Brochure 201516 MBCHB Admissions
Brochure 201516 MBCHB Admissions
Brochure 201516 MBCHB Admissions
Medicine
MBChB
Contents
Welcome
Why Leeds?
SAFER-MEDIC
10
Curriculum Map
12
Innovation
14
Study Options
15
16
Clinical Experience
18
Learning Resources
20
24
Student Achievement
26
Student Societies
27
Entry Routes
28
30
Application
Contacts
32
Inside back cover
For current information on courses, fees and entry requirements please visit our
website at www.leeds.ac.uk/undergraduate
Whilst the University endeavours to ensure that the information contained in this
brochure is accurate at the date of publication the University does not accept liability
for any inaccuracies contained within it. Where circumstances change outside the
reasonable control of the University, the University reserves the right to change or
cancel parts of, or entire, programmes of study or services at any time without liability,
even after students have registered at the University. Circumstances outside of the
Universitys reasonable control include, industrial action, over or under demand from
students, staff illness, lack of funding, severe weather, fire, civil disorder, political
unrest, government restrictions and concern with regard to the transmission of serious
illness. The Universitys contract with its students does not confer third party benefits
for the purposes of the Contract (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999.
CONTENTS medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine 1
Welcome
WELCOME medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine 3
Why Leeds?
DISTINCTIVENESS OF LEEDS
A challenging curriculum based on professional values, social
accountability and core themes, which are integrated throughout
the programme.
One of only a few schools to offer wet anatomy dissection.
Studying body systems with earlier clinical exposure and patient
involvement throughout.
Spiral integrated curriculum, learning in context with continual
reinforcement throughout the programme.
A novel IDEALS course (Innovation, Development, Enterprise,
Leadership, Safety), that underpins the whole MBChB, recognising
the challenges and requirements of modern postgraduate practice
with a strong emphasis on professionalism and development.
The Leeds MBChB was ranked 5th in the national student survey
by HEFCE (2013)*, illustrating the satisfaction of our final year
students with the programme.
*From the Russell Group.
APPROACH TO LEARNING & TEACHING
A bespoke one-to-one learning approach with regular tutor contact
to guide academic progress and personal development to enable
all students to achieve their full potential.
An exciting and dynamic teaching approach underpinned by worldleading research at Leeds with an appreciation on how this impacts
on patients.
Teaching and assessment for learning is based on best educational
practice and early exposure to clinical settings.
Early patient contact to provide the opportunity for students to
develop core consultation and practical skills.
LEARNING & TEACHING METHODS
A blended learning approach, mixing a range of self, group and
technology enhanced learning approaches.
Inter-professional learning to ensure development of good
leadership and team-working skills with other professional groups.
Case-based learning which supports students to integrate learning
effectively in a spiral approach within the curriculum.
Innovative approach to technology-integrated use of technology
enhanced learning for teaching and assessment. This includes a
virtual community, e-Portfolio and mobile learning in practice.
ASSESSMENT
Leeds has an international reputation for high quality assessment.
Assessment throughout the programme contributes to a
knowledgeable and skilled medical workforce.
Assessment for Learning helps students develop an understanding
of the assessment process, and how this connects with their own
continuous learning and development. This means we can test
student learning in course through written and practical exams,
coursework and clinical assessments. Effective feedback results in
our staff providing individual support where required and students
reflecting on their performance and working towards better
outcomes.
Assessment for Progression provides a standard against which
progression decisions are made students are tested in Clinical
Anatomy, Clinical Skills and Practice, Knowledge Application,
Critical Analysis, Writing and Project Skills, and Attitudes and
Professionalism. Assessments involve written examinations,
projects, case reports, and objective structured clinical
examinations (OSCEs). The MBChB with Honours is then awarded
to outstanding students.
DR JITEN PARMAR
Originally from Birmingham,
graduated in 2009 and is
currently working as a Registrar
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon at
the Leeds General Infirmary.
Why did you choose the
MBChB?
I wanted to further my
knowledge and become a
specialist following my Dental
degree. The pathway to
becoming an Oral and
Maxillofacial Surgeon involves
completing both a medical and
dental degree, followed by higher
surgical training.
Why Leeds?
My first degree in Dentistry was
from Manchester in 2003. I
wanted to come to a university
that had a strong reputation for
early patient contact, with the
ability to work in more than one
regional centre (something my
old universitys medical school
could not offer). I also wanted to
make friends with a new group of
medical students. Testament to
this is that five of my fellow
graduates from the MBChB are
ushers at my wedding in July!
How has the MBChB at Leeds
influenced your career?
I loved my time at Leeds. The
MBChB at Leeds refined my
communication skills, and taught
me to be compassionate with my
patients. My medical knowledge
and day-to-day activities are a
reflection of the holistic nature of
the course, and have allowed me
to pass on my knowledge to
fellow colleagues and medical
students. I was so impressed by
my clinical tutors, that I recently
completed a Postgraduate
Certificate in Medical Education
I wish to become as good a role
model as my educators.
HEYRUMB WOODUN
From Mauritius, is a 2nd year MBChB student.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
As I had a passionate long-term interest in pursuing a career as a Doctor
I found the MBChB to be a fascinating and challenging course.
Your experience of applying and joining the MBChB at Leeds?
Applying to a medical course in England is very challenging. After having
completed my A levels, I had to prepare for a UKCAT exam. Everything
went smoothly and I was offered a place to study at Leeds.
Why Leeds?
I skimmed through a lot of medical brochures before I could make a
decision where to apply and one university stood out; Leeds. Along with
providing excellent teaching, it offered early interaction with patients from
the 1st year and wet anatomy dissection.
PHILIPPA GAUNT
From Batley, is currently intercalating in BSc. Medical Humanities,
between the 3rd and 4th year of the MBChB.
DR MATTHEW BLACKAMORE
From Boston in Lincolnshire, graduated in 2001 and is now working as
a GP and GP Trainer at the Henry Moore Clinic in Castleford.
