phd in medical education uk

Division of Medical Education MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

Medical education research is a rich, cross-disciplinary field of enquiry. On this full or part-time PhD programme, you will have access to high levels of pedagogical expertise for your development as a successful independent researcher. It will prepare you for a diverse range of careers in medical education within the NHS, University and with partner organisations.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

• Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, plus Master's-level study in either education or medical education. A primary medical qualification is required for a clinically-orientated doctorate.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 1

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

Medical education research is fundamental to improving medical and health professional's practice, and spans the medical education lifespan from medical school to postgraduate training and through to continuing professional development.

The Research Department of Medical Education at UCL Medical School has a significant and vigorous educational research profile, which draw on a range of qualitative and quantitative focusing on a range of methodologies.

Our teaching is informed by our research, and our research is informed by our teaching. We are also dedicated to contributing to the wider education community by sharing our research findings and involving key stakeholders in our educational research.

This research degree involves conducting a single piece of research driven by your own interests, resulting in a 100,000-word thesis. You will be supported by academics and research staff from a variety of backgrounds, including education, psychology, health, and social sciences, as well as clinical specialties.

You can complete this programme full-time over three years, or part-time over five years.

Who this course is for

This research programme is particularly suitable for students who have completed a postgraduate course in medical education or an equivalent subject.

We welcome applications from medical, dental, and healthcare professionals who are interested in undertaking either quantitative, qualitative, or mixed method approaches to their work. It is also suitable if you have a background in health and social services, psychology, or education.

What this course will give you

This programme offers you the following benefits and opportunities.

• Support from an internationally renowned group of medical education researchers with vast experience in a range of qualitative and quantitative methodologies.
• High-level education and supervision to support your development as a medical education researcher.
• A research skills development programme delivered by the UCL Doctoral School.
• Access to a series of online research methods modules focusing on medical education.
• Supervision meetings in person and/or online.

The foundation of your career

This PhD will prepare you for a substantive career as an educational researcher. Graduates go on to high-level posts either as NHS consultants or academics in university settings, as well as roles in medical education with local/national and international influence.

Employability

Many graduates have continued to practise in healthcare while also playing a significant role in local education. You will be equipped for senior positions in other medical schools and in the postgraduate sector, or to go on to a research career.

The UCL Medical School offers events and activities that will give you the opportunity to network with medical educationalists across the UK and internationally. These will give you the chance to learn from their examples of good practice and their research findings.

You will also be encouraged to attend local, national, and international medical education conferences, such as the annual Association of Medical Education in Europe Conference.

Researchers are often involved in teaching our taught undergraduate and graduate programmes at UCL.

Teaching and learning

Most of your research will be carried out independently. There will also be a series of training requirements that you will need to complete in the early stages of the programme.

The following optional research methods modules are delivered via the University's online learning platform:

• Approaches to educational research
• Research and the theoretical field
• Research methods
• Qualitative data analysis
• Writing and presenting educational research & Information and literature searching
• Quantitative data analysis

Your first milestone will be to upgrade from MPhil to the PhD degree. For this, you will submit and present a report. In your final year, you submit a thesis covering your research and discuss this at a formal interview known as a viva examination.

Most of your time will be spent conducting independent research, alongside regular meetings with your supervisory team and completing your training requirements. We also encourage you to attend relevant research events at UCL and elsewhere.

Research areas and structure

• Assessment in medical education
• Clinical communication
• E-learning in medical education
• Equality and diversity in medical education
• Fitness to practise of doctors
• Interprofessional education
• Peer-assisted learning
• Professional identity
• Selection in medicine
• Medical revalidation
• Transitions in medical careers
• Work-based learning.

Research environment

The Research Department for Medical Education (RDME) is the research arm of UCL Medical School and one of the UK’s top medical education research departments. We draw together experienced doctors, nurses, psychologists, and educationalists to ensure that our work is based on strong pedagogical research foundations.

A key part of our ethos and research strategy is to ensure our research makes a difference. Our work on selection (including widening participation), postgraduate clinical assessments (including medical revalidation and differential attainment), mental health and well-being, and social justice broadly has had significant impact outside of academia. As a unit we uniquely submitted to the research excellence framework in 2014 and in 2021. Each time, our research led to impact case studies which have been rated highly.

Our award-winning public engagement projects ensure our work is informed by, and useful to, patients and the public. In 2021 we were awarded the Association for the study of medical education institution to citizenship, which is testament to our commitment to high quality research and high-quality research environment.

We help medical educators adopt evidence-based best educational practice and use our knowledge and experience to continually develop our undergraduate and postgraduate education programmes. We also work to aid development in other international institutions.

Our academic and research staff are from a variety of backgrounds, including education, sociology, psychology, philosophy, linguistics, and medical ethics, as well as clinical specialties. They all contribute to our interdisciplinary educational research activities. Our research outputs and reputation are of national and international importance.

When you accept your place on the programme, you will initially register for an MPhil in Medical Education.

In your first year, your programme will include the following optional research methods modules as part of the Doctoral Skills Training Programme. These are all delivered via an online learning platform:

• Approaches to Educational Research
• Research and the Theoretical Field
• Research Methods
• Qualitative Data Analysis
• Writing and Presenting Educational Research and Information and Literature Searching
• Quantitative Data Analysis.

You will be eligible to upgrade to PhD status between 9-18 months into your registration. Upgrade decisions are based on an evaluation of an upgrade report, which you produce with support from your supervisors, and a viva examination.

Throughout your programme, you will have the opportunity to play a full part in the life of the RDME.

• Research Methods.

You will be eligible to upgrade to PhD student status between 15-24 months into your registration. Upgrade decisions are based on an evaluation of an upgrade report, which you will draft with the support of your primary and subsidiary supervisors, as well as assessment by viva examination.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

Additional costs may include items such as books (perhaps £100-£200 per year), and expenses whilst attending conferences. Conferences are optional and costs vary significantly, but the average one-day event has registration fees of c. £280, plus travel (cost varies by location) and accommodation where relevant for longer events. Students will pay for their own attendance themselves unless there is a source of external funding.

Your research degree may be subject to an Additional Fee Element (also known as bench fees), which is payable by yourself or your sponsor. This covers the costs related to consumables, such as equipment and materials, which are not included in the tuition fee. As each research project is unique, this fee is calculated on an individual basis and is determined by your academic supervisor. It may also depend on whether you receive external funding to complete your degree.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Your deadlines and start dates will usually be dictated by funding arrangements so you will need to check with the department or academic unit to see if you need to consider these in your application. In most cases, you should identify and contact your potential supervisors before you apply.

Consider your choices

We recommend that you read these tips for studying medical education at doctoral level and familiarise yourself with our research staff to consider who might supervise your project.

If you decide to apply, you will need to send a CV and a research proposal of approximately 2,000 words to [email protected] .

The proposal should include your research interests and proposed topic and address the following:

• The research problem and your research questions
• Background, including a brief literature review
• Relevant theoretical and methodological perspectives
• Methods, including sample, recruitment, data gathering, data analysis
• Your new contribution to knowledge
• Timetable and bibliography.

If your proposal has potential and we believe we can match you to a supervisor, we will arrange an interview. This can take place online for applicants who are currently overseas.

If you are successful after this, we will invite you to apply using our application platform and to provide references.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Year of entry: 2023-2024, got questions get in touch.

UCL Medical School

[email protected]

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students .

Prospective Students Graduate

• Graduate degrees
• Taught degrees
• Taught Degrees
• Applying for Graduate Taught Study at UCL
• Research degrees
• Research Degrees
• Funded Research Opportunities
• Doctoral School
• Funded Doctoral Training Programmes
• Applying for Graduate Research Study at UCL
• Teacher training
• Teacher Training
• Early Years PGCE programmes
• Primary PGCE programmes
• Secondary PGCE programmes
• Further Education PGCE programme
• How to apply
• The IOE approach
• Teacher training in the heart of London
• Why choose UCL?
• Entrepreneurship
• Inspiring facilities and resources
• Careers and employability
• Your global alumni community
• Your wellbeing
• Postgraduate Students' Association
• Your life in London
• Accommodation

• Schools & departments

Clinical Education PhD

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time, Part-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Clinical Education

Discovery Day

Join us online on 18th April to learn more about postgraduate study at Edinburgh

View sessions and register

Research profile

This new PhD in clinical education builds on our world-renowned expertise in the field of clinical education, and our well-established and respected Masters in Clinical Education programme.

It is an ideal programme for those wishing to further their career in academic clinical or medical education, who already have experience of delivering education for healthcare professionals, whether students, doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, dental or veterinary practitioners. It will particularly appeal to those seeking leadership positions or to undertake independent high-quality research in clinical education.

Some of our current research focuses on:

• Faculty development
• Assessment and feedback in medical education
• Psychometrics
• Learning outcome development and mapping
• Students learning to teach and Peer Assisted Learning (PAL)
• Preparation for practice
• International medical education
• Clinical skills

The Centre for Medical Education has 25 members of academic staff (including fixed-term Fellows), 5 administrators, approximately 100 distance-learning MSc students, and typically 5-7 doctoral students.

We have good collaboration between university faculty, clinicians, NHS Education for Scotland and other institutions.

Training and support

The Centre has an excellent track record in providing training within clinical education to MSc students, undergraduate medical students and fixed-term clinical Fellows.

Doctoral students receive direct support from at least two academic supervisors during their studies, and a dedicated thesis committee provides guidance throughout the programme of research.

Research training is tailored to each doctoral student, but typically includes material from the well-established MSc ‘Research in Clinical Education’ and ‘Dissertation’ courses, an extensive programme of university PhD training workshops and meetings, and fortnightly ‘Medical Education Forum’ and ‘CME Research Meeting’ events for presentation of completed research and work-in-progress.

The Centre for Medical Education is based in The Chancellors Building, Little France, next to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.

Most faculty and doctoral students share three large offices, with others based in the state-of-the-art Clinical Skills Centre.

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK masters degree, or its international equivalent, in a clinical, medical or health field, and a primary clinical qualification, such as an MBChB, BVS, BDS or Bachelor of Nursing.

You must have experience of clinical, medical, allied healthcare or veterinary education, for example teaching undergraduate or postgraduate students.

We will also consider your application if you have a biomedical or social science qualification, or a professional qualification, such as RGN , with appropriate clinical experience; please contact the programme team to check before you apply.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

Fees and costs

Tuition fees, scholarships and funding, featured funding.

• College of Medicine & Veterinary Medicine funding opportunities

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Phone: +44 (0)131 242 6536
• Contact: [email protected]
• GU304 The Chancellors Building
• 49 Little France Crescent
• Little France
• Programme: Clinical Education
• School: Edinburgh Medical School: Medicine
• College: Medicine & Veterinary Medicine

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Clinical Education - 3 Years (Full-time)

Phd clinical education - 6 years (part-time), application deadlines.

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

• How to apply

You must submit two references with your application.

Before making your application, you must make contact with a potential supervisor to discuss your research proposal. Further information on making a research degree application can be found on the College website:

• How to apply for a research degree

You will be formally interviewed (in person, by video-conferencing or Skype).

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

• Postgraduate Research

Medical Education PhD / MPhil / MD

• Part time available: yes

Studying in:

• institute-of-life-course-and-medical-sciences
• Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

The School of Medicine offers a range of research areas spanning medical education. Our current portfolio includes topics covering the development of professional identity and professionalism lapses and the development of empathy during undergraduate medicine studies. In line with current changes in the NHS and workforce, transitioning into clinical posts and their impact upon wellbeing, is also a research area.

Why study with us?

Associate Clinical Teachers for trainee doctors in Merseyside recruited in the 2017/18 Academic Year

postgraduate students in the Faculty.

of the largest medical schools in the country.

Situated within one of the UK’s larger Schools of Medicine, undertaking a PhD in Medical Education at Liverpool gives PhD candidates based here a unique opportunity to work alongside an engaged and committed cohort of Medical Students all of whom are encouraged to take an interest in the development of medical education, for the improvement of systems and processes for future generations of students. 

The University of Liverpool’s School of Medicine is one of the largest medical education providers in the UK. We train and develop doctors throughout their careers, enabling them to use the latest advances to provide exceptional care to their patients.

We deliver teaching and training for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as continuous professional development for medical practitioners.  Joining our department involves you in this vibrant medical education community.

