Intercalated degrees and special study modules

Chapter 5 outlines the key considerations for every medical student considering undertaking an intercalated degree. Intercalated degrees offer the opportunity for each medical student to gain a further stand-alone degree in the course of their medical training. This chapter outlines the difference experiences on offer as part of an intercalated degree: from laboratory-based research to involvement in clinical studies, projects relating to healthcare policy, economics, and public or global health, and may involve work undertaken abroad or at another medical school or institution. This chapter systematically outlines the pros and cons of undertaking an intercalated degree. Furthermore, advice on how to choose a project and supervisor and tips on how to get the most out of your time during this year are outlined. Presenting and publishing research are key academic skills which enhance your academic record but also present opportunities for further understanding your research and may foster collaboration with other research groups. This chapter presents tips on how to present research (both poster and oral presentation), abstract writing, poster design, and advice on strategies to ensure your research gets published in the peer-reviewed academic literature. An overview of statistics, including the basic language used in statistics, is provided.