The medical degree programme is six years long; students graduate with a BSc (Hons) Medicine from St Andrews and then progress to one of the University's partner medical schools in Scotland or England for the final three years to complete their MBChB/MBBS. Applicants who are ‘overseas’ for fee purposes will progress to the University of Manchester Medical School.
The School of Medicine at St Andrews offers an integrated curriculum within a strong clinical context. In addition to exploring the foundations of medical science, this course will help you develop the professional attitude, ethical understanding and decision-making skills required by the General Medical Council (GMC) and detailed in their Outcomes for Graduates and Promoting Excellence. The curriculum addresses the following core principles:
- Competence – understanding of the scientific basis of medicine and an extensive anatomical and physiological understanding of the human body.
- Professionalism – development of clinical skills, personal values, interpersonal skills and ethical awareness.
- Reflection – monitoring self-awareness and decision-making through the completion of a portfolio.
- Independence – encouragement of self-directed learning and an ability to cope with uncertainty.
Clinical teaching is integrated with basic science learning throughout the course, teaching you to apply medical sciences to clinical problems.
Clinical skills teaching, including communication skills, takes place in simulated wards and examination and tutorial rooms, supported by video technology. Clinical experience is also offered in the form of clinical placement with patient contact from first year onwards. Professionalism and patient safety are key components of the entire course.
