Since childhood, becoming a doctor has always been my passion. I knew this was an important decision and would shape my career and personal growth. After thorough research and consideration, I am confident and happy in my choice of studying Medicine at Queen’s University. Here are the reasons why I chose to study at Queen’s, and why I believe it could be the right choice for you, too.

Check out the main Medicine facilities at Queen's

Plenty of patient contact and clinical exposure

From first year, I have had the opportunity to interact with patients and learn from them. I am a practical learner, and these hands-on experiences are invaluable to me in understanding patient care. My favourite component was “family medicine” which taught me to look at the patient beyond their illness and become a student of the patient.

We also get the opportunity to experience both primary and secondary healthcare settings throughout the years. I find that so important because it teaches me about the real-world functioning of GPs and hospitals.

Gain experience in both primary and secondary healthcare settings

Practical labs and Cadaveric Dissection

One of the highlights of our anatomy teachings is the cadaveric dissections. Having access to practical learning is very important for me. When you can see how something looks like in a real human body, it makes it easier to learn. Even the experiments in the physiology lab make learning fun and interesting.

Teaching style

It is very important to research the university’s teaching style before you make your decision to choose the university. Queen’s uses “case-based learning” style of teaching. This means that students have more autonomy to learn the way they want to.

Outside of the lectures and other classes, we are given a case that we need to work on as a team. It is a great way to gain some clinical perspective on the theory we are learning and use it to make our own learning outcomes. This ultimately becomes a very useful revision guide.

Case-based learning is used to deliver key components of the units

Flexible curriculum

In Queen’s, you have the freedom to tailor your degree how you want. There are some compulsory classes and modules everyone must take but you also have the choice to choose a subject you are passionate about. These are called student selected components.

You also have the option to take a year out of your studies and choose to do a research project or an intercalated degree. Additionally, the university also offers research opportunities during the summer break in the form of summer studentships. This is a great way to enhance your CV.

World-class infrastructure

Queen’s has a state-of-the-art clinical skills and InterSim area. We are allowed to practice clinical skills in a controlled but realistic environment here. We can practice on both real life simulated patients and life like dummies.

The InterSim Centre encourages the development of real-world skills

Work life balance

A good work life balance is really stressed upon by the university. There is ample time set aside for recreational activities outside of classes. There are also a lot of medical societies that organise social events throughout the year.

I hope this helps you make your decision in choosing the right medical school!

Find out more

Medicine at Queen's

A Week in the Life of a Medical Student at Queen's

How to Prepare for and Ace Your OSCE as a Pre-Clinical Student!

Why I Chose Medicine at Queen's: A Journey of Science, Service and Community

Manya Ranganathan  Medicine | Undergraduate Student | India I am in my third year of medical school at Queen’s. It has been an enjoyable few years in Belfast with lots of study sessions in the McClay, discovering new parts of the city and working together with my peers. I am an international student from Delhi, India but the wonderful people I have met and the friends I’ve made make Belfast seem like home.