Why intercalate?
I chose to intercalate in Medical Humanities as it offered me an
opportunity to return to studying subjects I had loved at school. A more
flexible timetable through intercalating meant I became more involved with
Leeds University Union (LUU) and also ran the volunteer student listening
line, Nightline.
Also, the opportunity to design my own research project was great. I linked
Medical Humanities with my interest in paediatrics, in a research project
about autism. The project addressed what being an autism carer involved
by listening to parental accounts and comparing them with the
representation of caring offered by the film, The Black Balloon.
How do you think your course will help you in the future?
Intercalating has led to the development of many skills including time
management and research skills these will help with the 4th and 5th
year ESREP (Extended Student-led Research or Evaluation Project) in the
MBChB.
Why Leeds?
Medicine is a hard topic to study, theres no doubt. You have to be
dedicated to both your studies and career. You are often working whilst
other students have finished the semester. Having said that, the School
of Medicine at Leeds is second to none. The rewards you get for
studying Medicine far outweigh the hard work you have to put in. Leeds
is a fantastic university city, with a lovely, friendly campus, fabulous
nightlife, food and shopping with excellent sporting teams.
How has the MBChB at Leeds influenced your career?
Well, I have ended up as a Senior Partner in the practice where I was
attached to as a 4th year medical student. I also met my wife at Leeds,
who is now one of my partners in the practice, so the MBChB at Leeds
has influenced my life a great deal!
Would you recommend the MBChB?
Without doubt. Leeds has an excellent School of Medicine, with
excellent facilities. The teaching I received was great. I loved being part
of the University of Leeds and Im sure you will too.
Our Ethos
SAFER-MEDIC
The Leeds MBChB programme is designed to link teaching content
and outcomes within each unit, across units (horizontally) and
through years (vertically). This allows us to deliver a spiral method
of curriculum delivery, which reinforces key topics but prevents
repetition.
Spiral Learning
Spiral
Learning
The generic skills we expect from our MBChB students have been
further developed in conjunction with students, staff and patient
representatives to form a series of mini curricula and strands that
underpin the MBChB programme.
These are:
Attitudes
Professionalism
and Attributes
Consultation and
Clinical decision
making
Frameworks
Safety and
Governance
Integrated
Clinical Science
Development:
Professional and
Personal
SAFER, PATIENT
CENTRED CARE
Preparing tomorrows
doctors today
Research
and Evaluation
Medicines
Management
Enterprise
Team working
Leadership
Ethico-Legal
Practice
ASSIA BARIGOU
From Birmingham, is currently in the 3rd
year of the MBChB.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
I have always wanted to be a doctor ever
since I can remember. I think this was
hugely inspired by my innate desire to help
others as well as my love for people and
communicating with them. So the MBChB
was the course for me.
Why Leeds?
For me, the course was hugely important as I recognised the vast
differences in teaching styles lectures vs. problem based learning,
systems-based vs. otherwise, dissection vs. prosection, early clinical
contact vs. late clinical contact. I wanted to make sure I found a
course that suited me and that I could engage with. I also took great
importance in choosing a university and city that had a community I
could be part of, feel comfortable within and contribute to.
Hence, I chose Leeds as it offered a dynamic and engaging course,
with an emphasis on practical and communication skills which
complemented the theoretical teaching. Leeds also offered a
community which suited my preferences, great union societies and
excellent campus facilities.
SAFER-MEDIC medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine 9
Year Two
Year Three
Year Four
Year Five
Curriculum Map*
TERM 1
YEAR 1
Combined
Introduction
to Medicine
IDEALS,
RESS, C to C
2 weeks
TERM 2
TERM 3
YEAR 2
RESS 2
project
2 weeks
IDEALS 2
RESS 2
YEAR 3
RESS 2
C to C 2
C to C 2
I&P 2
I&P 2
(C&M)
Clinical Pathology
YEAR 4
IDEALS 2
RESS 3
IDEALS 3
C to C 3
workshop
1 week
Surgery and
Peri-operative care
5 weeks (approx)
RESS 3
project
2 weeks
RESS 3
IDEALS 3
C to C 3
workshop
1 week
Primary Care
5 weeks
RESS 3
IDEALS 3
C to C 3
workshop
1 week
Special Senses
5 weeks
Psychiatry
6 weeks
RESS 4
IDEALS 4
C to C 4
workshop
2 weeks
RESS 4
Gynaecology, Obstetrics and
IDEALS 4 Sexual Health
C to C 4 6 weeks
workshop
2 weeks
RESS 4
IDEALS 4
C to C 4
workshop
week
Professional
Practice
Placement 2
8 weeks
Professional
Practice
Placement 3
8 weeks
RESS 4
IDEALS 4
C to C 4
workshop
week
Revision, exams
and beginning of
Elective
YEAR 4-5 ELECTIVE PERIOD OF STUDY (within the UK and throughout the world)
YEAR 5
Professional
Practice
Placement 1
8 weeks
Lectures
and
workshops
1 week
Revision
1 week
Exams
1 week 10 days
Post-finals Assistantships
3 weeks
*Please note that this map is for illustration purposes. The exact timings may change from year to year depending on holiday dates. In year 3
clinical rotations may be in any order the curriculum map provides one example. Rotations are a maximum of 5 weeks. In year 4 clinical
rotations are similarly an example of the order in which they may occur. Rotations are a maximum of 6 weeks.
12 UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS - UNDERGRADUATE MEDICINE
Study Options
Innovation
SPARK Winners! Wireless Medical Ltd
A fledgling medical device company, Wireless Medical Ltd, set up
by medical students at the University of Leeds (pictured below) has
won the Business Plan Competition, organised by the Universitys
business start-up service SPARK.
