SQA - Highers

 AAAAB (at Higher) including Chemistry (A grade) and one other of Biology, Mathematics or Physics.

• These grades should normally be obtained at the same sitting. Exceptions may be made for candidates who attend schools who are unable to present pupils for five Highers at one sitting.
• Applicants who obtain a B grade in Chemistry in S5 may be considered if they are sitting Advanced Higher Chemistry in S6.
• If Biology or Mathematics has not been passed at Higher grade, each must normally have been passed at Standard Grade Credit Level (grade 1 or 2) or Intermediate 2 (grade A or B).
• A pass must also be offered in Standard Grade English at Credit Level (grade 1 or 2) or Intermediate 2 (grade A or B).
• There is no direct entry from S5 at school. Decisions will be made on the basis of Higher qualifications obtained during S5. Predicted performance in S6 will be considered.
• Human Biology may replace Biology.
• A Higher in Intensive English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) is not acceptable as one of 5 Highers required at one sitting.
• Students unable to take missing sciences in S5 may take the missing subject(s) in S6. Two science subjects must be sat in the same year - either S5 or S6.
• Recommendations for S6 would include further study. In particular, Advanced Higher Chemistry and Biology would be welcomed although other subject combinations would not disadvantage an applicant.

GCE - Advanced Levels

• AAA (Advanced levels) including Chemistry and one other of Biology, Mathematics or Physics.
• If Biology, Mathematics and English are not offered at Advanced (A2) or AS Level, each must normally have been passed at GCSE grade B or better. Dual award Science is not acceptable in lieu of GCSE Biology.
• Human Biology may replace Biology.
• General Studies and Critical Thinking are not considered.
• Advanced Levels must be studied over a two year period and completed in Year 13.
• Only one of Mathematics or Further Mathematics will be considered for the 3 subjects required at Advanced Level.

Graduate & Undergraduate Entry

Degree requirements

• Upper Second or First class Honours degree (or equivalent) to have been obtained within the 5 years prior to entry to Medicine.
• Applicants whose degree is more than 5 years old will not be considered. Further study (except for a PhD) will not ameliorate for a degree that is more than 5 years old.
• Only the first degree achieved to be considered; a Lower Second Class honours degree followed by a second degree (First or Upper Second Class honours degree, Masters or PhD) will not be accepted.
• Only applicants with Science Honours degrees to be considered.

Additional requirements over and above Honours Degree

Either:

• Chemistry Higher/A-level (A grade) - must be in last 6 years. (Upper Second or First class Honours degree in Chemistry, or degree with substantial chemistry content, accepted in lieu of A-level or Higher).
• Plus Biology, English and Maths at GCSE grade B or equivalent.

Or:

• Some Access to Medicine courses (distinctions)
  
• Plus English and Maths at GCSE grade B or equivalent.

Entry requirements would be the same for both Scottish/EU/RUK and those who are 'Overseas' for fee purposes.
A GPA of 3.5 is considered to be the equivalent of an Upper Second Class Honours degree.

For advice with regard to degree classifications from other countries please email international@st-andrews.ac.uk

We do not run a fast track graduate entry programme. All Medical students must start at first year level and complete the full 6 years of the course; no credit will be given for courses taken elsewhere.

Undergraduates who are in FIRST year of an undergraduate programme will be considered if they have fulfilled our academic entry requirements before they began their undergraduate course. They must apply by the deadline of 15 October and have sat the UKCAT that year. We will not consider applicants who have progressed to second year. Meeting minimum entry requirements will not guarantee an offer - grades will have to be competitive with grades of all those applying at the same time. No credit for the undergraduate year is given as all entrants must do the full 6 years of the medical degree.

• Those who are already on, or have previously studied on, undergraduate medical degree programmes elsewhere will not be considered.
• For both graduates and undergraduates, a reference from their university tutor commenting on their academic performance and suitability for medicine should be part of their UCAS application.
• A university transcript of academic performance should be forwarded to the Admissions Office as supplementary information. Graduates need to supply an academic transcript of their performance at university at the time of application. Those who will be graduating should, at the time of application, supply details of undergraduate courses taken and grades obtained so far.

