How to apply

Have achieved or are expected to achieve:

• First class/2:1 BSc in medical/biological science subject – for example: Anatomy, Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Medical Science, Nursing, Physiotherapy. 2:2 may be considered but you will need considerable clinical experience with evidence documented in your personal statement. Those applying who have not yet finished undergraduate study will need to provide a current transcript with module marks to date and an academic reference with a predicted degree classification.
• Healthcare professional qualification – applicants applying with entry healthcare professional qualification require a transcript/information on topics covered i.e. nursing course (not BSc). Students need a good solid foundation in these sciences as they begin their studies.
• International qualifications – Degrees undertaken overseas may be considered – the University uses UKNARIC to assess a candidate's undergraduate degree and whether it is a recognised institution and what the classification equates to in the UK system.
• Two suitable references
• English language requirement – We also require evidence of English proficiency from all applicants whose first language is not English, such as IELTS for which we will require an average score of 7.5, with no less than 7.0 in any band

Preparation for interview and indeed for study on a healthcare course is aided by engaging in frequent discussions with friends and family about medical issues appearing in the news and media, including topics relating to the understanding and wider perception of the profession, both within the NHS and outside.

You should also use your time on work experience effectively by gaining insight into the demands placed on staff, the problems they encounter and the strategies that they employ to handle difficult situations as well as the benefits they obtain from caring for people and working in teams. Again, opportunities to engage in discussion of these issues must be taken. The interview may include an exploration of your understanding of the profession and your motivation for embarking on this career.

You should also consider what ethical situations you may encounter during your training and careers and how you may approach them.

Our interview process may also address many more topics including self-insight, reflection, problem-solving, dealing with uncertainty, communication, teamwork, resilience, empathy and honesty. In common with all organisations selecting people to work in the NHS, our recruitment is values-based.

Interviews will take place on Campus at the University of Birmingham, normally within the Medical School. Interviews will typically last around 20-30 minutes, but in the event of any over-run candidates should allow at least one hour.

Interviews take place on set dates during set periods of the year. Please do not arrange any travel until your interview slot has been confirmed.

The easiest and most convenient way to access the University is by train. The University has its own railway station - ‘University (Birmingham)’ and this is a 7 minute train ride from Birmingham New Street Station.

Car parks on campus are pay and display. They can be located on Pritchatts Road and Vincent Drive; these are the closest to the Medical School. You can find up-to-date visitors' information on our website.

After interview the panel will then make a recommendation to Central Admissions.  Notification of the outcome of the interview will normally be sent by Central Admissions within fifteen working days, subject to referees’ reports or other practical details.

The offer will normally be conditional.  It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet all of the conditions as listed in your offer letter at least one week prior to the start date of the course.  Offer holders who fail to do so, will not be allowed to commence the course.  Applicants are not permitted to start the programme late.

If you offer was based on predicted results, once your have received your results, please be prepared to send in your original or certified copies of your degree certificate and final transcript upon graduation, as the Admissions team will need to verify them. This will likely be a condition of your offer.

Non-academic offer requirements

• All will be required to complete a health declaration form with immunisation record.
• Students will be required to complete a successful Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before admission to the course.
• As a student on the PA programme you will be expected to meet specified standards of behaviour relating to fitness to practise set by the General Medical Council (GMC) .