We work collaboratively; across professions, institutions and departments.  Completing your studies with us means an opportunity to work with world-leading educators and clinical staff across a full range of disciplines.  In all these areas, our work is characterised by a focus on research excellence and by attention to the real world impact of our scholarship.

We have expertise in a range of methodological approaches, and are happy to hear from potential PhD candidates who are interested in undertaking either quantitative, qualitative or mixed-method approaches to their work. Our current PhD students are using a range of unique techniques, including longitudinal impact studies and narrative interviewing and analysis.

PhD students undertaking their research here often have the opportunity to see the they develop as part of their research implemented immediately into the curriculum, as part of research-led practice.

Research themes

We particularly welcome research proposals that match those of our researchers, including:

• Professionalism
• Curriculum Development
• Technology Enhanced Learning
• Professional Identity Development
• Simulation-based training
• Wellbeing and resilience
• Interprofessional / inter-disciplinary working
• Leadership and Management.

Research undertaken within Medical Education is usually desk-based, but you may be interested in working with one of our NHS sites.  Please visit our undergraduate website pages for details of each of the different sites aligned to Liverpool.  We are also willing to consider co-facilitation with other, relevant departments (psychology, sociology, history etc) so please do not hesitate to contact us if you would be interested in such arrangements.

Study options and fees

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.

Entry requirements

You'll need a 2:1 or first class or equivalent first degree in a relevant discipline, such as medicine,  psychology or sociology. This breadth reflects our commitment to multidisciplinary approaches when investigating complex research questions.

English language requirements

Additional requirements.

Your research can be in any area that matches our research interests and expertise, outlined above. CRB and other checks may be necessary for some project types and every proposal will need to receive ethical approval.

You'll also need coherent writing skills, along with the stamina, self-motivation and organisation to complete a demanding research project.

How to apply

Research degree applications can be made online.  You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.

Applications are  open all year round .

More about applying for research degrees

Apply online

Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal

Find a supervisor

Professor Viktoria Goddard -  [email protected]

Professor Hazel Scott - [email protected]

Dr Dominic Johnson - [email protected]

Dr Neil Henney - [email protected]

Need help finding a supervisor? Contact us

• ILCaMS PGR Administrator
• Email: [email protected]

Related studentships: self-funded and funded PhD projects

Find a scholarship.

We offer a range of scholarships to help you meet the costs of studying a research degree.

See scholarships

Find a course

• A-Z of courses /
• Studentship vacancies

Undergraduate enquiries

International enquiries

Postgraduate taught enquiries

Postgraduate research enquiries

Ask the University of Liverpool a question

• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate Taught
• Online programmes
• Welcome to Liverpool

Learn about...

• Visits and Open Days
• Accommodation
• Student support
• Careers and Employability
• Continuing Education
• Continuing Professional Development

Information for...

• International students
• Mature students and access courses
• Parents and supporters
• School and careers advisors

We use cookies to enhance your online experience. To find out more, please read our Cookies Notice and Privacy Notice .

Medical Education MPhil/PhD

We welcome applications to undertake research towards mphil and phd degrees in medical education..

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Medical Education 

Research at Worcester has grown significantly in recent years. We aim to produce research that is distinctive, socially and culturally relevant, and that influences national agendas. We continually strive to develop new areas of research excellence while, in certain areas, our work has already been acknowledged as world-leading.

Three Counties Medical School

The Three Counties Medical School has a multidisciplinary staff team of academics with clinical and research expertise in medical education.

Entry requirements

Entry qualifications.

First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or an approved equivalent award

• Research or professional experience which has resulted in appropriate evidence of achievement

Postgraduate Masters Degree in a discipline which is appropriate to the proposed programme of study

• First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree or equivalent award in an appropriate discipline
• Research or professional experience at postgraduate level which has resulted in published work, written reports or other appropriate evidence of achievement

International applicants

International applicants will be required to demonstrate that they have the appropriate level of written and spoken English.

For MPhil/PhD this is an IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in every component.

Programme structure

Phd year by year.

After receiving your application, we try to establish if we have the necessary expertise to supervise your project and we begin to form a supervisory team for you. This will normally consist of a Director of Studies (DoS), who will be your lead supervisor, and at least one other supervisor, who will offer you additional support and guidance throughout your studies. If, following a successful interview, you are offered a place as a full-time student, your programme of study will look something like this:

You will have submitted a draft research outline with your application. In your first year, you will be working towards submitting a more complete research proposal. You will be aided in your research by meeting with your supervisory team to discuss your progress. You will also be supported through your first year by engaging with a series of three modules as part of our Researcher Development Programme:

• RSDP4001: Developing as a Researcher
• RSDP4005: Approaches to Research
• RSDP4004: Planning Your Research Project

At the end of each year, beginning with your first year, you will reflect on and formally review your progress with your supervisory team and MPhil/PhD Course Leader. We call this annual meeting an Annual Progress Review (APR).

Second year

In your second year, you will be collecting data and working on your research project under the supervision of your supervisors through regular meetings. You may at this point have research papers ready to publish and you may wish to attend conferences to present your research to other experts in your field. You will be able to apply to our Research Student Support Scheme for some funding for this purpose. Students normally undergo Transfer from MPhil to PhD towards the end of their second year. This will be part of your Annual Progress Review for this year.

Third or fourth year

In your third and fourth year, you will be writing up your thesis and preparing for your viva voce examination. This is an oral exam with two examiners and a chair. You can also request that your supervisor be present at the exam. The exam will take place after you have submitted your final thesis. After the exam, it is not unusual for the examiners to ask that some amendments be made to your thesis before the final award is confirmed and you will have additional time to do this. It is possible to complete the course in three years, but we have found that the majority of students do take four years to complete the course. At the end of each year of your registration, you will go through an Annual Progress Review.

With study space and IT provision in the Research Office, and access to the University of Worcester’s virtual resources and state-of-the-art library facilities, the Medical Education team at Worcester have an excellent range of resources to support your learning and research project.

Programme specification

For comprehensive details on the aims and intended learning outcomes of the course, and the means by which these are achieved through learning, teaching and assessment, please download the latest programme specification document for the MPhil or PhD.

Part time students follow the same structure as full-time students but normally complete the PhD over a period of five to six years. Part-time students take two modules in each of their first two years, and will normally Transfer to PhD in their fourth year.

Research areas

Benefit from a professional and challenging relationship with your supervisory team, drawn from experienced academics working at the forefront of their disciplines.

Supervisors

You will need to submit a research outline as part of the application process. At this stage we are looking for the potential of your project and your ability to successfully complete the degree, as well as our capacity to supervise your research. The guidance for writing your research outline is here . We recommend discussing your research outline with a potential supervisor before submitting a formal application.

Informal inquiries are welcomed by any of our supervisors or the course leader, Professor Lisa Jones . Our supervisors are listed below - please do click on the links to their webpages so that you can find out more about their specific research expertise. Please only contact one potential supervisor. If another supervisor is better suited to your project, we will redirect your query.

Professor Rachel Ashworth Rachel has research expertise in medical education. She has experience of using qualitative and sociological research methods, including interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Rachel is interested in the effectiveness of integrative approaches to teaching biological science in the clinical context.

Dr Leo Donnelly   Leo is an anatomist with research interests in medical education, especially the optimisation of anatomical knowledge acquisition and the uses of computer-aided learning and haptic modelling, as well as the use of imaging modalities such as ultrasound.

Professor Lisa Jones Lisa has research expertise in medical student wellbeing and achievement. She has expertise in quantitative research methods. Lisa is also interested in the effectiveness of learning and teaching behavioural science in the clinical context, and learning and teaching about mental health and mental illness.

Professor Kay Mohanna Kay is an educationalist whose research has tended to be about aspects of teaching and learning. She has expertise in conversation analysis of video recorded data and also some qualitative methods that share a thematic analytical approach. Kay is interested in identity formation, diversity and inclusion, leadership and the use of humanities in teaching and learning.

Professor Sandra Nicholson Sandra strongly believes in the value of medical educational research and scholarship that enhances the experience of both students and tutors, and ultimately seeks to improve the care and satisfaction of patients. She enjoys collaborating and taking an interdisciplinary approach to research and has frequently engaged with policy holders. She has expertise in both quantitative and qualitative educational methodologies with her main research interests highlighting the field of medical selection and widening participation.

Dr Russell Peek Russell has experience in quantitative and qualitative research in medical education, working across traditional disciplinary and professional boundaries. He has research interests in complexity and uncertainty, and the psychophysiology of stress, performance and thriving in clinical learners.

Dr Richard Singleton Richard has been involved in medical education for many years and has strong interests in the integration of technology into the learning experience. In particular he has been interested in the field of ‘gamification’ and how the inherent competitiveness of students can be harnessed in such a way as to make learning more enjoyable.

Professor Rebecca Stack Rebecca conducts research into medical education, particularly approaches to reducing biases in assessment, increasing consistency between assessors, promoting equality and diversity in assessment, and reaching inclusive forms of assessment. She has expertise in a range of methods including qualitative research and analysis, meta synthesis, survey-based research and statistical analysis of quantitative data.

Rebecca would be particularly interested in supervising research into student perceptions of inclusive assessments and differential attainment on healthcare programmes.

Dr Erica Thomas Erica has research interests in self-compassion, resilience, and wellbeing amongst students in the medical professions.

Dr Elizabeth Walden is a biochemist by training and has additional experience in education. She is interested in the role that teaching and understanding the basic cellular and genetic underpinnings of disease has in modern day medical education and the role of scientists in medical education.

Professor Rachel Ashworth

Professor Ashworth has a BSc (Biological Sciences) and a doctorate (PhD Physiology and Biochemistry) and trained initially as a research scientist. She worked as postdoctoral researcher in the United States before returning to the UK and setting up a laboratory at University College London.

In 2006, Professor Ashworth was appointed as a lecturer in Physiology at Queen Mary University of London. Professor Ashworth’s early career in scientific research laid the foundations for her subsequent development as a physiology educator and champion for learning through active practical experience and scientific discovery. She has taught physiology on the dental, biomedical sciences, and medical programmes.

Professor Ashworth has published her research in many scientific journals and supervised postgraduate and undergraduate research projects.

Dr Leo Donnelly

Leo has enjoyed teaching and demonstrating Anatomy, principally to medical students, for over thirty years at a number of UK and Irish medical schools, often alongside research investigating aspects of the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Nowadays Leo focuses on the pedagogy of Anatomy learning.

Qualifications:

Professor Lisa Jones

Lisa Jones is Professor of Psychological Medicine. She has been researching the causes of major mental illnesses and teaching in higher education for over 30 years.

Professor Kay Mohanna

I am a partner in general practice in the UK and a trainer, with expertise in supporting trainees in difficulty. I am also the International Development Advisor for the Royal College of General Practice for South Asia.

I was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in 2015 for my work in faculty development, particularly overseas.

I came to Worcester as Professor of Values Based Education in 2015 and initiated visiting Fellowships for post-MD GPs from Sri Lanka. All of our visitors are now consultants in their own country including one who is now President of the College of GPs.

I also have an interest in assessment, in a quality assurance role for MRCGP[International] in South Asia and as a GMC examiner for the Professional and Linguistics Assessment Board (PLAB).

My doctorate started with an interest in fairness in assessment, particularly the international medical graduate experience of the clinical skills assessment in UK GP training and used conversation analysis to look at the work done by small talk in consultation.

Professor Sandra Nicholson

I joined the University of Worcester as the Founding Dean of the Three Counties Medical School in November 2021 following 25 years as a medical academic at QMUL. I received my primary medical qualification from Leicester University in 1988, MRCGP in 1993, and have practised as a GP for over 25 years, most of which in areas of high social deprivation such as the East End of London.

I gained a Masters in Medical Education in 2001 and consolidated my academic trajectory with a research PhD in 2013 that explored the models of learning and professionalisation of medical students from non-traditional backgrounds.

My personal research interest is in selection to medicine but my passion is in widening participation and increasing diversity of the medical workforce. I have sought, often collaboratively, to promote these aims and led novel start-up companies such as the UK Clinical Aptitude Test (now UCAT) and participated in international research networks e.g. InReSH (International Research in Selection in Healthcare).

Dr Russell Peek

Dr Peek is a consultant paediatrician with clinical interests in neonatal medicine and infant nutrition.  He is an advocate for innovation and improvement in medical education, with particular interest in the effects of complexity, uncertainty and stress on learner development and wellbeing.  

