Medicine

Alex, 3rd year on the standard course (A100)

'I was attracted to the strong scientific grounding of the Oxford medical course. The Pre-clinical course enables you to gain in-depth knowledge of the science behind clinical practice while experiencing the primary scientific research that fuels medical progression. The first year encompasses organisation of the body and so includes dissection – an incredibly useful tool in learning anatomy! Being lectured by world leaders in their field is awe-inspiring and gave an edge to my learning. I’m currently in my third year and love the freedom and self-direction of my research project. I am developing skills as a scientist which will be useful in clinical practice, while also getting to grips with topics that fascinate me. I’m doing an option called ‘Infection and immunity’, and love being able to trace current developments in the field and apply them to potential future therapeutic applications. There is also a clinical aspect provided by the doctor-patient course. I found this valuable in helping me to develop good communication skills, as I learnt how to take patient histories and interact with patients under the guidance of a practising GP.'

Gordon, who graduated in 2004, now works in the field of biotechnology. He says:

‘Although I studied medicine as an undergraduate and qualified as a doctor in 2004, I have not remained working in clinical medicine in the NHS. Instead building my career in small high-growth biotechnology companies in the UK, California, and France. My time as an undergraduate at Oxford was hugely influential in seizing interesting scientific and business opportunities well outside the boundaries of a typical medical career in the NHS.’