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Course details

Age: 16+
Academic level: 5 A / A* grade or equivalent at GCSE / equivalent level.
Compulsory A/A* grades in Sciences.
A good conduct certificate.
English Language level: IELTS 5.0+ / TOEFL (Internet) 61+
Assessments: all students will study for the BMAT and UKCAT examinations alongside AS and A2 examinations and coursework.
Course length: 6 terms (Cambridge, London or Canterbury); 5 terms (Cambridge and London only)
Entry dates:

  September January
6 terms Cambridge
Canterbury
London
Canterbury
5 terms ---- Cambridge
London

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Medics Programme

CATS College studentsCATS College students

For determined students looking for successful careers in Medicine, Veterinary Science and Dentistry.

CATS College Medics Programme is a highly specialised 2 year programme of study for focused, high-achieving students looking for progression onto related degrees at leading universities.

Students study the following A level subjects:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics or Mathematics

International students also study a specialised medic English Language programme.

All students benefit from weekly 2hr seminars in addition to their academic subjects. Seminars include:

  • information on medic degrees
  • the requirements for becoming a doctor
  • the NHS
  • topical issues
  • mock interviews.

Students are expected to lead presentations and seminars on specific topics to develop and encourage their confidence and critical thinking skills in preparation for university interviews.

Higher Education advice and guidance

The Medics Programme Leader oversees all students on the programme, providing complete support. University guidance and applications are tailored to each individual’s particular strengths and career goals giving them the best chance of success. UCAS applications, personal statements, University visits and careers fairs enhance CATS College Medic students applications.

Mock interviews

Students undergo extensive mock interviews in preparation for university applications during both AS and A2 years. These include:

  • in-house interviews with a panel of academic tutors
  • external interview with panel of experts
  • group presentations.

Work Experience and Volunteering

All Medic students will undertake a series of work experience and volunteer placements to help enhance their academic studies. UK work experience is undertaken at institutes such as Cambridge University Addenbrookes Hospital and Papworth Hospital where students will shadow Doctor’s and Consultants. Volunteering and charity work during term time includes placements for Oxfam and the British Red Cross. International students will also be required to undertake work experience in their home countries during vacations which the Medics Programme Leader will assist with arranging.

Seminars

Students benefit from regular seminars from external specialists. These include topics such as:

  • research on the genetic link in cardiovascular disease
  • Schizophrenia

Sample timetable

  Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
08.45 - 09.00 PT PT PT PT PT
09.00 - 10.00 Physics Biology Chemistry ESL Independent study
10.00 - 11.00 Physics Biology Chemistry ESL Independent study
11.15 - 12.15 ESL Physics Maths Biology Maths
12.15 - 13.15 ESL Physics Independent study Biology Maths
13.15 - 14.15 Lunch Lunch Maths Lunch Lunch
14.15 - 15.15 Chemistry Maths Lunch Physics Biology
15.30 - 16.30 PSHE Independent study ESL Science Chemistry Independent study
16.30 - 17.30 Independent study Independent study ESL Medicine Chemistry Independent study

How to apply

Students interested in the Medics Programme can apply online - select "A levels" and then choose Medics Programme in the pathway options.

Programme Leader

Guilly Lassman

Guilly Lassman MSc, BSc (Hons)
As a member of the Society of Biology, Guilly holds a first class honours degree in Zoology and an MSc in Shellfish Biology. A native Portuguese speaker, Guilly also speaks French, Italian and Spanish and with over 20 years experience, she successfully prepares intending Medics for the rigours of their future career.

“CATS College Medics Programme is designed to stimulate, educate and challenge potential doctors to develop their skills in several areas – academic, creative and social. Our students share the passion and determination required to succeed on the Medic pathway - ambition and motivation – and we provide the ideal environment for that success at CATS College."