Wireless Medical received a 2,000 prize and plans to develop a
wireless ECG monitor, thought to be the first of its kind. The device
aims to improve patient safety, dignity and hospital productivity,
delivering better patient outcomes and lower costs for hospitals
and other healthcare settings. Hence, benefiting patients and
practitioners alike.
The Business Plan Competition prize money will be used to patent
the device, a process which could take up to two years to complete.
Once tested, patented and ready for market, the team will then
consider licensing the product for production and sale.
Leeds Undergraduate
Research Enterprise
The Leeds Undergraduate
Research Enterprise is a
unique scheme which nurtures
undergraduate medical students
with research ambitions to
become academic clinicians.
A small select group of year
2 students are chosen to
be Leeds Undergraduate
Research Enterprise scholars
every year. These students
are given a bursary to conduct
research during vacations
and meet monthly to review
their development. Under the
supervision of their academic
mentor, the students develop
valuable skills for their future
clinical posts. In return, they
act as Ambassadors for Leeds
Medical School and have
worked on projects as diverse
as mentoring Malawian students
to encourage them to consider
medicine as a career, to
supporting medical students in
Sri Lanka.
The Leeds Undergraduate
Research Enterprise scheme
is made possible by generous
donations and sponsorship and
further details may be viewed at
http://medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/
info/257/leeds_undergraduate_
research_enterprise
Intercalation
Intercalated degrees allow
medical students to take an
additional degree in one year,
usually after years two, three or
four of the MBChB. Intercalation
offers a significant opportunity
for self-development for those
seeking an academic career in
medicine, wanting to explore
new options and avenues, or
to consolidate their knowledge
and skills for future careers.
Currently, approximately half of
year three students choose to
intercalate every year.
The School of Medicine offers
an excellent range of specially
created degrees for medical
students which are designed
to offer students a challenging,
enjoyable and rewarding year
which will add significantly
to their skills and knowledge,
and enhance their career
opportunities. There are
currently 19 undergraduate and
6 post graduate intercalated
courses which cover a range
of topics delivered by several
different Faculties and Schools,
and students can choose to
intercalate at undergraduate (BA,
BSc) or postgraduate level (MSc,
MA, MRes).
Electives
Electives are taken in year five
for a period of six weeks. These
allow students to spend a period
of study in a diverse setting
within the UK and throughout
the world to gain a wider clinical
experience or carry out a specific
project. Recent student electives
and projects have taken place
in a variety of settings including
health centres, charities, other
universities and in hospitals
throughout the world. Countries
visited include Australia, Samoa,
Vanuatu, China, Italy, Nepal, and
Tanzania.
International
Leeds is also developing new,
and strengthening existing links
with education providers in
Europe to ensure our students
can spend time understanding
other cultures and healthcare
systems, while practising their
clinical communication and
language skills. MBChB students
will have the opportunity to
study languages as part of the
Student without Borders
programme, so that they are
fluent enough to work as junior
doctors in French or Spanish
speaking countries upon
graduation.
Leeds also offers help and advice
to assist students wishing to train
in the USA and Canada through
our knowledge of the North
American licensing systems and
examinations.
ROSALIND REVANS
From Somerset, is a 2nd year MBChB student.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
I wanted to be a doctor from a young age so I have chosen a course
that gives me all the opportunities I need to achieve this dream. I also
wanted a course that combined a thorough teaching of the medical
sciences with early clinical experience so that I could start to develop
skills early on in my career.
Why Leeds?
Leeds has a great course which integrates great teaching of the science
with early experience of working with patients so you can begin to
develop your skills and own style as a doctor. I have found that learning
the science in a lecture then seeing a patient in the clinic really helps to
cement your understanding.
Leeds is a really supportive medical school, even when I was applying
they were always quick to answer my questions and deal with any
problems I was facing. The IDEALS course also helps with many
opportunities to discuss the difficulties all of us can face at medical
school such as how to challenge a consultant and get the most out of
placement and lectures.
What has been the highlight of the MBChB?
I have really enjoyed my GP placements where I am given lots of
opportunities to lead consultations and learn on the job. Diving in at
the deep end has helped me to improve quickly and learn so much in
every placement.
What came as a surprise?
I was surprised by how much doctors were willing for you to get involved
in placement, even as early as the 1st year. I was taught to lead
consultations, examine patients and I now see patients without
supervision (though help is always close at hand). This trust allows you
to develop quickly and learn more than you could in any lecture.
What advice would you offer to prospective undergraduate students?
Make sure that you are really passionate about the course; it can be
tough and your enthusiasm will help you through.
ABDULLAH AL DUWAISAN
From Kuwait, is currently a 4th year MBChB student.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
My journey to medicine started at the age of 14, when my father was
diagnosed with a pituitary tumour. Our surgeon spent weeks reassuring
us and went above and beyond our expectation of a doctors duty. He
became a person we could trust and confide our worries and hopes to.
Driving home with my father, beaming at each other following the
experience wed been through; I knew I wanted to give as many people
the same holistic treatment.
Tell us about your journey in applying and joining the MBChB?
I attended an international British school in Kuwait with over 2,000
students from 65 different nations. I was a minority in my own country,
and this brought my own individuality forward I had to discover myself
and my interests, which led me to Medicine.
Why Leeds?
Leeds was a natural choice for me, a well ranked, world-class university
with over 30,000 students of 140 nationalities and a reputation for
producing pioneers; it was everything I had dreamt of.
Leeds as a city is also often cited as the best student city, offering
both excitement and opportunity to any who came to call it home.
What has been the highlight of the MBChB?
Taking part in clinical practice from the very 1st year. As a medical
student you quickly learn that every case is unique, and this is the most
rewarding aspect of medicine.
How did Leeds support you?
The University provided a plethora of support systems, from
international student groups to personal medical tutors. Many doctors
teaching clinical education also have an interest in medical education,
and are happy to provide students with extra support.
What advice would you offer to prospective students?
Regardless of where or what you study, seize the opportunity to
complete your higher education. It is a unique experience that builds
your character, provides you with life-long friends and sets you on a
platform to vault into your ideal career. That is what I gained at Leeds.
