Ranked 6th by the Complete University Guide, Barts offers a five-year Medicine programme that is driven by a problem-based learning teaching style. This means groups of eight to ten students work with a facilitator to solve clinical scenario problems. Emphasis is placed on practical sessions, work within the local community and learning communication skills – and lectures do not play a significant role. Students will find themselves excelling in their development of functional areas such as clinical, management skills, observation and teamwork.
The Course is split into three phases. Phase one happens in year one and two and is structured as systems-based modules that introduce fundamental biological concepts to students. Some key topics that are covered include biological structure, the function of cells, body systems and the impact of illness of people and their family. Students must take five systems-based modules and three student selected components (SSCs) every year. There is regular patient contact in this phase too.
Year three and four is when phase two happens, and sees students undergo teaching weeks, assessment and introduction to clinical medicine via placements. Clinical knowledge and skills are enhanced through working alongside clinical teams in various settings. This also provides an opportunity for students to apply knowledge learnt in phase one. Three SSCs are completed each year, with a focus on clinical scenarios that include patient interview and history taking.
The final year marks the third phase when students further their clinical and community placements and first-hand insight into the life of an FY1 doctor. Students will be placed in hospitals and firms that they will be based in for their FY1 training. In this period they will shadow current FY1 doctors. Throughout the final year, students return to the medical schools for a teaching programme that involves simulated patient scenarios and individual sessions in enhancing communication skills.
It is absolutely fantastic. Whether you are an avid sports-person, interested in academic medicine or just like to volunteer with friends doing something fun, there is something for everyone to get involved with and enjoy with other students.
Barts and The London is known for the friendly atmosphere between students and I’ve definitely experienced this first-hand since I started.
You will always have someone to look out for you, which is important when you are studying a challenging subject like medicine. If all else falls through, there is always our beloved Griff Inn where you will find many of your fellow medical students kicking back and enjoying the precious time we have before we become doctors.
Loading More Content