All careers
Healthcare
Doctor (NHS)
Diagnose and treat patients, from GP surgeries to hospital specialties, working in multidisciplinary teams.
Key skills
ScienceEmpathyResilienceDecision-making
Ways in
University
Typical prerequisites
- High A-level grades usually incl. Chemistry (often Biology)
- Admissions test (UCAT)
- Work experience / volunteering
Alternative routes
- Physician associate
- Nursing
- Paramedic science
- Graduate-entry medicine
Route milestones
- 1
Medical degree (5–6 yrs)
Around year 0–6
- 2
Foundation programme
Around year 6–8
- 3
Specialty training
Around year 8–16
- 4
Consultant or GP partner
Around year 14+
Progression: Foundation doctor → resident/specialty doctor → consultant or GP; research and leadership options.
Indicative pay bands
Starting out£37,000 – £43,000
Experienced£55,000 – £75,000
Senior / top end£100,000 – £140,000
Indicative example estimates compiled October 2026 for planning conversations only. Pay varies by region, employer, sector and hours. Always verify with official sources such as the National Careers Service.
Verify on National Careers ServiceContribution & impact
Direct, life-changing care for individuals and communities.