Masters Degrees in Medical Science in the UK

A degree in medical science will allow you to look at the causes and prevention of diseases from an innovative point of view. You will be working on the science behind medicine, understanding how the human body is affected by the administering of different medicines. Medical science is a very important part of healthcare, as it works in cutting edge medical research, developing and improving medicines.

An undergraduate degree in medical science will give you a good foundation of knowledge of how today’s advancements in medicine are made. You will develop your understanding of human biology, as well as how the human body should function. From this, you will explore how diseases affect the functioning of our bodies, and what happens to the systems being put under pressure.

Your degree will likely be delivered in a mixture of modes. These will include lectures and seminars, as well as laboratory and practical sessions to improve your clinical practice. Depending on your course, you may be presented with the opportunity to take part in a placement year or module.

Depending on where you choose to study, you may be able to specialise towards the end of your degree. This specialisation may influence where you choose to work in the future. Common specialisations include:

• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Biotechnology
• Microbiology and Immunology
• Neuroscience
• Clinical Physiology

If your degree programme requires you to write a dissertation or submit a research project, this will give you the chance to further research a favoured area of medical science.

The accreditation of your degree will depend on where you choose to study. Different countries can have different accreditation systems. Typically, you can expect to be awarded a Bachelor of Science (BSc), or Bachelor of Medical Science (BMedSc).

In general, an undergraduate degree in medical science will take three to four years to complete. Foundation degrees, diplomas and certificates can last up to two years when studied full-time.

On successful completion of your degree, you can choose to either seek employment in your chosen area, or further your studies. Continuation of your studies could be in the form of a postgraduate degree, such as masters or PhD, or a graduate diploma or certificate.

Graduates of medical science degrees will be able to find work in a variety of fields and areas. Positions will be available in hospitals, clinics and research centres, working as a research scientist, clinical research associate, diagnostic laboratory technician or medical journalist.

The wide ranging and transferable skills will mean that your scientific knowledge will be useful and applicable in areas not directly related to medical science as well. Graduates will have effective communication skills, good time management and the ability to work independently.