Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy, contrary to popular belief; is not the easy way out for those who can't last the course to become a doctor. While the subject is, obviously, closely allied to medicine, it's actually of a completely different bent to most other branches of medical study, interesting those who are into the academic side of medicine, but don't wish to be doctors. If they do want to stay in the "sector" after graduating, they are more likely to see themselves as scientists, technicians in the biomedical sciences, researchers in the public or private sector, or perhaps paramedical staff. Of course, they also have the knowledge and skills to enter a whole range of careers, including teaching, scientific journalism, or perhaps less traditional areas of medicine, such as osteopathy or reflexology. Your back-ground would be a great starting point, but further training would be required.

Anatomy (the structure of the body) and its close cousin physiology (how living organisms and their parts function) are both life sciences, concerned with the study of the body and the relationship between its structure and its functions. Human development, ageing, and response to dysfunction are all likely areas of study, and you'll spend most of that study time in the lab, the lecture hall and tutorials. Some of the teaching may be alongside medical students, especially since the teaching and research staff are commonly drawn from the same pool. Assessment tends to be largely exam-based, with some emphasis on coursework, practical and research projects or presentations. Most courses also include a significant research project, which is generally in the last year, and occasionally this can lead to those crucial academic publications, which will look so fabulous on your CV.

The subject has taken huge strides in recent years, with great conceptual leaps (in our understanding of DNA and the human genome, for example) and technological leaps in the tools of the trade (ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging to name but two). The chances are you will spend some time studying your own body and the bodies of your fellow students - which may not be quite so enticing as it sounds.

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