in the world. Alice grew up in a family with strong business acumen, and though she has not taken an active role in the day-to-day operations of Walmart, she has carved out a unique path that reflects her interests and passions.

Alice earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, which laid the groundwork for her early career in finance. She began her professional journey at First Commerce Corporation and Arvest Bank Group, where she worked as an equity analyst and money manager. Later, she transitioned to a role as a broker at EF Hutton, further honing her financial expertise. In 1988, Alice founded Llama Company, an investment bank where she served as CEO, president, and chairwoman, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit.

Life After Sam Walton: A Focus on Art and Medicine

Following the death of her father in 1992, Alice inherited a substantial portion of the Walton family fortune. Unlike her brothers, Rob and Jim, who are actively involved in Walmart's operations, Alice chose to focus on her personal passions, particularly in the arts and philanthropy.

Alice's love for art led her to establish the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, in 2011. The museum, which has garnered national acclaim, features an impressive collection of American art, including works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell, and Mark Rothko. The museum serves as a cultural landmark in her hometown and reflects her commitment to making art accessible to the public.

In addition to her contributions to the arts, Alice Walton has also made significant strides in the field of healthcare. In 2021, she founded the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine (AWSOM) in Bentonville, which was renamed in 2022. AWSOM is a nonprofit, four-year MD program that integrates traditional medical education with principles of the humanities, arts, and wellness. The school aims to provide a holistic approach to healthcare education, focusing on the physical, mental, emotional, and social health of patients. The institution is set to become a national hub for medical education, attracting some of the most brilliant minds in the medical and scientific communities.

Challenges and Future Outlook

As Alice Walton continues to amass wealth, her focus remains on expanding her philanthropic initiatives. The success of Walmart continues to be a significant driver of her fortune, but her legacy will likely be defined by her contributions to the arts and healthcare. With a net worth of $95 billion, Walton's financial power positions her to make an even greater impact in the years to come.

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HCPC Revises Standards on Conduct, Performance, and Ethics and Updates Social Media Guidance

Starting Sunday, 1st September 2024, the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) will implement revised standards on conduct, performance, and ethics, alongside updated guidance on social media use . These updates are crucial for all registrants to understand and comply with, as they directly impact professional conduct both in-person and online.

Key Changes and Responsibilities:

The revised standards emphasise the importance of maintaining professionalism across all platforms, including social media. Registrants are reminded that it is their responsibility to familiarise themselves with these changes and ensure they continue to meet the HCPC's expectations in all aspects of their practice. The guidance highlights the impact that personal values, biases, and beliefs may have on professional practice, particularly in online environments.

Resources Available:

To help registrants navigate these updates, the HCPC has provided a variety of materials on their website . These resources are designed to clarify what has changed, why the changes were made, and how registrants can ensure compliance. We strongly encourage all registrants and stakeholders to review these resources thoroughly. For more information, please visit the HCPC website .

Headmaster brought in to lift private school hit by sex abuse scandal quits

Peter Roberts who was hired to oversee ‘new chapter’ at Ampleforth College is to leave on medical grounds

The head of a top private boarding school who was brought in to save the college following sex abuse allegations has stepped down for medical reasons.

Peter Roberts , headmaster of Ampleforth College in York, has resigned a year and a half after taking up the role.

Alumni and parents at the school received an email on Thursday informing them of Mr Roberts’ departure, just days before the pupils are set to return from the summer holidays.

Edward Sparrow, chairman of governors at Ampleforth, said the move was “unexpected”, and came after Mr Roberts notified him at the end of June that he had received medical advice to step down.

“This was very sad news indeed. Peter joined Ampleforth in January 2023 with an agreed mission to re-establish the college as the leading Catholic boarding school in Europe,” he said.

“In his two years with us, he has built confidence, increased numbers and is making excellent progress on this mission which he was keen to complete. 

“We owe him much and are very sorry to lose him, but he must put his health first.”

Mr Roberts joined Ampleforth, which charges £46,740 a year in fees, in January 2023 to oversee a “new chapter” for the school after it was dogged by sex abuse allegations.

He will be replaced by Jon Mutton, the school’s deputy head of pastoral care, who joined the school as head of classics in 2011.

North Yorkshire Police set up Operation Ellipse in 2004 to investigate allegations of child sex abuse at the school dating back to the 1960s.

The inquiry, which concluded in 2006, led to the convictions of Fr Piers Grant-Ferris on 20 counts of indecent assault with boys in his care, and of Fr Gregory Carroll for offences against 10 pupils between 1979 and 1987.

During the investigation, several other allegations against monks and lay members of staff came to light relating to sexual abuse and inappropriate behaviour towards children at the school.

In 2018, the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) on Ampleforth found that leaders hid allegations of “appalling” abuse against pupils as young as seven to protect the church’s reputation.

Investigators suggested the true number of those who were abused was “likely to be considerably higher”.

The Department for Education (DfE) ordered the school to “cease to admit” any more students in 2020 following an “inadequate” Ofsted rating.

Ampleforth was saved from closure the following year when officials said after a subsequent Ofsted inspection that they were satisfied with the school’s progress.

As part of the assessment, DfE officials signed off an action plan by the college setting out their “long-term commitment to safeguarding excellence”.

Mr Roberts, the former head teacher of the King’s School , Canterbury, said he hoped it would usher in “a new chapter for the school… [that] will be one of consolidation and confidence”.

Mr Roberts became the first school leader in the UK to pledge not to pass on VAT to parents in an interview with The Telegraph.

He later rescinded the offer and said that while the school would “do all” it could to avoid passing on VAT to parents, it couldn’t make any promises.

It comes after the headmaster of Eton College also announced this week that he will take time off on medical grounds.

Simon Henderson , who has led the school since 2015, wrote to families on Wednesday to say that he had been advised to remain off work for several months over health reasons.

Paul Williams, Eton’s lower master, will take over as acting head until January 2025.

The 584-year-old school, which charges up to £52,749 in fees, has yet to announce how it intends to deal with the Government’s VAT charge on private schools which will come into force that same month.

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MSc in Medical Education

• Entry requirements
• Funding and Costs

College preference

• How to Apply

About the course

This is a professional development course aimed at medical and healthcare education professionals. It focuses on the history, contemporary issues and development of the field, as well as research methods, and design and evaluation of research in medical education. 

This part-time course is aimed at medical professionals and allied health professionals who are involved, or intend to be involved, in educating future health professionals. These professionals may include not only postgraduate physicians but also a range of graduate allied health science practitioners involved in the care of patients and in the education of future healthcare workforce.

The part-time MSc in Medical Education will be offered jointly by the Department of Education in the Social Sciences Division and the Medical School in the Medical Sciences Division, with formal responsibility for the programme resting with the Department of Education. Interdisciplinarity is endemic in education and medicine, and team-teaching capitalises upon the distinctive knowledge and skills of academics within the two departments.

In the first year of the course, you will be required to attend six teaching weekends at the Department of Education in Oxford over a Friday afternoon and Saturday. The Friday afternoon and Saturday morning sessions will consist of interactive lectures and workshops. Additional teaching and online support will be provided through the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Canvas). Teaching will cover the following topics:

• Patients, learners and teachers
• Curriculum and pedagogy
• Assessment issues and practices
• Educational theory and philosophy
• Work-based learning and skill development
• Educational research methods
• Equity, diversity and belonging

In the second year, you will undertake a research and development project under the supervision of a member of academic staff culminating in a dissertation.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department of Education and the Medical School and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside of the Department of Education and the Medical School.

During the first year, supervision will consist primarily of online tutor and community feedback, with some face-to-face meetings during the teaching weekends. In the second year, you will have at least six hours of supervision hours where tutors will provide formative comments once on a draft thesis. You will have at least one online or in-person meeting with your supervisor in each of the three terms, in which you will report formally on your progress and be provided with feedback on specific issues.

Assessments will be structured progressively, with a range of formative and summative assessment pertaining to the modules. The formative assessments will be in the form of tasks undertaken in preparation for a session or after a session. The summative assessment will be through two examined assignments. In the second year, you will work individually on a research and development project producing a dissertation.   

Graduate destinations

It is expected that the course will provide alumni with the skills they need to progress to education leadership positions in the medical field or in academia.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours  in any medically related subject area.

Applicants who do not hold a relevant subject degree but have sufficient professional experience in a relevant working environment will be considered .

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

• Evidence of your employer's support is required.
• Publications are not expected.

Further guidance

Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate the ability to undertake part-time study, which may include evidence of support from an employer.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are normally held as part of the admissions process.

Applicants meeting the selection criteria are interviewed by an admissions panel which include experts in the subject. Applicants will be notified of the opportunity to attend interview as soon as their application has been reviewed.

The interviews are normally held in person, however, there will be opportunity to attend an interview online. The admissions panel will assess the applicant's suitability for the course, covering professional experience and their desire to contribute to the field of assessment in terms of research or practice.

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

As the MSc is a part-time course for researchers and professionals, the department takes pride in providing high quality IT support for your learning when you are away from Oxford. This includes a dedicated web-based virtual learning environment, which you will use to liaise with your supervisor and to exchange ideas with other students. If you wish to work in the department when you are visiting Oxford, there is a computer room with desks which also has points for personal laptop computers. 

The Department of Education has been making a major contribution to the field of education for over 100 years and the department has a world class reputation for research, for teacher education and for its master's and doctoral programmes. The Department of Education combines international standing as a research-intensive department with the highest quality teaching.

In the 2021 evaluation of research quality in UK universities, the Research Excellence Framework (REF), Oxford University Department of Education had the highest overall percentage of research judged to be 4* (ie world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour) in Education in the UK. The department has ESRC recognition for its graduate training, and its teacher training was rated ‘outstanding’ by the Office for Standards in Education (OfSTED) in its most recent inspection in 2019.

