Medicine is one of the most respected and rewarding professions in the world. It’s a field that continues to evolve, incorporating the latest research and technological advancements to improve patient care. If you’re considering studying medicine in the UK, you’ll want to find the best universities that offer top-quality education, excellent facilities, and strong career prospects.
Studying medicine covers a broad range of topics, from anatomy and physiology to pharmacology, pathology, and surgery. It is a highly demanding yet rewarding field that prepares students for a variety of medical professions. The study of medicine involves not only theoretical learning but also practical training through clinical placements and simulated medical environments.
Medicine degrees in the UK offer different specialisations and pathways, including:
Applied Medical Sciences BSc – focuses on the scientific research behind medicine, ideal for those interested in laboratory work or medical innovation.
Cardiac Physiology BSc – a specialised field that studies the heart and its functions, crucial for treating cardiovascular diseases.
Infectious Diseases BSc – covers the study of viruses, bacteria, and public health strategies to manage outbreaks.
Medicine MBChB – the traditional medical degree required to become a doctor.
Operating Department Practice BSc – prepares students for assisting in surgical procedures.
Throughout your studies, you’ll cover topics such as human biology, medical ethics, patient care, diagnostic techniques, pharmacology, and surgical procedures. Many universities also incorporate work placements within hospitals and clinics, allowing students to gain real-world experience early on, which is essential in developing patient interaction skills.
Medical students are often required to participate in research projects, which help them develop critical analytical and problem-solving skills. These projects contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and are a stepping stone for those interested in pursuing a career in medical research or academia.
A degree in medicine opens the door to a vast number of career opportunities. Whether you want to work directly with patients, conduct medical research, or specialise in a particular field, medicine provides a solid foundation for many rewarding professions. Some career paths include:
Doctor (General Practitioner or Specialist) – working in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.
Surgeon – performing life-saving operations in a variety of fields, including orthopaedics, neurology, and cardiothoracic surgery.
Pharmacist – specialising in the study and administration of medicines.
Biomedical Scientist – researching diseases and developing new treatments.
Paediatrician – specialising in children’s health.
Radiologist – using medical imaging to diagnose and treat conditions.
Anaesthetist – managing pain and sedation during surgical procedures.
Medical Researcher – working in laboratories to advance healthcare treatments.
Public Health Specialist – managing and implementing policies to improve health outcomes at a population level.
With the increasing demand for healthcare professionals, a medical degree ensures strong job security and numerous opportunities for progression within the field. Many graduates also choose to specialise further, which may involve additional training in fields such as oncology, cardiology, or neurology.
When choosing from the best medical schools and universities for medicine, it’s important to consider factors such as academic reputation, course structure, facilities, and entry requirements. Below is a list of the top 10 universities for medicine in the UK based on the 2025 University Subject League Table for Medicine from the Complete University Guide.
Note: Entry requirements are subject to change and vary by university. Requirements may also include preliminary exams (e.g. UCAT or BMAT) and interviews in addition to the UCAS points criteria.
Subject League Table: 1st
University League Table: 1st
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 160 UCAS points
The University of Cambridge is globally recognised for its rigorous academic programmes, particularly in medicine. The Medicine MB degree is a six-year course that includes three years of pre-clinical study followed by three years of clinical training. Cambridge’s teaching methodology is highly research-driven, and students benefit from state-of-the-art medical facilities, partnerships with leading hospitals, and a strong emphasis on small-group learning through the supervision system.
Subject League Table: 2nd
University League Table: 2nd
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 112-165 UCAS points
Oxford’s medical programme follows a traditional but rigorous approach, with pre-clinical years focusing on theoretical knowledge, followed by clinical placements at some of the UK's top hospitals. The Medicine BMBCh degree provides students with world-class resources, close engagement with renowned academics, and the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge medical research.
Subject League Table: 3rd
University League Table: 9th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 144-168 UCAS points
University College London (UCL) is at the forefront of medical research, offering students cutting-edge opportunities in clinical medicine and biomedical sciences. The university offers multiple undergraduate medical degrees, such as Cancer Biomedicine BSc (Hons) and Sport and Exercise Medical Sciences BSc (Hons). UCL's strong connections with leading London hospitals allow students to gain invaluable hands-on experience in a dynamic healthcare environment.
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Subject League Table: 4th
University League Table: 5th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 144-200 UCAS points
Imperial College London is a leading institution for medicine, known for its interdisciplinary and research-led approach. The university integrates medicine with engineering, technology, and artificial intelligence, making it an ideal choice for students interested in innovative healthcare solutions. Undergraduate medicine courses include Molecular Bioengineering MEng and Biomedical Engineering MEng (Hons). Its strong links with the NHS and world-class medical facilities offer students practical exposure from the outset.
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Subject League Table: 5th
University League Table: 15th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 120-165 UCAS points
A leading university with a strong focus on medical research and global health studies, the University of Edinburgh offers an integrated curriculum, combining research-led teaching with patient interaction from early in the course. The medical school has state-of-the-art research facilities and is known for its groundbreaking contributions to medical science. Undergraduate medicine courses include Infectious Diseases BSc (Hons) and Reproductive Biology BSc (Hons).
Subject League Table: 6th
University League Table: 16th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 104-159 UCAS points
Bristol offers a modern medical curriculum with excellent research facilities and clinical training. The Cellular and Molecular Medicine programmes are particularly well-regarded. Bristol places a strong emphasis on problem-based learning, ensuring that students develop both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience.
Subject League Table: 7th
University League Table: 28th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: AAA at A-Level
With a patient-centred approach, the University of Glasgow provides excellent clinical experience for students. Its Medicine MBChB programme is structured to provide early exposure to patients, and students benefit from placements in a wide range of healthcare settings across Scotland. The university is also known for its strong medical research initiatives.
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Subject League Table: 8th
University League Table: 25th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 152 UCAS points
A top medical school known for its strong clinical training programmes, Queen’s University Belfast provides students with a unique combination of academic learning and hands-on hospital placements. Its Medicine MB degree is highly regarded, and the university maintains partnerships with leading medical institutions in Northern Ireland.
Subject League Table: 9th
University League Table: 51st
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 120-128 UCAS points
Dundee is highly regarded for its student satisfaction and innovative teaching methods. The Gateway to Medicine MBChB is a unique one-year course that provides students with the foundation they need to progress into full medical training. Dundee's medical school has a strong reputation for practical clinical training and research-led education.
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Subject League Table: 10th
University League Table: 4th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 108-159 UCAS points
St Andrews offers one of the oldest and most prestigious medical programmes in the UK. The university provides a six-year Medicine MBChB course, as well as a Gateway to Medicine BSc (Gen). St Andrews’ medical students complete the first three years in Scotland before transferring to a partner medical school to finish their clinical training.
While these are some of the best medical schools and top universities for medicine in the UK, they are not the only options. For example, The Guardian also ranks the best universities for medicine in the UK, placing Aberdeen at number 1, alongside other top institutions such as Hull York Medical School, Keele, and Leicester in their top 10. Be sure to research each university’s offerings, entry requirements, and student experience to find the best fit for you!
Medicine is a profession that requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for patient care. Choosing the right university is the first step in this rewarding journey. With world-class institutions across the UK, students have a wealth of opportunities to pursue a fulfilling career in healthcare and research.
Ready to begin your medical journey? Explore your options and find the perfect university to help you achieve your medicine career goals!
For more information, the Medical Schools Council website is a useful resource for anyone thinking of applying for Medicine, providing guidance on the application process, advice on gaining relevant work experience, access to informative resources, and events tailored for students, their teachers, and supporters.