Dr Richard Singleton

As a graduate-entry medic myself I have had a keen interest in postgraduate entry medical education and have worked in this field at the University of Warwick and the University of Birmingham. Over the last ten years I have developed an interest in the use of technology and, specifically, gaming within learning and hope to utilise this in my role as clinical skills lead. 

Professor Rebecca Jayne Stack

I am the Head of Assessment for the MBChB programme at Three Counties Medical School and my primary responsible is the design, development and implementation of the MBChB assessment strategy. My title is Professor of Student Success and Medical Assessment and reflects my passion for developing inclusive approaches to teaching and inclusive approaches to assessment. I am passionate about widening participation and the development of strategies to support students succeed in higher education. I also have a number of external roles in the field of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and I am the Three Counties MBChB lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

Three Counties Medical School and the University of Worcester have fantastic widening participation, and access and participation strategies, and I’m very proud to work for an organisation leading innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education.

All students engage with our Researcher Development Programme (RDP). The RDP aims to develop and enhance the skills, both generic and specific, that you will need to complete your research degree but also to become an effective researcher. The RDP is organised around thematic clusters, consisting of modules, and workshops, delivered face-to-face by subject specialists from across the University and the dedicated Researcher Development Team, or online through our virtual learning environment.

As part of the RDP, you will complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Methods (PG Cert). All students must complete the PG Cert in order to progress on their MPhil/PhD Programme. The PG Cert is strongly focused on developing your programme of research, starting from establishing your development needs, and preparing you for the planning and subsequent delivery of your programme of research.

Full-time students will complete the PG Cert in 12 months and part-time students in 24 months.

Fees and funding

How to apply, additional information.

As part of the application process, you will be asked to submit a research outline. We recommend preparing your research outline before beginning your online application. Some guidance on preparing your research outline is available  here.

If your research involves working with vulnerable adults and/or children then you may be required to obtain an Enhanced DBS check. There will be a small charge for this. For more information please contact [email protected] .

We are committed to making reasonable adjustment. If you require an alternative format for making your application due to a disability, please contact us to discuss your needs on 01905 542182 or  [email protected] .

Information about application and interview deadlines

Please make your application via our online application form. If you have any questions, please contact the Research School on 01905 542182 or  [email protected]

Before you submit a full application , please contact the course leader, Professor Lisa Jones ( [email protected] ) to discuss your research project and the availability of appropriate supervision.

September start

January Start

Get in touch

Research school, three counties medical school - similar courses, medical sciences mphil/phd.

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Medical Sciences

Biochemistry MPhil/PhD

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees.

Occupational Therapy MPhil/PhD

We welcome applications to undertake research towards MPhil and PhD degrees in Occupational Therapy.

Browser does not support script.

• Current Students
• News & Press
• Research Excellence
• Teaching & Student Experience
• Graduate Employability
• UK Rankings
• World Rankings
• Single Topic Rankings
• Research Excellence Framework
• Higher Education Awards
• Ageing and Health
• Cities and Place
• Culture and Creative Arts
• Social Justice
• Discover Festival
• Faculty of Science, Agriculture & Engineering
• Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences
• Faculty of Medical Sciences
• Central and South Asia
• Latin America
• Middle East and North Africa
• North America
• Small Island Developing States
• South East Asia and Oceania
• Sub-Saharan Africa
• Transparency
• Office for Students Transparency Data
• Access & Participation
• Support for our Community
• UN Sustainable Development Goals
• https://www.ncl.ac.uk/who-we-are/equality/race-equality/black-history-month/
• Faith, Religion & Belief
• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender
• Let Us Know
• Workplace Adjustments
• Useful Resources
• Equality Analysis
• Social Justice Stories
• Voluntary & Community Groups
• Santander Universities
• Regional Partnerships
• Widening Participation
• Newcastle Helix
• Art on Campus
• History of Newcastle University
• Find a Degree
• Subject Areas
• Step-by-Step Guide for UK Students
• Step-by-Step Guide for International & EU Students
• Applying through UCAS
• A and AS Levels
• Application Decisions
• Access Schemes & Pathway Programmes
• Policies & Procedures
• Applicants with Disabilities
• Mature Applicants
• Deferred Entry
• Undergraduate Application Advice
• Subject Scholarships
• Sports Scholarships
• Opportunity Scholarships
• VC's Excellence Scholarships
• VC's Global Scholarships
• VC's International Scholarships
• International Foundation Scholarships
• St Nicholas’ Educational Trust Scholarship
• NU Sanctuary Scholarships
• Undergraduate Norway Scholarship
• International Family Discounts
• VC’s EU Scholarships – Undergraduate
• VC's Excellence Scholarships - Europe
• VC's Business Excellence Scholarships - Europe
• Cowrie Foundation Scholarship
• Edward Long Scholarship
• Alumni Discount
• Different Tuition Fees
• Additional Costs
• Student Loans
• International Student Finance
• Sign up & Discover
• School and College Outreach
• Information for Parents and Supporters
• Why Choose Newcastle?
• Your Study Options
• Qualifications Explained
• Postgraduate Research Programmes
• Search for Funding
• Guide to Funding
• Postgraduate Tuition Fees
• Application Help
• Advice & Resources
• Your Offer Guide
• Postgraduate Open Days
• Doctoral College
• Distance Learning
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
• Study Support
• Campus Tours
• Life in Newcastle
• Get Involved
• Cost of Living
• Health & Wellbeing
• Mature Students
• Childcare Support
• Care Leavers
• Asylum Seekers
• Teaching & Learning
• Student Blog - Belong
• Types of Accommodation
• Types of Rooms
• Catering Options
• How to Choose
• Our Promise to You
• New Student Guarantee
• How to Apply
• What Happens Next?
• Arrival Information
• For Undergraduates
• For Postgraduates
• For Couples & Families
• Accessible Accommodation
• Payment in Full
• Direct Debit
• Managed Partnerships
• Reporting a Fault
• Room Changes
• Safety & Security
• Energy & Recycling
• Parking & Bicycle
• Summer Extensions
• Returning Next Year
• Staff & Visitors
• Useful Information
• Work Placements
• About the Careers Service
• Careers Service News
• Careers Service Events
• Work for Yourself
• Career Planning
• Careers Modules
• Making Applications
• Interviews, Tests & Assessment Centres
• Internships, Placements & Shadowing
• Finding Jobs
• Handling Job Offers
• Researching Employers
• Making Contacts
• Further Study
• Awards, Competitions & Project Funding
• Volunteering
• Boost Your CV
• Defence Technical Undergraduate Scheme (DTUS)
• Getting Here
• Self-Guided Campus Tours
• Undergraduate Offer Holder Days
• Postgraduate Schools & Supervisors
• Undergraduate Open Days
• Tier 4 Visa from Inside UK
• Tier 4 Visa from Outside UK
• Short-Term Visa from Outside UK
• International Study Blog
• Our Pathway Courses
• English Language Courses
• Fees, Costs and Scholarships
• INTO Newcastle University
• Student Exchange and Study Abroad
• Request a Prospectus
• Chat to a Student
• Your Academic Experience
• Research Impact
• Research Strengths
• Centres of Research Excellence
• Research Culture Action Plan
• Working Together on Research Culture
• Policy Notes
• Global Partnerships
• Let's Work Together
• Sustainable Water
• Food Security
• Sustainable Livelihoods
• Global Impact
• Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021
• Code of Good Practice in Research
• University Research Committee
• Animal Research Policy
• Declaration on Openness on Animal Research
• Animal Procedures
• Helping Human Health
• Animal Research News
• Ethics at Newcastle
• Research Data and Open Access
• Research Strategy & Development
• Policy and Information Team
• Grants & Contracts (HaSS and SAgE)
• NJRO (inc Grants & Contracts FMS)
• Research Funding Development
• Biomedical Facilities
• Chemistry Facilities
• Clinical Facilities
• Engineering Facilities
• Marine & Agricultural Facilities
• More Facilities
• Facilities A to Z
• Research Funding
• Research News
• Case Studies
• CPD Courses
• Collaborative Research
• Company Creation
• Consultancy
• Corporate Partnerships
• DA Power Engineering
• DA MSc Digital Technology Solutions
• DA Executive Education Snr. Leader Apprenticeships
• Facilities and Equipment
• Intensive Industrial Innovation Programme
• Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
• Technology Transfer and Licensing
• Clinical Trials & Research
• Working with Newcastle
• Tender Opportunities
• Submitting an Invoice
• Sustainable Procurement
• Code of Conduct & Policies
• Meet the Team
• Health & Social Challenges
• Creative Collaborations
• Connect with alumni
• Develop your career
• Discover lifelong learning opportunities
• Support future generations

Medical Education MMedEd, PGDip, PGCert

Gain a global perspective as a medical education practitioner at a School of Medicine that has been training medical professionals since 1834.

You are currently viewing course information for entry year:

Start date(s):

• September 2024

Medical education is at the centre of all medical training around the world. As a medical educator, you will be training, motivating, and engaging the next generation of medical professionals in your area of expertise. Our team will help you to draw on your existing experiences. This will help you to excel in your educational practice.

At Newcastle University, we take students from all backgrounds in medical education, not just doctors. Students have joined us from disciplines including:

• veterinary sciences

You’ll be part of a global community, with students joining us from all over the world. This adds to the shared experiences and global outlook of our graduates. You’ll study with a broad range of peers, from intercalating medical students to senior clinical staff. These perspectives allow our students to develop their values and skills as part of their learning experience.

Our course is tailored for the working professional. You can start with a PG Cert and build up to a full master’s on a schedule that suits you. Our flexible programme allows you to fit your learning around your commitments. There is no need to relocate to Newcastle upon Tyne as the programmes are fully distance learning.

The Medical Education programme is part of the School of Medicine at Newcastle University. This means our expert teaching team are integrated in undergraduate medical teaching and postgraduate physician associate teaching. Our Faculty of Medical Sciences practices interdisciplinary learning. This means you will benefit from expertise in other areas, including our Dental School.

We deliver a modern curriculum. We make sure regular changes, reflect current issues in Medical Education. This ensures appropriate content within our programme to support you in your career. We engage at a national level with professional organisations. This allows us to make sure our programme continues to be relevant for our students. These include:

• The Associate for the Study of Medical Education
• The Academy of Medical Education

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our  Academic experience page , which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2023-24.

See our  terms and conditions and student complaints information , which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Related courses

What you'll learn.

You'll learn the fundamentals of ‘how to teach’. More importantly, we give you the knowledge and skills to manage unusual educational situations. We do this by introducing you to the literature on ‘how we learn’. If you understand more of how your learners learn in a particular scenario, it becomes easier to teach them.

Qualifications

MMedEd – Postgraduate Masters (full-time)

This qualification is awarded if you successfully complete six 20-credit taught modules plus a 60-credit dissertation module (180 credits). If you do not complete all the modules you can exit with:

• a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) if you successfully complete three 20-credit taught modules, including the core module for the PGCert (Teaching and Learning in the Classroom)
• a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) if you successfully complete six 20-credit taught modules

MMedEd – Postgraduate Masters (part-time)

This qualification is awarded if you successfully complete the PGDip (120 credits) plus one 60-credit dissertation module.

Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) (part-time) A PGDip is awarded if you successfully complete the Certificate plus three 20-credit taught modules (120 credits).

Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) (part-time) A PGCert is awarded if you successfully complete three 20-credit taught modules (60 credits).

You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.

Module information is intended to provide an example of what you will study.

Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.

Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.

Optional modules availability

Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.

To find out more please see our terms and conditions .

Accelerated Masters students complete the 60 credit Advanced Study Module (the dissertation module), plus three of the above 20-credit taught modules.  They will have previously completed 60 credits of taught modules whilst studying on the PGCert. 

The following module is also compulsory if you want to progress to the Masters:  Scholarship in Medical Education  

PGDip students complete three of the above modules.  They will have previously completed 60 credits of taught modules whilst studying on the PGCert.

The following optional module is also available  Scholarship in Medical Education  (this module is compulsory if you want to progress to the Masters) 

The following optional module is also available:  Scholarship in Medical Education  (this module is compulsory if you want to progress to the Masters).

Accelerated PGDip students complete six of the above 20-credit taught modules.

PGCert students complete three of the above modules.

Compulsory modules

You take the following compulsory module:

Teaching and Learning in the Classroom  (20 credits)

How you'll learn

The e-learning Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma and Master's are studied completely via distance learning. Overall 20-credit modules run over either 11 or 12 weeks. The 60-credit dissertation module runs over the full academic year. 