Research in the department is organised around three major themes:

• Language, Cognition and Development
• Policy, Economy and Society
• Learning: Pedagogy, Learning and Knowledge.

Within each of these themes there are several research groups and centres. All staff and doctoral students belong to one or more of these research groups, each of which has its own seminar programme to which graduate students often contribute. In addition, the department as a whole sponsors regular seminars and public lectures which attract distinguished national and international speakers.

The Bodleian Education Library, located at the centre of the Department of Education, specialises in material on education and related fields. As well as a print collection of books, journals and statistics, the library provides access to a wide range of electronic resources. The library also houses a collection of teaching resources, primarily in support of subjects covered by the department's secondary PGCE course. The Social Sciences Library provides valuable additional resource to students pursuing programmes in the Department of Education.

Oxford has been a major contributor to the field of education for over 100 years and today the University’s Department of Education has a world class reputation for research, for teacher education and for its graduate courses.

The department offers one of the strongest graduate studies programmes in the UK with a range of full- and part-time MSc courses and a lively doctoral programme (DPhil) which is recognised for national funding by the ESRC.

The department's masters' courses are delivered by academics and research experts, the majority of whom are permanent staff engaged in their fields of research. The department's DPhil in Education has excellent facilities for the large number of full-time research students who are well integrated into the research of the department.

The department has an outstanding research profile. In the 2021 evaluation of research quality in UK universities, the Research Excellence Framework (REF), Oxford University Department of Education had the highest overall percentage of research judged to be 4* (ie world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour) in Education in the UK. A wide range of funded research projects are based in the department and many of these projects have had a major impact on national policy.

Oxford’s PGCE course has an international reputation for the quality of its work, undertaken in close collaboration with local Oxfordshire secondary schools. Over many years, it has consistently received the highest possible designation (Outstanding) from Ofsted in inspections.

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The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities  for this course can be found on the faculty's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

Please note that this course requires that you attend in Oxford for teaching, and you may incur additional travel and accommodation expenses for this. Further, as part of your course requirements, you will need to choose a dissertation topic. Depending on your choice of topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

If you are studying part-time your living costs may vary depending on your personal circumstances but you must still ensure that you will have sufficient funding to meet these costs for the duration of your course.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

The following colleges accept students on the MSc in Medical Education:

• Balliol College
• Green Templeton College
• Harris Manchester College
• Jesus College
• Pembroke College
• Reuben College
• St Hilda's College
• Wolfson College
• Wycliffe Hall

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable for each application to this course. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

You do not need to make contact with the department before you apply but you are encouraged to visit the relevant departmental webpages to read any further information about your chosen course.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Referees: Three overall, academic and/or professional

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

Your references will support intellectual ability, academic achievement, motivation and interest in the course and subject area, and ability to work effectively in a group and independently.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Statement of purpose: A maximum of  1,000 words

Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at Oxford, your relevant experience and education, and the specific areas of the course that interest you and/or you intend to specialise in.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

This will be assessed for:

• your reasons for applying
• your ability to present a coherent case in proficient English
• your commitment to the subject, beyond the requirements of the degree course
• your preliminary knowledge of the subject area and research techniques
• your capacity for sustained and intense work
• reasoning ability
• ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.

Written work: Two pieces of written work, a maximum of 7,000 words in total, or one long piece, a maximum of 7,000 words

Academic essays or other writing samples from your most recent qualification, typed and written in English, are required. Extracts of the requisite length from longer work are also permitted if prefaced by a note that puts them in context. The written work should be related to the subject you propose to study. The word count does not need to include any bibliography or brief footnotes.

Your written work will be assessed for:

• a comprehensive understanding of the subject area, including problems and developments in the subject
• your ability to construct and defend an argument
• your aptitude for analysis and expression
• your ability to present a reasoned case in proficient academic English.

Instructions for submitting one long piece of work instead of two short pieces

To submit one longer piece of work in your application instead of two shorter pieces, you should upload this document in the first 'Written work' slot on the 'Supporting Documents' tab of the Application Form. In the second 'Written work' slot, you should upload a PDF document with the following statement:

' I have included one long essay in lieu of two short essays. I have checked the course page to confirm this is permitted for this course. '

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice .

Application Guide   Apply

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Friday 5 January 2024 Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships

Friday 1 March 2024 Applications may remain open after this deadline if places are still available - see below

A later deadline shown under 'Admission status' If places are still available,  applications may be accepted after 1 March . The 'Admissions status' (above) will provide notice of any later deadline.

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered jointly by the Department of Education  and the Medical Sciences Division

• Course page on the lead  department's website
• Funding information from the department
• Academic and research staff
• Department research and divisional research  
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected]

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Visa eligibility for part-time study

We are unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only (and leave after each visit) and will need to remain based outside the UK.

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SUBJECT LEAGUE TABLE 2025

Medicine is the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. It's one of the most challenging, but respected, subjects you can study. Degrees in Medicine include topics like nursing, pharmaceuticals, psychotherapy, and surgery. Our UK medical school rankings outline the best universities for Medicine in the UK, including Pre-Clinical and Clinical Medicine courses. You can filter by region, entry standards, student satisfaction, graduate prospects, and more. Comparing the top medical schools in the UK using our filters will help you to decide which school is right for you.

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The Clearing concierge has the answers

• University ranking
• University name
• Overall score
• Entry standards
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• Research quality
• Graduate prospects
• 1 2 3 2 4 5 3 6 7 4 8 1 9 10 4 11 1 12 4 13 New 14 3 15 3 16 3 17 2 18 1 19 1 20 21 22 1 23 1 24 5 25 26 2 27 1 28 29 2 30 31 4 32 3 33 New 34 New 35 3 36 3
• University of Cambridge VIEW COURSES University of Oxford VIEW COURSES UCL (University College London) VIEW COURSES Imperial College London VIEW COURSES The University of Edinburgh VIEW COURSES University of Bristol VIEW COURSES University of Glasgow VIEW COURSES Queen's University Belfast VIEW COURSES University of Dundee VIEW COURSES University of St Andrews VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Leicester IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Queen Mary University of London IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Swansea University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES Cardiff University VIEW COURSES King's College London, University o... VIEW COURSES Lancaster University VIEW COURSES University of Sheffield VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Keele University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Aberdeen IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Manchester VIEW COURSES Hull York Medical School VIEW COURSES Newcastle University VIEW COURSES University of Exeter VIEW COURSES University of Birmingham VIEW COURSES University of Leeds VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of East Anglia UEA IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES GET PROSPECTUS Brighton and Sussex Medical School VIEW COURSES St George's, University of London VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Plymouth IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES University of Southampton VIEW COURSES University of Liverpool VIEW COURSES University of Nottingham VIEW COURSES University of Warwick VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING Anglia Ruskin University IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Buckingham IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES IN CLEARING University of Central Lancashire IN CLEARING VIEW COURSES
• 100% 99% 99% 99% 99% 98% 98% 98% 98% 97% 97% 97% 97% 97% 97% 96% 96% 96% 96% 96% 96% 96% 96% 96% 96% 95% 95% 95% 95% 95% 95% 95% 93% 92% 90% 89%
• 87% 83% 80% 78% 96% 77% 99% 78% 100% 87% 69% 77% n/a 76% 74% 70% 73% 70% 98% 71% 67% 73% 68% 69% 71% 69% 71% 71% 73% 68% 69% 70% n/a 65% 60% 61%
• 73% n/a 75% 79% 75% 77% 74% 77% 74% 83% 84% 76% 73% 76% 70% 81% 73% 80% 80% 71% 74% 77% 75% 72% 77% 75% 79% 69% 73% 74% 73% 65% 75% 78% 70% 75%
• 91% 88% 89% 90% 87% 89% 89% 85% 85% 79% 89% 84% 88% 83% 87% 83% 83% 85% 73% 85% 86% 82% 85% 85% 78% 82% 79% 81% 75% 81% 81% 82% 70% 75% n/a 75%
• 100% 99% 99% 100% 100% 100% 99% 100% 100% 96% 100% 99% 99% 99% 100% 100% 100% 97% 99% 99% 99% 99% 100% 100% 100% 100% 99% 99% 100% 100% 100% 100% 99% n/a 100% 63%

This table was first published on 14 May 2024. 

Brighton and Sussex is a joint Medical School between the Universities of Brighton and Sussex.  

Hull York is a joint Medical School between the Universities of Hull and York.  

Kent and Medway is a joint Medical School between Canterbury Christ Church University and the University of Kent. 

Read the  University and subject tables methodology  to find out where the data comes from, how the tables are compiled and explanations of the measures used. 

All measures used to compile the tables are available on the full table view. Maximum scores for the measures: 

Overall score: maximum score of 1000 

Entry standards: no maximum score  

Student satisfaction: maximum score of 4 

Research quality: maximum score of 4 

Continuation: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – outcomes: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – on track: maximum score of 100 

The following institutions have courses in this subject but insufficient data to be included in the ranking:  

• - Brunel University London
• - Edge Hill University
• - Kent and Medway Medical School
• - Ulster University
• - University of South Wales
• - University of Sunderland
• - University of Worcester

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University group, choose a group.

