Your Offer Holder’s Guide Graduate Entry Medicine
Congratulations on receiving your offer of a place at the University of Chester! This guide offers an insider’s perspective into the vibrant student experience available at Chester, giving you a flavour of how you can thrive and belong in our community. It’s your opportunity to explore what the University has to offer you, ensuring you have the right information to make your decision.
Scan here to discover Chester: chester.ac.uk
2
Contents 4 Award-Winning University 6 Get World Ready 8 It’s More Than a Degree 10 A Premium Teaching and Learning Experience 12 Earn While You Learn 13 Careers and Employability 14 Join Our Community 16 Chester Students’ Union 18 Sport and Active Lifestyle 20 Student Support 22 Languages for All 23 Faith and Belief 24 Sustainability at Chester 25 Volunteering 26 All About Chester 28 A City of Culture, History and Good Times! 32 Food and Drink 34 Nightlife 36 Get Ahead 38 What Happens Next? 40 Graduate Entry Medicine Applicant Days 42 Stay in the Loop
3
Award-Winning University First up, some quick facts on how we are shaping the region as a leading university in the North West.
Top 5 for Graduate Success
1st in the North West for Lecturers and Teaching Quality
Chester ranks among the best in the North West for highly-skilled graduate employment, exceeding the sector average for the number of graduates in both employment/ further study and high-skilled graduate employment.
Our approach to teaching is all about getting students a step ahead. Our expert staff are passionate about students’ development, and the practical learning embedded into our teaching results in our courses being closely linked to the real world.
(Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025) See page 8 for details
4
(WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025) See page 10 for details
Find out more by visiting: chester.ac.uk/awards
1st in the North West for Student Support
1st in North West England for Facilities
Our staff go the extra mile to ensure students succeed, offering a range of support services for all students. We take pride in providing students with the information, advice and guidance needed to support them in both their studies and personal lives. We offer a wide range of services covering wellbeing and mental health, disability and inclusion, study skills and more.
Our learning locations are packed full of health and social carespecific facilities, as well as their own libraries, computer suites and study areas, along with plenty of spaces to get something to eat, have a drink or simply take a break and catch up with friends in between teaching sessions.
(WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025)
(WhatUni Student Choice Awards 2025) See page 18 for details
See page 20 for details
5
6
Get World Ready 7
It’s More Than a Degree By choosing to study at the University of Chester, you’ll be joining a university with a real focus on making you not just ‘work ready’, but ‘World Ready’.
Our approach to teaching is all about getting you a step ahead. Our expert staff are passionate about your development and will help you gain the skills, knowledge and experience you need to succeed. Alongside this are a wealth of opportunities to boost your CV, from free language courses to enhancing your digital skills, as well as projects in the UK and overseas, helping you to build connections throughout your degree. You’ll leave us a step ahead, connected to a global network of people who are eager to support you on your way. No matter what your ambitions are, we’ll help you get there. Learn more here: chester.ac.uk/modern-learning
“The support from the University has truly enriched my journey. The career services and various university activities kept me engaged and prepared me to be World Ready.”
Adrija International Business 8
Chester Credentials Enhance your digital skills and boost your employability with Chester Credentials, our series of free, online short courses available to all students. Topics include: Digital Literacy, SEO Fundamentals and Career Preparation; each ‘nano-credential’ is designed to be a flexible and bite-sized way to get skilled up and will complement your degree studies. 9
A Premium Teaching and Learning Experience The Chester MBChB curriculum is designed to prepare you for practising medicine in today’s complex and evolving healthcare environment. It is fully aligned with the curriculum of our contingency medical school – Warwick Medical School – and ensures you meet all the outcomes set by the General Medical Council, including preparing you for the national Medical Licensing Assessment. Our small student cohort and dedicated clinical skills, simulation, and anatomy facilities ensure that we are able to focus on developing your individual strengths and talents, helping you make the most of your time with us.