Other UK Qualifications

• HNC, HND and SQA National Certificate qualifications are not taken into consideration for places in Medicine. Open University qualifications are taken into account only in the cases of those who will have graduated from the Open University by the time of the proposed entry to the Medicine course.

Access to Medicine courses

The HNC Applied Sciences Pathway to Medicine at Perth College is an accepted access course for entry to Medicine at St Andrews.

Pathway to Medicine at Perth College

Those studying on other Access to Medicine courses will only be considered if they are graduates (see Graduate & Undergraduate Entry). Other Mature applicants will only be considered from the Pathway to Medicine at Perth College.

To check which Access to Medicine course are acceptable for graduate applicants please email the Medical Admissions office at St Andrews (medadmiss@st-andrews.ac.uk) and supply a course syllabus and full CV giving all previous qualifications and employment.

Advanced Diplomas

• Advanced Diplomas currently available do not provide a progression route to Medicine at St Andrews. We will continue to review each Advanced Diploma as it becomes available.

AQA Baccalaureate

• A pass in the Baccalaureate will be required, along with specified grades in three A Levels.

Cambridge Pre-U

• Combinations of individual Pre-U subjects and A Level subjects will be acceptable if three subjects are offered overall in a suitable subject combination and normally in one examination diet. The minimum acceptable grade for each Pre-U subject would be D3.

Scottish Baccalaureate

• The Scottish Baccalaureates will be considered for entry in conjunction with other Highers or Advanced Highers. No added bonus will be given for the scientific project.

Welsh Baccalaureate

• The Welsh Baccalaureate is acceptable only when combined with other qualifications. Three A Levels are usually required. For subjects and grades please refer to A Level requirements.

English Language Requirements

A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require a score of 7.0 in all 4 areas of the International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) exam, all to be achieved at the same sitting.

Austria: Certificate of Secondary Education

• Minimum: Overall score of 1 (sehr gut) with 1 (sehr gut) in Chemistry and 1(sehr gut) in one of Biology, Maths or Physics. Another subject must be offered with a score of 1 (sehr gut). If Biology and Maths are not offered at 1 (sehr gut) then they must be offered at 2 (gut).
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.  
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of the 4 components at one sitting. 

Belgium: Diploma Van Secundair Onderwijs

• Minimum: Overall average grade of 8+ in the senior high school examination with 9 in Chemistry and 9 in one of Biology, Maths or Physics. Another subject must be offered at grade 9.  Biology, Maths and English must be offered even if not at grade 9.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of the 4 components at one sitting. 

Bulgaria: Senior High School Examination

• This qualification is not acceptable on its own for entry to Medicine but it may be considered if supplemented with 3 A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree. 

Canada: High School Diploma

• Canadians can apply for either the A100 (St Andrews/Manchester programme) or
  the A990 (St Andrews/Edinburgh/Alberta programme).
  The entry requirements for both courses are the same.
  
  
• An applicant with an average of over 85% in grade 11 might be considered. However, such applicants are unlikely to be successful unless there is an indication that a significant improvement in grades could be expected for Year 12. In previous years conditions of offer set on Year 12 have been 85% overall with 90% in Chemistry, one of Biology, Maths or Physics and also in one other subject.
  
  
• When calculating the average, academic subjects will be considered.
  
  
• Chemistry is required in both Year 11 and 12 with 85% minimum in Year 11 and 90% in Year 12.
  
  
• If Chemistry has not been studied for the required number of years, SAT II score of 700+ might be considered in lieu of a second year of Chemistry study.
  
  
• If not offered in Year 11 and Year 12, then Biology, Maths and English MUST be offered in Year 10. Preference will be given to those who have studied Biology for more than Year 10.

