Source:Health and medicine courses in the UK
'Study health and medicine in the UK and experience a wide variety of training, world-class teaching and excellent facilities. UK medical schools are among the most prestigious in the world and attract thousands of international students every year. Whatever medical career you’re aiming for, there’s a UK course to help you get there.'
- Optometry
- Podiatry
- Chiropody
- Nutrition
- Physiotherapy
- Radiography
- Pharmacology
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
Many UK institutions are not only long-established and prestigious, but are also at the forefront of modern medicine. Study in the UK and you’ll find innovative courses and high quality teaching in health-related subjects. This allows you to combine clinical experience with academic study.
There are many career opportunities for international medical students in the UK. The UK's National Health Service (NHS) is the largest organisation in Europe - with over a million employees. It has been used as a model for public health systems worldwide.
You can find further information about career opportunities on the Prospects website.
Why study health and medicine in the UK?
- Regulatory and professional bodies, such as the General Medical Council (GMC) and the General Dental Council (GDC), oversee training in the UK. Their high standards enable members to work virtually anywhere in the world.
- Many UK language schools run specialist courses teaching medical terminology and vocabulary for international students hoping to work in the health industry.
- Medical research is highly valued in the UK - it was The Medical Research Council in the UK that first found the link between high blood pressure and heart disease.
- The UK is constantly making breakthroughs in medical research and clinical practice. The Office of Science and Technology places it first among the G8 countries for biomedical productivity and pre-clinical research.
Vocational courses in the UK include BTECs in Care, Health Studies, Medical Science and Pharmacy Services. There are two-year courses for trainee dispensing opticians, and certificates or diplomas accredited by CACHE, the Council for Awards in Children's Care and Education. HNC/Ds and more than 200 health-related UK Foundation Degree courses are also available.
Entry requirements are very high if you wish to study to become a doctor. However, unlike many countries, the UK allows medical students to start their training at undergraduate level by taking the five-year MBChB Medical Degree.
Dozens of UK universities and colleges offer courses in nursing and midwifery. There are also 13 specialist universities in the UK where you can train to become a dentist.
Postgraduate health and medicine courses in the UK
Postgraduate study is essential to further medical research. It is a requirement for many careers in medicine, healthcare and complementary therapies. UK taught postgraduate courses are available or you can undertake research via an MPhil, an MD or a PhD.
You can specialise in areas such as oncology, immunity and neurosciences and there are also postgraduate opportunities for graduate nurses, midwives and health visitors.
Search for your ideal health and medicine course in the course finder.