Medicine

 

Medicine is the science or practice of the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease for humans. Studying for a medical degree is hard work but rewarding and can lead to a number of career opportunities, not just becoming a medical doctor. Most courses run for 5 years, and then you have to do two more years (referred to as an F1 and F2) before being a fully qualified doctor. You then choose to specialise in a particular field, move into medical research and clinical trials, or as a locum or general hospital work until you decide which areas of medicine you wish to move into. Some universities offer a degree in a Bachelor of Medicine, which you can earn after 3 years and then leave university.

 

A levels

You will need to take 3 A levels and achieve A*A*A* - AAB depending on the universities you apply to. 

Compulsory - Chemistry

Highly recommended - Biology

Third A level - Any other facilitating A level from the following list:

  • English Literature

  • Geography

  • History

  • Maths and Further Maths

  • Modern and Classical Languages

  • Physics

Some universities will also consider Psychology and Religious Studies.

 

GCSE requirements

Most medical schools will require you to achieve 6 or above in Maths, English Language and Science subjects at GCSE. However, most successful applicants have 7-9 grades in these subjects, so you should aim for this level. Check the requirements carefully.

 

Enrichment Options

Either of our enrichment options will work well for you in supporting a medical application.

Core Maths - if you are not taking A level Maths, then studying Core Maths will keep your maths skills up and support your Chemistry  and other A levels.

EPQ - allows you to complete a research project in an area of the healthcare sector that interests you. It is always good to refer to this in your personal statement as it is a good talking point at an interview.

 

Admissions Tests

All UK universities require undergraduates to take the UCAT. It consists of multiple-choice questions and is designed to test an applicant’s aptitude for the skills required in a medical career. Different medical schools look for a variety of requirements from the UCAT so it is worth doing your research thoroughly. We can coach you through the UCAT and our dedicated team can advise you on the best universities to apply to based on your UCAT scores.

 

Work Experience

Work experience in the medical field and supporting the health sector is highly valued by medical schools, with some universities placing more emphasis on certain aspects of work experience than others. Online courses and involvement in local events is also important. At J6 we have a number of links to local health providers and can assist you in getting work placements.

 

How can J6 help you?

At the J6 we can provide individual and bespoke support so you can achieve your very best in your A levels and your dream to have a career in medicine. Our support includes:

  • Medical society that leads on discussions about the latest changes in the health sector

  • Links to HYMS and other medical schools

  • Discussions with present and former students who have applied to do medicine

  • Assistance with the applications process

  • One week of dedicated work experience in year 12

  • Other opportunities to gain work experience through volunteering, online courses etc

  • Interview with a HYMS admissions officer

  • Preparation and support for the UCAT

  • Mentoring to ensure you achieve the grades at A level

  • Links to groups like Medic Mentor, HYMS Medicafe, Medical Reading Group

  • Assistance with MMIs 

  • Mentoring from a J6 student who is currently studying medicine at university