Medical Education MSc

London, Regent's Park (Royal College of Physicians)

Doctors responsible for clinical teaching within the health services and universities are increasingly expected to have a postgraduate qualification in Medical Education. This programme is designed by the Royal College of Physicians and UCL to meet the needs of doctors who are intending to have a significant role in medical education.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Applications open

• Entry requirements

Entry to the Postgraduate Certificate of the MSc in Medical Education requires a primary medical qualification. Eligibility for the Postgraduate Diploma requires successful completion of the RCP/UCL Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education. Eligibility for Master's level is dependent on successful completion of the RCP/UCL Postgraduate Diploma.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2 If your existing score is below this, please consider retaking the exam, as applicants with lower scores will not be accepted on the programme.

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

This is a flexible, part-time, modular master's programme specifically designed for doctors wishing to develop their roles as educators. The programme is taken sequentially, starting with the Postgraduate Certificate in year one, the Postgraduate Diploma in year two, and finally the Master's in year three.

Participants develop the ability to adopt a learner-centred teaching approach, structure teaching, and set objectives that enhance their students' learning. You will apply educational theory and research to your own teaching practice, recognise how assessment theory should inform practice in assessment of medical competence, and appraise both medical trainees and peers.

Who this course is for

Doctors responsible for clinical teaching within the health services and universities are increasingly expected to have a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education. Participants are typically a mixture of consultants and specialists and speciality registrars. Doctors involved in curriculum and course development will find the Diploma particularly relevant.

What this course will give you

This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities.

• The UCL Medical School is a world-leader in medical education.
• We address curriculum development, academic standards, the assessment process, clinical and generic skills acquisition, and research in medical education.
• Our programmes are taught with the Royal College of Physicians, which attracts teaching input from experts across the UK.
• Participants gain knowledge of teaching and learning processes, develop practical skills and techniques, and gain a deeper understanding of the evidence and theory underpinning current thinking in medical education.
• Students benefit from the Jerwood Resource Centre, a world-class medical education library.

The foundation of your career

This programme has helped many of our graduates obtain high-quality posts as NHS consultants or academics in a university setting.

Employability

While many clinical practitioners will continue to practise as doctors, this award presents an opportunity to develop a formal role in either undergraduate or postgraduate education.

Our graduates include consultant geriatricians, consultant paediatricians, senior lecturers, and registrars in clinical pharmacology and acute medicine.

Since this programme is delivered entirely face to face, there are many opportunities for you to network with other students and the subject specialists in clinical education who deliver the teaching. We also alert students to relevant conferences and talks and encourage you to attend them.

Teaching and learning

The programme is flexible / modular, requiring on-site attendance only during the contact days of teaching sessions. The contact days include workshop style discussion and practical application 'simulation' sessions.

Assessment is through evaluative reports, an investigative study proposal and report, and the final dissertation.

You have roughly 72 hours of contact time during the Postgraduate Certificate year (one) and the Postgraduate Diploma year (two), and 36 hours during the master's year (three).

Each year of the programme is expected to take about 600 hours in total, to include teaching, tutorials, independent study and drafting and writing assignments.

A Postgraduate Diploma comprising eight core modules (120 credits) is offered A Postgraduate Certificate comprising four core modules (60 credits) is offered.

This flexible, modular master’s programme can be completed in 3-5 years. This is a cumulative programme. You can exit with a Postgraduate Certificate after completing year one, or a Postgraduate Diploma after completing the first two years.

By attending face-to-face teaching days at the RCP, you will receive expert teaching, tailored support through one-to-one tutorials, networking opportunities with a variety of like-minded professionals, and access to unique medical education resources.

You take four three-day modules, studied face-to-face. What you will learn:

• To adopt a learner-centred teaching approach, structure teaching, and set objectives that enhance your students' learning.
• To apply educational theory and educational research to your own teaching practice including small group, large group, bedside and opportunistic clinical teaching setting.
• How to use educational innovations within medical education.
• Recognising how assessment theory should inform practice in assessment of medical competence.
• To select and use a range of assessment methods with confidence.
• To appraise both medical trainees and peers within evidence-based structures.
• To maximise your effectiveness as educational supervisors and gain confidence in your management of trainees in difficulty.

You take four three-day modules, studied face-to-face. You may study a module from another programme in place of one of the Royal College of Physicians / University College London (RCP / UCL) modules. What you will learn:

• Further knowledge and understanding of the research evidence, theory, and practicalities of course and curriculum design.
• Practical experience of course design and evaluation.
• To critically select, develop and evaluate written, electronic, clinical skills and patient-related resources to support learning in medical education at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• The foundational knowledge and skills to conduct research in medical education.
• To apply your educational research knowledge through a small research project.
• To identify and gain the skills and attributes of effective educational leadership in medicine.

You complete a research thesis or report in medical education with regular meetings with a designated tutor. What you will learn:

• To conduct a comprehensive, critical review of research evidence and educational theory in a chosen area of medical education practice.
• To develop and employ your research skills in medical education.
• An in-depth knowledge of the controversies, evidence and theory relating to the area of study.
• Practical experience of programme design and evaluation.
• The knowledge and skills to conduct research in medical education.

Compulsory modules

Optional modules.

Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability are subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. Upon successful completion of 180 credits, you will be awarded an MSc in Medical Education. Upon successful completion of 120 credits, you will be awarded a PG Dip in Medical Education. Upon successful completion of 60 credits, you will be awarded a PG Cert in Medical Education.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

Programme only available on a modular (flexible) basis .

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

There are no additional costs for this programme.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with the first application review on 1 June and offers will be made shortly after. We advise you to apply early as applications may close before the closing date if all places are offered. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

There is an application processing fee for this programme of £90 for online applications and £115 for paper applications. Further information can be found at Application fees .

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver. Because the programme is usually oversubscribed, we use your personal statement as a method of ranking applicants. This ranking takes into consideration:

• your current and prior involvement in education and training (with recognition for applicants who teach over and above the usual requirement)
• evidence of interest in medical education (with recognition for applicants who have undergone prior training in medical education, or have published in the area)
• your ability to write to an academic standard in English (with penalties for multiple grammatical and spelling errors).

Application is to the Postgraduate Certificate in the first instance. Successful completion of the one-year certificate leads to eligibility to study for a further year for the Postgraduate Diploma and success in the diploma leads to eligibility for a final year to study to Master's level.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

UCL Medical School

[email protected]

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students .

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Medical Schools | Complete List of UK Universities

Want to become a doctor and need an a-z list of every medical school in the uk you're in the right place.

If you have questions like:

• Where can I study medicine in the UK?
• Which universities have medical schools in the UK?
• Where are medical schools in the UK?
• Is there a complete A-Z list of medical schools in the UK?

Welcome to the Complete List of Medical Schools in the UK

On this page we have listed every university in the UK that offers medicine as a degree, so if you’re interested in becoming a doctor you can use this list to see your options for university. We really hope you find it helpful!

Scroll down for the table below. In each row we’ve included a direct link to the information on the official university webpages and we highly recommend you click through to check their most up-to-date guidance.

Just before we get into it, in addition to the basic information you’ll also find these extras in the table below:

• the course type(s) available at this medical school – including course names and codes 
• the address of the medical school so you can work out how far it is from where you are now
• the year it was established so you can see how old the medical school is
• and finally, the link to view our full profile on each medical school – there you’ll find application specific information like the entry requirements and interview style

Here's the complete list of Medical Schools in the UK

University of Aberdeen

Address: Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen,  AB25 2ZD

Course Types:

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (5yrs) UCAS : A100
• Gateway2Medicine (Medicine with a Gateway Year) (1yr) UCAS : A1A1

Anglia Ruskin University

Chelmsford Campus, Bishops Hall Lane, Chelmsford, Essex

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (5yrs) UCAS: A100

Aston University

Address: Aston Triangle, Birmingham, B4 7ET

University of Birmingham

Edgbaston Birmingham, B15 2TT

• Graduate Entry Medicine (4yrs) UCAS: A101

Brighton and Sussex Medical School

Undergraduate Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 9PX

University of Bristol

5 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1UD

• Gateway to Medicine (6yrs) UCAS: A108

University of Buckingham Medical School

*This institution is a private university and charge £37k/yr (accurate as of June 2020)

Hunter Street, Buckingham, MK18 1EG

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (4.5yrs) UCAS : 71A8

University of Cambridge

Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0SP

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (6yrs) UCAS: A100

University of Cardiff

UHW Main Building, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN

• Graduate Entry Medicine (4yrs) UCAS : A101
• Medicine with a Preliminary Year (6yrs) UCAS : A104

University of Central Lancashire

The School of Medicine, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE

University College London (UCL)

74 Huntley Street, London, WC1E 6BT

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (6yrs) UCAS : A100

University of Dundee

University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, DD1 9SY

• Gateway to Medicine (6yrs) UCAS: A104

University of East Anglia

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ

• Medicine with a Foundation Year (6yrs) UCAS: A104

Edge Hill University

St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 4QP

• Foundation Year for Medicine (1yr) UCAS : A110

University of Edinburgh

47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ

University of Exeter

University of Exeter Medical School, St Luke’s Campus, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU

University of Glasgow

Medical School Office, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ

• Glasgow Access Project (Medicine with a Gateway Year) (6yrs) UCAS : A900

Hull York Medical School

John Hughlings Jackson Building, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD

• Medicine with a Gateway year (6yrs) UCAS: A101

Imperial College London

South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ

• Graduate Entry Medicine (5yrs) – suspended for 2020. Re-launch for 2021-entry expected UCAS : A109

Keele University

School of Medicine, David Weatherall building, University Road, Keele University Staffordshire, ST5 5BG

• Medicine with Foundation Year (1yr + 5yrs) UCAS: A104

Kent and Medway University

Kent and Medway Medical School, Canterbury, CT1 1PQ

King’s College London

King’s College London, Strand, London, WC2R 2LS

• Extended Medical Degree (6yrs) UCAS: A101
• Graduate Entry Medicine (4yrs) UCAS: A102

