Medicine BSc (Hons) A100 2027 entry

Course information may change. Module information and course content, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at the University of St Andrews. We display the most up-to-date information possible, but this could be from a previous academic year. For the latest module information, see the module catalogue.

• Year 1

  In the first year of the course, the modules emphasise the interrelationships between relevant medical sciences. Additionally, you will be introduced to key themes which run throughout the whole programme, for example, ethics, public health, health psychology.

  Foundations of Medicine 1: provides a general overview of the structure and functions of the body systems from the microscopic to the macroscopic level. It includes strands of microbiology, public health and health psychology. 

  This module:

  • reviews fundamental aspects of molecular and cellular medicine
  • introduces medical ethics and communication skills relevant to medicine
  • uses clinical problems to develop an understanding of the levels of consciousness and the assessment of health status
  • includes an anatomical overview of the major body systems and the dissection of the back
  • provides opportunities to speak to patients with chronic health problems in the Medical School environment

  Foundations of Medicine 2: continues the introduction of fundamental topics, including the principles of disease mechanisms and therapy, and the development of communication skills. 

  This module:

  • provides an in-depth study of the musculo-skeletal system, including nerve and muscle physiology (you will study the anatomy of the upper and lower limbs through dissection and lecture)
  • develops an understanding of the principles of disease mechanisms and therapy
  • introduces particular topics in behavioural sciences (for example, stress, coping and pain)
  • introduces concepts of pharmacokinetics and pharmacy
  • reviews genetics and the effects of genes on development and disease
  • includes a community-based clinical placement
  • provides further opportunities for exposure to clinical problems relevant to the teaching

• Year 2

  The Honours programme, which runs through both second and third year, focuses in detail upon the normal function and dysfunction of specific physiological systems.

  The two modules in second year take an integrated approach to the scientific basis of medicine in Honours. They build upon the material delivered in first year and introduce new concepts.

  • Medicine Honours 1: covers the structure and functions of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
  • Medicine Honours 2: covers the renal, gastrointestinal and reproductive systems

  Both second year modules:

  • introduce and build on normal form and function to explore disease mechanisms and therapy of disorders pertinent to the body systems covered
  • explore the body systems through cadaveric dissection, including the integration with clinical imaging
  • use relevant clinical problems and clinical skills to provide a clinical context to your studies
  • integrate the ethical, moral and behavioural aspects relevant to body systems
  • provide a series of community attachments in primary health care settings

• Year 3

  In third year, the first semester focuses on complex integrative physiological systems, the central nervous system and endocrine organs. Semester 2 comprises two modules, one focusing on a significant student-selected research project, and the other focusing on applying medicine and developing clinical skills.

  Semester 1: revisits foundation knowledge and progresses to more complex systems.

  This module:

  • provides in-depth coverage of normal structure and function of the central nervous system and endocrine systems
  • introduces diseases and possible therapies pertinent to these important control systems
  • presents case studies associated with the central nervous system and endocrine systems to highlight appropriate clinical skills for the identification of neurological and endocrinological disorders
  • utilises cadaveric dissection, including covering aspects of radiology
  • integrates ethical issues and behavioural science with clinical medicine
  • provides hospital (secondary care) clinical attachments

  Student-selected component: you will undertake a research project in an area of interest at an advanced level. Research projects will provide the opportunity to:

  • develop critical appraisal skills
  • develop an understanding of scientific methods
  • gain competency in using literature-searching methods
  • develop an inquisitive and questioning attitude and ability to apply rational thought processes
  • prepare a scientific research dissertation, demonstrating critical thinking and analysis
  • give an oral presentation on the research findings
  • develop reflective practice using a portfolio entry for a significant learning event

  Clinical reasoning: consolidates knowledge gained throughout the course and introduces new advanced skills to stimulate clinical development. This course is taught primarily by clinicians (including Honorary staff), and case studies will be used extensively to direct student learning.

  This module:

  • reviews clinical anatomy in preparation for later clinical training
  • provides the opportunity to significantly advance clinical consultation skills, including examination and communication
  • provides an opportunity for multi-disciplinary team working through a ward-simulation scenario involving other health professionals
  • develops the ability to consider differential diagnoses effectively and practice enhanced clinical reasoning

• Teaching and assessment

  You’ll learn through a mix of lectures, practical labs, small group tutorials and online resources, supplemented with regular clinical placements in a healthcare setting. Working as part of a team, you’ll practise caring for patients and gain insight into how healthcare professionals work together in a hospital environment.

  You’ll be assessed through written exams (multiple-choice and short answers), anatomy practicals, including detailed anatomical study through full body dissection, and clinical exams where you demonstrate your skills. In third year, you’ll also complete a research project on a topic of your choice and have the opportunity to work alongside staff undertaking active research in their chosen field.

  The degree leads to a BSc (Hons) in Medicine, after which you move on to a partner medical school to complete your MBChB or MBBS. Entry into Honours level modules depends on meeting the required academic standards. 

  During the programme you will assemble a portfolio of evidence surrounding your personal development and professional attributes to demonstrate your professional attributes and behaviours.

  Find out more about assessment and feedback at St Andrews in our policy document (PDF).