Oxford

About The Course

Oxford’s six-year traditional Medicine course consists of practicals, lectures and tutorials and provides students with the understanding needed to enter clinical Medicine. Oxford retains a three-year preclinical stage in which students gain a comprehensive understanding of medical science and work towards a Medical Sciences BA.

This stage is split into two; the first lasts for five terms and provides the qualifications needed to access clinical years further on. In the second stage, students will gain an understanding of scientific methods and learn to develop critical skills that encourage a deeper study of five advanced options. Students must undertake a research project that works with one of the various research labs in Oxford or beyond.

This is followed by a three-year clinical stage, where students prepare for Foundation training. This opens up opportunities for research and presentation opportunities as well as the development of knowledge in particular specialist areas.

In years four, five and six, most teaching takes place at hospitals and GPs in Oxford, but with important elements taking place at other centres within the Oxford Teaching Network such as in Swindon, Northampton and Reading. Students are encouraged to embrace self-directed learning and to evaluate medical literature in order to appreciate the biosciences and evidence-based healthcare that underpins clinical training.

Core clinical curriculum is taught and assessed through the first two and a half years of the clinical phase. During the last six months, students will pursue areas of interest, which includes an elective. Students will also focus on preparing to work as a Foundation Year 1 doctor.