Clinical Experience
Clinical Experience
With our location, in one of the UKs most diverse regions and our strong
partnerships with the major Leeds teaching hospitals, local acute hospitals,
regional general hospitals and general practices, Leeds students gain early
clinical experience in a variety of settings primary care, hospital care and
the wider community. The recognition that a substantial proportion of
healthcare is delivered in the community is reflected in the proportion of
time our students spend in primary and community care placements. The
variety of placement experiences open to students, and the emphasis on
Patient Involvement in the Leeds curriculum is a great strength of our
approach in preparing doctors for tomorrow.
Clinical Placements
Early exposure to clinical environments differentiates the Leeds MBChB
from others, with students on clinical placement from year one and then
consolidating their clinical experience year on year by spending more time
in practice. In year three students will integrate their clinical skills and
knowledge by undertaking five junior clinical placements, each lasting five
weeks, which provide a thorough grounding in general medicine and a
diverse range of conditions and patient demographics. In years four and
five, time is largely spent on clinical placements, where students
consolidate, extend and hone their clinical skills in a wide range of clinical
practice settings.
Patient | Carer Community (PCC)
With the growing emphasis on patient-centred care and communication,
the General Medical Councils Tomorrows Doctors (2009) places patient
and carer involvement at the core of medical education and a key
requirement is that MBChB graduates make the care of patients their first
concern. Involvement activities can help medical students begin to more
fully understand and empathise with the needs of patients and carers. It
can also help to improve their confidence and interpersonal skills when
dealing with issues such as disability, chronic illness, and mental health.
We recognise how important it is to ensure that the doctors of the future
can communicate effectively with patients, carers and their family
members. Patient and carer involvement through our PCC allows our
MBChB students to gain first-hand experience of working with individuals
who are living with, or caring for someone with, a medical condition or
disability.
The PCC is a community of patients and carers working in partnership
with students, educators and clinicians, leading the way locally and
nationally in educating the medical profession. The PCC makes a
difference by putting real stories at the heart of the curriculum so that
patients, carers and their family members everywhere will experience the
best possible healthcare.
The PCC database has a membership of over 172 patients, carers and
their family from differing backgrounds with an age range of 5 to 86 who
have experience of living with HIV, Cancer, Diabetes, Arthritis and Mental
health, etc. Our members come from a range of backgrounds. Although
we use the term patient we actually mean anyone who has received
medical treatment (e.g. for cancer) or who lives with a physical or mental
health condition, or disability.
Here are a few examples of how PCC members are involved in the
MBChB programme:
Admissions - PCC members take part in the Mini Multiple Interviews
(MMIs). Interviewees are required to discuss a relevant topic with a
patient or carer who will then assess their ability to interact e.g. listen
and build a rapport.
NISHI GUPTA
From London, is currently intercalating in BSc Psychology.
Why intercalate?
I wanted the opportunity to study a subject that I had always had an
interest in but never pursued at school. With psychology, I was able to
build on aspects I had learnt on the medicine degree with new
concepts. I also had the opportunity to integrate with people outside the
School of Medicine.
Why intercalate at Leeds?
I was familiar with how the University worked so I thought it was an
easier transition and Psychology at Leeds is highly regarded.
What has been the highlight of the course?
The content and academic staff has been amazing. In terms of support,
as intercalating students going into the BSc Psychology year we always
knew where to turn to if we needed help. The modules taught have
been varied and interesting; I now feel I have a real overview of the
Psychology subject.
How do you think your course will help you in the future?
I believe it will give me a good base if I want to pursue Psychiatry as a
career choice in the longer term. It has also allowed me to appreciate
the workings of the mind which sometimes can be quite a stigmatising
area of study.
Would you recommend BSc Psychology to others?
Yes most definitely. It has been one of my best years of university so far
in terms of learning new skills such as essay writing and critical
evaluation as well as utilising knowledge from lectures. I have enjoyed
spending time with people outside of the School of Medicine and
gaining a new perspective on life as a student at the University of Leeds.
DR AOIFE HURLEY
From Doncaster, graduated in 2012 and is currently working as a FY2 at
Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
I wanted a career in which there was a good mixture of science, human
interaction and ongoing learning opportunities. Medicine is also a
degree which is universal, so provides opportunities to work anywhere
in the world.
Why Leeds?
Actually, originally Leeds was not my first choice. However, when I
visited Leeds at an open day, the enthusiasm the students had for the
course persuaded me otherwise!
I also really enjoyed how sociable it was at Leeds, not just in my own
year but between years. Theres a feeling of everyone trying to pull
through together! There are great elective opportunities and also the
chance to go abroad and experience a different health care system. I
felt very well prepared for the start of FY1 after both the final year and
the shadowing period.
How has the MBChB at Leeds influenced your career?
Throughout the course you have the opportunity to study components
in areas you are interested in which helps to further develop your
interest/highlight a path not suited to you. Both are important. After a
paediatrics placement in the 4th year, I thought that this is for me. | was
lucky to get a paediatrics job as an FY1 and thats what Ill apply for
when I go for specialist training after a year in Australia.
Would you recommend the MBChB?
Yes, the MBChB at Leeds is a really enjoyable course with enthusiastic
teachers. I learnt to appreciate that becoming a decent doctor isnt
about being able to recite scientific facts, but about communicating
effectively, putting people at ease and enabling patients. Thats what
Leeds teaches and builds upon.
Learning Resources
Health Sciences Library
Since its opening in 1831, the School of Medicine has had a students
library, originally maintained by subscriptions from students and
enriched by gifts from members of staff. In 2008, a generous grant from
the Wolfson Trust, matched by University funding, financed a major
refurbishment which included provision for print and electronic
resources to be used together.