Each module will be in two-week strands. They have various activities and you can complete them at any time. There are also weekly tutorials which are optional. We record these in case you are unable to be present. There is a day of practical activity and further discussion, for each module. This will be accessible face to face but is also recorded.

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

• Oral examination
• Oral presentation
• Written examination
• Written exercise

Assignments focus on the application of content to your own educational circumstances. This helps develop deeper insights into educational challenges in your own practice.

All assignment structures and expectations are available at the start of each module. You'll show your understanding and application of module content to their own teaching.

There is an opportunity to discuss draft work with tutor support before submission.

For the Utilising Technology in Medical Education , you submit a portfolio assignment including a written component and one component in a technology of your choosing eg video, PowerPoint

Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You'll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:

• module handbooks
• course materials
• course announcements and notifications
• written feedback

Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:

• personal tutors
• our University Student Services Team
• student representatives

You'll also be assigned an academic member of staff. They will be your personal tutor throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.

Our teaching staff includes:

• Dr Bryan Burford, BSc (Hons), MSc (Eng), PhD. Lecturer in Medical Education
• Dr Sonia Bussey, SFHEA, Degree Programme Director for Medical Education
• Dr Fiona Clarke MBBS, FRCP, MMedEd. Lecturer in Medical Education
• Dr Sophie Hill, PhD, PgCert, BSc (Hons). Lecturer in Medical Education
• Dr Gwyndaf Roberts  PhD, MA, PGCE, BSc (Hons), FHEA. Lecturer in Medical Education
• Dr David Thewlis MBBS, FHEA, MEd, Lecturer in Medical Education

Your development

Upon completion you'll be able to:

• use theories and principles of medical education to inform your own practice and others'
• show advanced knowledge in specific areas of professional relevance. This is for diploma and master's
• justify the decisions made when designing methods for investigating medical education. This applies to master's
• relate educational issues in clinical practice to a wider educational context
• appraise theory, ‘evidence’ and empirical data, as well as your own practice
• take a strategic approach to your own identified educational needs
• plan to address these needs
• engage in academic debate about educational research and educational practice. This is for diploma and master’s
• contest and contribute to the body of knowledge about medical education. This is for master's
• design and deliver educational interventions
• select the most appropriate educational strategies or methods for specified contexts

Your future

Our careers service.

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information .

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2024 entry (per year).

Home and international fees are the same for our e-learning courses.

If your studies last longer than one year, your tuition fee may increase in line with inflation.

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here .

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See  our   searchable postgraduate funding page  for more information.  

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section .

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding

Find funding available for your course

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English language requirements, admissions policy.

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Download our admissions policy (PDF: 201KB) Other policies related to admissions

Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

• How to apply

Using the application portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages .

Open days and events

You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year including:

• campus tours
• on-campus open days
• virtual open days

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

• Get in touch

Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

School of Medicine Email: [email protected]

For more general enquiries you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.

You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

Keep updated

We regularly send email updates and extra information about the University.

Receive regular updates by email

Chat to a student

Chat online with current students with our Unibuddy platform.

• What You'll Learn
• How You'll Learn
• Fees and Funding
• Entry Requirements
• Open days & events

• Skip to main content

We use cookies

Necessary cookies.

Necessary cookies enable core functionality. The website cannot function properly without these cookies, and can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences.

Analytics cookies

Analytical cookies help us improve our website. We use Google Analytics. All data is anonymised.

Hotjar and Clarity

Hotjar and Clarity help us to understand our users’ behaviour by visually representing their clicks, taps and scrolling. All data is anonymised.

Privacy policy

• Postgraduate study

Postgraduate research opportunities A-Z

• Medical Education
• Staff research interests search

Postgraduate research  

Medical Education PhD

The field of Medical Education is concerned with how we educate medical practitioners across the continuum of their undergraduate curriculum and their postgraduate medical training.

Medical Education encompasses a great variety of topics, such as:

• selection into medicine and widening participation
• how medical students and graduates learn relevant knowledge, skills and attitudes
• how we can best teach and assess them
• design of medical curricula
• social and cultural influences on medical education
• professional identity formation in medical practitioners

Those who do this PhD will have a medical background, but may equally be a graduate in another healthcare discipline. They may even have a background in biomedical sciences, psychology, linguistics or education. Ideally, they will also have completed a masters in medical or health professions education, since this gives a good introduction to relevant research methodologies.

This PhD is offered by the School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, from which most supervisors are drawn.

Research project examples:

• Teaching in the ward round
• Experiences of international medical graduates
• Clinical reasoning ‘in the wild’

Areas of staff expertise / interest include:

• Social theories of learning
• Cultural-Historical Activity Theory
• Critical thinking
• Clinical reasoning
• Curriculum design
• Problem-based/inquiry-based learning
• Teaching in General Practice (Family Medicine)

Typically, our doctoral students are medical or healthcare practitioners who come with ideas about what they wish to research, related to their own professional context.

We would encourage interested parties to contact us and have a conversation about broad areas of interest, to see whether we are able to offer supervision.

Study options

• Duration:  3/4 years full-time; 5 years part-time

Individual research projects are tailored around the expertise of principal investigators.

Entry requirements

Phd programmes.

• A medical, dental or nursing degree from an institution recognised by the University Court, or a recognised degree from another appropriate health profession.
• Normally you should also have completed a PG Diploma or masters’ degree in medical or health professions education, and/or have proven substantial experience of working in a medical/health professions education content.
• Applications will also be considered from individuals with other primary degree qualifications (such as a BSc in a biomedical science), from individuals who also meet point 2 above.

English language requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic module (not General Training)

• 6.5 with no subtests under 6.0
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

Common equivalent English language qualifications accepted for entry to this programme:

Toefl (ibt, my best or athome).

• 79; with Reading 13; Listening 12; Speaking 18;Writing 21
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements , this includes TOEFL mybest.

Pearsons PTE Academic

• 59 with minimum 59 in all subtests

Cambridge Proficiency in English (CPE) and Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)

• 176 overall, no subtest less than 169

Oxford English Test

• Oxford ELLT 7
• R&L: OIDI level no less than 6 with Reading: 21-24 Listening: 15-17
• W&S: OIDI level no less than 6

Trinity College Tests

Integrated Skills in English II & III & IV: ISEII Distinction with Distinction in all sub-tests.

University of Glasgow Pre-sessional courses

Tests are accepted for 2 years following date of successful completion.

Alternatives to English Language qualification

• students must have studied for a minimum of 2 years at Undergraduate level, or 9 months at Master's level, and must have complete their degree in that majority-English speaking country  and  within the last 6 years
• students must have completed their final two years study in that majority-English speaking country  and  within the last 6 years

For international students, the Home Office has confirmed that the University can choose to use these tests to make its own assessment of English language ability for visa applications to degree level programmes. The University is also able to accept UKVI approved Secure English Language Tests (SELT) but we do not require a specific UKVI SELT for degree level programmes. We therefore still accept any of the English tests listed for admission to this programme.

Pre-sessional courses

The University of Glasgow accepts evidence of the required language level from the English for Academic Study Unit Pre-sessional courses. We also consider other BALEAP accredited pre-sessional courses:

• School of Modern Languages and Cultures: English for Academic Study
• BALEAP guide to accredited courses

Fees and funding

• UK: £4,786
• International & EU: £30,240

Prices are based on the annual fee for full-time study. Fees for part-time study are half the full-time fee.

Irish nationals who are living in the Common Travel Area of the UK, EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status, and Internationals with Indefinite Leave to remain status can also qualify for home fee status.

• Fee status and policies

Alumni discount

We offer a 20% discount to our alumni on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes. This includes University of Glasgow graduates and those who have completed Junior Year Abroad, Exchange programme or International Summer School with us. The discount is applied at registration for students who are not in receipt of another discount or scholarship funded by the University. No additional application is required.

Possible additional fees

• Re-submission by a research student £540
• Submission for a higher degree by published work £1,355
• Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed £350
• Submission by staff in receipt of staff scholarship £790

Depending on the nature of the research project, some students will be expected to pay a bench fee (also known as research support costs) to cover additional costs. The exact amount will be provided in the offer letter.

The iPhD  is not supported by University of Glasgow Scholarship/Funding

• External funding information

The College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences  Graduate School  provides a vibrant, supportive and stimulating environment for all our postgraduate students. We aim to provide excellent support for our postgraduates through dedicated postgraduate convenors, highly trained supervisors and pastoral support for each student.   Our overarching aim is to provide a research training environment that includes:

• provision of excellent facilities and cutting edge techniques
• training in essential research and generic skills
• excellence in supervision and mentoring
• interactive discussion groups and seminars
• an atmosphere that fosters critical cultural policy and research analysis
• synergy between research groups and areas
• extensive multidisciplinary and collaborative research
• extensive external collaborations both within and beyond the UK 
• a robust generic skills programme including opportunities in social and commercial training

How to apply

Identify potential supervisors.

All Postgraduate Research Students are allocated a supervisor who will act as the main source of academic support and research mentoring. You may want to identify a potential supervisor and contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply. Please note, even if you have spoken to an academic staff member about your proposal you still need to submit an online application form.

You can find relevant academic staff members with our staff research interests search .

Gather your documents

Before applying please make sure you gather the following supporting documentation:

• Final or current degree transcripts including grades (and an official translation, if needed) – scanned copy in colour of the original document.
• Degree certificates (and an official translation, if needed): scanned copy in colour of the original document
• Two references on headed paper and signed by the referee. One must be academic, the other can be academic or professional [except iPhD applicants, where only one academic or professional reference is required]. References may be uploaded   as part of the application form or you may enter your referees contact details on the application form. We will then email your referee and notify you when we receive the reference.  We can also accept confidential references direct to  [email protected] , from the referee’s university or business email account.
• Research proposal, CV, samples of written work as per requirements for each subject area. iPhD applicants do not need to submit any of these as you will start your programme by choosing a masters.
• Completed  College of MVLS Postgraduate Research Cover Letter

Before you apply

PhD/MSc/MD: email  [email protected]

iPhD: email  [email protected]

After you have submitted your application

PhD/MSc/MD/iPhD:  contact our Admissions team

Any  references  may be submitted by email to:  [email protected]

Course code

See course overview

30 September 2024

4 years full-time; 7 years part-time

Qualification

Warwick Medical School

University of Warwick

Find out more about our Warwick Medical School PhD.

Warwick Medical School offers PhDs on a wide range of health-related topics, including health sciences, medical sciences, clinical education, medicine and more. Studying at Warwick you will gain the confidence and skills to maximise your talents for your future career.

Course overview

You will find yourself integrated into the Medical School’s exciting and often ground breaking research. You will have the opportunity to help improve patient outcomes, change care pathways and improve service organisations. Change lives, make a difference.

Course codes

• Medical Sciences: P-A34P
• Health Sciences: P-B91P
• Clinical education: P-B91F
• Medicine: P-A31P
• Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research: P-B92K
• Nursing: P-B718
• Healthcare: P-B717
• Health and Social Studies: P-L4PC

Teaching and Learning

You will register for an MPhil/PhD and then go through a formal upgrading process at nine months (15 months for part-time students). You will then be registered for a PhD. Final assessment will be by submission of a thesis followed by a viva examination.

General entry requirements

Minimum requirements.

2:1 undergraduate degree or Merit in Master’s degree.

English language requirements

You can find out more about our English language requirements Link opens in a new window . This course requires the following:

• IELTS overall score of 6.5, minimum component scores not below 6.0.
• Overall IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 and minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the rest at 7.0 or above.

(The above depending on the course title).

International qualifications

We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications.

For more information, please visit the international entry requirements page Link opens in a new window .

Additional requirements

Two academic references

Our research

• Health Sciences
• Medical Sciences
• Clinical Education
• Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research
• Health and Social Studies

Full details of our research interests  are listed on the Warwick Medical School website. Read more about our research strategy, research centres and research programmes.

You can also read our general University research proposal guidance.

Find a supervisor

Find your supervisor using the link below and discuss with them the area you'd like to research.

Explore our Warwick Medical School List of Approved Supervisors to where you will be able to search by research interests.

You should initially approach a suitable Academic Advisor (supervisor) from this list to discuss their work and to see if they would be willing to provide guidance on the presentation of the proposed Thesis for submission.

You can also see our general University guidance about finding a supervisor.

