Subjects

Medicine

What makes the Cambridge Medicine course so special?

Cambridge is a popular choice for a wide variety of students, providing an intellectually satisfying preparation for clinical studies.

The Medical & Veterinary Sciences Tripose (MVST) is intended as the pre-clinical study for students reading for Medical or Veterinary degrees. The subjects within the Tripos are treated very much as scientific disciplines. There is no integration with clinical studies, although relevant clinical demonstrations are arranged to complement the anatomy course and there are ‘Preparing for Practice’ schemes in operation to provide a bridging course between pre-clinical and clinical studies.

Cambridge has long prided itself on the breadth and depth of the scientific training that it can offer to its Medical and Veterinary students. All students now complete all of their pre-clinical exemptions by the end of their second year. The possibility of in-depth study in the third year is available to all students through Part II of the Natural Sciences Tripos. At the same time, those who would prefer a broader course are catered for by the many options in Part II Biological and Biomedical Sciences, which offers a large range of subjects. There is also the option to take other subjects for a year, such as Anthropology, Law, Management Studies or Philosophy.

The option of a single scientific subject within Part II of the Natural Sciences Tripos is a popular choice for many students, as it allows for a year of specialised study, involving a research project or dissertation. It provides a useful foretaste of what medical research might be like, as well as introducing students to exciting scientific work at the forefront of our knowledge in a particular discipline. For those preferring a broader approach, Part II Biological and Biomedical Sciences has a wide range of courses, with many attractive and varied options available. A written dissertation forms an integral part, replacing the practical laboratory-based research project and enabling students to research a particular topic of interest in depth.

All students successfully completing three years of undergraduate study will graduate with a Cambridge BA Honours degree. In addition, those who have attained at least a Class II mark in each medical subject in the Tripos examinations will have gained exemption from the Cambridge 2nd MB. Those who do not reach this standard are required to take additional 2nd MB papers in the appropriate subject(s).

Why choose Newnham for Medicine?

Newnham is a great place to study medicine. Most teaching within the college is in small groups (supervisions), which allow plenty of opportunity for each student to contribute to the discussion and ask questions.

‘Newnham has an excellent reputation for medicine within the university and as a result its students have access to some of the best supervisors and facilities.’  1st year medical student

‘Newnham provides an excellent environment in which to enjoy and develop a relationship with the subject. This ranges from highly supportive supervisors to the modern and well-stocked and spacious library.’  1st year medical student

How many students take Medicine at Newnham?

Although our medical quota varies from year to year we offer on average about nine places, and have four to five applicants per place.

It must be said that competition for places in Medicine is very strong. Our minimum offers are A*AA at A-level, usually in science subjects (or mathematics).

How will I be taught at Newnham?

College-based teaching at Newnham is provided by research scientists and by those who are medically qualified. This combination enables sound coverage of the essential basic sciences with added clinical interest and relevance. We also have links with local General Practices, who are always pleased to have visits from pre-clinical students.

Can you tell me more about the Medicine Fellows?

• Professor Jenny Morton is Director of Pre-clinical Medical and Veterinary studies at Newnham College. She is also a Professor of Experimental Neurobiology in the Department of Pharmacology, and Course Organiser for University MVST 1B Pharmacology course. She is very active in research into neurodegenerative disorders e.g. Huntington’s disease and leads a team of researchers in the Department of Pharmacology
• Dr Jane MacDougall is Director of Clinical Medical studies at Newnham College. She is also a Consultant in Reproductive Medicine at the Rosie Hospital in Cambridge and as well as being a busy clinician plays an important role in management within the hospital as Clinical Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
• Dr Helen Firth (Bye-Fellow) is a Consultant in Clinical Genetics at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge where her main role is the diagnosis and management of patients and families affected by genetic disorders. She is also an Associate Lecturer in the Department of Medical Genetics.

What jobs do Newnham Medicine students go on to do?

Newnham medical students go on to a wide range of jobs when they qualify. After postgraduate training, most will go on to become hospital consultants or general practitioners. With the scientific grounding of the Cambridge course, some may choose to study for a PhD and become a clinician scientist (clinical researcher).

Are there any A-Level subjects that are particularly useful?

Before coming into residence successful applicants are required to have gained exemption from the Cambridge 1st MB examination. Premedical requirements have been introduced to replace the old 1st MB exemption conditions. For details of these requirements you should consult the University of Cambridge Undergraduate Prospectus or click here. It is no longer essential to have A-level passes (or the equivalent) in three science/mathematical subjects, e.g. Biology, Chemistry and Physics, or Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics. However, given the very broad scientific base of the Cambridge medical course it is expected that most students admitted will continue to offer the three science/mathematical subjects.

Can I take a gap year?

We are open-minded about applicants having a gap year. We are equally happy to accept applications from students applying pre-A level and wishing to come straight from school and those who have chosen to have a gap year and are applying post A level (or equivalent).

Applicants wishing to apply pre-A level (or equivalent) for deferred entry will also be considered, but because of the quota system, borderline applicants would be less likely to be successful, as we would usually only defer a place for a particularly strong applicant, or if there are extenuating circumstances.

How should I prepare for interview at Newnham?

You should read widely and be able to demonstrate a real interest and enthusiasm for studying medicine. It is especially important that you have read the websites and understand what the course entails.

You will usually have three interviews, each lasting 20-25 minutes. During your interview we will ask you questions about what you have done so far, including any work-placements or work-shadowing and we will also ask you to tackle some problem-solving questions. We will talk you through these activities e.g. interpreting a graph, so that we can get a chance to assess how you approach and think about problems and how you respond to guidance and advice. You will have an opportunity to ask questions. You may find it helpful to visit the section on interviews on the main Cambridge University website.

Where can I find out more?

More information is available on the admissions section (Medicine) of the University website.

Take a look at the profile of a current student.

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