For more information, visit: chester.ac.uk/GEM
10
11
Earn While You Learn Whether you are looking to earn some extra money while you’re studying or you’re looking for experience to aid your future career goals, our Careers and Employability team can help. We can support you by: • Providing work opportunities on campus through UniJob • Helping you find local part-time roles • Hosting Careers Fairs, enabling you to meet employers face-to-face For more information, visit: chester.ac.uk/EWYL
“Being a student ambassador has been a great way to earn extra money whilst studying, and developing my communication and interpersonal skills, which will be vital for my future career.”
Holly Nutrition and Dietetics 12
Careers and Employability The Careers and Employability team provide a service tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, with a variety of employability-enhancing experiences available to you, setting you apart in the job market. A Career in Medicine Through a combination of clinical placements, external electives, faculty connections, student-led societies and careers events, you’ll have a chance to explore and learn about the many medical specialties and other opportunities available to qualified doctors.
Lifelong Commitment to Your Success Our commitment to your success does not end at graduation; with our ‘Careers for Life’ promise, you can continue to access valuable careers information and advice long after you have left Chester. Our alumni network is a testament to the strong bonds formed at the University.
Discover more at: chester.ac.uk/careers-and-employability 13
14
Join Our Community 15
Chester Students’ Union Hello and welcome to Chester Students’ Union (CSU)! We are the elected officers for 2025/26: President Lily, VP Education Luis, and VP Student Life Will. We are a separate organisation to the University, and we exist for the sole purpose of helping students have the best experience at the University of Chester. We do this by ensuring the student voice is at the heart of all decision making and is fairly represented at all University of Chester sites. We also offer advice to students, run societies for students to get involved in, and hold fun events throughout the academic year at Chester, Warrington, and Birkenhead.
To find out exactly what we get up to and how you can get involved, head to our website at chestersu.com and follow us on social media!
@chesterstudentsunion @chesterstudentsunion 16
17
Sport and Active Lifestyle With our sports facilities located conveniently on campus, take a break from your studies and make some time for yourself to keep fit and feel good.
Available on our Exton Park campus, students have access to our on-site gym, spin studio, swimming pool and free use of facilities such as tennis courts, squash courts, sports hall, and football and hockey pitches.
Join our activeCHESTER sessions – free, fun, social sessions to meet new people! Our sessions are set for you to enjoy them at your own pace, with no pressure and no commitment to attend regularly. You just turn up and play! We also have volunteer opportunities within activeCHESTER. To find out more, email: sal@chester.ac.uk If you are feeling stressed, anxious, lonely or low in confidence – we have a free six-week Active Wellbeing Programme to support your wellbeing though physical activity, in a way that works for you. To find out more, email: activewellbeing@chester.ac.uk
18
Under sportCHESTER you can join one of our 30+ clubs, many of which train to represent the University of Chester in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) leagues. Not every club is about competition – some are all about having fun, staying active, being part of a club and making lasting friendships. Not interested in playing? We have plenty of volunteering opportunities to work alongside our sports clubs, including coaching and pitch-side first aid. To find out more, email: clubsport@chester.ac.uk
Being involved in a sport is an amazing way to get stuck into university life! The women’s basketball team has been so much fun and I’ve made some invaluable friendships over the last three years.
Find out more about Sports and Active Lifestyle: chester.ac.uk/active
Holly Nutrition and Dietetics 19
Student Support Personal Academic Tutor Every student is assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT), who will support you throughout your degree. Your PAT will guide and inspire you, shaping you into a confident graduate ready for whatever the future holds. For more details, see: chester.ac.uk/PAT
20
From my transfer application through to my first week of lectures, the University continuously communicated and supported me as a new student.
