University of Leicester

What you'll study

The MBChB is an integrated programme that combines medical sciences, communication and clinical skills with longitudinal patient contact. In the early years you will learn core biomedical and behavioural sciences alongside small-group case-based learning and clinical skills sessions, including history taking, examination and basic procedural skills.

• Years 1–2: Foundations in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and pathology delivered alongside professional skills, clinical communication and early patient contact in community and primary care settings.
• Year 3: Increasing ward- and clinic-based learning with attachments to core specialties such as medicine, surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology and psychiatry. Workplace-based assessments and formative OSCE practice are introduced.
• Years 4–5: Advanced clinical rotations, specialty placements, acute care experience and preparation for transition to practice. Students undertake summative clinical examinations (OSCEs) and complete supervised clinical responsibilities under supervision.

Assessment methods include written examinations, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs), workplace-based assessments and reflective portfolios. There are opportunities to undertake an elective, to intercalate for a year to gain a BSc or MSc where available, and to participate in research projects with academic staff across the university’s medical and biomedical research units.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have strong secondary qualifications, evidence of competence in science, and relevant experience that demonstrates motivation for medicine and readiness to work with patients. Typical requirements include high-level A-levels (or equivalent) with chemistry and usually biology or another science/mathematics subject, a competitive score in the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT), and a successful performance at interview.

• Academic: High achievement at A-level (or equivalent such as the IB) including chemistry and usually biology or a related science; accepted qualifications and specific subject requirements are published by the university.
• Admissions testing: UCAT is required for most applicants; check the university’s admissions guidance for details on required tests and score use.
• Interview: Shortlisting is followed by interview, typically conducted as multiple mini-interviews (MMIs) or structured panels to assess communication, ethical reasoning and suitability for clinical practice.
• Other: Satisfactory occupational health clearance, an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, and demonstration of English language competence where applicable are required prior to clinical placements.

Career prospects

Graduates who successfully complete the MBChB are awarded a primary medical qualification that enables them to apply for provisional registration with the General Medical Council and to enter the UK Foundation Programme or equivalent early postgraduate training. Career pathways include hospital specialties (medicine, surgery, emergency medicine, anaesthetics, paediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology), general practice, psychiatry, public health and academic medicine.

• Postgraduate training: Graduates typically progress into the two-year Foundation Programme and then into core specialty or GP training schemes.
• Academic and research careers: Opportunities exist to pursue clinical academia, research degrees or teaching posts; intercalated degrees and research projects during the course support this route.
• Alternative roles: Some graduates move into healthcare management, policy, global health, medical education or industry roles where clinical training is highly valued.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers an integrated, patient-focused medical curriculum with early and sustained clinical exposure across a diverse clinical network, including large teaching hospitals and community placements in the East Midlands. Teaching blends small-group learning, simulated practice in dedicated facilities and supervised workplace learning, supported by research-active academic staff.

• Clinical variety: Placements across district general hospitals, specialist centres and community settings provide a broad range of patient experience.
• Student support and skills development: Dedicated clinical skills and simulation facilities, pastoral support, and structured mentoring help students transition into clinical practice.
• Research and intercalation: The medical school is linked to active research groups; students can take intercalated degrees or participate in research projects to build academic skills.
• Community and campus life: A supportive student community, student-run societies and opportunities for volunteering complement formal learning and professional development.