The MBChB programme in Glasgow is based on integration of clinical and preclinical subjects, and on student-centred learning. The programme is based around vertical themes that comprise the basic disciplines of medicine, such as anatomy and physiology, pathology and microbiology, clinical medicine and clinical surgery. Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, problem-based learning, practical laboratory sessions and clinical bedside teaching. The programme has four phases.
Phase 1 Phase 1 takes up most of the first semester. This is a broad sweep of biomedical subjects, and early clinical and vocational skills. During this phase the student acquires the fundamentals of biomedical science, and the skills necessary for self-directed learning. The themes covered in this section include
homeostasis, basic anatomy, physiology and biochemistry, and the fundamentals of health and illness in communities.
Phase 2 Phase 2 takes up the second half of first year and all of second year. It is a system-based, integrated approach to biomedical sciences and basic clinical problems relating to individual systems.
Phase 3 Phase 3 takes up the first half of third year, during which time the student learns the basics of pathology, covering a speciality a week. For example, a week on G.I. pathology, a week on
haematology and a week on respiratory pathology. During this time there are weekly visits to either a G.P. or hospital. This is combined with more in-depth teaching on the principles of medicine and surgery, the pathological basis of disease, and clinical investigation and laboratory analysis, including radiology, clinical biochemistry, pathology and microbiology. During the summer vacations after third and fourth years the student undertakes two four-week periods of elective study. These are in subjects and locations of choice and are designed to develop individual interests and to experience medical environments other than those provided on the programme. The top 20% of students after year three have the option of completing an additional
intercalated degree before entering year four.
Phase 4 Phase 4 comprises the second half of year three and years four and five. This is the final part of the programme during which the student is attached to clinical specialities, including
obstetrics and
gynaecology, child health,
psychological medicine, general practice, and more specialised aspects of medicine and surgery. During this phase most of the time is spent in hospital attachments in Glasgow and in the wider West of Scotland, and learning the clinical and practical skills necessary to work as a
junior doctor.
Clinical skills and vocational studies Medical students have contact with patients from early on in the medical degree programme. Training in communication and clinical skills starts in Year 1, while vocational studies assist students in the acquisition of professional skills and attributes, standards and behaviour. ==Wolfson Medical School Building==