Luisa International Tourism Management
Our Student Services team is here to help you feel supported and settled at the University of Chester. We work across all our sites to provide expert guidance in areas that could be impacting your life or studies, including: • Academic Skills Advice • Disability and Inclusion • Financial Support • Mature Student Advisor • Residential Life • Student Experience • Student Safety • Wellbeing, Mental Health and Counselling The teams offer practical information and advice to ensure you are supported throughout your studies. This includes a range of bursaries, financial support and expert advice to help with the cost of living. Check out our Money Hub for an overview of what’s on offer: chester.ac.uk/money-hub To find out more about Student Services, visit: chester.ac.uk/ student-support or email: studentservices@chester.ac.uk
After meeting with an Academic Skills advisor, I understood what was required to produce a good essay, and became confident and proud of what I wrote.
Caisey For more detail on the services available, watch here:
Children’s Nursing
21
Languages for All If you’re looking to learn a new skill, why not join one of our parttime language courses. All of our courses have a reduced rate of £199.50 and, better still, this fee is reimbursed once you’ve completed 80% of the course – so it’ll be completely free. You can choose from a range of languages including, but not limited to: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean and Spanish.* For further information, you can email: lfa@chester.ac.uk
*All courses will run subject to demand and will be offered virtually if necessary.
22
Faith and Belief Our multi-faith Chaplaincy team is here to support all students and staff whatever your religion or beliefs may be, and chaplains are always ready to help you and offer a listening ear. The Chaplaincy team is based in the Community Hub, Exton Park, and you can pop in Monday to Thursday to enjoy areas such as our quiet Sanctuary Space, the Creative Art Space, the Games Room, and our awardwinning Wellbeing Garden & Peace Garden with a wildlife pond. Supporting students across all University sites, the team are available in-person or online via Teams. We also have a wider team of volunteer Associate Chaplains from various religious communities. To find out more about weekly events and activities, follow @uoc_chaplaincy on Instagram.
You can get in touch via chaplaincy@chester.ac.uk 23
Sustainability at Chester We have a dedicated Sustainability Team in place to ensure that the University of Chester leads by example, and we run a number of initiatives to encourage action to be taken. Here are some of the ways our students can get involved: • Carbon Literacy training • Thematic Sustainability Action Groups • University gardening sessions at the Community Hub and Allotment • On-site clothing Swap Shop • Volunteer opportunities at linked, sustainabilityminded organisations • Annual ‘Spring into Sustainability’ week Follow the team on Instagram: @uoc_sustainability Get in contact: sustainability@chester.ac.uk
24
Volunteering Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people, build your transferable skills and give back to your local community, all while having fun with exciting new experiences! All students have access to our Volunteer Hub, connecting you to opportunities both within the University, and local charities. You could also apply for our Chester Volunteering Awards (UCV) in recognition of your time as a volunteer. As you progress through the MBChB course, you might wish to consider volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with, from one-offs to longer-term roles. Whether you have a passion for conservation, a love of sport, an interest in history or something else entirely – there’s an opportunity for you! Check out our ‘give it a go’ programme of events – one-off sessions organised by the University, designed to give you a taste of volunteering.
To get involved and find out more, contact: volunteering@chester.ac.uk
Volunteering to help walk dogs in the local community has improved my mental health during stressful times.
Ashli Creative Writing and English Literature 25
26
All About Chester 27
A City of Culture, History and Good Times! Home to year-round arts and culture festivals, international events and attractions, including the famous Chester Races; Chester Zoo; The Walls; and the medieval Rows, Chester has lots to offer – and all within walking distance of our campuses! Chester is a thriving 21st-century city, with high street and independent restaurants, cafés and boutique shops. At night, the beautiful cobbled streets, bustling with shoppers and tourists, transform into a lively but safe evening scene, with a large variety of pubs, music venues, bars and clubs to choose from.
Storyhouse One of the UK’s most successful cultural buildings, Storyhouse is a library, theatre and cinema all in one! With over 2,000 activities every year to get involved with, regular student deals including free tea and coffee, and great areas for studying off campus, there’s something for everyone.
28
Chester Pride Every August, Chester Pride organises a fun-filled parade and day of events that celebrates diversity and the LGBTQ+ community in Chester and Cheshire.
The Groves
Chester Cathedral
Enjoy a walk down by the river, along the famous Groves. It’s nice to sit and watch the boats go past and there are plenty of opportunities to go on a paddle or motorboat.
