The first 5 terms are devoted to obtaining medical qualifications in the pre-clinical sciences. The Honours course occupies the last 4 terms during which students can specialise in a wide-range of topics and have the opportunity to do research projects. It is fair to say that unless students are interested in science, as well as in being doctors, Oxford is not the course for them. The teaching is very intensive, with lectures, practicals and tutorials occupying most days. It helps if you are good at organizing your time efficiently, especially if you are going to be active in sport, drama and the host of other extra-curricular activities on offer in Oxford.
Most medical students do manage a healthy interest in non-academic pursuits.
Admission to the pre-clinical course does not guarantee a place in the Oxford Clinical School. There is a second selection process for Clinical School in the third year. Virtually all pre-clinical students will get clinical places if they want them. For medics, much of the teaching takes place in the Departments - lectures, seminars and practicals. The College provides tutorial support in all of the pre-clinical topics through a mixture of College tutors and lecturers.