How your course will be delivered
Teaching and learning
The programme uses a mix of teaching and enquiry-based learning (EBL) techniques.
It is delivered in partnership with Xaverian College, and teaching is split roughly 50/50 between the two sites.
You will be registered as a full-time student of The University of Manchester.
Most of the A-level content in biological sciences and chemistry is provided at Xaverian. This supplements the EBL sessions at the University which help you begin to apply the subject knowledge gained to short clinical scenarios or cases.
You will also have weekly laboratory practical sessions and lectures, delivered at the University by University of Manchester staff, as well as the opportunity to research a medical topic.
Accessing online learning content
Canvas is the Programme’s virtual learning environment – this is where you’ll find the learning materials throughout the programme. Once you’ve completed registration, you’ll find you can access Canvas through My Manchester.
Your timetable
You will access your personalised timetable through My Manchester.
Please note that your full timetable will not be completely populated until Friday 18 September.
Course materials
You will be given a lab coat on Monday 21 September. Your timetable will show the time and location for collection.
You must wear it to enter laboratories. If you arrive without your lab coat, you will not be admitted and will miss the session. If your lab coat is lost, you will be able to buy a replacement.
Student Information Hub
The School of Medical Sciences Student Information Hub is your one-stop shop for any information you may need about your programme – from accessing support, to assessment information, key contacts, or latest school news.
Important dates
Start date: when do you need to get here?
The official start date for the programme is Monday 21 September 2026.
This marks the beginning of key induction sessions, training and teaching, so it’s important that you’re in Manchester and ready to attend your timetabled sessions from this date.
We understand, however, that some students may experience unavoidable delays, such as visa issues, that affect their arrival. If this applies to you, please don’t worry. Just get in touch with us as soon as possible, and we’ll do our best to support you.
Email: sms.ify@manchester.ac.uk
Semester dates
You'll find university semester dates on the main key dates page.
Contact us
We’re here Monday-Friday from 9am to 5pm if you have any questions. We’re looking forward to hearing from you.
Tel: +44 (0)161 306 0460
Email: sms.hub@manchester.ac.uk
Visit: Stopford Student Hub & Library, 3rd Floor Stopford Building, Oxford Road, University of Manchester, M13 9PL