S.A.T.s (Scholastic Aptitude Tests) and ACT tests

• A decision on your application will not be taken on the basis of SATs or ACT tests alone but if you have taken them, they will be considered.
  
  
• In the SAT I (Verbal, Mathematics and Critical Reading) a minimum of 2000 would be competitive.
  
  
• In the SAT II subject test, a score of 700+ would be competitive in Biology and Chemistry.
  
  
• A combined score of 30+ in the ACT would be comparable with SAT Is.

International Baccalaureate

• See here for requirements
  

Cyprus  

• The Greek and Turkish Cypriot school leaving qualifications are not acceptable for entry to Medicine. Students may be considered if study is supplemented with 3 A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree. A majority of A grades will also be required in GCSEs or equivalent.

Czech Republic: Maturitni Zkouška / Maturita

• Minimum overall average grade of 1.5 or above with grade 1 in Chemistry and in one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics and grade 1 in a third subject. Biology and Maths must be offered even if not at grade 1.5.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting. 

Denmark: Senior High School Examination

• Minimum overall average grade 11 or above with grade 12 in Chemistry and in one of Biology, Maths or Physics and grade 12 in a third subject. Maths and Biology must be offered even if not at grade 12.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

Estonia: The Gumnaasiumi Loputunnistus/Riigieksamid

• This qualification is not acceptable on its own for entry to Medicine but it may be considered if supplemented with 3 A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degr

European Baccalaureate

• Minimum: overall score of 84+% with 8.5 in Chemistry and 8.5 in one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics and 8.5 in one other subject. Biology, Mathematics and English must be offered even if not at score 8.5.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application. 
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

Finland: Ylioppilastutkinoto

• Minimum: overall score of 7, including 7 in Chemistry and 7 in one of Biology, Maths or Physics and 7 in two other subjects. Biology, Maths and English must be offered even if not at score 7.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

France: French (science) Baccalaureate

• Minimum: overall 16 with 16 in Chemistry/Physics (must include the extra option of speciality Chemistry/Physics to increase hours of taught Chemistry). 16 also required in either Maths or Biology and in one other subject. Biology, Maths and English must be offered, even if not at 16.
• Applicants should contact the Admissions Officer to ascertain if they have studied enough Chemistry - email: admissions@st-andrews.ac.uk
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

German: Abitur

• Minimum: a final score of 1.5 or better is required with 1 in Chemistry and 1 in one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics. Intensive courses must include Chemistry. Biology, Maths and English must have been studied as a basic course if not studied at the intensive level.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting. 

Greece: The Greek Apolytirion

• This qualification is not accepted but may be considered if an average grade of 18.5 has been obtained and study is supplemented with 3 A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree.

India: Higher Secondary School Certificates awarded on completion of standard XII

• These qualifications are not acceptable on their own but may be considered if supplemented with 3 A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree. Grades required in the High school certificate would be 85% + in Chemistry, Biology, Maths and English.

International Baccalaureate

• Minimum: 38 points to include the following:
  Higher level: 3 passes at Grade 7,6,6, including Chemistry (7) and one other of Biology, Mathematics or Physics.
  Standard Level: 3 passes at Grade 6, including whichever of Mathematics or Biology is lacking at Higher Level; and including a pass in English if this is not gained at Higher Level.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting. 

Irish Leaving Certificate

• AAAAAA at Higher level (first sitting). To include Chemistry, English, Mathematics and Biology. Mathematics at Ordinary level would be considered only if Physics were offered at Higher level (grade A).
• If appropriate subjects were not sat at the first sitting of the Leaving Certificate, applicants may be considered if the missing subjects are sat the following year.  

Italy: Diploma di Esami de Stato (opzione Scientifica)

• Minimum: Applicants from liceo classico or liceo scientifico with an overall score of 95% on final diploma. Subjects to include Chemistry, Biology (or Natural Sciences), English and Maths. Chemistry must have been studied for 2 years. All study from the final 3 years of the Liceo will be assessed. For further information email: admissions@st-andrews.ac.uk.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.  

