Entry requirements, skills and interests (vascular science)

Entry points and requirements

There are two entry points into vascular science:

• with a relevant degree
• as an experienced clinical scientist

With a relevant degree

You can apply for a place, specialising in vascular science, on the graduate-entry NHS Scientist Training Programme for which you must have a 1st or 2.1 either in an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree in a pure or applied science subject relevant to the specialism for which you are applying.

If you have a 2.2 honours degree or better in any subject, you will also be considered if you have a higher degree* that is relevant to the specialism for which you are applying.

(*Higher degree as defined on page 17 of The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies Please note this does not include postgraduate diplomas or postgraduate certificates.)

Because of the extensive variation in degrees available it isn’t possible to provide a definitive list of relevant degrees for entry to the STP. For STP positions in the physiological sciences (which include vascular science), the most commonly accepted degrees will be in physiology, pure or applied physics, engineering, biology, human biology or sports science (if there is significant scientific content).

For all candidates, evidence of research experience (e.g. in the form of a higher degree or equivalent evidence of scientific and academic capability) is considered desirable.

You need to be sure that you’ve reviewed the job description and person specification for the training (on the National School of Healthcare Science’s website), and the information on this page. You then need to be sure to match the skills and knowledge required to the content of your degree and the specialism you wish to apply for.

For full details of entry requirements for the STP, including qualifications, scientific skills, transferable skills and physical requirements, please see the person specification on the National School of Healthcare Science’s website.

As an experienced clinical scientist

With experience as a registered clinical scientist, you can apply for Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST).

Find out more about the training you’ll receive and registration for a career in vascular science.

• Skills, qualities and interests needed

  To work in vascular science you’ll need:

  • good verbal and written communication skills
  • an aptitude for science
  • an interest in physiology and medicine
  • confident with technology and systems/processes
  • effective people skills, as some patients may be incapacitated, and so you will need to demonstrate empathy and patience.
  • a willingness to take on a high level of responsibility
  • an ability to work in a team.

  If you work in a role with responsibility for resources (such as staff, budgets or equipment) you must have good leadership skills and be able to use your initiative within the remit of your job role.

  If you're applying for a healthcare science role or training position either directly in the NHS or in an organisation that provides NHS services you'll be asked to show how you think the NHS values apply in your everyday work.

  The NHS values form a key part of the NHS Constitution.

  Find out more about the NHS Constitution.