Hey everyone, Today, I wanted to dive into something that many of you may have heard of but might not fully understand: intercalation in a medical degree. If you’re a medical student or thinking about applying to med school, you’ve likely come across this term. So, what exactly does intercalation mean, and why is it worth considering? In simple terms, intercalation is when you take a year out of your standard medical degree to complete an additional qualification, such as an iBSc (intercalated Bachelor of Science) or iBA (intercalated Bachelor of Arts). This extra year allows you to explore a different subject area in depth, often related to medicine but distinct from your core studies. It’s a way to broaden your academic horizons while still staying connected to healthcare and science. Some popular choices for intercalation include degrees in Medical Management, Anatomy, Public Health, or even Medical Ethics. There’s also the option to intercalate in more technical fields like Global Health, Neuroscience, or even Biomedical Engineering. The range of subjects is huge, depending on the university. Personally, I chose to intercalate in Maths, Computers, and Medicine for my iBSc. It’s been a refreshing change from the typical pre-clinical years in medicine. The modules I’m studying, such as Introductory Programming, Mathematical Modelling in Biomedicine, and Machine Learning for Domain Specialists, have really broadened my skill set. While the content is different from the clinical studies I’m used to, there are still loose connections to medicine, especially through my research project, which needs to link back to medical science in some way. This year has given me the chance to explore something outside the direct clinical path. It’s a great way to break up the intensity of medical school while still working towards something that contributes to my career in healthcare. If you’re the type of person who wants a change of pace while gaining new, marketable skills, intercalating might be just the thing for you. At some universities, intercalation is mandatory, turning the standard five-year medical course into a six-year one. For example, schools like Cambridge, Oxford, UCL, and Imperial require you to intercalate. But at many other universities, it’s optional. Some universities, however, don’t offer the chance to intercalate at all, so it’s crucial to research the options available at the institutions you’re applying to. Another important thing to consider is when you’ll be intercalating. Depending on the university, you could take your intercalation year in either your third or fourth year of medical school. For example, UCL students (like myself) intercalate in their third year, while Imperial students do it in their fourth year. If you’re thinking about intercalating at a different university, the timing could affect your application and course options. For those looking to go even further, some medical schools offer the chance to intercalate at a master’s level, not just for an iBSc or iBA. However, this is usually only possible after completing three years of medical school. If your university only allows intercalation in the third year, you may have to wait until later to pursue a master’s or take an extra year out. It’s something to consider if a master’s degree is part of your long-term plan. Now, let’s talk about the perks. Intercalation has several advantages, both academically and personally: Broaden your knowledge: This is your chance to explore a completely different aspect of healthcare or even a non-medical subject you’re passionate about. Gain an additional qualification: Completing an intercalated degree means you’ll have an extra degree under your belt by the end of med school, which can be a great asset when applying for future jobs or specialties. Break from clinical medicine: Let’s face it – med school can be intense. Taking a year to study something different can refresh your mind and renew your focus when you return to clinical studies. Research skills: One common aspect of intercalation is conducting a research project. It not only deepens your knowledge in a specific field but also gives you valuable research experience, which is especially useful for those considering an academic or specialist career. Specialist edge: The skills and knowledge you gain during your intercalated year can give you an edge when applying for specializations. For example, my focus on computational and mathematical approaches to medicine could open doors in areas like health tech or medical research. While intercalation has many benefits, there are some downsides to keep in mind: Extended timeline: Since you’re taking an extra year, you’ll graduate later than your peers who are on a five-year course. This could be a factor if you’re keen to enter the workforce as soon as possible. Financial considerations: While Student Finance England (SFE) usually covers iBSc and iBA programs, it doesn’t cover master’s degrees during intercalation. This means you’ll have to think carefully about how you’ll fund that additional qualification if you opt for a master’s. Academic pressure: Although it might be a break from clinical work, an intercalated year is still academically demanding. You’re squeezing an entire degree’s worth of work into one year, so be prepared for a busy and challenging experience. Adapting to a new environment: If you choose to intercalate at a different university, you’ll need to adjust to a new academic environment and make new connections. While this can be exciting, it can also be a bit overwhelming at first. Intercalation is an opportunity to step outside the normal medical curriculum, develop new skills, and expand your horizons. Whether you’re considering a future in clinical practice, research, or something else entirely, this year can provide you with experiences that enrich both your professional and personal development. For me, intercalating in Maths, Computers, and Medicine has been an incredible learning journey, offering a refreshing break from traditional medical studies while still keeping me connected to the world of healthcare. If you’re thinking about intercalating, I’d highly recommend researching the different options available at your university and beyond. It’s an exciting opportunity to make your medical school journey even more diverse and rewarding. Good luck to everyone embarking on this journey!What is Intercalation?
My Intercalation Experience
Is Intercalation Compulsory?
Intercalating at a Master’s Level
Benefits of Intercalation
Drawbacks to Consider
Final Thoughts
How to do Well in the UCAT
November 25, 2024