Pop into the Cathedral and marvel at the immensity of the building’s architecture or climb the tower for spectacular views of Chester. We’re proud to host our graduation ceremonies within the Cathedral walls every year. 29
Chester Market
Picturehouse
The modern-traditional market is a welcoming space with a fantastic selection of authentic global eateries all under one roof. A quick walk from Exton Park, it’s a great place to catch up with friends and grab a bite to eat – no matter what you’re in the mood for.
Beyond the big blockbusters, Picturehouse is your go-to for independent films, special events, and the best cinema snacks in a vibrant, relaxed setting. It’s the perfect place to get your film fix and meet fellow movie lovers.
Chester Zoo
The Rows
Our highly acclaimed zoo has been named best in the UK by TripAdvisor, with over 11,000 ‘Excellent’ ratings! The zoo is home to over 37,000 animals, within over 128 acres of beautiful zoological gardens, so that they can survive and thrive.
There’s plenty of shopping for you to do on Chester’s high streets; unique to Chester are the historic Rows which offer a second layer of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants – all under cover.
30
After my classes, I really enjoy taking a scenic walk along the river or across the city walls – it’s very peaceful!
Luisa International Tourism Management
We’re proud to be a part of Chester’s ‘One City Plan’, setting out a vision with partners across the city, for how the public, private and voluntary sector can work together to make Chester a fairer, stronger and greener city. 31
Chester has so many great places for food and drink!
Food and Drink
Holly Nutrition and Dietetics
Knoops
The Flower Cup
Knoopology: the art of crafting the perfect chocolate drink. There is something for every taste, mood and individual – why not top it off with a handmade Knoops marshmallow! (15% off drinks in-store for all students!)
Independent botanical coffee shop serving all day brunch, specialty coffees, teas and cakes. Located on the historic Watergate Rows.
32
Telford’s Warehouse On the water and off the wall... Great music, fabulous menu, sumptuous sunsets and the best stocked bar in town! Dabba South Indian comfort food in the heart of Chester. Nicely spicy and not too pricey! Hickory’s Smokehouse Delivering authentic American flavours of the Deep South, the barbecue style restaurant lives and breathes the value of southern USA hospitality.
American Pizza Slice So, you think you know pizza? Fresh pizza by the slice, with New York, Chicago and Detroit styles all available. The Pied Bull Traditional British independent pub serving great food and drinks, including award winning beers from an on-site microbrewery.
33
Nightlife Chester’s nightlife ranges from quirky bars and ancient pubs, to band and rock nights or cheesy tunes, creative cocktails and many discounted student nights! Chester has also been granted ‘Purple Flag’ status in recognition of its flourishing night-time economy and acknowledged position as a student-friendly city.
Watergates Bar
Commonhall Street Social
An atmospheric, crypt-like spot with exposed-brick vaults and fairy lights – try some of the famous side plates to go with your pick of the array of drinks available.
A relaxed hangout with a lively social vibe in a relaxed courtyard setting. Expect music, craft beers and hearty comfort food served in a cosy space.
Kuckoo
Off The Wall
Delicious and stunning-looking drinks that you can not only enjoy, but you can learn how to make with their cocktail masterclasses.
A popular bar with students, turning from a pub in the day to club at night. A great final stop before Rosies!
34
Rosies With different genres on each of the three floors, Rosies has music for everyone! Offering different events throughout the week, students can also benefit from discounts on early entry and drinks. Prohibition An intimate jazz and blues cocktail bar tucked away in Chester city centre. Step through the secret entrance into the Roaring Twenties of America. Popcorn Buzzy bar in a historic city – what’s not to love? Defenders of your right to have fun, Popcorn’s bringing the best party to Chester seven days a week.
Palm Chester’s very own Pink Palace! The perfect place for a fun night, with 50% discount on cocktails for students. Alexander’s
Chester has a buzzing nightlife.