Latvia: Certificate of General Secondary Education

• This qualification is not accepted but strong applicants may be considered if study is supplemented with A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree.  

Lithuania: Brandos Atestatas

• This qualification is not accepted but strong applicants may be considered if study is supplemented with A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree.  

Malta

• AAA at A level to include Chemistry and one other of Biology, Maths or Physics. In addition, applicants require passes in SEC or GCSEs at grade A (7) in at least 6 subjects. If Biology, Maths and English are not offered at A level they must be offered at GCSE or SEC (grade B).

Netherlands, The: Dutch VWO

• Minimum: an average overall score of 9 to include 9 in Chemistry and 9 in one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics and 9 in one other subject.  English, Mathematics and Biology should be offered in the VWO even if not offered at 9.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

Poland: New Polish Matura

• Minimum: 90% in all subjects with Chemistry at Advanced Level and one of Biology, Maths or Physics at Advanced Level. If Biology, Maths or English are not offered at Advanced Level they must be offered at Basic Level with a score of 90%.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting. 

Portugal: Certificado de fim de Estudos Secundario

• Minimum: 18 in all subjects to include Chemistry and one of Mathematics, Biology or Physics. If Mathematics and Biology are not offered, lower school performance may be considered. For further information email: admissions@st-andrews.ac.uk.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• Non-native English speakers will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

Romania: Diploma de Bacalaureat

• Minimum: obtain an average grade of 8 with 9 in all 3 written subjects, to include Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics. If Biology, English and Mathematics are not offered in the Diploma then school grades of 8+ from the previous year of study will be required. In addition excellent school grades from the previous year of study will be required.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting. 

Spain:Titulo de Bachillerato

• Minimum: an overall score of 9 on final Bachillerato /PAU (Prueba de Acceso Universidad) including 9 in Chemistry and 9 in one of Biology, Maths or Physics and 9 in one other subject. If Biology and Maths are not offered at 9, then they must be offered at 7.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.  

South Africa: Senior Certificate (with matriculation endorsement) and at least BBBCC at higher grade equivalent to A levels

• This qualification is not accepted for entry to Medicine. Strong applicants (minimum AAAAB in leaving certificate to include Chemistry, English, Maths and Biology) may be considered if study is supplemented with A levels, or a further year of science study such as a Foundation programme or first year of a Bachelor of Science degree. Physical science is not acceptable in lieu of full Chemistry course but a full Chemistry module at undergraduate level would be acceptable. Life science is acceptable in lieu of Biology.  For more information, contact admissions officer.
  Email: admissions@st-andrews.ac.uk

Sweden: Fullstandigt Slutbetyg

• Minimum: overall average of MVG, to include MVG in the final year of study in Chemistry and in one of Biology, Mathematics or Physics. MVG must be offered in one other subject in the final year of study. Biology and Maths must be offered, if not at MVG then at VG.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.  

Switzerland: School Leaving Certificate

• Minimum: overall average of 5 with 5.5 in Chemistry and in one of Biology, Physics or Maths. A third subject must be offered at 5.5. Biology and Maths must be offered even if not at 5.5.
• All study from the final 3 years of study will be considered. Please supply a school transcript directly to the University at the time of application.
• A qualification in English is required and if non-native English speakers are not offering English at an advanced study level they will require an IELTS score of 7 in each of 4 components at one sitting.

United States of America

• High School Diploma and APs
  or
  High School Diploma and Advanced/Accelerated Honours
  
  
• Minimum grades required at least 3 AP’s (or equivalent) at 4 or 5 (Chemistry 5)
  or
  High School Diploma with a GPA of at least 3.5
  
  
• Chemistry required in both Year 11 and 12 with 85% minimum in Year 11 and 90% in Year 12
  
  
• If Chemistry has not been studied for the required number of years, SAT II score of 700+ might be considered in lieu of a second year of Chemistry study.
  