Tuition fees

Tuition fees are payable for each year of your course at the start of the academic year, or at the start of your course, if later. Academic fees cover the cost of tuition, examinations and registration and some student amenities.

Find your research course fees

Fee Status Guidance

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support.

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed.

The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides guidance to UK universities on fees status criteria, you can find the latest guidance on the impact of Brexit on fees and student support on the UKCISA website .

Additional course costs

Please contact your academic department for information about department specific costs, which should be considered in conjunction with the more general costs below, such as:

• Core text books
• Printer credits
• Dissertation binding
• Robe hire for your degree ceremony

Scholarships and bursaries

Scholarships and financial support

Find out about the different funding routes available, including; postgraduate loans, scholarships, fee awards and academic department bursaries.

Living costs

Find out more about the cost of living as a postgraduate student at the University of Warwick.

Established in 2000, Warwick Medical School (WMS) forms part of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine at the University of Warwick. Alongside a range of educational opportunities, WMS has a reputation for research excellence, investigating solutions to significant global health challenges.

Find out more about us on our website Link opens in a new window

Our Graduate Entry Undergraduate course

• Medicine (MBChB - Graduate Entry Undergraduate Course)

Our Postgraduate Taught courses

• Advanced Clinical Practice (Critical Care) (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)
• Advanced Clinical Practice (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)
• Diabetes (PGDip/PGCert)
• Health Research (MSc/PGDip/PGCert)
• Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research (MSc)
• Medical Education (MMedEd/PG Dip/PGCert)
• Pre-Hospital Critical Care (PGCert)
• Public Health (MPH/PGDip/PGCert)

Our Postgraduate Online courses

• Clinical Research - iheed (PGCert/PGDip/MSc)
• Diabetes Care - iheed (PGDip/MSc)
• Healthcare Leadership - iheed (/PGCert/PGDip/MSc)
• Medical Education for Health Professionals - iheed (/PGCert/PGDip/MSc)
• Neuroscience and Psychology of Mental Health - iheed (PGCert/PGDip/MSc)
• Public Health - iheed (MPH)

Our Postgraduate Research courses

• MD Doctor of Medicine
• MSc by Research (at Warwick Medical School)
• PhD (at Warwick Medical School)
• PhD by Published Work

How to apply

The application process for courses that start in September and October 2024 will open on 2 October 2023.

For research courses that start in September and October 2024 the application deadline for students who require a visa to study in the UK is 2 August 2024. This should allow sufficient time to complete the admissions process and to obtain a visa to study in the UK.

How to apply for a postgraduate research course  

After you’ve applied

Find out how we process your application.

Applicant Portal

Track your application and update your details.

Admissions statement

See Warwick’s postgraduate admissions policy.

Join a live chat

Ask questions and engage with Warwick.

Warwick Hosted Events Link opens in a new window

Postgraduate fairs.

Throughout the year we attend exhibitions and fairs online and in-person around the UK. These events give you the chance to explore our range of postgraduate courses, and find out what it’s like studying at Warwick. You’ll also be able to speak directly with our student recruitment team, who will be able to help answer your questions.

Join a live chat with our staff and students, who are here to answer your questions and help you learn more about postgraduate life at Warwick. You can join our general drop-in sessions or talk to your prospective department and student services.

Departmental events

Some academic departments hold events for specific postgraduate programmes, these are fantastic opportunities to learn more about Warwick and your chosen department and course.

See our online departmental events

Warwick Talk and Tours

A Warwick talk and tour lasts around two hours and consists of an overview presentation from one of our Recruitment Officers covering the key features, facilities and activities that make Warwick a leading institution. The talk is followed by a campus tour which is the perfect way to view campus, with a current student guiding you around the key areas on campus.

Connect with us

Learn more about Postgraduate study at the University of Warwick.

Page updates

We may have revised the information on this page since publication. See the edits we have made and content history .

Why Warwick

Discover why Warwick is one of the best universities in the UK and renowned globally.

9th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2024) Link opens in a new window

67th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024) Link opens in a new window

6th most targeted university by the UK's top 100 graduate employers Link opens in a new window

(The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers Research Ltd. Link opens in a new window )

About the information on this page

This information is applicable for 2024 entry. Given the interval between the publication of courses and enrolment, some of the information may change. It is important to check our website before you apply. Please read our terms and conditions to find out more.

Imperial College London Imperial College London

Latest news.

Why heart rhythm problems tend to happen early in the morning

Plastic-free vegan leather that dyes itself grown from bacteria

New synthesis platform allows for rapid cancer drug synthesis and testing

• Clinical Academic Training Office
• Faculty of Medicine

PhD programmes

The Faculty of Medicine at Imperial College London provides an ideal environment to undertake research. The Faculty is one of the largest in Europe and is at the forefront of translating biomedical discoveries into patient benefit. The College's 2021 REF score ranks top in the UK overall – with a greater proportion of 4* “world-leading” research than any other UK university. Imperial ranks first in the UK for research outputs, first in the UK for research environment, and first for research impact among Russell Group universities. Our extensive postgraduate and doctoral training programmes immerse students and researchers in world-leading scientific discovery and its translation to public health improvements.

There are a number of PhD schemes that support clinically active doctors to undertake a full-time higher research degree at Imperial College London. Collectively these opportunities are known as Clinical Research Training Fellowships – or CRTF. For further details about how CRTF programmes are structured and arranged please visit our  CRTF section .

A number of different research funding bodies support/host CRTF clinical PhD opportunities at Imperial – visit the pages later in this section to find out more about the different PhD programmes available .

During their programmes clinical PhD fellows will be located within a Department, Centre, Institute or section within the wider Faculty setting. To complement the support provided already by each setting, the Clinical Academic Training Office (CATO) acts as central information hub for guiding fellows as they undertake PhD programmes, advance through their clinical academic careers and move into further research fellowships – visit the  PhD support pages  to see what is on offer.

The School of Medicine offers research degrees in the medical disciplines such as cancer, immunology, infection, immunity, neurosciences, mental health, population medicine and medical education.

• Career prospects
• Fees and funding
• Entry requirements
• How to apply

For well over 100 years the School of Medicine has been committed to the pursuit of improved health through education, research and engagement with the wider world.

Our commitment to research excellence is supported through strong research centres, groups and units working collaboratively in our modern facilities.

Carrying out work in our research divisions, our researchers are involved in cutting-edge science and world-class research in the field of medicine that have a real impact on people’s lives.

Who studies a Higher Degree at the School of Medicine?

• Biological Scientists
• Computational Scientists and Bioinformaticians
• Epidemiologists, Statisticians, Mathematicians
• Psychologists, Social Scientists
• Physical Scientists.

Undertaking a PhD can be an exciting and rewarding opportunity to explore something in depth, amongst field-leading researchers with truly first-class facilities. Candidates are required to make an original contribution to knowledge by conducting an independent research project.

The research project will usually have a clinical focus, but other aspects of medical and health care provision may form the basis of the research topic. Applicants are usually required to hold an MBBCH degree or equivalent. Candidates are usually registered with the General Medical Council.

MPhil is a stand-alone programme that allows candidates to undertake a research programme over one year. Sometimes, this can be an intermediate step before registering on a subsequent PhD programme; depending on how the project develops.

Skills Developed

Students will benefit from gaining a range of transferable and professional skills during their research study. Depending on the project, these may include:

• laboratory skills
• statistical analysis
• qualitative analysis
• quantitative analysis
• qualitative interviewing skills
• focus group facilitation
• presenting skills (scientists, the general public)
• academic publication and grant writing.

Thesis (80,000 words for PhD, 60,000 words for MD, and 50,000 words for MPhil) and viva voce examination.

Our research is focused on interdisciplinary themes, each of which spans the spectrum from basic science to clinical practice in either hospital or community settings. Our key research themes include:

Cancer and Genetics

Infection and immunity, psychological medicine and clinical neurosciences, population medicine.

• Medical Education.

Our underlying aim is to ensure the optimum ‘translation’ of fundamental knowledge to patient benefit.

Our approach brings together people, knowledge and skills from a range of disciplines. This approach is the key to our research strength and achievements. Each of our research divisions embodies this philosophy.

Research Areas

The programme will lead to a research degree in cancer and or genetics that could be used in a variety of academic, clinical and industrial settings.

To offer a broad knowledge and expertise in in all aspects of immunological-based disease processes at the molecular and cellular level, with strengths in innate immunity, cancer immunology, T-cell biology and viral and bacterial infection.

Division of Population Medicine postgraduate research programmes focus on Prevention and redesigning healthcare services.

The Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences is one of the largest university Division of psychiatry in the UK, providing leadership in clinical practice, teaching and high quality, cutting-edge research across many areas of psychiatric practice.

Medical Education

The Mphil / PhD pathway in Medical Education is located within the Centre for Medical Education (C4ME). Bringing together experienced doctors, nurses, psychologists, social scientists and educationalists, we ensure that the work of the school is based on strong pedagogical research foundations.

Research areas

The PhD programme will equip students for a career in academic research/teaching, NHS clinical laboratories, and pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies.

UK government postgraduate doctoral loans

Candidates for the Professional Doctorate programme may be eligible to apply for a UK government postgraduate doctoral loan.

The School of Medicine awards a number of generous 3 year PhD studentships every year. These prestigious studentships will be awarded to the highest calibre applicants from across all relevant Divisions. Studentships will include UK/EU tuition fees and an annual stipend.

Funded projects are advertised throughout the year.

See our latest PhD studentships and projects and find out more about other funding opportunities .

Tuition fees

Students from the uk.

Get the latest information on postgraduate fees.

Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

Students from the rest of the world (international).

Specifically funded PhD projects will be advertised with specific instructions on applications, otherwise prospective students are advised to contact potential supervisors.

Applications can be made at any time, but in addition there will be specific calls, which have associated instructions and deadlines.

A personal statement or covering letter should address how the applicant can contribute to the proposed project.

Admission process

Decisions will be made on the basis of your written application and the references received, and potential students may be interviewed as part of the admissions process.

Applicants should possess a minimum of an upper second class Honours degree, master's degree, or equivalent in a relevant subject.

In some cases, a medical degree and/or relevant professional qualifications or experience are required.

English language requirements

IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or equivalent. Please see our English Language Requirements guidance for more details.

Administrative contact(s)

School of medicine research degrees office.

Administrative contact

• Email [email protected]
• Telephone +44 (0)29 2074 6716

Admissions policies Chevron right

PhD Studentships and projects

Related courses.

• Browse by School

Related subjects

• Search subjects
• Search Subjects

Related links

• Postgraduate tuition fees Chevron right
• Admissions criteria for postgraduate study Chevron right
• Information for your country Chevron right

Postgraduate

Be part of a thriving postgraduate community in a university known internationally for outstanding research and teaching.

Postgraduate prospectus 2024

Download a copy of our prospectus, school and subject brochures, and other guides.

Order or download

Get in touch if you have a question about studying with us.

MSc in Medical Education

• Entry requirements
• Funding and Costs

College preference

• How to Apply

About the course

This is a professional development course aimed at medical and healthcare education professionals. It focuses on the history, contemporary issues and development of the field, as well as research methods, and design and evaluation of research in medical education. 

This part-time course is aimed at medical professionals and allied health professionals who are involved, or intend to be involved, in educating future health professionals. These professionals may include not only postgraduate physicians but also a range of graduate allied health science practitioners involved in the care of patients and in the education of future healthcare workforce.

The part-time MSc in Medical Education will be offered jointly by the Department of Education in the Social Sciences Division and the Medical School in the Medical Sciences Division, with formal responsibility for the programme resting with the Department of Education. Interdisciplinarity is endemic in education and medicine, and team-teaching capitalises upon the distinctive knowledge and skills of academics within the two departments.

In the first year of the course, you will be required to attend six teaching weekends at the Department of Education in Oxford over a Friday afternoon and Saturday. The Friday afternoon and Saturday morning sessions will consist of interactive lectures and workshops. Additional teaching and online support will be provided through the University’s Virtual Learning Environment (Canvas). Teaching will cover the following topics:

• Patients, learners and teachers
• Curriculum and pedagogy
• Assessment issues and practices
• Educational theory and philosophy
• Work-based learning and skill development
• Educational research methods
• Equity, diversity and belonging

In the second year, you will undertake a research and development project under the supervision of a member of academic staff culminating in a dissertation.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department of Education and the Medical School and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside of the Department of Education and the Medical School.

