Masters (MPhil/MSc) during med school? Any advice?

Student._.12345

Hey everyone, I'm currently a 3rd year intercalating medical student at a London uni.
I've REALLY enjoyed my intercalated BSc (it was related to neuroscience, anatomy/physiology), and would honestly like another chance to do some more research in a similar field before becoming a doctor.

So I'm thinking: should I go for a master's?

I have a friend who interrupted after 4th year med to do a master's - I'm considering doing something similar, probably at Oxbridge. Cambridge has some really nice looking MPhils - one that caught my eye was MPhil Biological Science (Physiology, Development and Neuroscience). Apparently it's better to interrupt med school rather than do a Master's while being a doctor.

My friend really sold it to me: you get portfolio points, you potentially get a publication and research experience, and obviously a whole degree! I'd also hopefully be qualified for a postgrad course, having done a relevant iBSc (hopefully I'll get a good grade!)

But I'm not sure it's really worth it. As much as I want to do more anatomy/neuro research, I don't know if it would help my future career - I'm thinking of a career in radiology or neurology, so I guess there's some link if I do something imaging/neuroscience related. Obviously it's expensive, but apparently it's less expensive than if I do it now rather than later.

Tbh I just want to have another year doing cool research, maybe it could help me if I wanted to go into academia later on. I don't know if having a biology-related masters would limit me in my medical career - would it be batter to choose a medical science degree instead (although ironically I'm more interested in the biological science side of things!)

Any advice would be much appreciated! Thanks!

(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 1

Student._.12345

bump

Reply 2

KA_P

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Have you tried making a list of pros and cons for each? It might help to have it on paper.

Having a look at specialty application requirements might also help depending on max number of points you can get for a category and how much of a difference it makes