  
• If not offered in Year 11 and Year 12, then Biology, Maths and English MUST be offered in Year 10. Preference will be given to those who have studied Biology for more than Year 10.
  
  
• A decision to make an offer of a medical place will be based on attained grades for Year 11 and the grades you are predicted to obtain in Year 12.

S.A.T.s (Scholastic Aptitude Tests) and ACT tests

• SAT II can be considered as alternative to APs - 700+ would be competitive in Biology and Chemistry
  
  
• In the SAT I (Verbal, Mathematics and Critical Reading) a minimum of 2000 would be competitive
  
  
• A combined score of 30+ in the ACT would be comparable with SAT Is

International Baccalaureate

• See here for requirements
  

University of Aberdeen Medical School

Introduction

The University of Aberdeen offers students the opportunity to study medicine in a thriving medical school that is co-located on one of the largest clinical sites in Europe with superb teaching and extensive research facilities.

Our Medical Programme aims to produce excellent doctors who will be able to assimilate and apply new knowledge throughout their careers and who will themselves contribute to the advancement of medicine.

The course you will undertake will form part of a new revised curriculum that will utilise the resources available in a new state-of-the-art Teaching and Learning Centre - the Matthew Hay project, close to the Medical School on the Foresterhill site.   In addition to hosting timetabled teaching, this superb development allows for students to access anatomy and clinical skills facilities throughout their undergraduate curriculum for their own revision.

The curriculum is supported by an e-learning platform - My MBChB. This is a web-based intranet resource for students to support their learning throughout their undergraduate years and can be accessed by students from all clinical and university campuses as well as from outside these areas. Material available includes administrative information such as timetables, educational resources such as teaching videos and podcasts, and bulletin boards for students to exchange information and post notices.

Joining the Aberdeen MB ChB Course - Year 3

You will join existing Aberdeen students at the beginning of the third year of study

The St Andrews curriculum is very similar to that delivered during the early years at Aberdeen, except that you will have the added experience of your Honours' project. Extra teaching will be given in certain clinical areas as part of a Bridging Course tailored to the needs of St Andrews students, to ensure that your clinical skills will match those of your new Aberdeen colleagues.

A novel feature of Year 3 will be a 6 week Medical Humanities module, a unique opportunity for full time study in an area that will help give students a different perspective on medicine. Students can chose from a variety of subjects which currently include Spirituality, History of Art, Literature and Medicine and Modern Languages for Medical Students.

The Aberdeen MB ChB Curriculum - Years 4 & 5

In Year 4 (one third of 3rd year and all of 4th yr), your diagnostic and management skills are developed through clinical practice and contact with patients. You undertake nine five-week clinical blocks that will ultimately cover all the body systems and give you experience of all major medical specialties.  These clinical opportunities are based in hospitals and the community, in and around Aberdeen and Inverness.  Students undertake up to two clinical blocks in Inverness.

Year 5 (final year) is very much an apprentice year that prepares you for the competent, safe, effective and professional practice of medicine as a pre-registration foundation doctor. You will gain extensive clinical experience during three attachments in medicine, surgery and GP/psychiatry over the widest of locations.  Worldwide locations are commonly sought during the project-based elective.  Prior to qualification, professional skills will be enhanced by undertaking two Professional Practice blocks.

Clinical Placements
Clinical experience is central to teaching and you will be able to undertake arguably, the most widespread and diverse clinical placements in the UK. There are clinical campuses at Dr Gray's Hospital, Elgin and Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, and all students undertake hospital-based clinical placements outside Aberdeen. Exciting new placements are now on offer across the Highlands and Islands in locations such as Fort William, Stornoway, Wick, Orkney and Shetland.   This variety of placements allows our students to experience not only inner-city medicine, but also gives a unique opportunity to see how health care is delivered in areas far removed from large teaching centres.