University of Lancaster

Lancaster University, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YW

• Medicine with a Gateway Year (6yrs) UCAS : A104

University of Leeds

Worsley Building, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT

• Medicine with a Gateway Year (6yrs) UCAS: A101

University of Leicester

Centre for Medicine, Lancaster Rd, Leicester, LE1 7HA

• Medicine with a Foundation Year (6yrs) UCAS : A199

University of Liverpool

Cedar House, Ashton St, Liverpool, L69 3GE

• Foundation to Health and Veterinary Studies  (1yr) UCAS: 789S

University of Manchester

Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (5yrs) UCAS : A106

University of Newcastle

The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH

University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, NG7 2UH

• Medicine with a Foundation Year (6yrs) UCAS : A108

University of Nottingham and Lincoln Medical School

University of Lincoln, Brayford Way, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS

• Undergraduate Entry Medicine (5yrs) UCAS: A10L
• Medicine with a Foundation Year (6yrs) UCAS: A18L

University of Oxford

University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 2JD

Plymouth University Peninsula School of Medicine

John Bull Building, Plymouth Science Park, Research Way, Plymouth, PL6 8BT

• Medicine with a Foundation Year (6yrs) UCAS: A102

Queen Mary University, Barts and the London School of Medicine

4 Newark St, Whitechapel, London, E1 2AT

Queen’s University Belfast, Medical School

Queen’s University Belfast, 97 Lisburn Rd, Belfast, BT9 7BL

ScotGEM (University of Dundee and University of St Andrews)

School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, KY16 9TF

University of Sheffield

University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Rd, Sheffield, S10 2RX

• Foundation in Clinical Sciences (at University of Bradford) (1yr) UCAS: B991

University of Southampton

University of Southampton, 12 University Rd, Southampton, SO17 1BJ

• Medicine with Foundation Year (6yrs) UCAS : A102

University of St Andrews Medical School

St Andrews, KY16 9TF

• Gateway to Medicine (1yr) UCAS: n/a

St George's, University of London

Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE

University of Sunderland

The University of Sunderland, Edinburgh Building, City Campus, Chester Road, Sunderland, SR1 3SD

Swansea University College of Medicine

Grove Building, Singleton Park, Sketty, Swansea, SA2 8PP

University of Warwick

Medical School Building, Coventry, CV4 7AJ

Want to see a comprehensive list of work experience requirements from all medical schools? You can access it here.

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• Medical School Rankings 2024

Want to narrow down your search for Medical Schools? Here's a guide to the rankings and league tables for UK and international Medical Schools in 2024.

Med School Rankings 2024

• Learn how Med School rankings work
• Find out the rankings of UK Med Schools in 2024
• Compare international Med Schools

Jump to Section

• Deciding on Medicine
• Work Experience
• Medical School Teaching Styles
• Traditional Medicine Courses
• Integrated Medicine Courses
• Oxbridge Medicine
• Oxford vs Cambridge Medicine
• Foundation Medicine Courses
• Medicine Entry Requirements
• Which Medical Schools Make Contextual Offers?
• Minimum Age Requirements
• Comparison Tool
• GCSE Requirements
• A-Level Requirements
• Mitigating Circumstances: What if I Fail My Exams?
• Reapplying To Medical School
• A Level Resit Policies

Intercalated Degree

• School by School
• Personal Statement
• Interview Guide
• Interview Questions
• NHS Hot Topics
• Medical Ethics
• Graduate Entry
• Studying Abroad
• Study Medicine Abroad In Europe
• Studying Abroad in the USA
• Study Abroad in Ireland
• Study Medicine In The Caribbean
• Study Medicine in Australia
• Study Abroad in Hong Kong
• How To Survive Your First Year Of Med School
• Science Hot Topics
• Veterinary Medicine
• Allied Health
• Physician Associate
• The NHS Guide
• Parents’ Guide

We’ve collated two of the biggest UK rankings into one Medicine league table, so you can easily see the stats and keep them in mind when choosing a Med School to apply for. We’ve also got rankings for international Medical Schools that will come handy if you’re considering studying Medicine abroad!

How Do Medical School Rankings Work?

There is a number of different Medical School rankings out there, which means it can be difficult to compare Med Schools and figure out which universities are the most well-regarded for Medicine.

• The Complete University Guide is very comprehensive, and takes into account a number of different sources to calculate an overall ranking. It uses data from the National Student Survey to form its student satisfaction scores, and gets its information on graduate prospects from the Higher Education Statistics Agency.
• The Guardian University Guide looks at similar areas, but doesn’t include research because this only impacts a handful of students. Instead, it focuses on how much students enjoy their courses and how likely they are to get a job after graduation.

We’ve collated both of these rankings into one Medicine league table below, so you can see which Medical Schools come out the highest overall.

UCAT Preparation Course

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UK Medical School Rankings: 2024

This table breaks down 2024 Med School rankings into four columns – the overall Complete University Guide score, the Complete University Guide scores for student satisfaction and graduate prospects, plus The Guardian’s overall score.

You can sort the table by each element – for example, allowing you to see which Medical Schools have the highest student satisfaction rates.

Where a small number of Medical Schools are not included, this is because they had insufficient data.

International Medical School Rankings: 2023

When it comes to ranking Medical Schools on a global scale, the QS World University Rankings offer the best overall guide. They put together their annual rankings by surveying academics and employers.

Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial and King’s College London also feature in the worldwide top 20 for Medicine.

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Medical training pathway

The training required to become a doctor can be different for everyone. We've mapped out the medical training pathway to help guide you through the process.

The medical training you undertake on your journey to becoming a doctor can be overwhelming. It can take up to six years to be a qualified doctor, depending on the medical specialty you choose.

We have mapped out the medical training pathway to give you a step-by-step guide of what to expect.

Undergraduate medical training

The first step for anyone wanting to pursue a career as a doctor is to study medicine at undergraduate level or via a graduate medical course. Normally this will take four to six years of study.

Following graduation from medical school, students progress onto postgraduate training, via the foundation programme and higher specialist training. During this time they are known as junior doctors.

Read our guidance on how to become a doctor for more information.

The foundation programme - postgraduate medical training

All medical graduates must undertake and complete an integrated two year programme of general training, in order to practice as a doctor in the UK.

The foundation programme consists of foundation year one (FY1) and foundation year two (FY2). The programme acts as a bridge between undergraduate medical training and specialty and general practice training. It is designed to provide trainees with defined practical skills and competencies, and sound knowledge of how to manage acutely ill patients.

See our guidance for international students looking to study or train in the UK.

Specialty and general practice training - postgraduate medical training

On successful completion of the foundation programme, doctors continue training in either a specialist area of medicine or in general practice.

There are around 60 different specialties to choose from and the area of medicine doctors choose will determine the length of training required before becoming a fully qualified doctor.

Our Specialty explorer tool can help you find medical specialties that match your preferences.  

Specialty training can be delivered in the following ways:

Run-through training programmes.

These last from approximately three years for general practice and five to seven years in other specialties.

Core and higher specialty training programmes

Core training lasts two to three years, depending on the specialty. This is followed by an open competition to enter a higher specialty training post. It is important to note that the application following core training is competitive and does not guarantee a specialty training post.

ACCS (Acute Care Common Stem)

A three-year training programme that normally follows F2. It is the only core training programme for trainees wishing to enter higher specialty training in EM (emergency medicine), and is an alternative core training programme for trainees wishing to enter higher specialty training in GIM (General Internal Medicine), AIM (Acute Internal Medicine) or Anaesthesia.

For more information on specialty training read Health Education England's guidance  on specialty training. 

On successful completion of a run-through or higher specialty training programme, doctors are awarded a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) which allows them entry onto the GMC specialist or general practice register.

Flexible training

Doctors in training have the option to undertake flexible training or LTFT (less than full-time training).

Other training options

There are also stand-alone, but educationally equivalent, training posts which are not part of run-through training programmes. As these are educationally approved posts, they may contribute to a CCT.

These posts include Fixed-Term Specialty Training Appointments (FTSTAs) and Locum Appointments for Training (LAT).

Doctors who choose not to become consultants, or are unable to do so, for instance because their qualifications, training, skills and experience may not be recognised under the UK specialty training system, are called SAS doctors (staff grade, specialty doctors and associate specialists). 

We're here to stand up for your rights, support you in the workplace and champion the medical profession. 

Best universities in the UK for medicine degrees 2024

Find the best universities in the uk for medicine using  times higher education ’s world university rankings 2024 data.

Top 10 universities for medicine in UK 2024

Scroll down for the full list of best universities for medicine in the UK

The UK is known for its National Health Service (NHS ), one of the world’s largest publicly funded healthcare systems. Many of the country’s public hospitals have close ties with medical schools.

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In the UK, medicine degrees are available at an undergraduate level, usually through a five- or six-year programme. These programmes allow students to gain a broad knowledge of medicine and include work placements and practical sessions. Students can then specialise through further study. 

Medical students in the UK are expected to have high grades in chemistry and biology, but requirements vary between universities. UK Consortium universities offering medicine degrees require students to take the  University Clinical Aptitude Test  (UCAT); and other top universities require students to take the  BioMedical Admissions Test  (BMAT). International students are also required to take one of these tests when applying to a UK university. 

These are the best universities in the UK for medical degrees, according to the  Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 .

Best universities for medical degrees in the world Best universities for medicine degrees in Canada Best universities in Australia for medicine degrees Best universities in the United States for medicine degrees 

5.  King’s College London

King’s College offers a five-year medicine MBBS, a graduate programme and a sport and exercise medical sciences BSc. All the courses focus on practical learning. 

The medical course is divided into three stages. 

