Healthcare Careers

Medicine - Specialist

What is it?

Are you the kind of person who wants to be a leader in your field – world-class, even? Then maybe working as a specialist is for you.

A specialist is the name for a doctor (usually a hospital doctor) who’s an expert in a particular kind of medicine. It takes talent, hard work and years of experience.

If you get there, you’ll be able to help patients that maybe few other doctors can. You’ll also be able to pass on your knowledge and skills to other doctors.

A paediatric (children’s) surgeon is an example of a specialist. It can be very difficult, demanding work to operate on a tiny baby or young child. But imagine how it might feel if you developed a new treatment – a medical advance that could help lots of children in future.

Specialists are working on great, lifesaving ideas right now as you read this. How did they get there? Well, it probably all started in science lessons at school…

What are the good bits?

• Challenging and interesting
• Chance to change lives
• Opportunity to reach the top of your profession
• Your work could benefit everyone in future

What about pay?

£20,000 – £100,000+

What skills and interests do I need?

• Interested in science and people
• Good communication skills
• Hardworking, dedicated
• Physically strong/good with your hands (for surgery)

What qualifications/training will I need?

After GCSEs you need to stay on at school or go to college to study science – for example, Chemistry and Biology at AS and A2 level plus another A2 and AS level. Some places accept alternative qualifications. Then you’ll study Medicine for five years at university, then finish your training while working in a hospital.

Compiled with reference to:
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.nobarriers2uni.org

A Taste of Medicine

Click on the links below to find out all about careers in Medicine and Healthcare.