Our new Remote and Rural Option has been developed to be undertaken in Years 4 and 5 for students with a special interest in careers in a Remote and Rural setting.  These students undertake their clinical attachments within more distant locations.  The R&R option is based at Raigmore Hospital, Inverness where a new clinical skills centre and library have been built.

Our extensive network of teaching general practices around Scotland also gives students opportunities to experience patient care in a community setting.

Further Information

The rankings for the UK Foundation programme will be based solely on the grades students obtain after joining Aberdeen and not on their St Andrews degree classification.

Student Electives
In your final year, you may choose to travel virtually anywhere in the world to undertake an 8-week project-based Elective.  The organisation & planning of the Elective commences in Phase III, when much advice is available for its development.

Student Support
The course with its 'Culture of Care' has been highly rated by outside bodies including the GMC, who were impressed by the "enthusiasm & commitment of the staff", "enthusiasm & loyalty to the school of the students" and by the excellent student support offered. 

Every medical student is assigned to a senior member of staff, their Regent, who meets with his or her students regularly. The Regent is available to provide support and guidance on any personal or academic problem that a student may have throughout the course. In addition, the Regent acts as a mentor to help with the student's professional development e.g. identifying strengths and weaknesses, career advice, preparing a Curriculum Vitae, and in the transition from junior to senior student to junior doctor.

The Great Outdoors
There is a wealth of world class facilities available that cater for most possible sporting & social activities around Aberdeen. Please see here.

There is also a very active Medical Student Wilderness Society which has in recent years organised summer trips to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and the Inca Trail in Peru, incorporating studies of altitude sickness. 

Accommodation
From Year 3, many students elect to share one of the many houses or self-catering flats available for rent near to the Foresterhill site.  When students undertake clinical attachments out-with Aberdeen, they usually maintain a home-base locally, but whenever possible, accommodation and travel is paid for during distant placements by University or NHS sources. For information about private rented accommodation see: http://www.ausa.org.uk/

For information about university accommodation see:
http://www.abdn.ac.uk/undergraduate/accommodation.php

See also:

• http://www.abdn.ac.uk/medicine/prospective/admissions/standrews/
• http://www.abdn.ac.uk/medicine/prospective/leaflets/sa/

University of Dundee Medical School

Introduction

The University of Dundee Medical School and Ninewells Teaching Hospital are fully integrated, offering an up-to-date and well-equipped clinical training facility on your doorstep. Other valuable experience is provided by attachments to hospitals and general practices in the region as well as some others around Scotland and the rest of the UK. 

Joining the Dundee MB ChB Course - Year 3

In 2010 and 2011, due to similarities in the two curricula, we were able to offer a 'transfer' course which enabled St Andrews students to progress directly into 4th year.  However, this proved challenging, both for students who needed to focus on their St Andrews course and administratively for the medical schools.  Thus, from 2012 entry St Andrews transfer students will join the Dundee 3rd year cohort and graduate after a further 3 years training as they do in other centers.   There will no longer be an option to complete in two years.

The rankings for the UK Foundation programme will be based solely on the grades students obtain after joining Dundee and not on their St Andrews degree classification.

The Dundee MB ChB Curriculum

The undergraduate curriculum in Dundee has a great reputation and for good reason. Please check out the following websites to learn more about what Dundee offers.
For further information please see Dundee Medical School's website

• Link with St Andrews
• The Dundee MB ChB programme (See 'Learning Medicine in Dundee')
  
• Student Support
  
• Accommodation
  

University of Edinburgh College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine

Further details.

University of Glasgow Medical School

Click for further nformation about University of Glasgow Partner Medical School

University of Manchester Medical School

Introduction

The medical undergraduate programme at Manchester produces excellent well rounded scholars, scientists, professionals and practitioners. Graduates of Manchester Medical School meet the core requirements as junior doctors and also, through personalised themes, create a bespoke education suited to their areas of interest.