King’s College London  has partnerships with some of London’s largest hospitals: Guy’s, King’s College and St Thomas’ hospitals. There are two main campuses – Guy’s and Denmark Hill – which house the faculty of life sciences and medicine; the Dental Institute and Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences; and the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience.

If an optional intercalated degree is chosen, students can extend their five-year course to a six-year course.

The course is divided into three stages. Stage one offers foundation skills in biomedical and population sciences, as well as the skills for clinical practice. Stage two studies the human life cycle and pathological processes, focusing on patient care in clinical settings. Stage three is geared towards specialising and developing skills for the workplace. During this stage, students can choose to study abroad, extending their global knowledge of medicine.

UCL , like many other universities across the UK, offers a six-year undergraduate medicine course. 

Students undertake tutorials and clinical experience at the Royal Free and Whittington Hospitals in London. 

The first two years of the BSc medicine course include learning the fundamentals of clinical science. In the third and fourth years, students begin to learn clinical skills. The final two years are spent preparing for practice and specialising.

The university began offering medical courses in 1834, and since then, six alumni have been awarded the Nobel Prize for work in auto-immune disease, adrenaline and the immune system.

What can you do with a medical degree? What can you do with a dentistry degree? What can you do with a nursing degree?

3.  Imperial College London

Imperial College London  offers two undergraduate courses: BSc medicine and BSc medical biosciences.

Imperial’s Faculty of Medicine is one of the largest in Europe, with campuses across London, as well as numerous partnerships with hospitals and clinics around the UK.

The six-year BSc medicine course combines case-based learning and exposure to patient care as well as lectures and tutorials. The course helps students to develop skills in research techniques, which is helpful for those wishing to go into clinical academic medicine.

The school takes a three-phase approach. Phase one focuses on the foundations of health, disease and clinical practice, and includes the opportunity to undertake clinical research projects. Phase two offers module content learning on top of a research project. The final phase is where students use all the skills they have learned in real-life settings.

Imperial College also offers master’s programmes and scholarships for those who have completed their undergraduate medicine studies and wish to further their skills in the field.

Imperial has contributed significantly to the advances of medicine through research projects on bowel cancer, pandemic solutions and hay fever.

2.  University of Cambridge

The  University of Cambridge  offers two medicine courses: standard and graduate. 

Cambridge requires students to take the BMAT before their application will be accepted.

The  University of Cambridge ’s medical school students can access medicine and medicine-related courses in the school of clinical medicine, the faculty of biology, and the department of physiology, development and neuroscience.

The undergraduate course combines theoretical and practical work in outpatient clinics, GP surgeries and hospitals. 

Graduate and PhD programmes are designed for students looking to pursue a career in academic medicine.

Medicine courses at the  University of Cambridge  date back to 1540.

1.  University of Oxford

The  University of Oxford  has been  Times Higher Education ’s top-ranked university for medicine for the past 12 years. 

Students looking to study medicine at Oxford must take the BMAT in order to be accepted.

The  University of Oxford  offers a standard medicine course, which gives students a comprehensive knowledge of medical science as well as the skills to adapt this knowledge in a clinical environment.

The first three years are the pre-clinical stage, studying towards a BA honours in medical sciences. The final three years make up the clinical stage, where students work alongside doctors to put their skills into practice. All students on this course also undertake a research project, which encourages them to delve into the scientific research of medicine and develop laboratory skills.

A four-year graduate course for medical studies is also offered.

Notable alumni from the medical school include neurologist and Olympian Sir Roger Bannister, who is known for his research into responses of the nervous system.

Students at the  University of Oxford  have access to more than 400 clubs and societies.

Top UK universities for medicine 2024

Click each institution to view its full  World University Rankings 2024  results

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The Best Medical Schools in the UK

Healthcare Medicine

Last updated: 1 April 2024

The UK is one of the world’s most popular destinations for students looking to study medicine, offering enormous opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. UK medical schools immerse students in a vigorous learning atmosphere, from cutting-edge research facilities to innovative teaching methodologies. Emphasising practical experiences, problem-based learning, and inter-professional collaboration, these universities ensure a holistic development that extends beyond traditional classroom boundaries.

If you want to study at a medical school in the UK, apply with SI-UK London today by arranging your free consultation. We have helped hundreds of international students be successfully accepted into UK medical schools, and you can be next.

The Best UK Universities for Medicine

Below is the list of the top ten best universities in the UK for medicine, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. University of Aberdeen

Ranked amongst the best medical universities in the UK, the study of medicine at the University of Aberdeen is modern and dynamic, delivered through a system-based, integrated approach where student feedback is highly valued. Students can study medicine at one of the largest clinical sites in Europe, with outstanding teaching and extensive research facilities.

International students studying medicine at the University of Aberdeen can look forward to a memorable and enjoyable Scottish university experience. Aberdeen is currently ranked 158th in the world and 22nd in the UK and is one of three Scottish universities within the world's top 200.

• Suggested course : Medicine, MBChB
• Entry requirements : A Levels: 3 A Levels at AAA. Chemistry is required, plus one from Biology, Mathematics or Physics, and one other subject. International Baccalaureate: Minimum of 36 points, including at least 3 HL at 6 and 3 SL with an average of 6.
• International fees : £50,100
• Learn more about University of Aberdeen Medicine Courses

2. University of Cambridge

The School of Clinical Medicine at the University of Cambridge is considered one of best universities in the world for the study of medicine and offers three distinctive pathways to graduation:

Suppose you’re a graduate wanting to study Medicine. You can apply for the Standard Course in Medicine (A100) if you don't have a degree. In that case, you can apply as an affiliated student (taking the pre-clinical component of the Standard Course in Medicine (A100) in two years instead of the usual three) or apply to the accelerated Graduate Course in Medicine (A101). The first three years involve lectures, practical classes and supervision. Cambridge is one of the best universities in the UK, and its reputation globally is almost unrivalled.

• Suggested course : MB, BChir Medicine
• Entry requirements : A Level: A*A*A. IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level
• International fees : £67,194
• Learn more about University of Cambridge Medicine Courses

3. University of St Andrews

The University of St Andrews School of Medicine trains tomorrow's doctors via its leading BSc Honours degree and ScotGEM programmes. Building on St Andrews's expertise in dentistry, pharmacy and nursing, teaching is informed by the world-leading research produced at the University. Students can expect a supportive but academically challenging student culture to thrive in.

• Suggested course : Medicine BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements : SQA Highers: BBBB to AAAAB. A-Level: ABB to A*A*A. International Baccalaureate (IB): 36 (HL 6,5,5) to 38 (HL 6,6,6 plus SL 6,6,6).
• International fees : £36,990
• Learn more about University of St Andrews Medicine Courses

4. Swansea University

The medical pharmacology course at Swansea University covers a range of topics like toxicology, genetics, neuroscience, and drug development. Students acquire analytical and project management skills, learning to design experiments. Following the British Pharmacological Society's guidance, the curriculum offers a mix of compulsory and optional modules, allowing customisation. 

Students can access cutting-edge facilities to enhance their learning experience. Yearly progression involves choosing employability strands, and in the final year, an independent research project complements specialised studies in drug development, cancer pharmacology, reproductive biology, and nanotoxicology.

• Suggested course : Medical Pharmacology, BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements : IB: Minimum overall score of 33. Higher Level Chemistry is essential, plus one other STEM subject* both in Grade 6 and above.
• International fees : £ 21,650
• Learn more about Swansea University Medicine Courses

5. University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh Medical School is the top university for medicine in the UK and provides an excellent research and learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities. Edinburgh has a rich academic history spanning nearly 300 years, and medicine study at the School has been consistently ranked at the top by various national and international league tables.

The six-year Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) degree will equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to become a Foundation Year 1 doctor.

• Suggested course : MBChB Medicine
• Entry requirements : SQA Highers: AAAAA by end of S5 and BB at Advanced Higher in S6. A Levels: A*AA. IB: 40 points with 766 at HL (7 in Chemistry).
• International fees : Preclinical years 1, 2 and 3: £37,500, Clinical years 4, 5 and 6: £51,000. Direct entry to year 4: £51,000
• Learn more about University of Edinburgh Medicine Courses

6. Keele University

Keele's Medicine programme adopts a modern, integrated curriculum with early clinical exposure, communication skills, dissection, problem-based learning, and inter-professional collaboration. The spiral structure incorporates lectures, seminars, and practical activities, promoting holistic development. Keele’s Medical Student Council ensures a responsive approach to curriculum enhancement. 

Key content areas encompass professional ethics, patient safety, diagnostics, prescribing, healthcare systems, and health promotion, providing students with a comprehensive foundation to graduate as proficient clinicians.

• Suggested course : Medicine - MBChB
• Entry requirements : A Level grades A*AA, AAA + EPQ grade A, or its international equivalent.
• International fees : £41,000
• Learn more about Keele University Medicine Courses

7. Imperial College London

Imperial College London combines proven, traditional methods with the latest innovations in teaching and research. The School scored a 96% overall satisfaction rate in the most recent National Student Survey, as it provides specific and innovative courses to prepare students for an ever-changing world of healthcare.

Students at Imperial are engaged in clinical practice right from the start of their courses, getting access to excellent opportunities for professional development.

• Suggested course : MBBS/BSc Medicine
• Entry requirements : AAA - A*AA (A* in Biology or Chemistry). IB: 38 points To include: 6 in Biology at higher level 6 in Chemistry at higher level
• International fees : £53,700
• Learn more about Imperial College London Medicine Courses

8. University of Oxford

The BA Medicine at Oxford University comprises two main segments: the initial five terms encompass the First BM, delving into foundational medical science and clinical challenges. This stage introduces bodily systems, their health, dysfunction, and disease principles, fostering inquiry and clinical understanding. The subsequent four-term BA Honours phase focuses on Medical Sciences, where students specialise in selected biomedical areas. The course structure includes examinations, patient interaction, and a variety of assessments, culminating in options, essays, and a research project in Medical Sciences.