During the first year, supervision will consist primarily of online tutor and community feedback, with some face-to-face meetings during the teaching weekends. In the second year, you will have at least six hours of supervision hours where tutors will provide formative comments once on a draft thesis. You will have at least one online or in-person meeting with your supervisor in each of the three terms, in which you will report formally on your progress and be provided with feedback on specific issues.

Assessments will be structured progressively, with a range of formative and summative assessment pertaining to the modules. The formative assessments will be in the form of tasks undertaken in preparation for a session or after a session. The summative assessment will be through two examined assignments. In the second year, you will work individually on a research and development project producing a dissertation.   

Graduate destinations

It is expected that the course will provide alumni with the skills they need to progress to education leadership positions in the medical field or in academia.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours  in any medically related subject area.

Applicants who do not hold a relevant subject degree but have sufficient professional experience in a relevant working environment will be considered .

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

• Evidence of your employer's support is required.
• Publications are not expected.

Further guidance

Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate the ability to undertake part-time study, which may include evidence of support from an employer.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are normally held as part of the admissions process.

Applicants meeting the selection criteria are interviewed by an admissions panel which include experts in the subject. Applicants will be notified of the opportunity to attend interview as soon as their application has been reviewed.

The interviews are normally held in person, however, there will be opportunity to attend an interview online. The admissions panel will assess the applicant's suitability for the course, covering professional experience and their desire to contribute to the field of assessment in terms of research or practice.

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

As the MSc is a part-time course for researchers and professionals, the department takes pride in providing high quality IT support for your learning when you are away from Oxford. This includes a dedicated web-based virtual learning environment, which you will use to liaise with your supervisor and to exchange ideas with other students. If you wish to work in the department when you are visiting Oxford, there is a computer room with desks which also has points for personal laptop computers. 

The Department of Education has been making a major contribution to the field of education for over 100 years and the department has a world class reputation for research, for teacher education and for its master's and doctoral programmes. The Department of Education combines international standing as a research-intensive department with the highest quality teaching.

In the 2021 evaluation of research quality in UK universities, the Research Excellence Framework (REF), Oxford University Department of Education had the highest overall percentage of research judged to be 4* (ie world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour) in Education in the UK. The department has ESRC recognition for its graduate training, and its teacher training was rated ‘outstanding’ by the Office for Standards in Education (OfSTED) in its most recent inspection in 2019.

Research in the department is organised around three major themes:

• Language, Cognition and Development
• Policy, Economy and Society
• Learning: Pedagogy, Learning and Knowledge.

Within each of these themes there are several research groups and centres. All staff and doctoral students belong to one or more of these research groups, each of which has its own seminar programme to which graduate students often contribute. In addition, the department as a whole sponsors regular seminars and public lectures which attract distinguished national and international speakers.

The Bodleian Education Library, located at the centre of the Department of Education, specialises in material on education and related fields. As well as a print collection of books, journals and statistics, the library provides access to a wide range of electronic resources. The library also houses a collection of teaching resources, primarily in support of subjects covered by the department's secondary PGCE course. The Social Sciences Library provides valuable additional resource to students pursuing programmes in the Department of Education.

Oxford has been a major contributor to the field of education for over 100 years and today the University’s Department of Education has a world class reputation for research, for teacher education and for its graduate courses.

The department offers one of the strongest graduate studies programmes in the UK with a range of full- and part-time MSc courses and a lively doctoral programme (DPhil) which is recognised for national funding by the ESRC.

The department's masters' courses are delivered by academics and research experts, the majority of whom are permanent staff engaged in their fields of research. The department's DPhil in Education has excellent facilities for the large number of full-time research students who are well integrated into the research of the department.

The department has an outstanding research profile. In the 2021 evaluation of research quality in UK universities, the Research Excellence Framework (REF), Oxford University Department of Education had the highest overall percentage of research judged to be 4* (ie world-leading in terms of originality, significance and rigour) in Education in the UK. A wide range of funded research projects are based in the department and many of these projects have had a major impact on national policy.

Oxford’s PGCE course has an international reputation for the quality of its work, undertaken in close collaboration with local Oxfordshire secondary schools. Over many years, it has consistently received the highest possible designation (Outstanding) from Ofsted in inspections.

View all courses   View taught courses View research courses

The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities  for this course can be found on the faculty's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

Please note that this course requires that you attend in Oxford for teaching, and you may incur additional travel and accommodation expenses for this. Further, as part of your course requirements, you will need to choose a dissertation topic. Depending on your choice of topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

If you are studying part-time your living costs may vary depending on your personal circumstances but you must still ensure that you will have sufficient funding to meet these costs for the duration of your course.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

The following colleges accept students on the MSc in Medical Education:

• Balliol College
• Green Templeton College
• Harris Manchester College
• Jesus College
• Pembroke College
• Reuben College
• St Hilda's College
• Wolfson College
• Wycliffe Hall

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable per course application. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

You do not need to make contact with the department before you apply but you are encouraged to visit the relevant departmental webpages to read any further information about your chosen course.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Referees: Three overall, academic and/or professional

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

Your references will support intellectual ability, academic achievement, motivation and interest in the course and subject area, and ability to work effectively in a group and independently.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Statement of purpose: A maximum of  1,000 words

Your statement should be written in English and explain your motivation for applying for the course at Oxford, your relevant experience and education, and the specific areas of the course that interest you and/or you intend to specialise in.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

This will be assessed for:

• your reasons for applying
• your ability to present a coherent case in proficient English
• your commitment to the subject, beyond the requirements of the degree course
• your preliminary knowledge of the subject area and research techniques
• your capacity for sustained and intense work
• reasoning ability
• ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.

Written work: Two pieces of written work, a maximum of 7,000 words in total, or one long piece, a maximum of 7,000 words

Academic essays or other writing samples from your most recent qualification, typed and written in English, are required. Extracts of the requisite length from longer work are also permitted if prefaced by a note that puts them in context. The written work should be related to the subject you propose to study. The word count does not need to include any bibliography or brief footnotes.

Your written work will be assessed for:

• a comprehensive understanding of the subject area, including problems and developments in the subject
• your ability to construct and defend an argument
• your aptitude for analysis and expression
• your ability to present a reasoned case in proficient academic English.

Instructions for submitting one long piece of work instead of two short pieces

To submit one longer piece of work in your application instead of two shorter pieces, you should upload this document in the first 'Written work' slot on the 'Supporting Documents' tab of the Application Form. In the second 'Written work' slot, you should upload a PDF document with the following statement:

' I have included one long essay in lieu of two short essays. I have checked the course page to confirm this is permitted for this course. '

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice . You'll find the answers to most common queries in our FAQs.

Application Guide   Apply

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Friday 5 January 2024 Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships

Friday 1 March 2024 Applications may remain open after this deadline if places are still available - see below

A later deadline shown under 'Admission status' If places are still available,  applications may be accepted after 1 March . The 'Admissions status' (above) will provide notice of any later deadline.

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered jointly by the Department of Education  and the Medical Sciences Division

• Course page on the lead  department's website
• Funding information from the department
• Academic and research staff
• Department research and divisional research  
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected]

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Visa eligibility for part-time study

We are unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only (and leave after each visit) and will need to remain based outside the UK.

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

PhD/MPhil Medicine / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

We require applicants to hold, or be about to obtain, an Upper Second class Honours degree, or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK, in a related subject area for entry to a PhD programme. A Lower Second class Honours degree may be considered if applicants also hold a Master's degree with a Merit classification.

Full entry requirements

See full guidance on how to choose a project and submit an application on our websi te . You should then complete the online admissions application form to apply for this programme. Ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, or this may delay the processing of your application.

Application deadlines

You must submit your application for a postgraduate research programme before the relevant deadline to be considered. You will not be able to apply after these deadlines have passed.

• January entry: 15 October (of the year prior entry)
• April entry: 15 January (year of entry)
• September entry: 15 June (year of entry)

Programme options

Programme overview.

• Learn from some of Europe's leading researchers while undertaking your own project.
• Access some of the best research facilities in the world at both the University and in hospitals around Greater Manchester.
• Undergo training in transferable skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals through the Doctoral Academy's training programme.
• Conduct research at a university ranked 6th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2023).

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £4,786, Low £11,000, Medium £17,500, High £23,000 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £27,000, Low £28,500, Medium £34,500, High £40,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Standard £2393, Low £5,500, Medium £8,750, High £11,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Standard £13,500, Low £14,250, Medium £17,250, High £20,250

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Contact details

Programmes in related subject areas.

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

• Home »
• Search »
• medical education

Postgraduate Courses in Medical Education in the United Kingdom - 121 Courses

University of buckingham postgraduate medicine.

• Medical Education Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

University of East Anglia UEA Norwich Medical School

• Clinical Education MClinEd Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip
• Oncoplastic Breast Surgery Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

The University of Edinburgh Edinburgh Medical School

• Clinical Education Doctor of Philosophy - PhD
• Clinical Education (Online Learning) MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip Professional Development Diploma

University of Essex Health and Social Care

• Medical and Clinical Education MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

Wrexham University School of Social and Life Sciences

• Adult Nursing Master of Science - MSc (PG)
• Children's Nursing Master of Science - MSc (PG)
• Mental Health Nursing Master of Science - MSc (PG)

Keele University School of Law

• Medical Ethics and Law MA

Keele University School of Medicine

• Clinical Education MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip
• Physician Associate Studies Master of Science - MSc (PG)

University of Kent Medway School of Pharmacy

• Professional Practice (Medical Education Management) - MSc MSc

Lancaster University Centre for Education, Training and Development

• Medical Leadership MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

Lancaster University Lancaster Medical School

Newcastle university school of dental sciences.

• Dental Education Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

Queen Mary University of London Institute of Health Sciences Education

• Clinical Education Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert
• Education for Clinical Contexts Master of Arts - MA (PG) Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert
• Medical Education Master of Arts - MA (PG) Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert
• Medical Education (online) Master of Arts - MA (PG) Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

Queen's University Belfast School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences

Staffordshire University Health, Science and Wellbeing

• Medical Education MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

University of Sussex BSMS

University of Sussex Education

• Clinical Professional Studies Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert
• Clinical education MSc Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

Swansea University Medicine

• Medical Education MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

UCL (University College London) UCL Medical School

• Division of Medical Education Master of Philosophy - MPhil
• Medical Education MSc

University of Warwick Warwick Medical School

• Medical Education MMEd Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip
• Pre-Hospital Critical Care Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

Anglia Ruskin University Medicine and Healthcare Science

• Medical and Healthcare Education MSc

University of Bedfordshire Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire Postgraduate Medical School

• Medical Education MA Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

Brighton and Sussex Medical School Brighton and Sussex Medical School

• Clinical Education MSc Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

University of Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education

• Medical Education MSt Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

Cardiff Metropolitan University Department of Healthcare and Food

• Research Stroke Master of Research - MRes Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

Cardiff University School of Medicine

• Medical Education MSc Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip
• Medical Education (e-learning) MSc Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert Postgraduate Diploma - PgDip

Search for medical education by...

• Attendance :
• All attendance types
• Online / distance learning
• All qualifications
• Masters/Diploma/PG Cert
• Research/PhD
• All countries
• Europe (any country)
• EU (any country)
• Republic of Ireland
• Europe non-EU (any country)
• Northern Ireland
• United Kingdom
• UK Location :
• All regions
• East Midlands
• East of England
• West Midlands
• Yorkshire and the Humber

Exclusive bursaries Open day alerts Funding advice Application tips Latest PG news

Sign up now!

Take 2 minutes to sign up to PGS student services and reap the benefits…

• The chance to apply for one of our 5 PGS Bursaries worth £2,000 each
• Fantastic scholarship updates
• Latest PG news sent directly to you.

Ready for your legal career? Apply now to start your journey at The University of Law this Summer.

Find out more!

MSc in Medical Education

• Find out more
• Student testimonials

Postgraduate courses

The MSc in Medical Education has been designed by the Royal College of Physicians and University College London to meet the requirements of doctors who are intending to have a significant role in medical education, and is delivered by experienced teachers, senior clinical medical education leads and consultants.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with the first application review on 1 June and offers will be made shortly after. We advise you to apply early as applications may close before the closing date if all places are offered. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

The MSc in Medical Education not only allows for progression in the field of medical education. Students also receive tailored 1-1 support, networking opportunities, and access to the medical education resource centre, based at the RCP.

