View Specification DocumentBSc(Med Sci) & BSc(Dent Sci) Clin.Med.Specialist Course Otolaryngology(ENT)/Head & Neck Surgery MED4057
- Academic Session: 2026-27
- School: School of Medicine Dentistry and Nursing
- Credits: 30
- Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
- Typically Offered: Runs Throughout Semesters 1 and 2
- Available to Visiting Students: Yes
- Collaborative Online International Learning: No
- Curriculum For Life: No
Short Description
This intercalated course is aimed at any medical student interested in pursuing a career in an acute surgical speciality, ENT / otolaryngology. The course will provide an in-depth understanding of head and neck conditions together with insight into the research informing clinical practice in this area.
Timetable
Approximately 6 x 1.5 hour sessions per week in Semester One, and 2 x 1.5 hour session per week in Semester 2.
Requirements of Entry
Mandatory Entry Requirements
Actively enrolled in an MBChB or BDS and normally have successfully completed at least the first 3 years. Exceptionally, some external students from specific partner institutions may join the course after completion of two years of MBChB or BDS (or equivalent); however award of the intercalated degree will be withheld until they have subsequently completed the required number of additional credits (or equivalent) at their home institution.
Recommended Entry Requirements
Will normally be placed within the top 50% of the year and have demonstrated good academic progress.
Excluded Courses
None
Co-requisites
BSc (Med Sci), BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Core Course
BSc (Med Sci), BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Research Project
BSc (Med Sci), BSc (Dent Sci) Clinical Medicine Statistics
Assessment
Assessment
65% written examination in April/May
35% review essay completed during 2nd semester
Main Assessment In: April/May
Course Aims
The aim of this specialist course is to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the head and neck and the pathophysiology, investigation and management of head and neck diseases, applicable to both adults and children.
Students will also be introduced to and critically evaluate clinical and scientific research in this field.
Intended Learning Outcomes of Course
By the end of this course students will be able to:
■ Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of the principles underlying anatomy and physiology of the head and neck region by interpretation of common ENT conditions encountered in both primary and secondary care.
■ Analyse ENT /head and neck signs and symptoms to formulate a list of differential diagnoses for a given clinical scenario
■ Design an appropriate management plan for common ENT presentations, focusing on emergencies.
■ Critically appraise management options for the most common head and neck tumours, comparing the risks and benefits of the differing options available (eg conservative vs. medical vs. surgical).
■ Articulate the most common ENT infections, their associated morbidity/mortality and the practical applications for their management.
■ Assemble a critical knowledge of basic surgical skills and discuss the principles of simulation-based training
■ Critically evaluate and articulate the ethical issues associated with surgery.