• Suggested course : BA/BM BCh Medicine
• Entry requirements : 2:1 undergraduate degree in any subject, or merit in an integrated master’s degree in any subject, or 2:2 undergraduate degree AND a pass in a postgraduate higher degree (master's or PhD) in any subject.
• International fees : £43,670
• Learn more about University of Oxford Medicine

9. University of Glasgow

The School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing at the University of Glasgow stands out for its innovative teaching methods and top-notch facilities, catering to both undergraduates and postgraduates. It boasts one of Europe's largest and most esteemed undergraduate medical schools, featuring a unique problem-based learning curriculum. As the UK's second-largest dental school, it offers comprehensive facilities for patient care, research, and training. 

The Nursing & Health Care School focuses on producing grounded graduate nurses and excels in education and patient-centred research.

• Suggested course : Medicine MBChB
• Entry requirements : SQA Higher: AAAAA Higher at the end of S5 + BB Advanced Higher. IB Standard Entry Requirements: 38 (6,6,6 HL).
• International fees : ££56,520
• Learn more about University of Glasgow Medicine Courses

10. Brighton and Sussex Medical School

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is a collaborative endeavour between the Universities of Sussex and Brighton, alongside NHS entities in the South East region. This joint effort is mirrored in governance, granting students joint BM BS degrees from both universities. BSMS prioritises outcomes for graduates, advocating for multi-professional medical education and upholding the highest teaching, clinical practice, and research standards.

• Entry requirements : A-level grades A*AA or AAA + EPQ grade A. Any science A-Level (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) completed in England from 2017 must include a pass in the practical endorsement.
• International fees : £42,000
• Learn more about Brighton and Sussex Medical School Medicine Courses

Study Medicine in the UK

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How Much Does it Cost to Become a Doctor in the UK?

The cost of medical education in the UK must be viewed from two perspectives - the cost to the student and the cost to the taxpayer. Both numbers are intricately connected, and they affect each other. Thus, it is vital to investigate both perspectives to reach a satisfactory answer.

Table of Contents

• 1 Medical Education Price Vs Medical Education Cost
• 2.1 What Is the Cost of Studying Medicine in the UK for International Students?
• 3 How Much Does Studying Medicine Cost to the Taxpayer?
• 4 Budget-Friendly Path to UK Medical Degree with Medlink Scholarship
• 5 How much does it cost to become a doctor in the UK?
• 6 Why This Matters for You

Medical Education Price Vs Medical Education Cost

The price of medical education is defined by how much a student pays to study at the university. It is represented by the tuition fees, which cover basics such as lectures, facilities, libraries, and most compulsory events. 

In contrast, the cost of medical education represents how much the government pays to supply all required for studying. These costs include investments and expenses such as building facilities, teachers’ salaries, utilities, and amortisation.

In the UK, local students usually pay less in tuition fees than what a medical degree actually costs. The underlying agreement is that the government is indirectly “sponsoring” future professionals. Thus, taxpayers pay for the long-term interests of society.

That’s why international students pay much higher tuition fees. They will return to their home countries after graduation, and there will be no taxes on them in the future. Thus, there is no solidarity principle in the pricing of their education. 

How Much Does It Cost to Study Medicine in the UK?

UK students pay up to £9,250 (€11,070) per year in tuition fees for medical universities. Living costs may vary by another £1000 to £2000 per month (€1200 - €2400), depending on the city and type of accommodation. Thus, the total student expenditures for six years are £55,500 in tuition fees and another £72,000 to £144,000 in living expenses.

The living expenses above assume the student is not living with their parents. Furthermore, many students use scholarships, bursaries, and bank loans to lower the burden of payments. Student loans can additionally raise the costs of studying through their interest rates.

What Is the Cost of Studying Medicine in the UK for International Students?

International students pay much higher tuition fees in the UK because local taxpayers do not subsidise their education. According to the Reddin Survey, different universities set their own tuition fees, and they vary from as low as £ 10,000 to as high as £ 38,000.

The living costs for international students are comparable to those for locals. However, foreigners have a visa requirement to provide evidence for financial solvency. They need £1,334 per month for London and £1,023 for courses outside London. The required money is needed for up to 9 months in the year. Nevertheless, such finances are not realistic, considering the rent prices in London and other big cities.

How Much Does Studying Medicine Cost to the Taxpayer?

According to The Telegraph and YouGov, the taxpayer pays an additional £230,000 to what students already pay in tuition fees. This amount was so impressive that the government intended to mandate a 4-year service in the NHS for graduating doctors.

However, independent investigators determined that the actual amount the government was paying was much lower. In reality, studying medicine in the UK costs around 163,000 to the taxpayer. This sum goes directly to students, healthcare providers supporting clinical years, and universities.

While this amount is still impressive, it also reflects how vital medical professionals are to society. Therefore, the cost of studying medicine in the UK is borne by both the taxpayers and the student.

Budget-Friendly Path to UK Medical Degree with Medlink Scholarship

Many students wish to speed up their studies, secure their Medical degree and start practising in the UK. The fastest route, in this case, would be to sign up for a graduate degree and take advantage of a condensed 4-year course rather than the conventional 6-year programme offered by most medical universities.

The Medlink Students' team closely works with students and recognises the need to present them with the opportunity to have a fast-track education on a budget. That's why, in keeping with our mantra of 'Sun, Sea & Study Medicine', we've established a special partnership with a few Caribbean Medical Universities , and we are now able to present our student candidates with exclusive scholarships based on their academic performance.

Get in touch with our student advisors regarding eligibility and scholarship availability.

How much does it cost to become a doctor in the UK?

In summary, the cost of becoming a doctor is different for medical students and taxpayers . A future physician pays around 55,000 in tuition fees for 6 years. On the other hand, the government pays close to 163,000 in grants to “produce” a medical graduate.

People should consider additional costs for both sides. Living costs in the UK can be between 72,000 and 144,000 for 6 years. Naturally, the expenses would be significantly lower if students lived with their parents.

On the other hand, the government provides a lot of financing in the form of student loans. These loans have somewhat favourable interest rates and service conditions. Therefore, there is a high opportunity cost for issuing such a loan.

In the end, becoming a doctor means a lot more than what it costs. There is a real hunger for medical professionals in the UK, and the educational system is currently unable to provide a sufficient number of doctors.

More and more students decide to study abroad to achieve their dreams. British nationals look to Europe as a source of reliable, prestigious, and safe education. 

Schedule a free consultation to check your options in Europe.

Why This Matters for You

Understanding the cost of becoming a doctor in the UK is crucial for future medical students, as it can greatly impact your financial planning, educational opportunities, and career prospects. Here are the top factors you should consider before deciding on your educational pathway:

Comprehensive financial planning: Knowing both the tuition fees and living expenses will help you prepare a realistic budget, ensuring you can manage your funds for medical school without unexpected surprises.

International student considerations: Being aware of the higher tuition fees for international students and visa requirements will help you understand the commitment needed to study in the UK.

Budget-friendly alternatives : The availability of more affordable medical programmes in Europe and the Caribbean offers viable alternative pathways to becoming a successful doctor. The best part is that you will still be getting high-quality medical degree that follows the global standards of education.

Career pathway : The high demand for medical professionals in the UK and the potential for studying abroad provide students with a variety of opportunities to become sought-after medical professionals.  Professional support and guidance: If you aren’t sure which option is the best for you, Medlink Students provides a free consultation with our expert academic advisors who can guide you toward choosing the perfect medical school, according to your budget, goals, and ambitions.

4 comments on “How Much Does it Cost to Become a Doctor in the UK?”

hi my name is suruchi i am doing master of public health from Birmingham city university now i am thinking of doing medicine right now i am in uk. so tell the criteria and fees foe this thank-you

Hey! Thank you for contacting us. This is an excellent question that is best answered in person after considering your situation. You can do that for free here https://www.medlinkstudents.com/apply/ . It takes only 10 seconds, and one of our advisors will contact you as soon as possible.

help me understand what I need to pay every month for the tuition.

Hey! Thank you for contacting us. This is an excellent question that is best answered in person by one of our expert advisors. You can submit an application for free here https://www.medlinkstudents.com/apply/ . It only takes 10 seconds, and one of our advisors will contact you as soon as possible.

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Best school and unis for medical education in England and the UK for international students

TOP-3 tips for entering medical faculties in the UK for foreign students

Medical education in the uk for international students, the structure of higher medical education in great britain, the most prestigious and ranking universities in medicine in england, how to enter a medical college in england, pre-university programs in medicine, british educational system , secondary education in the uk, higher education in england.

Every year, the number of students choosing medical education in England and Great Britain continues to increase. Indeed, the prestigious diploma of higher medical education in England offers the widest opportunities for successful international employment, research activities, stable and high incomes.

• In order to start studying at the universities in Great Britain in the specialty "Medicine" in the majority cases, you must complete a minimum of 2 years of study in  Great Britain
• There are one-year preliminary programs for admission to medicine at UK universities, for example: The St George's University of London program and Foundation program at the University of Central Lancashire, UCLan
• There are summer short-term medical programs and another Summer Program in Medicine .

The British system of medicine has its history for many centuries: according to the statistical data of the World Health Organization (WHO), the country ranks 15th among European states in terms of Medical care and 18th place around the world for the same parameter. The United Kingdom is one of TOP-10 world leaders in terms of the level of development of medicine, the use of innovative technologies, the pace of development and scientific research; In Britain there are world-famous universities and faculties of profile areas ( Oxford , Cambridge , University of Newcastle and many others). Medical education in England is prestigious.

