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There are three entry points into haematology (1) with at least two if not three A-levels including science subjects (or equivalent level-3 qualifications) and a good spread of GCSEs at A-C grade, to take an accredited BSc degree in healthcare science (blood sciences) for the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP); (2) through the NHS Scientist Training Programme for which you’ll need a 1st or 2.1 either in an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree in a relevant pure or applied science. If you have a relevant 2.2 honours degree, you’ll also be considered if you have a higher degree in a subject relevant to the specialism for which you are applying. Evidence of research experience is desirable; or (3) after gaining postgraduate qualifications and/or considerable relevant experience as a clinical scientist through Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST).

NHS staff will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern, especially as blood laboratories operate 24/7. Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. Your salary in haematology would typically be between AfC Bands 5 and 9, depending on your role and level of responsibility. As a healthcare science practitioner, you’d usually start on band 5, with opportunities to progress to more senior positions. Trainee clinical scientists train at band 6 level, and qualified clinical scientists are generally appointed at band 7. With experience and further qualifications, including Higher Specialist Scientist Training, you could apply for posts up to band 9. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS.

An interest in science and technology, good communication skills, comfortable using modern technology and complex equipment, attention to detail and able to work as part of a team.

With further training or experience or both, you may be able to develop your career further and apply for vacancies in areas such as further specialisation, management, research, or teaching.

Training usually starts with a five year first degree in medicine. 2 year foundation doctor training, 2 year core medical training and 5 year specialist training (ST3-7). This period of training will include your royal college exams. Length of training can vary according to your circumstances.

Doctors may work up to 48 hours a week. The working hours may sometimes extend beyond the normal working day to include early mornings, evenings and weekends. You’ll first earn a salary when you start your foundation training after medical school. The basic salary ranges from £29,384 to £34,012. Once you start your specialty training as a rheumatologist employed by the NHS, you can expect to earn a salary of at least £40,257, which can increase to between £84,559 and £114,003 as a consultant.

You'll need excellent communication skills to manage a wide range of relationships with colleagues, and patients and their families. You'll be emotionally resilient, have excellent problem-solving and diagnostic skills and work well in teams and under pressure. You'll also be very organised for the benefit of patients.

There are approximately 699 rheumatologists working in the NHS in England. In 2020, there were 199 applications for 33 specialty training places.