The University of Nottingham has long been a beacon of medical excellence, preparing generations of doctors to lead and serve with distinction. Building on this strong foundation, a transformative new chapter in its legacy begins with the launch of our redesigned undergraduate Medicine curriculum in 2026.

Professor Claire Sharpe, Dean of Education in the Medical School, introduces the new Medicine BMBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) course and explains how the ambitious overhaul reaffirms the university's commitment to delivering a world-class education - preparing our students not just for today’s challenges, but for the evolving demands of 21st-century healthcare.

Medicine BMBS

"This is more than a curriculum refresh, it is a step-change in how we educate our future doctors. At its core, the new programme blends academic rigour with real-world relevance through an integrated, case-based learning model. From the outset, students are immersed in authentic clinical scenarios, building deep, contextual understanding of medical science while developing critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills.

"Importantly, Curriculum 2026 harnesses the power of cutting-edge technology to enhance every stage of the learning journey. It will be delivered in state-of-the-art facilities including a brand-new Clinical Teaching Centre at the heart of the University Park campus, which will house the largest undergraduate simulation centre in the UK.

"This facility will provide immersive, high-fidelity environments where students can practise complex clinical procedures, refine their decision-making, and build confidence. Simulation will no longer be an adjunct; it will be an embedded part of the curriculum from the outset. This commitment to educational innovation ensures that Nottingham students are not only clinically capable, but technologically fluent, ready to thrive in the digital health systems of tomorrow."

Key facts

  • 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of Nottingham Medical School’s first student intake completing their degrees.
  • The BMBS course received the highest increase in student satisfaction score this year of any course in the university and the biggest jump of any medical school in the UK.
  • A new state-of-the-art Clinical Teaching Centre will open in summer 2026, costing £15.3m. 
  • The centre will provide 2,900m² of leading-edge facilities including immersive simulation suites, clinical skills zones, interactive classrooms, and dedicated social/study areas.

"The curriculum is structured around Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs), clearly defined, assessable tasks that students will be expected to perform independently by graduation. This outcome-based model ensures that our graduates are work-ready and trusted by the NHS from day one. Importantly, these EPAs have been rigorously co-created with students, alumni, NHS partners, and educators ensuring they meet the needs of all our stakeholders.

"Additionally, this redesign unifies our entry pathways into a single, cohesive structure. Whether students join via foundation year, standard five-year, or graduate-entry routes, all will study together to benefit from a harmonised, inclusive learning experience that emphasises teamwork, professionalism and lifelong learning. It embodies the values that have always defined Nottingham: ambition, excellence, and a deep commitment to public service."

Medicine at the University of Nottingham

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