The MBChB programme is divided into 3 Phases. A wide variety of teaching and learning methods are used but the key approach is the study of clinical cases or problems in small groups. This activity is supported throughout the three Phases by lectures, practical classes (including anatomy dissection) and clinical experience. Throughout all Phases science and clinical learning is integrated, so that graduates are able to apply scientific knowledge and concepts to clinical practice.

Joining the Manchester MB ChB Course

St Andrews' graduates and third year students from the University of Manchester combine to begin their clinical training together in Year 3 of the Manchester MB ChB course.

The Partnership between St Andrews and the Manchester Medical School has existed for over 30 years. Students from St Andrews find that the Medicine course integrates very successfully with the excellent clinical training they receive at Manchester Medical School.

You can be confident therefore, that your transfer to the University of Manchester will be smooth, exciting and eagerly anticipated!

The Manchester MB ChB Curriculum - Years 3-5

Year 3 consists of a major clinical skills review and modules on 'heart, lungs and blood' and 'nutrition, metabolism and excretion' and also special study modules.

Year 4 builds on and extends the skills learned in the previous year, and the major themes of 'mind and movement' and 'family and children'. There is also the opportunity to pursue a research option, where you work one-to-one usually with clinical staff.

Year 5 supports your progression from medical student to house officer and aims to help you apply your knowledge and sharpen your skills. It involves a series of placements to district general hospitals where you will shadow the house officers.

One of the eight-week modules is an elective that allows you to follow any approved subject with a medical content that captures your imagination. There are opportunities for electives within the North West, but most students choose to study elsewhere - many overseas, where they can broaden their experience, investigate different forms of health service delivery or see a different spectrum of illness.

Clinical Placements - base hospitals

Students progressing to the University of Manchester for the second phase of their training (after completion of three years at St Andrews) will undertake their clinical training in one of four Teaching Hospital Sectors based in Manchester, Salford or Preston:

• Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospitals NHS Trust
• Lancashire/Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• Salford Royal Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust

Each Teaching Hospital Sector (or Health Education Zones) comprises a major teaching hospital, associated District General Hospital and Primary Care placements.

Students will be allocated to one of the four Teaching Hospital Sectors during the St Andrews programme, prior to entry to Manchester.

The Manchester MB ChB Curriculum - European Studies

In addition to studying on the MB ChB, St Andrews' students can apply to enroll on the European Studies option whereby students undertake a substantial placement at a university in Europe. Students may enter this programme with the appropriate qualifications.

For further details, please see 'European Option Handbook'.

Further Information

The rankings for the UK Foundation programme will be based solely on the grades students obtain after joining Manchester and not on their St Andrews degree classification.

Student Electives
The elective period in Year 5 gives students the opportunity to explore a field of medical practice of particular interest to them in an unfamiliar setting where the scientific, social, economic or cultural standards are different, often abroad or outside the North West.

Student Support
http://www.manchester.ac.uk/undergraduate/studentlife/studentsupport/

Accommodation
http://www.manchester.ac.uk/undergraduate/accommodation/

University of Manchester Fee information:
http://www.manchester.ac.uk/undergraduate/studentfinance/

See also

http://www.medicine.manchester.ac.uk/

University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry (FoMD)

Introduction

The Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta in Edmonton has a history of success in world-class research, education and patient care. Established in 1913, it is now home to 20 departments, seven divisions, and many research groups, centres and institutes.

Today, the faculty is one of Canada's premier health sciences institutes and known internationally for its innovative medical education programs and for advancing medical knowledge through scientific research. With more than 50 residency programs, students are offered an abundant diversity of choices.