Today, the Health Sciences Library contains the research and teaching
collections for all medical and health related subjects. The library has
wifi access throughout and a variety of individual and group study
spaces. The library is used by staff and students at the University and
individuals from the NHS.
Alongside this students are provided with licences for Dr Companion
Mobile Medical, across all five years. This app available for Android and
Apple provides access to a number of key textbooks such as the BNF so
that students have access to reliable sources when out on placement.
Clinical Skills Centre
Clinical skills teaching for medical students is based at the newly
refurbished premises in St Jamess University Hospital in Leeds and at
NHS premises across the region. The clinical skills centre at St
Jamess, funded by 2.85m from the Yorkshire and Humber SHA,
provides excellent up-to-date clinical skills training facilities for medical
students and other trainee and qualified NHS staff. MBChB students
can work and learn alongside colleagues from other professions and can
appreciate their contribution in a multiprofessional team.
Technology Enhanced Learning
Technology enhanced learning (TEL) is woven throughout the Leeds
MBChB curriculum. Wherever the presence of technology can be seen
to add value to the student experience and increase the potential for
learning we aim to provide bespoke technological solutions that are
intuitive with clear purpose.
Key areas of TEL provision are focused around custom-made course
materials delivered in a variety of formats to encourage learning anytime,
anywhere. We want our students to feel empowered to direct their
learning, to access reliable educational resources when they need them.
Students are supported by innovative solutions from the moment they
accept a place at Leeds to the point of graduation and beyond. Also
Learning Resources
What does this mean for you?
If you have a smartphone or tablet and we know that a large majority of
students are now arriving at medical school with mobile technology that
is more than capable of running the apps which we provide, it means
that youll be able to access some resources that are tailored to support
your year group on your own devices. At the moment we are only able to
provide resources for Apple devices but we are working on expanding
our resource provision to support Android devices too. We are planning
for these resources to be made available by 2015. If you are thinking of
getting a new phone or tablet we would therefore recommend that you
invest in either an Apple or Android based device that will enable you to
run our resources.
What if I cant afford a smartphone?
The School of Medicine is committed to continuing to provide phones for
all those students who are genuinely unable to afford one of their own for
the compulsory part of the course. At the moment the only compulsory
elements of the mobile programme are in years 4 and 5, and we will
continue to provide appropriate devices for students in those years who
are unable to afford one. In the event that elements of the mobile
programme became compulsory in earlier years, the same provisions
would apply. If you feel that you are unable to provide yourself with the
necessary device the provisions outlined above should reassure you that
this should not be a barrier to you applying to the MBChB.
Do other Medical Schools do this?
Award winning, world leading, research led. We have been developing
our mobile programme for eight years and have become national leaders
in mobile learning. No other medical school has the same ability to
capture assessment and learning in placement alongside access to such
a wealth of internationally recognised and locally-tailored resources.
Apps
As part of the commitment to mobile learning a number of
complimentary apps have been created by both staff and students.
Alongside apps which interact with the ePortfolio enabling students to
complete assessment forms, quizzes and make notes we have a range
of OSCE revision apps with content created by students for students.
The OSCE toolkit apps set out OSCE style scenarios, with accompanying
instructional videos and text and a practice checklist to help prepare
students for exams. Search University of Leeds on the Apple iTunes
store for the full range of apps available.
eBooks
A number of bespoke eBooks have been created to provide targeted
information around clinical skills, prescribing, and responding to acutely
ill patients. As well as comprehensive text and images these books
include instructional videos, eLearning packages, quizzes and examples
of medical forms students will encounter when on clinical placement.
The RRAPID e-book is available from the Apple app store and
accessible online at http://rrapid.leeds.ac.uk/ebook/
Virtual Community
This multimedia web-resource provides students with access to a range
of virtual patient cases. The case studies have been developed by a
multidisciplinary team of clinicians, students and technical staff and are
designed to complement classroom teaching and provide an indication
of the decision processes that are involved in becoming an exceptional
medical practitioner. Students work through clinical patient scenarios,
receiving feedback on the choices they make about treatment and
management of the virtual patient and the complexity of the scenarios
are set at an appropriate level for their stage of learning.
RRAPID
A University of Leeds team of consultant physicians, clinical
educators and e-learning technologists have developed an eBook
and iPhone app to support a simulation-based teaching programme
(RRAPID: Recognising and Responding to Acute Patient Illness and
Deterioration), which is currently delivered to all undergraduate
medical students on the MBChB degree programme at Leeds.
The taught element of RRAPID is restricted due to available time but
the e-resources enable students to continue learning and revisiting
what they have learnt in the classroom and help to underpin the key
principles of the RRAPID curriculum. The RRAPID eBook is a mobileenabled multimedia learning tool that provides theoretical content,
practical demonstrations and self-test features to aid the
understanding and application of the RRAPID approach. The app is
complimentary to the RRAPID eBook and is a hand-held quick
reference guide for the recognition and management of acute patient
illness and deterioration, particularly advantageous for use within a
clinical setting.
Main picture iPads are available on and off campus in practice settings
Below (left to right) Mobile technology enhancing the learning experience, clinical learning, iDecide resource, leeches at the Thackray Medical Museum.
the skills they need to develop to help them get the right jobs for
them. Thinking about career routes early on, will ensure our
students make sound career decisions and increase their motivation
and job satisfaction. Helen is available for one-to-one career
guidance consultations: she delivers a programme of continuing
professional development to personal tutors on skills and theoretical
models used in careers guidance and develop careers guidance
resources for delivery throughout the curriculum.
The Alumni Annual Fund
The Leeds Alumni Annual Fund aims to ensure that every suitably
qualified student has the chance to come to Leeds to study
Medicine, or to take advantage of the valuable opportunity to
complete an intercalated year, without being deterred by financial
difficulty.
Below (left to right) Helen Steele Careers Co-ordinator, Jonathan Hooper and John McGuinness were each supported through Bursaries of 1,000 funded by
the Alumni Annual Fund and Discover Health Careers participants.