Carlotta Events Management and International Tourism Management
Serving music and comedy since 1991, there’s a range of events, drinks, and food for you to enjoy in the heart of Chester. UoC Union Bar Or why not stay closer to home with our very own Chester Union Bar, based at Exton Park! You might even see some of your peers working behind the bar! 35
36
Get Ahead 37
What Happens Next? You’ve made the first step – you’ve applied for the University of Chester. If you like what we have to offer, then here’s what you need to do next.
Choose Chester
Applying for Accommodation
It’s really easy to accept your offer of a place at Chester. Simply log into UCAS Hub and select Chester as your Firm (F) choice. You’ll also find the deadline for applying and replying to your offers on UCAS Hub. Don’t forget to also reply to each of your other offers.
If you’re exploring accommodation and would like to discuss your options, please get in touch with our Accommodation team via:
accounts.ucas.com/account/login If you haven’t already sent proof of your qualifications, please ensure you send a scan or clear photograph of your original certificates/results to hscadmissions@chester.ac.uk as soon as possible. Please note that failure to send proof of your qualifications may hinder your enrolment. If you have any queries about the application process, please contact our Admissions team. Tel: 01244 511000 Email: hscadmissions@chester.ac.uk
38
Tel: 01244 513000 Email: accommodation@chester.ac.uk
Applying for Student Funding As a Graduate Entry Medicine student you will apply for Undergraduate finance and can receive the standard package of support including Tuition and Maintenance support. During your course, you will have the opportunity to benefit from a meanstested maintenance loan, supplementary grants, and NHS bursaries. For full details of your next steps and other funding available, visit: chester.ac.uk/GEM chester.ac.uk/finance 39
Graduate Entry Medicine Applicant Days Applicant Days are an opportunity for Offer Holders to experience Chester firsthand! • Wednesday 18th February 2026 • Saturday 25th April 2026 These events are designed with Graduate Entry Medicine Offer Holders in mind, so that you can confirm that Chester is the right choice for you while you learn more about what the degree entails. View subject-specific facilities, speak to current students and lecturers, and find out about how we can support you at the University of Chester. To book your event, go to: chester.ac.uk/applicant-days
40
Here’s what the students who attended our last Applicant Days thought about the events:
“All of the Student Ambassadors that I spoke to were extremely polite and helpful, and answered any questions that I had. They are part of the reason why I chose Chester as my Firm choice.”
“The subject session presentation was engaging, informative and full of inspiring content, whilst still leaving room for plenty of questions, which were answered helpfully.”
“The event was great – all the staff and students were kind and approachable. It has definitely put me at ease knowing that Chester is where I’ll be living and studying.”
Here’s a preview of what an Applicant Day at Chester looks like: 41
Stay in the Loop If you choose Chester as your Firm or Insurance choice, we’ll be in regular contact with all the advice and guidance you need, as well as important deadlines and things to look forward to. In the meantime, please feel free to get in touch if you’re unsure about anything: chester.ac.uk/contact-us
Connect with Current Students
Get Your Loved Ones Involved
Don’t forget to ask our students about anything that comes to mind via the Unibuddy app or by visiting: chester.ac.uk/ask
Sign your parents or supporters up to receive updates from us. We’ll keep them informed with key dates, important information and other ways that they can support you in your university journey.
We’ll also be posting student and staff blogs throughout the year at:
Scan the QR and sign your supporters up!
chester.ac.uk/blog
Student Shout Out is our channel for student updates and news – follow @uocshoutout for a taste of what our students are getting up to. 42
Join our Online Offer Holder Community Look out for your exclusive email invitation to join our online Offer Holder community on Unibuddy. It’s a great way to connect with fellow offer holders and meet other new students from your course, accommodation or a shared hobby before starting at Chester. 43
1
st
in the North West for
University of the Year
Across social media @uochester The information provided in this guide is provided for your information and convenience only. Any reference made to any person, organisation, activities, products or services does not constitute or imply an endorsement, or recommendation by the University of Chester. All information has been included in good faith and is believed to be correct at the time of publishing.