Teaching and learning
Get a unique experience as a medical undergraduate at Manchester with innovative teaching methods and a high-tech learning environment.
We use a wide range of learning techniques, but the key Manchester approach is the study of themed case discussions in small groups where you are a proactive learner.
This is supported throughout your course by lectures, practical classes (including anatomy and physiology skills) and clinical experience.
How you’ll learn
The course integrates science and clinical learning so you are able to apply scientific knowledge and concepts to your clinical practice.
Team-based learning
At Manchester, you will benefit from an active way of learning, working in small teams to tackle tasks, solve problems and collaborate on a range of different exercises together.
You will use themed cases focused on real patients to achieve your learning outcomes for the week. You'll learn by combining independent study with numerous opportunities to learn from experts in their field, patients, and practicing doctors.
These opportunities will be provided through labs, lectures, anatomy classes, and other activities related to the theme.
- Video: More about team-based learning (YouTube)
Consultation skills
You'll attend sessions in the Consultation Skills Learning Centre (CSLC), where you can consult with 'simulated patients' played by actors and practice clinical skills on colleagues and our SimMan.
Labs
From the second semester onwards, you will gain hands-on experience of drugs and diagnostic methods in physiology and pharmacology lab-based sessions.
Anatomy
We offer the opportunity to study human anatomy, supported by experts, so you can learn first-hand how the human body works.
Clinical experience
You’ll be able to apply the skills you learn at university to real situations as you begin to meet patients in general practice and in hospitals from Year 1.
We organise several GP and hospital visits per semester to complement academic learning with real-world experiences.
From Year 3 onwards, you’re assigned to a major teaching hospital. This is where you’ll gain most of your clinical experience. We have over 700 community placements throughout the North West, including central Manchester, Lancashire and Wigan.
Personalised learning
You can explore topics that interest you in greater depth through personalised course units.
Learning on the go
You’ll be provided with an iPad to help your learning and give you easy access to reference material in clinical settings.
Typical Year 1 timetable
See below for an indicative Year 1 weekly timetable (for illustration purposes only) to get an idea of what your first year of study might involve.
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morning |
Facilitated small peer group tutorial Self-directed study |
Early clinical experience | Lectures | Physiology practical classes |
Facilitated small peer group tutorial Wrap-up lecture |
| Afternoon |
Dissection Self-directed study |
Lectures | Sports |
Self-directed study Consultation skills |
Personal and professional development meeting |
Read about Year 1 medical student Tahmeena's typical week: Monday to Wednesday and Thursday to Sunday (student blog)
Learn from experts
Manchester has a wealth of expertise in medical education, as well as clinical, biological and behavioural science research. Our teaching is supported by NHS clinicians who are experts in their clinical area and provide an active learning environment.
Our own academics are strongly committed to quality medical education, with many of our experts previously awarded National Teaching Fellowships.