Such a high demand and prestige of medical schools leads to the highest competition among entrants.

Study in the UK is also chosen because the medical degree allows to receive a fairly high salary. Yes, the price of education in England is quite high, but the costs will pay off. According to statistics, the average district therapist gets about 44,000 euros a year. 

The duration of medical education in England is approximately 7-8 years: the undergraduate program implies studying a wide range of basic disciplines. The first professional degrees received by students, who have chosen medical education in England and the UK, are the Bachelor of Medicine and the Bachelor of Surgery (similar and equivalent). After receiving a Bachelor's degree, a student can continue studying in a chosen or related specialty, going on an internship.

Internship (Foundation) is divided into two years - F1 and F2. The termination is marked by the MB diploma (for the specialists of the direction "Surgery" ChB diploma is intended). The Foundation Doctor degree is mandatory for all practicing qualified physicians in the UK: in 2005, it replaced the Pre-registration house officer and Senior house officer. Degrees are also taught to work in a team, acquire time management skills and IT.

• F1 - 3-4 different specialties are studied. The General Medical Council defines the mandatory set of knowledge that a student must possess after each trimester
• F2 - focuses on the diagnosis and prevention of acute diseases. Also teamwork and personnel management, necessary IT skills, ability to distribute time and rank assigned tasks are mastered.

In the United States, an intern is referred to as a specialist who received medical education, but does not yet have a license for independent medical practice. In Britain there is a similar in meaning term Foundation House Officer. Interns are practiced only under the guidance of a doctor with a license in an accredited clinic or hospital

Education in England  can be obtained by completing the GEP express courses (4 years instead of 5-6), but only those who have completed biological and medical faculties can apply. There are exceptions to this rule, but they need to be learned separately in each university - for example, Cambridge accepts even holders of humanitarian diplomas at the GEP.

The Special General Medical Council - GMC - is responsible for the certification of specialists and has been working for many years, periodically releasing professional collections of recommendations that are mandatory for students, alumni and applicants.

Great Britain can be proud of a whole pleiad of scientists and doctors of world renown who have been educated in England in one of 30 specialized medical schools or one of 10 universities. Among the most popular, prestigious and rating educational institutions are the following:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Queen Mary, University of London
• King's College of Medicine
• University of Bristol
• University of Nottingham
• University of Wales
• University of Birmingham
• St. George's, University of London
• University of Liverpool
• University of Newcastle
• University of Leicester
• University of Warwick .

Unlike most other universities and higher schools, the requirements for applicants are not limited to a certificate with good marks and the results of a language test in English. The certificate of the A-level program will be required (the course should have studied core disciplines - for example, chemistry or biology), a language testing certificate that confirms the advanced level of the English language, and the mandatory passing of the BMAT exam (introductory testing in biochemical sciences).

Please, note that most profile universities provide a very small quota for foreign students from non-EU countries. Medical education in England is very in demand among the subjects countries.

• Foundation or University Pathway (1 academic year). This course, with a successful completion, makes it possible to enter the chosen faculty without exams, which is very convenient for foreign students. This program is provided by large educational centers (such as INTO and Study Group). For example, INTO together with  St. George's University of London will organize a six-year program of study in one of the best specialized schools: 4 years of study and two years of practice and internship in US clinics. At the end of the course the student gets the right to work in his specialty in America, and if he passes the GMC certification, and in the UK.
• The Summer Program in Medicine in Oxford
• Summer Medical Program in London .

Speaking about medical education in England, it is impossible not to illuminate the educational system of Britain as a whole: a gradual, development of the national educational standard will help to succeed even in such a complicated field as medicine. The educational system of Great Britain is considered to be one of the best in the world. In many respects, national standards are regulated by the Education Act, adopted in 1944, which regulates the entire educational system as a whole.

Education in the UK is compulsory for all citizens from 5 to 16 years. Up to 5 years, parents can give the child to a day nursery or kindergarten (3-4 years), where the kids will learn to read, read and write on fun and boring occupations. After 16 years, the student can receive a professional qualification (GNVQ), start working or go to the Sixth Form programs and prepare for higher education at the university. In general, the entire educational system is divided into 4 levels:

• Elementary School - 5-11 years
• Secondary School - 11-16 years
• Post-secondary education (Further Education) -16-18 years
• Higher education.

You can choose a public school for free or a private school (the latter mainly work as boarding schools, providing students with accommodation on campus for the duration of their studies). There are schools offering a full educational cycle (3-5 to 18 years), you can switch from a junior to a middle or high school, changing educational institutions: for example, in Britain there are many high schools and colleges specializing in the preparation of students aged 15-18 to enter universities. It is also possible to choose a separate school (separately for boys or for girls) or a joint education institution - as a rule, the former are distinguished by more strict discipline and traditions.

Secondary education of children in England usually begins at 5 years from preparatory preschool classes. At 6-7 years old  students attend primary classes in public and private schools, and at 11 years students go to middle classes, where they study until 15-16 years.

• Elementary classes usually include studying a standard program with a specific set of subjects: English, math, science, history, music, physical education and sports, art.
• In the middle classes, the depth of the study gradually increases year by year, the child has an opportunity to choose a part of the subjects on his own - a "core" of disciplines is required, and the rest can be chosen as electives to their own taste and interests.
• Sixth Form is a full-fledged directed preparation for entering a university. This can be a course of A-level , IB , Cambridge Pre-U, Foundation (annual) - the choice depends on the future country and the university chosen for higher education.

A-level program provides for a deep, thorough study of 3-5 selected disciplines for 2 academic years and the subsequent passing of the exam, which are counted as both introductory to the chosen institution. Foreign students often choose a one-year Foundation: in addition to studying basic subjects, there is an intensive language course, which will help to significantly increase the level of English in a year. But pay attention: top, most elite and selective universities do not take the Foundation as an academic high-grade and require a certificate of at least A-level or IB.

At 16 years students can go on getting a professional education (further education): this is vocational studying or preparation for the Bachelor's degree. This qualification can be obtained in colleges, institutes and special schools.

The academic year in the UK lasts 38 weeks and is divided into third-trimester:

• Autumn (Michaelmas) - from September to December
• Spring (Lent ) - January to March
• Summer (Summer ) - from April to the beginning of June.

The exact dates of each trimester each school can establish independently. Do not forget about holidays: short weekly intervals in the middle of each trimester and long Christmas, Easter (2-3 weeks) and summer (6 weeks) vacation.

Students are engaged on weekdays - Monday to Friday: usually lessons are held from 9:00 to 15:00 (breaks for lunch and lunch are provided). Saturday is a traditional day for excursions, major events, sports and matches, classes in creative studios and elective courses. Sunday is usually reserved for rest.

Universities, institutes, higher schools and polytechnic colleges can provide higher education in the UK. There are more than 700 institutions. You can get a Bachelor's and Master's degree (including MBA), pass short-term programs, doctoral degree. Universities are divided into two large groups:

• Unitary: include departments and faculties
• Collegial (including Oxford and Cambridge): consist of several colleges, sometimes even from a few dozen.

Classes start in October and lasts until June, each trimester (one-third of the school year) for 8-10 weeks. There are big summer holidays - usually from June 1 to September 30.

The Bachelor's degree can be obtained for 3-4 years (in the field of medicine and architecture - up to 6 years), the Master's - after an additional year and creating personal research work. PhD can be obtained for a voluminous outstanding work, for an invaluable contribution to science, inventions with the possibility of practical application or important scientific research.

The main forms of work in universities are seminars and lectures, laboratory work, tutorials in mini groups of 2-10 people, master classes. 

All higher education in the country is paid, and for foreign students tuition fees are usually higher. British citizens have an opportunity to study in debt, and the government has the right to collect a debt only if the graduate has got a job with a salary of at least 21,000 pounds sterling a year.

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How To Get Into Medical School (UK Edition)

• Applying To Medicine

So you want to become a doctor? It is a noble career choice which can be incredibly rewarding, but also demanding. No two doctors’ lives are the same, but arguably one of the biggest challenges every single doctor has had to face is one that occurs before their career has even begun: getting into medical school. As such, this article will provide you with great insight into the process of how to get into medical school in the UK.

What Qualifications Do I Need To Be A Doctor?

To become a doctor in the UK, you need to have obtained a degree in medicine – i.e. a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (abbreviated as MBBS, MBChB, or BMBS) – from an institution whose degrees are recognised as a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) by the medical regulator, the General Medical Council (GMC). Following completion of your PMQ, you will be provisionally registered with the GMC, and only receive full registration after completion of your first year of the two-year foundation programme (FY1). Completion of FY2 allows you to apply for further training in specialised areas. The length of this varies across specialties, but once you’ve completed specialty training, you obtain a certificate of completion of training (CCT) to go on work as a consultant in your chosen specialty.

Choosing A Medical School

How many medical schools are there in the UK, you ask? There are currently more than 30 universities that award a medical degree, with new schools and programmes constantly being reviewed and added to the list. Legally speaking, they are all equal since medicine is subject to extensive quality assurance to ensure every graduate from every GMC-approved medical school is fit to practice. Nonetheless, there are league tables ranking the best universities for medicine based on numerous factors influencing overall learning experience. The top 10 medical schools in the UK for 2021 according to The Complete University Guide are as follows:

Glasgow Medical School & Dundee Medical School

Oxford Medical School

Aberdeen Medical School

Edinburgh Medical School

Queen Mary University of London Medical School

Cambridge Medical School

St Andrews Medical School

Imperial Medical School

Swansea Medical School

UCL Medical School

Regardless of rankings, you should explore individual medical courses in terms of structure, teaching style, facilities, and location to see which one is right for you as you will be spending a significant amount of years there.