Attachment to the FoMD, University of Alberta

As part of the A990 programme (St Andrews/Edinburgh/Alberta programme) students will spend 16 weeks attached to the FoMD at the University of Alberta, Edmonton during the later stages of their MB ChB training. It is anticipated that the attachment will include:

• An extended period of clinical training in disciplines expected to enhance the students' learning
  
• An enhanced orientation to the Canadian healthcare system
  
• An opportunity to train for the MCCEE / MCCQE
  
• Further guidance on the process of application for a residency place enhancing the learning previously delivered in Scotland

Further details

leaflet and regulations

BSc (Honours) Medicine Course Details

BSc (Hons) Medicine (3 years) at St Andrews leading to MB ChB (3 years) at Partner Medical School (Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow or Manchester)

Course Overview

All students studying Medicine at St Andrews, whether they are on the A100 pathway or the A990 pathway, will follow exactly the same programme at St Andrews. The medical course has a long established reputation as providing an excellent scientific basis for clinical training and includes the opportunity to observe human structure directly by dissection of the entire body. Clinical training begins the day students enter Medical School at St Andrews. Clinical knowledge, skills and professional behaviours, including all aspects of patient safety, are key components of our curriculum.

Year 1 Foundations of Medicine 1 and 2

The first year of the degree programme comprises two modules, Foundations of Medicine 1 and 2. The first semester module provides a broad overview of the structure, function and behaviour of cells, tissues, and systems within the human body. The second semester module uses the musculoskeletal system to provide the integrated theme which mirrors the framework of the modules taught in subsequent years. Year 1 modules cover introductory overviews of the clinical sciences including pathology, microbiology, health psychology, public health medicine and key aspects of medical ethics and law. You will discover the basics of medicine on an individual and population level.

It is not only vital to understand the scientific basis of health and disease, but also how to develop professional thinking, effective communication and problem solving skills. These are developed in case-based clinical scenarios and interviews with patients. Basic clinical skills are taught and these include basic life support, measuring and recording vital signs, clinical communication and patient safety.

Years 2 and 3 - Honours programme

The Honours programme comprises a series of modules that revisit and build upon the knowledge base that was established in Foundations of Medicine 1 and 2. The normal and abnormal structure and function of each of the body systems (e.g. cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, renal and neurological and endocrine) will be studied in depth and you will examine the scientific basis of important disease mechanisms and therapeutic treatment in each of the body systems.

During the Honours years a deeper understanding of clinical communication, medical ethics, professionalism, public health, health psychology and the practice of medicine is fostered. Critical thinking, reflective practice and decision-making skills are enhanced through the use of published literature and video presentations. There is ample opportunity to consolidate clinical skills and patient examination techniques and take your first steps in the diagnosis and management of patients.

Student Selected Component - Honours Dissertation

The final semester of Year 3 has a strong emphasis on independent learning and includes the student selected research dissertation. Students choose a laboratory research, data handling, medical education or critical review project in order to pursue an area of their own particular interest over a 10-12 week period.

Clinical Programme

Building on the frameworks developed in Year 1, Year 2 and semester 1 of Year 3 integrates the scientific systems-based approach with appropriate consultation skills. Students learn to take a history, perform examinations relating to each system and interpret results of investigations in order to further prepare students for patient contact. As an integral part of clinical training students use advanced video recording facilities to provide evidence of their competence in clinical examination.

Students not only have contact with simulated patients in the Medical School but also participate in regular primary care attachments in local hospitals. In Year 3, ward skills and practice of clinical and communication skills are developed in 10 sessions arranged in Fife teaching hospitals. These sessions ensure that students have the confidence to make best use of future clinical attachments when continuing at partner medical schools. Hospital consultants are actively involved in teaching both in the Medical School and on placements.

During the summer vacation between 2nd and 3rd year students may elect to consolidate their learning by spending a residential week in a wide range of primary or secondary clinical care placements.

Our aim is to ensure that by the time a student graduates from St Andrews they will have the knowledge, skills and experience to take a full patient history, to record their findings accurately and to be able to discuss further patient management in any clinical setting.

A990 - additional details

All entrants onto the Medical Course at St Andrews, whether they are on the A100 pathway or the A990 pathway, will follow exactly the same course whilst at St Andrews, for details see A100

See also: Additional details for A990

Following graduation, students will enter Residency training programmes in Canada.