Student Societies
Student Achievement
MyCQs: Social Revision for Medical Students & Doctors
Omair and I realized the value of writing and practising multiple choice
questions long before we developed MyCQs.
For the last few years, our main revision method has been creating
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and challenging each other on them.
This is a fantastic way to learn, and there is value in reading through
course material to both create the questions and choose the best
options, as well as then taking the test and getting feedback on your
answers.
So last year, we created our own website and shared the tests online
with our year-group. We received amazing feedback from this and
realized our tests had helped approximately 50% of the year group, who
used them regularly and a real community developed around people
commenting on, suggesting improvements to and writing their own
questions for our year.
MCQs technique is fun, social and most importantly it goes beyond
simply memorizing material for exams. Whereas flashcards allow you to
cheat and other revision methods dont always encourage you to apply
knowledge, well-constructed MCQs go deeper than this.
So, over the summer we developed a fully-fledged iOS app and further
developed the website MyCQs. All students could now use the website
and app to create MCQs and share them with friends and course-mates.
Whilst originally intended for medical students, we very soon saw the
need to open MyCQs up to other subjects, although a large proportion of
our userbase are still medics. After 12 months in operation, we are very
proud to report that MyCQs has:
700-850 website visits per day
100 app downloads per day
6,600 REGISTERED users (users do not need to register to take tests)
1, 800 tests (45,608 questions!) which have been taken
28,455 times
over 30,000 downloads overall
Featured in The Guardian
Tennis
Medsoc
Medsocs motto is work hard, play harder and they aim to help
students at Leeds have the most memorable time of their lives.
Throughout the year, there are events to suit everyone, from the
Cocktail Party to the Spring Ball, the Summer Barbeque to the Ski
Trip. Being a member of Medsoc also means a number of discounts
throughout Leeds. There are many opportunities for fancy dress,
getting dressed to the nines and relaxing with friends after a hard
days studying a guaranteed once in a lifetime experience! Visit
leedsmedics.org.uk/medsoc for more information.
Choir
Thai boxing
SOCIETIES
Charities
Below (left to right) James Gupta, MyCQs App and Omair Vaiyani.
Medsin
Panto
Regurg (the medic magazine)
Scrubs
SemSoc
Sexpression
Society Leaders
Teddy Bear hospital
WAMS (Widening Access to Medical School)
Wilderness medicine
Entry Routes
International Applicants
International students are considered in line with our standard entrance
requirements looking at academic achievement (expressed as English
A-level qualifications) with predicted grades being of an equivalent level
and the areas of non-academic achievement outlined in our admissions
policy and personal statement guide. Proof of English Language
proficiency will be also required. The School of Medicine require at least
English GCSE grade B or IELTS 7.5 (including 7.5 in spoken English).
Further information for prospective international applicants can be
found at www.leeds.ac.uk/international
Mature Applicants
Support for mature applicants is available through the Lifelong Learning
Centre (LLC). The support includes pre-entry advice and guidance for
adults, matriculation tests, alternative entry schemes (some of which are
outlined below), and preparatory programmes for adults. For further
details contact part-time@leeds.ac.uk or call 0113 343 3212
www.llc.leeds.ac.uk
Transfers
Transfers from other UK undergraduate medical degree courses are
only considered in exceptional circumstances and are reviewed
individually. Requests for transfers from students studying other degree
courses, with exception of the entry route through the BSc in Clinical
Sciences at the University of Bradford (a joint initiative between the
Universities of Leeds and Bradford), are not considered. Applications
from students who have transferred to the University of Bradford BSc in
Clinical Sciences from another medical course will not be considered.
Deferred Application/Gap Year
We welcome applications from students who wish to spend time gaining
experience of work, voluntary service or travel after leaving school or
college. Applicants should make use of the personal statement section
of the UCAS application form to explain their reasons for taking a Gap
Year. Applicants who take a Gap Year should be aware that they would
still be required to attend an interview.
Access to Leeds
Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme that allows us to
identify applicants who have the potential to succeed at the University
but who may not be able to demonstrate their talents through grades
alone. This works alongside the standard UCAS application. Applicants
who have experienced disadvantage will be flagged to the Schools
admission tutors using a combination of educational context, social
factors and personal circumstances. Eligible applicants will receive
special consideration from admissions tutors. Successful applicants will
receive an alternative offer, ABB including an A in Chemistry, (which is
the equivalent of two A Level grades below the typical offer). This offer
also includes the requirement to successfully complete the Access to
Leeds module and making the University of Leeds their firm choice.
For more information on Access to Leeds please refer to
www.leeds.ac.uk/ace/PS/A2L
GARETH ROGERS
From Darlington, is a 2nd year MBChB student.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
Throughout both my GCSEs and A-levels I thoroughly enjoyed human
biology and the aspects of chemistry which are applicable to the human
body. At the same time I have always loved working with people, and
studying and practising medicine gives you the opportunity to combine
these aspects together.
Tell us about your journey to applying and joining the MBChB?
During my A2 year, I applied to study medicine and also applied to the
Clinical Sciences BSc at the University of Bradford as my 5th nonmedicine option on my UCAS application. On A-level results day I
narrowly missed out of my 3rd A grade in chemistry and I therefore
accepted my offer from the University of Bradford. After successfully
completing year 1 of clinical sciences and being ranked in the top 10% I
was successful in transferring into year 2 of the MBChB at the
University of Leeds.
Why Leeds?
I chose Leeds in my initial application because of multiple factors. The
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is the second largest in the UK
and has a wide range of teaching hospitals, which provide fantastic
learning opportunities. I found the idea of early clinical exposure to be
important, as it would allow me to compound my learning and develop
key communication skills at an early stage in my training.
What has been the highlight of the MBChB?
The opportunity to participate in wet dissection has been by far my
favourite part of the MBChB so far. It has allowed me to develop a
strong and clear understanding of the anatomy of the human body. As a
result of my enjoyment of wet dissection and anatomy I will be
intercalating in BSc Clinical Anatomy during my 3rd year.
