Medicine is one of the hardest degrees in the world, both to be accepted into and to graduate from. International students choose to study for an MBBS in the UK due to the state-of-the-art facilities, world-leading medical schools, and great links and placements within the NHS.
Why do you want to study medicine?
Medical schools in the UK will challenge you with ground-breaking research informing your teaching and education across various areas. On average, an MBBS in the UK can take 5-8 years to complete, including classroom learning and extensive training modules, so only the most dedicated applicants should apply.
Medical school UK entry requirements are famously tough, with students expected to pass a rigorous application process, including interviews. But if you want to make a difference in people's lives in a respected and esteemed profession, then a career in medicine is for you.
Learn more about studying a medical degree in the UK below and if you would like to have any questions on UK medical schools answered, or the application process, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today.
Four Reasons to Study Medicine in the UK
1. Leading medical schools
One of the top reasons to study medicine in the UK is that it is home to many of the leading medical universities in the world. According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, four UK medical schools are in the global top 10, including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, University College London and Imperial College London.
These universities offer great student satisfaction rates, world-class teaching, and unrivalled placements at local hospitals.
2. Professional experience
Medical schools in the UK have designed their modules with practical learning at the heart of everything you are taught. Students will learn from some of the world’s most influential doctors and scientists and take on placements at local hospital trusts early in the learning process.
Medical students typically have many opportunities to undertake clinical placements in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings in the UK. These placements allow students to gain practical experience working with patients under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals. Volunteering in healthcare settings or community organizations can provide valuable experience for medical students. This could involve working in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or community outreach programs.
3. Research
The UK is famous worldwide for its research-centric approach to education. It attracts the best academics and researchers who benefit from the millions of pounds injected into universities each year. Since 2001, the UK has claimed the second-highest number of Nobel Prizes for medicine.
All UK medical schools produce groundbreaking research that informs their degrees and makes a difference in the real world. Many medical schools in the UK also offer research opportunities for students to get involved in ongoing medical research projects. This could involve conducting laboratory research, clinical trials, or literature reviews under the guidance of faculty members.
4. Employability
An MBBS degree is one of the most employable qualifications in the world. No matter where you choose to work or progress within your career, the need for skilled doctors and practitioners who can speak English and who studied in the UK will never wane.
The UK has a huge demand for healthcare professionals, including doctors, specialists, and healthcare administrators, and graduates from medical courses are often sought after to fill vacancies in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings.
The UK has a well-established system for postgraduate medical training, which provides clear pathways for career progression. After completing their medical degree, students can undertake further training through foundation programs, speciality training, and postgraduate qualifications.
Study Medicine in the UK
If you are considering studying at a medical university in the UK, then SI-UK London can help. Arrange your free consultation online or in person today.