Student support
Our students receive outstanding academic and pastoral guidance.
Medical Student Office
The Medical Student Office employs core teachers on the MBBS programme and curriculum officers. They manage all aspects of the course.
We encourage students to contact the office with all queries and concerns. The friendly staff are well equipped to assist.
Throughout the programme you will receive academic guidance and individual tutorial support. The University’s specialist academic and welfare services support with this service.
Virtual learning
We support your study with materials and resources. They are available to you on the interactive Virtual Learning Environment.
We provide:
- learning outcomes
- details of the programme of study
- guidance to support self-study, including self-assessment
Pastoral support
A network of individuals and teams provide pastoral support, which includes:
- the Senior Pastoral Tutor and academic mentors based in the School of Medical Education
- regional educational base unit teams
- for first year students, a peer mentoring system
Student input
Our programme continually evolves. Much-valued student input into curriculum development enhances our learning offer
Your student voice has many outputs, including:
- course evaluation
- student-staff committees
- student representation on the Board of Medical Studies
- School Equality, Diversity and Inclusion committee
During the programme, there are many opportunities to receive and seek careers advice. in relation to your postgraduate training.
Study support
Some students experience difficulties adapting to the Medical School's learning environment. Methods that worked for A-levels may no longer be effective.
The Medical School provides in-house study skills support. You can also book one-to-one sessions with the Study Skills Adviser.
Specialist study skills support is available for students with dyslexia or learning difficulties.
English as a second language
If English is not your first language, you may wish to access support to improve your spoken and written English. INTO Newcastle University offers English language support for non-native speaker students.
English Language Materials Online
This service provides online multimedia which is free to Newcastle University students.
Maths support
Maths-Aid provides a free and confidential service to all students of Newcastle University. It offers professional help and advice on all aspects of mathematics and statistics.
Academic writing skills
The Writing Development Centre offers a free service to our students. The Centre helps students to develop their academic writing skills in a supportive environment.
We support students in the transition from secondary to higher education. We also support the transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study.
Pastoral support
The University has a network of support services, available to all students.
Academic mentors
At the beginning of your first year, we'll allocate you an academic mentor within the Medical School. Usually, this person will act as your mentor throughout your time at Newcastle University.
You're asked to meet with your academic mentor at least twice per year during Early Years. Their role is to provide an initial point of contact for any concerns you may have.
Depending on the nature of your discussion, they may refer you to other sources of support within the Medical School or the University.
It’s important you maintain contact with your personal tutor even if you don’t experience any difficulties. They will be available to you as a referee for vacation jobs and other opportunities.
Senior Pastoral Tutor
Based in the Medical Student Office, the Senior Pastoral Tutor is available to all students and staff. They are a source of advice and information relating to student wellbeing.
Base unit staff
During the clinical years of the programme, we provide local support via the base unit. We attach students to an educational base unit within a group of hospitals.
Each base unit has an education manager and a clinical sub-dean. Their responsibilities include managing all aspects of the student experience.
Student Wellbeing Service
Our Student Wellbeing Service provides a confidential source of information, advice and guidance.
This covers a wide range of student support issues to enable all students to maximise their potential while at University.
The Student Wellbeing Service offers specialist advice on financial management, including:
- student loans
- NHS bursaries
- a range of discretionary funds
There is a careers 'theme' that runs through the Newcastle medical curriculum. This means we help to inform you and improve your skills so you are able to make good career decisions.
There is a member of staff within the Medical School who can provide careers advice on a one-to-one basis. There is a University Careers Adviser with special responsibility for medicine.
Our Careers Service offers guidance and advice throughout your studies, and up to three years after graduation.
Student travel
Most medical students now need to travel during the course of their study. This helps them to make the most of the clinical learning opportunities which exist.
In recognition of this, the University provides a financial contribution to the cost of student travel. Some students may be eligible for extra support from the NHS Bursary Scheme.
Online support
Our students have access to a bespoke website, designed especially to support them through their studies. It's particularly useful for those who are travelling around the region.
The Virtual Learning Environment provides online access to a range of resources. These include:
- study guides, handbooks and timetables
- electronic portfolios
- student forum
- assessment information
- learning resources and recorded lectures
Our students use the website on a daily basis, as it supports and enhances learning.
Extra-curricular activity
We recognise the importance of establishing a balanced approach to study. There are plenty of opportunities for our students to engage in extra-curricular activities.
Many medical students choose to volunteer for Nightline. This is a University listening service for students, run by students. Many also help the local community by raising money for playground equipment and other projects.
The ‘Medics’ also have their own university and elite sports teams.
The MedEd Society runs revision and advice sessions to support junior colleagues with aspects of the course.
The Academic Medicine Society enjoys support from key research staff. It also helps medical students to identify and engage in research opportunities.