Was there anything that came as a surprise?
The early clinical exposure that has increased my motivation to pursue
a career in surgery.
What advice would you offer to prospective students?
It is very important that you discover how you work best whether it be
through group work, lessons and lectures or a mixture of both styles.
Medical schools throughout the UK employ different approaches to
teaching and therefore it is important that you choose a course which
uses a method which suits you.
ADAM BROWN
From Huddersfield, is currently in the 4th year of the MBChB.
Why did you choose the MBChB?
I was always good at science at school and liked to interact with new
people; medicine offered the opportunity to engage in both. I was also
drawn by the variety medicine provides: there are hundreds of different
specialties and no two days are the same.
HASINI JAYASINGHE
From Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a 5th year MBChB student.
Why Leeds?
When choosing a medical school, I considered the course structure,
year group size and extra-curricular opportunities. I wanted to be in a
large city, but not one as big or expensive as London or a remote place.
Leeds as a city is just right. Also should you ever want a break from city
life, the beautiful Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors are right on
your doorstep.
Why Leeds?
The School of Medicine at the University of Leeds is highly reputed in Sri
Lanka for undergraduate and postgraduate opportunities as is Leeds
Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
I also wanted a student and female friendly city which I could call home
(5000 miles away from my original home!) and start a new, independent
life. The School of Medicine has been incredibly supportive over the last
five years and has fulfilled all my requirements.
What has been the highlight of the MBChB?
We were able to take our 4th year Student Selected Component project
Reduced foetal movements at termare we getting it right? to a national
level. As part of the project we audited Leeds General Infirmary and St
Jamess University Hospital retrospectively over a period of one year to
determine whether pregnant women presenting reduced foetal
movements are managed appropriately and identified what can be done
to improve management.
Our supervisor, Dr Ciantar was very enthusiastic and encouraged us to
submit our abstract to the national perinatal medicine conference that
will be held in June2014 and it got accepted as a poster presentation
with the abstract to be published in the Archives of Disease in
Childhood. We also presented our project as a poster at the Yorkshire
Modular Training Programmes annual regional conference.
What advice would you offer to prospective students?
Study hard for A Levels and come and join us at this excellent university
and city!
Application
UCAS
All full-time undergraduate applications must be made through
the online Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS)
www.ucas.com by 15th October for the following years entry.
The Admissions Committee reviews the assessment process of
UCAS forms annually. Applications are assessed for both academic
and non-academic criteria:
AS SUBJECTS
The School is committed to ensure that applications are considered
holistically. We consider an applicants performance at AS in lieu of
GCSE providing that a candidate includes Chemistry and that the
results were cashed-in after 12 months of study.
AS cashing-in is not mandatory, failure to do so will not adversely
affect application. For those who do not have three cashed-in AS
results, the GCSE and A2 results are scored.
GCSE SUBJECTS
Applicants should have obtained a substantial number of GCSE
passes, at a high standard. A minimum of 6 grade Bs must be
offered including the following:
English
Maths
Dual Science/Double Science, or Chemistry and Biology
International
Baccalaureate
Irish Leaving
Certificate
Scottish Highers
Graduate/Mature Applicants
Degrees
Non-graduate
A2s and GCSEs as given above or one of the
mature applicants following Access courses with an overall mark
or graduates with of 70% with at least 70% in Chemistry:
an Arts degree
College of West Anglia, Kings Lynn
Sussex Downs Adult College
Graduates who have undertaken Access to
Medicine courses would be expected to offer at
least a 2i class of degree
BMAT
Applicants will be required to take the Bio Medical Admissions Test
(BMAT). This is a 2-hour pen and paper test divided into 3 sections:
aptitude and skills; scientific knowledge and applications; writing
task. It does not require a lot of extra study as it is a test of skills
and knowledge that learners are expected to have already,
Registration opens 1st September with a standard registration
deadline of 1st October and a test date of 5th November,
More information can be found on http://www.
admissionstestingservice.org/our-services/medicine-andhealthcare/bmat/about-bmat/
OVERSEAS APPLICANTS
Demonstration of proficiency in English is required for non-native
English speakers. Qualifications in lieu of GCSE English grade B can
be one of the following:
Cambridge
Proficiency of
English
Grade B
IELTS
TOEFL
APPLICATION medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine 33
Application
PERSONAL STATEMENT AND REFEREES STATEMENT
The personal statement of the UCAS form helps in the assessment of
non-academic attributes that are important in a career in medicine. It is
essential that applicants take this opportunity to demonstrate motivation
and enthusiasm to study. There are many sources of information to help
you to write your personal statement, including:
www.ucas.com/students/applying/howtoapply/personalstatement
We carefully consider the reference provided on the UCAS form. Any
details of extenuating circumstances should be brought to highlight. If
you wish to submit any documentation regarding these circumstances
this must be done at the time of application. The reference section
should not be used to extend information that was not mentioned in the
Personal Statement section. Applicants should work with their referee
when they are writing the reference to ensure they include as much
appropriate information as possible. Guidance can be found on the
UCAS site www.ucas.com/advisers/online/references
There are many sources of information to help you to write your
personal statement including some produced by the School which is
available at the Open Days and through the School of Medicine website.
It is important to note that addition of URLs to a Personal Statement
(e.g. directing the reader to a personal blog) will not increase the
applicants Personal Statement score as any such links will not be read.
INTERVIEWS
After assessment of academic and non-academic criteria applicants
are ranked, short-listed applicants will receive a written invitation
from the School to attend an interview on a specific time and date. A
questionnaire will also be sent out at this time asking for further details
on work and voluntary placements including contact details.
