Why practical learning is important when studying medicine

At its core, medicine is a practical profession, and the University of Hertfordshire’s programme is designed to reflect that reality.   

Students will have an average of 20–25 contact hours each week, combining lectures, small group sessions, and clinical teaching. Learning will be active and collaborative, with regular opportunities for peer interaction, problem-solving, and reflective practice. These are all skills vital to effective patient care and can’t be taught through theory alone.  

From day one, students at the University of Hertfordshire encounter real patients. Early clinical placements ensure that even first-year students begin developing the confidence and communication skills essential for working in healthcare.   

These placements take place across the East of England, providing exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare settings.   

This approach not only strengthens clinical skills but also increases the likelihood that graduates will choose to remain in the region, supporting local NHS services.   

The five-year programme is carefully structured to combine theoretical foundations with increasing clinical responsibility.  

The first two years focus on the core sciences (anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry) alongside case-based learning and early patient contact. Students begin to link biological knowledge to clinical practice, an approach proven to deepen understanding and retention.    

The next three years build on these foundations through more complex cases and extensive placements in hospitals, community settings and specialist services.  

Students can explore areas of interest, take on greater responsibility in patient care, and work closely with multidisciplinary healthcare teams.    

Practical learning at the University of Hertfordshire is also enhanced by state-of-the-art facilities in the newly refurbished Hertfordshire Medical School building.  

Virtual reality and artificial intelligence tools will allow students to practise complex procedures in a safe, simulated environment before applying their skills in clinical settings. These innovations reflect a broader shift in medical education, where digital tools complement hands-on patient care.   

As the University of Hertfordshire’s new medical school demonstrates, practical learning is a commitment to producing doctors who can meet the healthcare needs of tomorrow. In an era of unprecedented demand for medical professionals, that commitment has never been more vital.