Brighton and Sussex Medical School

BSMS logo

BSMS Teaching Building

BSMS - Emerton Building

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) is a medical school in England that was established in 2002. It is a partnership between the University of Brighton and the University of Sussex, and it is located in the city of Brighton and the town of Falmer, near Brighton, in East Sussex.

History[edit | edit source]

BSMS was founded in response to a national shortage of doctors in the United Kingdom. The school was officially opened in 2003 by the then Secretary of State for Health, Alan Milburn. Since its inception, BSMS has grown in reputation and size, becoming one of the leading medical schools in the country.

Campus[edit | edit source]

The medical school is based across two main campuses: the University of Brighton's Falmer campus and the University of Sussex's Falmer campus. The facilities include state-of-the-art lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and clinical skills centers. The school also has access to the libraries and other resources of both universities.

Curriculum[edit | edit source]

The curriculum at BSMS is designed to provide a comprehensive medical education that integrates basic and clinical sciences. The program is divided into five years:

Years 1 and 2: Focus on foundational medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. Students also begin early clinical exposure through placements in local healthcare settings.
Years 3 and 4: Emphasis on clinical training with rotations in various medical specialties such as general practice, surgery, psychiatry, and pediatrics.
Year 5: Preparation for the transition to a junior doctor role, with advanced clinical placements and elective opportunities.

Research[edit | edit source]

BSMS is known for its strong research programs, particularly in areas such as global health, neuroscience, and primary care. The school collaborates with various research institutes and hospitals, including the Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Admissions[edit | edit source]

Admission to BSMS is highly competitive. Prospective students must have high academic achievements and demonstrate a commitment to a career in medicine. The selection process includes an assessment of academic qualifications, a personal statement, and an interview.