Let’s start off by understanding what a PG course means; it is a master’s degree that a student pursues after their under graduation. With an undergraduate degree, you can get a basic knowledge of a certain subject or field. However, a PG course allows you to further specialise in a specific area, deepening your knowledge and expertise. After completing an MBBS degree, students may choose to pursue PG courses that align with their interests and career goals, opening up a world of opportunities for advanced learning and professional development. The United Kingdom offers a diverse range of PG courses across various disciplines, allowing MBBS graduates to explore specialised areas within the medical field or even branch out into other related fields. So let’s dive into why study medical PG In UK.
Why study Medical PG In UK?
The United Kingdom boasts of its prestigious universities that provide exceptional learning and exploration opportunities. Getting a degree from a UK university is highly considered. The best part is that postgraduate courses in the UK are usually shorter in duration compared to other countries. This means students can save time and money and start their careers a year earlier. Embarking on a postgraduate degree in Medicine in the UK demands a challenging commitment of 2 to 3 years. UK universities bestow degrees that are acknowledged by esteemed organisations such as the MCI, whose merit is also acknowledged in countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the USA.
The UK offers medical training after completing primary medical studies, including Foundation Training, Specialty Training, GP, and other specialised training. Studying for a postgraduate degree in Medicine in the UK will provide advanced training in your specialised field and expand your knowledge.
What are the entry requirements for PG MBBS in the UK?
After completing MBBS, three pathways exist to register for a postgraduate (PG) program in the UK. Let's explore them further:
1. Through PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board)
To practice medicine in the UK, registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) is mandatory. One way to pursue a PG program in the UK is by taking the PLAB exam. PLAB is a certification course that assesses your eligibility for GMC registration. It allows you to register with the GMC, but it does not give you a degree.
2. Without PLAB
There are also universities in the UK that accept international students without requiring PLAB. For example, the collaboration between a British university, NHS Hospitals, and the Royal College of Physicians in London. They offer a clinical MD course that provides internationally recognised master's degrees and specialised training in fields such as Oncology, Diabetes, Cardiology, Acute Medicine, and more. This program allows trainees to obtain GMC-UK registration at the beginning of their PG course, enabling them to engage in clinical practice while studying. It's important to note that candidates who have previously taken the PLAB exam but did not qualify are not eligible to apply for this particular pathway.
3. MRCP/MRCS Pathway
Another pathway to pursue a postgraduate program in the UK after completing MBBS in India is through the MRCP (Membership of the Royal College of Physicians) or MRCS (Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons) examinations. These are prestigious PG medical courses in the UK. To qualify for speciality training, applicants need to clear the MRCP or MRCS examination successfully. These qualifications are approved by the GMC and are recognised for postgraduate studies. On completing the MRCP or MRCS, applicants will obtain full GMC registration and a license to practice medicine in the UK. This pathway provides a comprehensive foundation for specialised training and further career advancement.
Documents Required for PG MBBS in the UK
To apply for a PG in Medicine program in the UK, the applicant must provide the following documents:
1. Mark sheet/certificate of 10th grade or its equivalent.
2. Mark sheet/certificate of 12th grade or its equivalent.
3. Statement of Purpose.
4. Semester-wise marks of MBBS.
5. Valid MBBS degree (provisional or permanent).
6. Attempt Certificate.
7. Internship completion certificate.
8. Copy of the first and last page of the passport.
These documents are essential for the application process and will help determine the applicant's eligibility for the PG program in Medicine in the UK.
Eligibility for PG MBBS in the UK
Now that we have understood the process of getting admitted to a postgraduate course let's explore some of the other mandatory eligibility requirements for studying in the UK:
1. IELTS score ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
2. Obtaining a 'B' grade in the Occupational English Test (OET) is another way to showcase English language proficiency.
3. It is advisable for the applicant to complete a satisfactory internship outside of the UK, following an acceptable pattern.
4. Having 2-3 years of work experience can greatly enhance the applicant's portfolio and strengthen their application.
5. The applicant should have successfully completed at least one undergraduate course with acceptable grades to be eligible to apply for postgraduate studies.
Meeting these eligibility requirements is crucial for prospective students planning to study in the UK. These requirements ensure that applicants have the necessary language skills, practical experience, and academic background to succeed in a postgraduate program.
Best Universities To study Medical PG In UK
Here are some renowned universities in the UK known to Medical PG In UK, along with approximate average MBBS course fees for local and international students. Please note that these MBBS course fees are subject to change, and it's always best to refer to the official university websites for more information:
1. University of Oxford:
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It is renowned for its excellence in medical research and education. Learn more about the acceptance rate of Oxford right here!
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £9,250 to £13,020 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £27,690 to £47,570 per year
2. University of Cambridge:
The University of Cambridge is another esteemed institution known for its exceptional medical programs. It has a rich history and a strong reputation for producing top-notch medical professionals.
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £9,250 to £13,200 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £31,800 to £53,000 per year
3. Imperial College London:
Imperial College London is renowned for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and medicine.
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £10,000 to £46,000 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £35,000 to £57,000 per year
4. University College London (UCL):
University College London, commonly known as UCL, is a highly respected university with a strong medical faculty. UCL's medical programs stress on interdisciplinary learning and research to produce the best medical professionals.
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £10,000 to £50,000 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £31,000 to £58,000 per year
5. King's College London:
King's College London is renowned for its world-class medical programs and research initiatives. The university has a strong focus on patient care and innovation in medical education.
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £10,500 to £50,000 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £31,000 to £56,000 per year
6. University of Edinburgh:
The University of Edinburgh is a prestigious institution with a tradition of excellence in medical education. The university's commitment to research and innovation makes it an attractive choice for medical students.
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £10,650 to £37,900 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £33,300 to £42,600 per year
7. University of Glasgow:
The University of Glasgow has a rich heritage and a strong reputation for medical education and is a top choice for students studying in UK!
- Local MBBS course fees: Approximately £10,800 to £38,000 per year
- International MBBS course fees: Approximately £28,400 to £44,000 per year
Top Courses for MD/MS In UK
For student looking for courses to do after MBBS in UK, there are several specialized areas of study to choose from. These specialized programs provide in-depth training and knowledge in various medical fields.
MD Specializations Available in the UK:
1. Diabetes
2. Cardiovascular Medicine
3. Psychiatric Medicine
4. Internal Medicine
5. Gastroenterology
6. Dermatology
MS Specializations Available in the UK:
1. Orthopaedic Surgery
2. Ophthalmology
3. Urology
4. Gastrointestinal Surgery
5. ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat)
6. Vascular Surgery
Studying Medical PG In UK opens up exciting opportunities to specialize in different areas of medicine. If you're passionate about diabetes, heart health, mental health, or skin conditions, you can choose an MD program. On the other hand, if you're interested in surgeries like bone and joint, eye, stomach, ear, nose, or blood vessels, an MS program is ideal. Don't forget to explore the specific requirements and offerings of each university to find the perfect program for you. We wish you the best of luck for your UK adventures! You can also read our blog on the 10 best countries for pursuing MBBS.