Haematologist : Entry requirements

There are two main routes into haematology, either as a trainee clinical scientist or as a trainee biomedical scientist.

As of 2011, in England and Wales, a new graduate entry Scientist Training Programme (STP) replaced the previous Clinical Scientist Training Scheme. The recruitment for the healthcare scientist training positions takes place early in the year for the September intake. Recruitment usually begins in February, with a closing date in mid-March.

NHS Trusts will offer 200 training posts in life sciences, physics and engineering and physiological sciences. Successful candidates will join a three-year training programme of workplace-based learning and a Masters degree in their specialist subject.

There is a single timetable for recruitment as well as national guidelines and assessment centres to ensure that all candidates are treated fairly and equally. Candidates can apply for the training posts at the NHS Jobs website while the selection process is organised by local trusts.

Details of all training posts are available on NHS Jobs  and will be advertised in the New Scientist . Further details of the scheme and a list of all the job roles are available on the NHS Healthcare Scientist Training Programme (STP)  page on the NHS Careers  website.

Scotland is also adopting the new training programme but will still be recruiting by specialist subject, rather than on a national basis for the time being. Training will be provided by individual NHS boards. Details of each training scheme can be found at Clinical Scientist Pre-Registration Training Schemes Scotland  and can also be found in the New Scientist.

To go down the biomedical scientist route, a degree in biomedical science which has been accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS)  and approved by the Health Professions Council (HPC)  is required. A graduate with another life science degree may still be able to enter the profession via this route but may have to top up their degree with some biomedical modules as prescribed by the IBMS.

Entry into the profession is not possible with an HND alone. Those without a first degree who have GCSEs (or equivalent qualifications) and/or work experience, may however be able to secure trainee or assistant positions in healthcare science. They may then progress onto the haematologist role if an employer is able to provide time off and financial support to study for an accredited degree.

Entry to training schemes is competitive. Gaining good academic results and relevant work experience is helpful. An MSc or a PhD in a relevant subject area may be advantageous when applying for trainee positions. Being able to offer additional skills and experience, such as involvement with research projects and publications, may also be useful.

In addition to appropriate subject knowledge and skills, candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• strong teamwork skills;
• good communication skills to effectively liaise with other staff in order to pass on findings and give advice on diagnosis;
• ability to organise and carry out research;
• the motivation to work towards enabling the wellbeing of others;
• the ability to commit to lifelong learning;
• meticulous documentation and record keeping;
• a patient, supportive and emotionally robust approach to working with patients;
• an approach to work that prioritises accuracy, organisation and efficiency.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.