Special features

Undertaking a MSc in Medical Education allows you to: 

• benefit from the 'outstanding' reputation of the RCP and UCL
• attend face-to-face teaching days based at RCP London
• receive tailored support from one-to-one tutorials
• network with a variety of like-minded professionals
• access our unique medical education resource centre based at the RCP
• undertake a flexible mode of study 
• exit with a certificate, diploma or masters qualification
• expand your knowledge through both clinicians and education specialists.

Participants develop the ability to: adopt a learner-centred teaching approach, structure teaching, and set objectives that enhance their students' learning; apply educational theory and research to their own teaching practice; recognise how assessment theory should inform practice in assessment of medical competence; and appraise both medical trainees and peers.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits:

• The MSc programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a project/report (60 credits)
• A Postgraduate Diploma comprising eight core modules (120 credits) is offered
• A Postgraduate Certificate comprising four core modules (60 credits) is offered.

Programme overview

The RCP has access to experienced teachers, supervisors and mentors in healthcare, who also hold senior roles such as consultant posts and medical education leads in their hospitals. These doctors join the RCP and UCL faculty of medical educationalists to tutor on the programme and present sessions throughout the taught modules.

This is a valuable opportunity for students to learn from other doctors who are leading by example and bringing the taught components of the programme to life.

UCL is one of the top universities in the world with fantastic research strengths, and a genuine commitment to educational excellence. This combination of academic excellence, grounded in the reality of service delivery and development, sets this masters programme apart from others.

This is a flexible, part-time, modular masters programme taught at the RCP in London, which can be completed in 3–5 years. This is a cumulative programme and early exit with a Certificate or Diploma is possible.

This programme is specifically designed for doctors wishing to develop their roles as educators. Participants will learn to use appropriate teaching strategies and educational theories to enhance the way they support learning. The MSc in Medical Education is ideally suited to doctors in any specialty. Such as medicine, surgery and public health.

Course details

Please follow the below links for more information on each module that is taught on the course.

Certificate modules:

• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/teaching-and-learning-in-...
• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/educational-supervision-t...
• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/clinical-teaching-and-pri...

Diploma modules:

• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/research-methods-in-medical-education/MDSC0016
• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/advanced-teaching-skills/MDSC0018
• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/advanced-clinical-education/MDSC0019
• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/course-and-curriculum-design-in-medical-education/MDSC0017

Masters module:

• https://www.ucl.ac.uk/module-catalogue/modules/dissertation-study-module...

Entry requirements and application process

This masters programme is exclusively for qualified doctors and we welcome applicants from all grades and specialties. Applicants should have a role in medical education and as such we would recommend applicants have completed the foundation programme.

This is a very popular MSc programme with more applicants than available places. Due to competition for places at all levels of the programme, it is important that the application form includes details of the applicant's roles, responsibilities and interest in medical education. 

English language requirements

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.

The English language level for this programme is:  Good.

If your existing score is below this, please consider retaking the exam, as applicants with lower scores will not be accepted on the programme.

Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.  International Preparation Courses.

Further information can be found on the UCL  English language requirements  page.

Application process

Applications are open, you can apply on the UCL website . Contact [email protected] if you have any queries.

Testimonials and student blog

Find out what past and current students say about the course via our testimonials page or via our student blog.

Programme fees

Programme fees are paid to UCL , who offer students flexible arrangements to make payments in instalments.

Tuition fees (2024/25)

The fee for the full Master's programme is: £17,300 (PT). Early exit with PG Diploma (120 credits) or a PG Certificate (60 credits) is available with fees set accordingly.

The fee per 15 credit module is: £1,441.67.

Modular/flexible students (non-full-time) will be invoiced on a pro-rata basis over their duration of study.

The fee for the full Master's programme is: £31,100 (PT).

Note on fees

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary.

Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the  UCL Students website.

Fees for flexible, modular study are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session.

Interview with the course director

Read an interview with the course director, Dr Jonathan Cartledge .

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for this msc.

The Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma and Masters in Medical Education are designed to meet the needs of doctors wishing to develop their roles as educators. The programmes are exclusively for doctors and attract participants from the full range of specialties, including surgeons, general practitioners, psychiatrists and radiologists as well as physicians. Participants are mainly speciality registrars, consultants or other career-grade doctors. This is a postgraduate programme; if enquirers have not completed their undergraduate studies they will not be considered for the programme.

Is attendance compulsory?

Attendance at all face-to-face teaching days is compulsory. UCL regulations require that students maintain a 70% attendance rate for each module. Students must provide extenuating circumstances where they are unable to attend. FY1 and FY2 doctors with limited study leave, please ensure that you have secured sufficient leave prior to applying to the course. *Attendance requirement may vary depending on COVID-19 regulations.

Is the course full-time or part-time?

This is a flexible, modular masters programme and are taken sequentially. Starting with the Postgraduate Certificate in year one, progressing to the Diploma in the second year, and finally the masters in Medical Education. The full masters may be taken over a maximum of five years.

How many contact days are required for the completion of the course?

In the Certificate level of the course there are a total of 12 compulsory contact days. These are made up of four 3-day modules.

In the Diploma level of the course there are a total of 12 compulsory contact days. These are made up of four 3-day modules.

In the MSc level there are five compulsory contact days. Students will be assigned a personal tutor whilst completing and a project/report.

*Attendance requirement may vary depending on COVID-19 regulations.

Am I able to defer my place on the course?

You are able to defer your place on the course. Flexible/modular students have five years to complete a Masters from initial registration on the Programme; five years to complete a Diploma from initial registration on the programme, and two years to complete a certificate from initial registration on the Programme.

Do I have to complete all three levels of the course?

No. This is a cumulative programme. You are able to exit after the Certificate level of the course, the Diploma level of the course or after MSc level of the course.

Can I complete this course via distance learning alone?

No. The teaching days are compulsory. However, these teaching days are supported via an online learning environment (called Moodle), where readings are uploaded and you can discuss projects in student forums.

What financial support is available?

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the  Scholarships and Funding website .

Am I able to pay for the course in instalments?

Yes. All fees are paid directly to UCL, who offer students flexible arrangements to make payments in instalments. Further information can be found at UCL Students website.

When is the deadline for applications?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis with the first application review on 1 May and offers will be made shortly after. We advise you to apply early as applications may close before the closing date if all places are offered. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

Can I apply credits achieved from prior learning at a higher education institution?

UCL regulations state that a student can apply to transfer (RPL – Recognition of Prior Learning) a maximum of 90 credits from a similar programme at another institution at a fee of £100. In order to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), you will be required to demonstrate that you have successfully completed all learning objectives of the module you are claiming RPL for. You will not be permitted to attend only part of a module based on prior learning. A document outlining the objectives for each module can be found at the bottom of the FAQ section. More information can be found at UCL: Academic Manual.  Please contact the postgraduate team at the RCP if you would like to request RPL.

Can I apply if I do not currently have a role in medical education?

Though a formal role in medical education is not required, applicants need to demonstrate a passion for medical education and will need to have access to medical students or trainees during their time on the course. This is important because much discussion during the course draws on participants’ current experiences of teaching and the first assignment involves participants reviewing a teaching session that they have designed and delivered. Students wishing to progress to the diploma will be required to compile a portfolio evidencing their ongoing development as a medical educator and, therefore, need to be involved in teaching and facilitating learning. In addition, it is beneficial that you have some involvement in course or curriculum design and supervising trainees.

Can I apply to study on an international visa?

As the course is only offered with a part-time mode of study it is not possible to study on a Tier 4 visa. However, some international students who have the right to live and work in the UK on a working visa may be eligible to apply as overseas applicants.

Where will the modules be taught?

Modules will be delivered in purpose-built teaching facilities at the RCP in London.

How is the course assessed?

Written assignments follow each module at certificate level. The diploma level is assessed by written assignments, and the Master's level is assessed by a dissertation.

What is the realistic time commitment that is needed to complete the assignment?

Each level of the programme carries 60 masters-level credits, which equate to a notional 600 hours of study time. This includes attendance at face-to-face teaching days, self-directed study and research, and completion of assignments. This is an approximation only, and the hours required may vary according to individuals’ prior experience of the subject. This is in line with all other masters-level programmes in the UK.

Am I able to receive CPD credits for the course?

Yes. The RCP CPD diary scheme allows you to claim one credit for every one hour of learning. Credits obtained from the MSc programme can be entered under the ‘self-certified’ tab in the CPD diary. Please be aware that a maximum of 12 credits will be counted as external per annum. The remaining MSc credits will be counted as personal. If you are registered with another CPD scheme please contact your scheme coordinator to confirm how to apply for credits.

What academic and administrative support is available during the course?

Each module has a module tutor – a member of staff from the RCP who is responsible for the bulk of the teaching. The students are given the contact details for this tutor and should refer all subject-related queries to them.

What resources are available to students on this course?

All students will have full access to the Jerwood Medical Education Resource Centre (MERC) at the RCP. Specialist collections of books and journals are available. As well as remote access to a wide range of electronic materials and databases.

You might also be interested in

Peer support network, quality improvement for consultants.

Getting the most out of simulation: debriefing and scenario writing in simulation

Rcp educator accreditation.

School of Medicine and Population Health

Library item label woz ere --> undergraduate undergraduate mbchb medicine courses intercalation intercalated bsc courses intercalated masters courses postgraduate postgraduate masters, pgcert and pgdip courses online learning intercalation research degrees phd opportunities md research degrees clinical academic training cpd continuing professional development masters, pgcert and pgdip courses cpd modules professional learning population health short courses immunohistochemistry courses open learning – moocs research and innovation research research themes research centres research impact core facilities knowledge exchange consultancy services partnerships and engagement professional learning and cpd commercialisation and ip people people school leadership clinical medicine neuroscience population health about about us news contact support us   academic unit of primary medical care patients as educators information for students and staff   phd study.

Studying for a PhD in the School of Medicine and Population Health is your chance to conduct world-leading research with impact.

Research degrees

Find out how much your research degree would cost.

Meet our students

See what our students think of studying with us.

Student profiles

Browse our frequently asked questions, or ask a question of your own:

PhD opportunities at the School of Medicine

We offer a broad range of PhD opportunities

Our current research students cover a diverse array of disciplines including:

• Diabetes Medicine
• Cardiovascular
• Neuroscience
• Infection and Inflammation
• Health and Bioinformatics and Genomics
• Translational and Cellular Imaging and Engineering
• Medical Education
• Reproductive Medicine
• Biomechanics
• Motion Analysis
• Sports Biomechanics and Rehabilitation
• Musculoskeletal

Current funded PhDs

Learn more about currently available funded PhD opportunities with us.

Self-funded projects

If you are considering self-funding your research degree, or bringing funding from a sponsor, our list of available PhD projects will give you an idea of the types of research we do in the School of Medicine.

Professional Doctorate

The Professional Doctorate is designed for those who want to build on their professional portfolio of experience to achieve a doctoral award.

Equivalent to a PhD, the Prof Doc has been designed for you to study part-time alongside your work.

We encourage prospective PhD students to contact us directly to find out more about our PhD opportunities.

Informal PhD enquiries contact for all research themes

Miss Claire Neillie Senior Administrator (PGR), School of Medicine [email protected] +44(0)1382 383714

Doctoral Training Programme

The University of Dundee hosts an MRC PhD Doctoral Training Programme in Quantitative and Interdisciplinary approaches to biomedical science (QIBIOMED).

• MRC PhD Doctoral Training Programme

Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery

The Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery has a long tradition in supervising postgraduate research leading to PhD research degrees in a wide-ranging choice of subject matter.

• Learn more about PhDs at the Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery

Divisional PhD Leads

• See list of Divisional PhD Leads

Life in Dundee

To apply for a research degree use our direct application system.

For further application support email [email protected]

Graduate Medical Education

Lexington programs.

Offers a single location where education, research, and clinical care are provided in a close network of facilities

Explore Program

Bowling Green Programs

Combining strong clinical skills with a commitment to team-based care

Morehead Programs

Enhancing medical care for rural Kentucky

Discover More Details

Hazard Programs

Addressing health disparities and unique challenges in rural Kentucky communities

Find Out More

GME Institutional Initiatives for Residents and Fellows

The Office of Graduate Medical Education offers  educational leadership programs to help residents and fellows grow professionally, including the GME Emerging Leaders program for chief residents and the Residents as Teachers program for those interested in academic medicine.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Core to our purpose as health care educators and providers is fostering an environment that recognizes and supports diversity and inclusivity.