The interview allows us to further assess the applicants. On the day of
interview, applicants will also have the opportunity to look around the
School of Medicine and meet some current students. All interviews
will be of the multiple mini-interview (MMI) formats. The questions
and tasks in the interview are designed to gain further insight into the
applicants personal qualities and some cognitive skills. Scores from
each station in the MMI will be collated to achieve an overall rating of
the applicant.
ASSESSING APPLICATIONS
The final selection of candidate is based on consideration of the
following:
GCSE results or cashed-in AS level results or equivalent
Predicted or gained A2 level grades or equivalent
BMAT result
Undergraduate performance where appropriate
Performance in Access to Leeds module or other Widening
Participation scheme if applicable
OFFERS
Offers are made on the basis of merit and the ability of each
applicant to meet the academic and non-academic criteria for
admission supplied on the UCAS form and performance at
interview.
The applicants who have the best performance at interview will be
offered a place. The number of offers will be calculated in reference
to previous years intake statistics and conversion rates. Any offer is
subject to the standard conditions (i.e. entry requirements) outlined
in the admissions policy document.
It is not possible to forecast the likely outcome for an individual
applicant as the situation varies from year to year. It will depend
on the availability of places and the grades actually achieved but
applicants who have not quite met the required grades will have
their application reviewed if there are still places available.
CONDITIONAL OFFER
A conditional offer means an applicant will be offered a place
providing certain conditions are met. Conditions are usually based
on the completion of outstanding qualifications e.g. A levels. Each
offer is specific to an applicants individual qualifications and
circumstances. Offers may state the grades that must be achieved
and/or specific grades in named subjects. Conditional offers will
also include successful completion of criminal record and health
checks. Applicants must typically meet the conditions set by the
University by 31 August of the application year.
BMAT Registration
1 September - 1 October
LATE SEPTEMBER
ONWARDS
School of Medicine
receives UCAS forms
Admissions Office
categorises and sorts
forms
5 November 2014
BMAT takes place
15 October 2014
DEADLINE FOR
UCAS SUBMISSION
Late entries are NOT
accepted
Initial processing of
UCAS form data
Preliminary feedback
available
(subject to validation)
BMAT
data passed to Leeds
BMAT data
combined with
UCAS form data
Access to Leeds
applicants assessed
Admissions Team
categorise applications as:
1: Interview
2: Reject
3: Pending
Online feedback
provided to all applicants
about BMAT and
academic assessment
512 invitations to
interview issued
January
Multiple Mini Interviews
take place in Leeds
Post-MMI online
feedback made available
August 2015
Final list of students
UNCONDITIONAL OFFER
An unconditional offer means that an applicant has met the
academic and non-academic entry requirements but will still be
required to meet the health and criminal record checks.
Personal Statement
Reference
Interview performance
21 September, 2015
Term begins
(Provisional date)
APPLICATION medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine 35
Contacts
Application
OTHER CONDITIONS OF ADMISSION
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Any offer of a place to study medicine is conditional upon a
satisfactory confidential occupational health assessment, which will
include a health questionnaire, and if necessary further telephone
consultation and/or an appointment with an occupational health
clinician. Screening for serious communicable disease, (Hepatitis
B, Hepatitis C, HIV, tuberculosis (TB)) and a review of immunisation
needs will also be arranged before commencement of medical
studies.
The Medical School can arrange an occupational health specialist
consultation if prospective students require advice about the above
before making an application. The School reserves the right to
refuse admission to the medical course to a student on the basis of
health. Applicants should note that the health requirements may be
subject to change.
CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS
The University has a policy statement on students with criminal
records (ww.leeds.ac.uk/AAandR/st_crim_rec.htm). This policy
applies to applicants seeking admission to the MBChB programme.
Having a prior criminal record will not necessarily prevent an
applicant from being offered a place; this may depend, for example,
on the nature, timing and relevance of the criminal offence in
question. The University may request further information about the
nature or context of an applicants criminal record.
On the UCAS application form applicants are expected to indicate
in the relevant box if they have a relevant criminal conviction.
All convictions must be disclosed and this includes convictions,
cautions, fixed penalty notices, reprimands and warnings.
practise: http://www.medschools.ac.uk/Publications/Pages/GMC_
MedicalStudents.aspx.
It should be noted that the General Medical Council also
considers criminal convictions in relation to fitness to practise
and the School has no control over this process. It is possible that
certain criminal convictions could pose difficulties at the point of
provisional registration. See: www.gmc-uk.org/doctors/registration_
applications/declaration_of_ftp.asp.
OPEN DAYS
Friday 20 June 2014
Saturday 21 June 2014
Friday 27 June 2014
Saturday 13 September 2014
Saturday 11 October 2014
APPLICATION DEADLINE
15 October
For more information visit the website at
www.leeds.ac.uk/medicine/admissions
As part of any offer, the School will need to verify any criminal
record and, if necessary judge whether applicants are suitable for
the course. For the vast majority of students who are resident in
the UK, the record will be checked via the Disclosure and Barring
Service (DSB). Enhanced disclosure will be sought at confirmation
time (i.e. when you have met all conditions as stated in your offer).
The current cost for the enhanced check is 44.
Further information on the DBS is available on: www.gov.uk/
government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service.
Due to the nature of the course the University requires that
applicants disclose all information relating to your conviction(s).
The University is entitled to this information in accordance with the
Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as
amended by SI 2013 1198). If anything revealed by the search is
regarded as a potential problem, the School will review the matter in
accordance with its policy. A copy of the Schools policy on Criminal
Record Checks can be obtained from the Admissions Office, or is
available on the Admissions website. Any concealment of a criminal
record including cautions and fixed penalty notices may result in
withdrawal of an offer or expulsion from the course.
The Medical Schools Council and General Medical Council
publication Medical Students: professional values and fitness to
practise, March 2009 provides further guidance on fitness to
CONTACTS medhealth.leeds.ac.uk/medicine 37
School of Medicine
University of Leeds
Leeds, United Kingdom
LS2 9JT
Tel: +44 (0)113 243 1751
www.leeds.ac.uk