Medical School Entry Requirements

Various medical schools in the UK have different entry requirements specific to their course. However, there is a generalised expectation regarding the type of grades required to gain admission into some of the best universities for medicine.  

Most medical schools will expect at least AAA at A-Level, usually in Biology/Human Biology and Chemistry, as well as Physics or Mathematics. Higher ranked medical schools, particularly Oxbridge (University of Oxford and Cambridge) will expect A*A*A-A*AA.

SQA Highers and Advanced Highers

The general expectation from most medical schools is either AAAAB or AAABB at SQA Highers in S5 and AA/AB or BBB at SQA Advanced Highers in S6.

GCSE and Scottish Nationals

An applicant’s GCSE results are more often than not taken into consideration, where the expectation is a minimum of a Grade 6 (B) in English Language and Mathematics, and sometimes the sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics). The remaining subjects are expected to be anywhere from Grade 6 to 9 (B-A*). Some universities accept Grade 4-5 (C); these are in the minority, however. As for Scottish Nationals, they must match the equivalent GCSE requirements.

Graduate entry medicine 

Graduates can either apply for the 5-year undergraduate course (UCAS: A100) or the 4-year graduate-entry course (UCAS: A101/102). The expectation is a minimum of a 2:1 Honours, usually in a relevant science degree; albeit, this is not the case for every university. A Level and GCSE grades will normally still be taken into consideration at varying levels dependent on the medical school.

BMAT and UCAT

Either the BMAT (BioMedical Admissions Test) or UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) will be used as part of the entry requirements for medicine. These are both standardised tests designed to test potential applicants on their clinical aptitude and general medical knowledge alongside other areas of thinking.

You must book a place yourself prior to university enrolment. An applicant has one chance to take these exams per registration period, e.g. if the exam is taken in 2021, the applicant must use it for the 2021 application period and not in any of the upcoming years. 

This 2-hour test is split into three sections (Table 1) and examines your knowledge of science and mathematics, as well as your logical thinking, problem-solving, and written communication skills. The BMAT is ordinarily a pen and paper exam, but due to the circumstances attached to the pandemic, the 2020 exam was taken electronically. The BMAT costs approximately £60 if taken within the UK, and £90 if taken outside the UK. 

Table 1 BMAT exam format.

BMAT Universities

Table 2 List of BMAT Universities in the UK.

This 2-hour test is split into five sections (Table 3) and is completed electronically at a designated testing centre, where a whiteboard is provided. Applicants receive their results immediately post-exam. This test examines the applicant’s problem-solving, teamwork, spatial awareness and numerical skills, as well as their empathy and integrity. The UCAT costs approximately £75 if taken within the UK, and £120 if taken outside the UK.

Table 3 UCAT exam format.

UCAT Universities

Table 4 List of UCAT Universities in the UK.

Work Experience

This is where many applicants start to believe applying for medicine is a lost cause. It is incredibly difficult to secure a position in a clinical setting; not because you’re not good enough, but rather due to cumbersome administrative, insurance, and ethical implications of having an inexperienced student roam the wards of a hospital. The good news, nonetheless, is that medical schools are aware of how hard it is to gain clinical exposure. You should still try to contact as many consultants and other healthcare professionals you come across for possible placements since you do need to demonstrate a realistic grasp of what a medical profession entails; this could also simply mean having a chat with clinicians about their career.  

Essentially, what admissions officers are looking for is a range of experiences, preferably long-term, where you demonstrated interest in the welfare of society as that is the crux of healthcare. Volunteering is a fantastic way of accomplishing this. Aim to look for long-term volunteering opportunities at a hospital, a care home, or a charity to gain a realistic experience; they are always looking for volunteers to help out. Befriending or caring for the vulnerable in particular is an excellent opportunity to not only develop the qualities any doctor should possess – i.e. communication skills, empathy, resilience, enthusiasm, teamwork – but also network with other healthcare professionals who can provide further insight into the field, and possibly even shadowing work. Teaching experience, such as with children with learning difficulties, is also valuable as you demonstrate communication skills and patience. 

Additionally, there are numerous programmes and organisations that offer paid or voluntary internships/placements for aspiring medical students which you may look into. Nonetheless, competition may be high as literally thousands of students will be applying.

Organising paid or voluntary placements takes time, so make sure to start early so you will have completed a number of diverse, long-term experiences by the time you begin working on your medical school application. You may complete placements over holidays, during the school year, or even take a gap year; this will show great time-management.

Personal Statement

Emphasis on your personal statement varies from university to university, with some outlining at which stage it is used and exactly how much it is worth in your overall application. Accordingly, students put varying amounts of effort into writing their personal statements. Nonetheless, it is still an important component and often left to the last minute; for some universities it can even be a deciding factor between a rejection or an offer, so make sure to look into your choices and how they use the personal statement. 

When it comes to writing the personal statement, the aim is to woo the admissions officers who will be reading it. It’s a justification as to why YOU should be picked out of the pile of eligible candidates. One way to structure your statement is to start off with your motivation and demonstrate that you have done relevant research to ensure it is what you want to do. 

Next you can move on to why you’re suitable by outlining attributes you’ve developed through your academic performance, extracurricular activities, and voluntary or paid placements/internships and linking them to the roles of a doctor. Many make the mistake of simply listing all the clinically relevant things they did. Instead, what admissions officers are looking for is what you learnt from those experiences, and how they’re relevant to the medical profession, and ultimately, how they will help you become a better medical student and doctor. Choose quality over quantity for your examples – be it experiences, extracurricular activities, hobbies, or articles/books that you read – and reflect on how they impacted you and how they helped you develop a certain attribute that is relevant to a career in medicine . 

Lastly, if you’re applying as an international student, you should also have a small paragraph justifying why you want to study in the UK.

Interviews 

Once the admissions criteria are met, you’ll be invited to interview at the medical school. Interviews are an opportunity for the medical school to learn more about you and evaluate whether you possess the qualities affiliated with those of a good doctor.

Interview season for most universities is anywhere from November to March. Regarding responses, this varies for each medical school; some may offer a response within a couple of weeks, whilst others will wait until the March deadline.

Different universities offer their own respective interview styles; however, they can be split into two main categories: traditional (panel) interviews or MMIs (Multiple Mini Interviews).

Regardless of interview style, there are certain hot topics that often arise in interviews. Candidates are often asked to demonstrate understanding of the medical profession by exhibiting knowledge of the NHS, the GMC, the history of medicine, as well as certain controversies in healthcare. 

Traditional (panel) Interviews

Panel interviews revolve around questions and answers, often feeling more like a conversation between the applicant and whomever is interviewing them. This is a chance for you to elaborate on their personal statement, highlight notable qualities, emphasise any key points, and build rapport with the interviewers.

The questions will not be released prior to the interview and must not be discussed afterwards. However, there is an abundance of question banks online and most universities will provide information on what they are looking for from potential students on their websites.

Candidates may be interviewed by a lecturer at the university , a GP , a nurse, an admissions tutor, a junior doctor or a medical student. The interview sessions vary in length, ranging from 20 to 40 minutes.

Traditional (Panel) Universities

Table 5 List Panel Interview Universities in the UK.

Most medical schools choose MMIs as their interview style as it provides a clear insight into the skills you possess. Whilst panel interviews are more question focused, MMIs are task-based, with different 10-minute stations set up to test various qualities. MMIs are set up in this way so that the interviewers can see what you’re capable of doing in real-time instead of simply talking about your qualities. 

Prior to each station, you’ll be given a scenario and some time to prepare. You’ll either be watched by an interviewer in a role-play scenario alongside a trained actor, or will be asked questions by the interviewer themselves. Some stations may in fact focus on your personal statement or ask more panel style questions. Medical Schools will have about 10 MMI stations, each taking no longer than 10 minutes to complete. The average time for an MMI interview is around two hours.

Although MMIs are often specific to each University, common themes are present throughout. Some common stations the candidate is likely to encounter are as follows:

Role-play stations: Acting out a scenario with an actor playing a patient or friend. This station evaluates empathy and communication skills.

PBL (problem-based learning) stations: Candidates are put in PBL groups with other candidates, working through a scenario to extract the main themes. This station evaluates teamwork and problem-solving.

Data interpretation and calculation stations: Data is presented that must be analysed to draw a conclusion, such as the effectiveness of an antibiotic based on a graph. Additionally, simple clinically relevant calculations are provided that need to be solved, such as the amount of drug that must be prescribed. This station evaluates data analysis.

Professional judgement stations: Acting out a scenario, however this time, the candidate must determine the best next course of action in high-pressure situations. This station evaluates ability to gauge patient safety, as well as empathy and communication skills.

Instruction stations: Giving instructions for specific activities, such as tying shoelaces without hand gestures, giving directions from a map or building block structures. This station evaluates communication skills, ability to stay calm under pressure, and provide instruction that is specific to the individual being instructed.

MMI Universities:

Table 6 List of MMI Universities in the UK.

ISC Medical provides invaluable resources for many components of the application process, including books with sample questions for BMAT, UCAT, interviews, as well as advice on writing your personal statement. Furthermore, BMAT past papers and UCAT sample papers can be found on their respective websites where they are free to download. Lastly, Medify is another highly recommended platform to assist you in your application; it even allows you to practice numerous UCAT style questions under real exam conditions.

Related links

• Applying for Medical School
• Becoming A Doctor: Medical Student Finance

The BMJ Guide To Intercalated Degrees

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