Programme Details

The MBChB programme is taught over five years, full-time, and you will study 120 credits in each year.  A variety of inclusive teaching methods will be utilised to support the diversification of learning and to increase the likelihood of capturing the learning needs of all.

Course Title: Medicine (MBChB)
Duration: 5 years
Campus: Bolton Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS)
& 5 North-West NHS Hospital Trusts
Attendance: Full time
Entry Requirements: AAB/ 34 points overall IBDP
International Academic Requirements: CLICK HERE
International Language Qualifications: CLICK HERE
GMC Quality Assurance Procedures: CLICK HERE

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Programme Breakdown

Phase 1

In Phase 1 of the MBChB programme, teaching takes place primarily at the medical school through structured events such as lectures, small group working, case-based learning and discussions. These learning opportunities utilise clinical scenarios to contextualise knowledge which is built upon with early clinical placement during years 1 and 2.

Phase 2

In Phase 2 of the programme teaching shifts to workplace-based learning where guided and supervised experiential learning across clinical placement rotations is the focus. Relevant intended learning outcomes (ILOs) mapped to the longitudinal themes are embedded within clinical blocks. This learning is in turn re-enforced and added to with campus-based teaching within induction weeks and university days and during simulation activities.  

Curriculum and Assessment

The spiral nature of the curriculum allows you to revisit the themes across the programme and the placement experience blocks in Years 3-5 include a variety of topics, chosen for their ability to integrate the themes fully. Self-directed and independent study is essential for reaching your potential on the programme. We expect you to devote a significant amount of time to activities such as background reading, preparing for groupwork and practical sessions, and revising for assessments.

Practice learning is a compulsory component of the programme that enables you to develop the necessary competencies required for provisional registration with the GMC and practice as a doctor. In the first two years, teaching will be based mainly on campus and will be supported by clinical skills and simulation teaching which will take place in the Institute of Medical Sciences building located on the grounds of the Royal Bolton Hospital. In addition to this, you will undertake clinical experiences in Years 1 and 2 at our partner trusts and GP surgeries.  Years 3-5 will take place primarily in clinical placements with regular university contact days. People with lived experiences will also be involved in your teaching to provide a realistic perspective, in a safe environment. The medical school is also using simulation and interprofessional learning to create opportunities for role play and a deepening understanding of the roles of other healthcare providers based on scenarios that students could encounter.

The purpose of assessments across the MBChB programme is to ensure that graduates are competent to undertake Foundation Training. The assessments are designed to assess professional knowledge, skills, and behaviour competencies as outlined in the programme learning outcomes consistent with the GMC Outcomes for Graduates 2018. The assessments each year reflect the competence level for that year and are aligned with the year’s learning outcomes. Across the programme, you can expect a range of assessment methods including single best answer and short answer questions, reflections, presentations, Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCE) and assessment of practice within the practice setting.

Throughout your programme of study, you will be required to document and reflect on your skills and learning progress in an e-portfolio. The portfolio aims to serve as a digital repository for this information and will develop into a clinical work-based assessment tool as you progress through Phase 2. This will enable you to identify and record your development, and includes elements related to professionalism, future action plans, and attendance/engagement; providing a comprehensive overview of your academic journey and professional development. 

Key Facilities

• State-of-the-art £40m purpose-built facilities 
• Cutting-edge medical equipment
• Highly experienced Faculty, known for their outstanding clinical expertise, cutting-edge research and significant contributions to national and international medical policy
• Innovative Curriculum
• Exceptional Student Support & Experience
• National and International Partnerships and Collaborations
• Tailored inductions for International Medical Students

KEY APPLICATION DATES – 2027 to be added soon

ROUND TWO:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: TBC
ROUND TWO OF MMIs: TBC

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ROUND THREE:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: TBC
ROUND TWO OF MMIs: TBC

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ROUND FOUR:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: TBC
ROUND TWO OF MMIs: TBC

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ROUND FIVE:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: TBC
ROUND TWO OF MMIs: TBC

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APPLY NOW

A WORD FROM YOUR PRO-VICE CHANCELLOR (MEDICINE)

Professor Iqbal Singh CBE

Welcome to Bolton Medical School, where your journey toward becoming a compassionate, skilled, and innovative healthcare professional begins. 

I am delighted that you are considering joining our vibrant and supportive community, and I would like to take this opportunity to share with you what makes Bolton Medical School a truly special place to pursue your medical education.

At Bolton, we believe that medicine is not just a profession but a calling—a commitment to improving lives, advancing healthcare, and making a positive impact on society. Our medical school is dedicated to providing an education that is both compassionate and holistic, preparing you to meet the complex challenges of modern healthcare with confidence, empathy, and resilience.

APPLY NOW

STUDYING IN BOLTON

THE APPEAL OF A CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY COMBINED WITH THE ADVANTAGES OF A LARGE NEIGHBOURING CITY

Nestled in Greater Manchester, Bolton is a vibrant town steeped in history and community spirit, offering an affordable and enriching environment for students. With easy access to Manchester’s vibrant culture, Bolton combines the charm of a close-knit community with the excitement of a nearby city. The University of Bolton’s excellent location provides a unique blend of affordability, connectivity, and access to both urban and natural environments, enriching the student experience both academically and socially.
The University of Bolton enjoys strong transport links, including a well-connected train station and proximity to major motorways. This makes travel to other parts of the UK convenient:

• Manchester City Centre: 20 minutes
• London: 2 hours
• York: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Birmingham: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Edinburgh: 3 hour 30 minutes.