Courses & Resources for Surgeons

Surgical training starts with Core Surgical Training (CST, CT1–CT2), followed by higher specialty training (ST3–ST8) in a specific subspecialty: general surgery, trauma & orthopaedics, ENT, urology, plastic surgery, cardiothoracic, neurosurgery, vascular, or paediatric surgery.

The MRCS (Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons) has two parts: Part A (MCQ covering applied basic sciences and clinical problem-solving) and Part B (OSCE covering clinical and procedural skills). MRCS must be passed before applying for ST3. The FRCS (exit exam) is taken during higher training.

CST is very competitive. The 2025 CT1 competition ratio was 8.57:1. ST3 surgical subspecialties vary — T&O and plastics are extremely competitive, while some others are less so. MRCS, surgical audit, publications, courses (like ATLS, CCrISP), and operative logbook numbers are key differentiators.

Essential courses include MRCS revision courses, ATLS, CCrISP (Care of the Critically Ill Surgical Patient), Basic Surgical Skills (BSS), operative skills workshops (laparoscopic, robotic), and anatomy courses. FRCS revision courses are important for higher trainees.