Learn More About Our DEI Efforts

We are devoted to promoting the wellness of our residents and fellows.

Explore Our Wellness Resources

Resident of the Month: March

Dr. Michael Witt with UK College of Medicine Department of Neurology has been selected as Resident of the Month for March. Congratulations to Dr. Witt and his program, and thank you to the nominators, committee members, and donors who make this award possible. Keep up the great work!

Submit a Concern to GME

Submit a Concern to GME using the attached form.

SWARM Event

Submit a unit-level SWARM event.

Find forms, policies and procedures, and helpful links.

• - Google Chrome

Intended for healthcare professionals

• Access provided by Google Indexer
• My email alerts
• BMA member login
• Username * Password * Forgot your log in details? Need to activate BMA Member Log In Log in via OpenAthens Log in via your institution

Search form

• Advanced search
• Search responses
• Search blogs
• News & Views
• Ageing workforce is...

Ageing workforce is putting future of medical education and research at risk, warns Medical Schools Council

• Related content
• Peer review

The UK’s capacity to contribute to scientific research and educate medical students is at risk without investment in the clinical academic workforce, the Medical Schools Council has said.

The representative body for UK medical schools has published data showing that the clinical academic workforce is ageing, with many academics approaching retirement. 1 In 2023 over a third (36%) of all UK clinical academics, doctors who undertake teaching and research alongside treating patients in the NHS, were aged over 55, as were 65% of professors. By comparison, in 2004 just 24% of all UK clinical academics were aged over 55, as were 37% of professors.

The Medical Schools Council warned that, if the pipeline of clinical academics was not maintained, delivering the ambitions of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, such as doubling the number of medical school places in England to 15 000 a year by 2031-32, 2 would become far more of a challenge.

Patrick Maxwell, the council’s chair, said, “Many clinical academics are nearing retirement at a time when we need more academics to support the education of an expanding student population. The decline in clinical academia is also a serious barrier to the growth of the UK’s research capabilities.

“While the clinical academic workforce is small, the impact of clinical academic research is vast and continues to drive improvements in healthcare, both at home and abroad. Collectively, we must do more to make clinical academia an attractive and rewarding career to prevent these bottlenecks from emerging.”

Data from the annual medical clinical academic survey also showed a lack of gender and ethnic diversity in the clinical academic workforce. Academics from ethnic minority groups remain under-represented, the data show. In 2023 just 10 professors identified as black or black British, against 920 who identified as white and 125 who identified as Asian or British Asian. Male clinical academics constituted two thirds of the workforce in 2023, the data show, and were more likely to hold senior positions. In 2023 76% and 62% of clinical academics at the professor and reader or senior lecturer grades, respectively, were men. This was a slight reduction from 2004, when 89% of professor posts and 77% of reader or senior lecturer posts were held by men.

Maxwell said the data showed there was a long way to go in ensuring equal representation in clinical academia. “While it is encouraging to see that the number of female clinical academics has increased, it is important to understand the causes underlying the significant gender and ethnic disparities and that we work together as a sector to solve this issue. Representation of the whole of society is essential in driving innovative research and education, and ensuring that clinical academic careers are accessible to clinicians from all backgrounds should be a priority.”

• ↵ Medical Schools Council. Clinical academic survey. Apr 2024. https://www.medschools.ac.uk/clinical-academic-survey
• Wilkinson E

• Coronavirus Updates
• Education at MUSC
• Adult Patient Care
• Children's Health
• Hollings Cancer Center
• Research at MUSC
• MUSC Catalyst News
• College of Graduate Studies

MUSC announces new dean to lead College of Graduate Studies

The Medical University of South Carolina is delighted to welcome Michael J. Bouchard, Ph.D., an accomplished Drexel University professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and of Microbiology and Immunology, as the next dean of the College of Graduate Studies , effective July 1.

Bouchard earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Columbia University. He then conducted postdoctoral research at New York University, where he initiated studies on mechanisms that control hepatitis B virus replication. This research was published in Science and other high-impact journals and became a cornerstone of his research program in Drexel’s Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Bouchard’s research has made seminal contributions to our understanding of HBV replication and pathogenesis.

This selection follows a rigorous national search built on input from a 10-member search committee led by Anand S. Mehta, D.Phil. , professor of Cell and Molecular Pharmacology in the MUSC College of Medicine and the South Carolina SmartState Endowed Chair in Proteomic Biomarkers.

“Throughout the search process, we sought a leader who would build upon the strong legacy of graduate education that already exists at MUSC,” said Mehta. “Dr. Bouchard has excellent listening and problem-solving abilities, which he leveraged as director of the Division of Biomedical Science Programs to streamline the didactic portion of graduate education at Drexel to better fit the needs of students and their eventual employers and improve the quality of the graduate experience. I’m confident he will bring the same forward-thinking approach to MUSC and align the goals and expectations of our graduate students with the dynamic demands of today’s workforce."

As South Carolina’s premier comprehensive academic health system, MUSC has long been a pillar of medical innovation and education. The College of Graduate Studies is integral to MUSC’s success in fostering a new generation of leaders in biomedical research. The search committee agreed that Bouchard’s career is a testament to his commitment to fusing educational excellence with innovative research. “Under his leadership, Mehta said, the University can anticipate a surge of progress, featuring enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research initiatives that align seamlessly with MUSC’s mission to advance knowledge and improve health through education, research and patient care.”

Bouchard’s strategic vision for the college includes expanding research opportunities, integrating advanced technologies in education and nurturing a culture of innovation and collaboration. This approach, Mehta explained, will undoubtedly catalyze the college’s growth, enhancing its impact on both the local and global biomedical research and education stages.

Lisa K. Saladin, PT, Ph.D. , executive vice president for Academic Affairs and provost, shares Mehta’s enthusiasm. “Dr. Bouchard emerged as the exceptional choice from a highly competitive national search, possessing the knowledge and skills to propel the College of Graduate Studies forward. He understands the challenges and opportunities in graduate education,” she said. “We look forward to witnessing the innovation and growth Dr. Bouchard will bring to the college as he pushes our institution to achieve new heights of excellence in training the next generation of biomedical research scientists. I am thrilled to welcome him to the team.”

The search committee expressed its confidence in Bouchard's ability to propel the College of Graduate Studies toward a future advancing discovery and excellence. “As we prepare to welcome Dr. Bouchard on July 1, we recognize we are on the cusp of transformative achievements that will fortify our legacy as a leader in the biomedical sciences,” Mehta, committee chair, said.

Research Stand-Out

Research stand-out possesses skills, drive for a career as government scientist leader.

Get the Latest MUSC News

Get more stories about what's happening at MUSC, delivered straight to your inbox.

About the Author

Mack Altman

Categories: Education

Continuing and Medical Education Credits (CE|CME)

Upon completion of the Integrative Health and Wellness Certificate Program, the following CE, CME credits and certifications are available for graduates:

Cme credits for physicians/nurse practitioners .

The AAFP has reviewed Integrative Health and Wellness Online Graduate Certificate Program (Enduring) and deemed it acceptable for AAFP credit. Term of approval is from   08/28/2023 to 05/10/2024.  Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. Practitioners who complete the entire program (all four courses) are eligible to claim   360 credit hours.

You will need to complete an evaluation form at the end of the program and email it to   [email protected]   to be able to claim your CMEs and receive your certificate.

AAFP Prescribed credit is accepted by the American Medical Association as equivalent to   AMA PRA Category 1 credit(s)™   toward the AMA Physician's Recognition Award. When applying for the AMA PRA, Prescribed credit earned must be reported as Prescribed, not as Category 1.

CE Credits for Professional Counselors 

UMSSW-CPE is authorized by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors to sponsor Category B continuing professional education. The Integrative Health and Wellness Certificate Program meets the requirements for 60 Category II CEUs for professional counselors. Once an enrolled student completes the program, they will need to submit an unofficial transcript and pay $75 in order to receive the CEUs. They can email the transcript to:  [email protected]  and include their name and phone number. The CPE office will then call the student to take the payment over the phone and then email the CEU certificate. 

CE Credits for Psychologists

Psychologists in Maryland, Virginia, and DC can received CE credits for completion of this program. Psychologists in other states will need to check with their Psychological Association or Board to determine whether they can also earn CE credits.

According to the Board of Examiners, Maryland Psychologists and Psychological Associates can earn the following number of CE credits upon completion of the program.

CE Credits for Social Workers

UMSSW-CPE is authorized by the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland to sponsor social work continuing education programs and maintains full responsibility for this program. The Integrative Health and Wellness Certificate Program meets the requirements for 60 Category II CEUs for social workers. Once an enrolled student completes the program, they will need to submit an unofficial transcript and pay $75 in order to receive the CEUs. They can email the transcript to:  [email protected] and include their name and phone number. The CPE office will then call the student to take the payment over the phone and then email the CEU certificate. 

CE Credits for National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches

The Integrative Health and Wellness graduate certificate program, consisting of four CE eligible courses, is approved by the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches for a total of 36 continuing education units for NBHWC certified coaches (CE-000033-1). Successful completion of the entire Integrative Health and Wellness program is required to receive the 36 CE credits.

‌‌ Course Number:  CE-000033-1

CE Credits for Chiropractors

The Maryland Board of Chiropractic Examiners has approved the Integrative Health and Wellness graduate certificate program for 60 continuing education credits.  

620 W. Lexington St. Baltimore, MD 21201 (410) 706-3100

University of Maryland Graduate School. All Rights Reserved.

• Privacy Policy
• Web Accessibility

• Husky Giving Day: GME Vision Fund

Apr 4, 2024 | Announcements , News

Huskies do BIG things together on Husky Giving Day ! This year we ask that you consider supporting the  GME Vision Fund  which promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion programs for physicians in training.

We know that patients have better outcomes when they are cared for by physicians with shared lived experience. Our commitment to UW Medicine’s mission of improving the health of the public means training the excellent physicians who will care for our patients. In doing so, we need to recognize the diversity that exists across our patient population and recruit and retain residents and fellows who have diverse social and experiential backgrounds.

The  Vision Fund  was created with a grant from Dr. Byron Joyner (Vice Dean of Graduate Medical Education) who was motivated by the need to increase the diversity of our residents and fellows and interest in improving the lives patients who have historically had worse healthcare outcomes. The fund received a  $10,000 personal donation from Drs. Paul and Bonnie Ramsey , which was matched by a $10,000 grant from the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation, where Dr. Paul Ramsey is a Trustee Emeritus. We ask that you follow in the spirit of these leaders and help us to continue to grow this vision by contributing to this endowed fund in Graduate Medical Education.

The  Vision Fund   advances GME’s diversity, equity and inclusion programs and related efforts in this area. The fund is designed to also directly support residents, fellows and faculty who are committed to diversity-related work in our communities, whose record of research, teaching, service, and outreach reflects a commitment to health equity and healthcare disparities, and/or who participate in the  UW Network of Underrepresented Residents and Fellows  initiatives.

Join us in supporting the Vision Fund to accelerate first-rate graduate medical education and better patient care.

#HuskyGivingDay

Byron Joyner, MD, MPA Vice Dean for GME and DIO

Cindy Hamra, JD, MA Associate Dean, Operations and Administration

Jennifer Best, MD Associate Dean, Accreditation and Education

Recent Posts

• Dr. Joyner’s Blog: Match Results
• GME News & Notes: March
• Wellness Corner – March 12, 2024
• Dr. Joyner’s Blog: GME Alumni

Quick Links

Report a Concern

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Latest Updates | Visitation Policies Visitation Policies Visitation Policies Visitation Policies Visitation Policies | COVID-19 Testing | Vaccine Information Vaccine Information Vaccine Information

Statistics PhD Program

Fall 2024 courses, important dates.

        First day of classes: Monday, August 26, 2024

        No classes (Labor Day): Monday, September 2, 2024

        No BST classes (Thanksgiving): Wednesday, November 27 - Friday, November 29, 2024

        Last day of classes : Monday, December 9, 2024

        Final exam period : Friday, December 13 - Wednesday, December 18, 2024

**Please check back later for course meeting times and locations.**

Course Offerings

For students matriculated in the Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology      BST 590 - Supervised Teaching      BST 591 - Reading Course at the PhD Level*      BST 592 - Supervised Statistical Consulting         BST 595 - Research at the PhD Level       BST 999 - Doctoral Dissertation * maximum of 6 credits per BST 591 course

Please direct questions to: [email protected]

Last updated: April 4, 2024