Urology is a surgical specialty dealing with the problems associated with the urinary tract, and it deals with cancer, non-cancer, functional problems and diseases. In urology many problems can be managed with medications (for example treating erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms have become largely by pharmaceutical agents) and this underpins the importance of understanding the basic science and molecular biology as applied to the specialty. This surgical field is constantly evolving with technology being the main driver. Improvements have been made through lasers, optics, gadgets and robotics. Regenerative medicine is fast evolving in urology. The architectural simplicity of hollow structures (such as bladder) and tubes (such as the ureters and urethra) make them particularly amenable.  Despite the fact that many medical students may not have had a urology placement during their training the specialty is very much sought after.  Getting into urological training is very competitive.  Doctors typically undertake research, obtain higher degrees and publish papers in peer-reviewed journals in order to advance their surgical training. 

This course will enable students to be lifelong learners, having developed critical, analytical and evaluative skills at Masters’ Level, to undertake their own high-quality research and search for innovation, which in turn will further progress their area of expertise.   Integral to the course is the need to develop and enhance a culture in these students that ensures a willingness to challenge poor or bad clinical practice, improve service delivery and effect change. 

Surgical trainees will benefit from the large portfolio of innovative research and scientific insight into current and emerging surgical innovations (Big data and Genomic medicine; Regenerative medicine; Cell-based therapies; Bioinformatics; Translational surgery; Robotics and Virtual reality) and to inform clinical practice for championing patient care and safety. The world of surgery is embarking on a time of innovation and change that promises to bring huge benefits to patients. 

You will receive 30 hours of direct taught (teaching and learning) activities per module. It is expected that you will fully engage with all taught sessions. Before you begin at University, please organise how you will manage your time, balance your other life demands (e.g. work, childcare, social activities) and plan your finances effectively in order to get the most out of your studies. There are a number of Student Services that can offer advice, support and help you to prepare for starting with us in September. 

When you begin your studies, you will be provided with clear guidance about everything that you need to read and study. At the start of each module, you will be provided with a ‘Module Handbook’, that will detail exactly what we expect of you. 

Welcome and Induction

Please ensure you view and engage with your Welcome Schedule.

Please note that timings given in your Welcome Schedule for occupational health vaccinations are indicative timings only. Please check below for the exact time of your appointment, which will be dependent on your surname (A-Z).

Visit us in the Health Hub to get your questions answered and have a soft drink and biscuit on us!

In addition to your course welcome activities, you can also join us at our Health Hub, timings below, where we can help you with any questions you may have or direct you to the most appropriate service.

You are now on your own exciting journey, but you are also part of our community where we support each other to grow and flourish at university and beyond. Drop in and stay connected, meet new friends and your peers. Meet and chat to our placements team, academic course administration team and existing students.

Drop in on the 1st floor of the Rowan Williams Court building in RWf39 during any of the times below:

• Thursday 19 September, 9am to 4pm
• Friday 20 September, 9am to 4pm

Follow us on our CCCU_Health Instagram account to keep up to date with what is happening for students.

Occupational Health Clearance & Uniform

As part of starting your studies here at Canterbury Christ Church University, you will need to attend an occupational health vaccination appointment during Welcome Week.

Please note, as a Surgery student you will not be supplied with uniform by the university.

Occupational Health Clearance

Students need to obtain occupational health clearance to ensure they are fit to practice. You will be prompted via your ‘MyRecord’ to complete a clearance check and directed to an online health questionnaire.

Once you have submitted your questionnaire, you are required to attend an occupational health vaccination appointment appropriate to your placement requirements. We use an external company called OH Works for this. Ahead of your appointment, please gather any vaccination documentation (paper or electronic) from your GP or workplace to take to your occupational health appointment.

View your occupational health appointment location and time.

For enquiries about your occupational health clearance please email cccustudents@ohworks.co.uk or phone 01227 286288.

We would encourage you to review the course structure and module options via your course page before you arrive.

Before you start your course, we will send you some pre course reading so that you can get ahead of the module content.