Undergraduate students at the Dundee Medical School & Centre for Medical Education can apply for AFHEA while studying on the BMSc course. Associate Fellowship is awarded to those who demonstrate they meet the criteria of Descriptor 1 of the UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF) for teaching and supporting learning in higher education.
Advance HE accredits several programmes where intercalated students (students whom are allowed to officially take time away from studying from their main academic studies to complete this additional degree), as part of a wider cohort. However, BMSc (Hons) Medical Education at Dundee is designed purely for intercalated students and the first to be accredited for this specific group of students to achieve Associate Fellowship.
Dr Fiona Muir, Senior Lecturer and course leader said,
‘This is significant for the professional recognition of our students at the University who have a role in teaching and/or supporting learning in HE and the importance of professional development in teaching and learning for clinicians.”
New Vice-Principal (Education) at the University of Dundee Professor Blair Grubb said, “We are delighted our BMSc (Hons) Medical Education programme is the first undergraduate course of study in the University to be awarded Associate Fellowship by Advance HE.
“This is testament to the excellent design of the course itself and to the exceptional effort of Dr Muir, Dr Kevin McConville and colleagues in their development work and in putting together the submission for accreditation.”
It was clear in the submission from the University of Dundee that the BMSc (Hons) Medical Education programme has been tailored to meet the development needs of students who perform a significant role in teaching and support for learning and to professionally recognise the important role they play.
“When applying for Associate Fellowship individuals must have sufficient practice to draw upon to make a convincing claim against Descriptor 1 in their application. Having the opportunity to take a break from core medicine studies to undertake a significant amount of teaching and/or learning support provides these students with the opportunity to develop skills and experience in teaching and learning which can then be recognised through the award of Associate Fellowship.
“This award is a valuable measure of success and is increasingly recognised by a growing number of international institutions.”
Karen Hustler, Advance HE Assistant Director Fellowship and Awards
The 2019/20 cohort is the first year of Advance HE accreditation for Associate Fellowship. Accreditation is in place until 31 January 2024.
If you teach and/or support learning in higher education and are considering applying for HEA Fellowship, try the Fellowship Category Tool to help you reflect on your practice and identify the most appropriate category of Fellowship for you.