Respiratory Medicine SCE – a closer look
- February 18, 2022
Respiratory medicine SCE is the higher postgraduate qualification delivered by the Royal College of Physicians as a specialist qualification for respiratory medicine doctors.
It is one of 11 SCEs offered by the Royal College and offers physicians a postgraduate qualification which demonstrates to prospective employers the achievement of a standard equivalent to UK specialist doctors.
Here we take a closer look at the MRCP (UK) Respiratory Medicine Specialty Certificate Examination for doctors who have chosen to specialise in respiratory medicine. We cover the content of the exam, as well as fees and the eligibility criteria, all summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics:
- What is the respiratory medicine SCE?
- Where does the SCE fit into my training?
- What is the structure of the respiratory medicine SCE?
- How do I apply for the exams and what do they cost?
- Where can I sit the exams as an overseas respiratory medicine doctor?
- How should I prepare for the exams as an IMG?
- I’ve passed? What’s next?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you're looking for.
MRCP (UK) Respiratory Medicine SCE
The respiratory medicine specialty certificate exams are administered as a compulsory component of assessment for Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in respiratory medicine for all UK trainees.
The purpose of an SCE is to:
- ensure that certified specialists have sufficient knowledge of their specialty to practice safely and competently as consultants
- complement workplace-based assessments
- provide a rigorous national assessment to establish public confidence
- offer a challenge similar to sub-specialty certification examination in North America
SCE as part of Training in Respiratory Medicine
Since the MRCP(UK) exams are taken during the Internal Medicine Training years (ST1-ST3), the respiratory medicine SCE allows physicians to demonstrate that they are able to practice independently at a consultant level.
The SCE has no official entry requirements (both for UK and overseas candidates); however, UK trainees would normally take the SCE in their penultimate year of higher specialty training (ST6). UK trainees should have made at least one attempt by the time of their penultimate year assessment.
For in-depth guide to the MRCP exams, see our IMG Resources library here.
Exam Structure
The SCE assesses candidates on a wide range of common and important disorders, as set out in the syllabus of the curriculum. This should be taken as an indication of the likely number of questions – the actual number may vary:
|
Topic |
Number of questions |
|
Airways disease |
35 |
|
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) |
25 |
|
Disorders of the pleura and mediastinum, including pneumothorax |
25 |
|
Pulmonary infections |
35 |
|
Pulmonary vascular disease |
20 |
|
Sleep-related breathing disorders and hypoventilation |
5 |
|
Thoracic oncology |
35 |
|
Other* |
20 |
|
Total |
200 |
*Other: Critical and high-dependency care of respiratory disease; Genetic and developmental lung disease; Lung transplantation; Pharmacology; Practical procedures; Statistics
The questions in each category are distributed across both papers.
All SCEs are computer-based and are administered by Pearson VUE at a test centre in the UK or internationally.
Respiratory Medicine SCE Applications
SCEs are held once a year and applications are made online through My MRCP(UK) account, within the Upcoming Exams section of the Royal College website.
The application process is as follows:
- Register online through My MRCP(UK) (candidates have the opportunity at this point to register any special arrangements)
- Request a preferred test country and city
- Pay applicable examination fee
- Application is confirmed via an automatically generated email
- Receive test centre confirmation email from Pearson VUE within four weeks of the examination date.
The Royal College of Physicians has created a helpful video guide on SCE applications which you can watch here.
Cost
The cost of the SCE exams are as follows:
- UK centres: £665
- International centres: £833
Exam Centres
UK Centres
Candidates who choose to sit the respiratory medicine SCE in the UK must contact Pearson VUE to book their test. There are up to 137 test centres throughout the UK for each SCE, and the Royal College of Physicians advise that candidates should book their exam as early as possible to secure their preferred test centre, as bookings operate on a first come first served basis.
International Centres
Candidates are given a choice of regions and are then asked to nominate a particular city in that region as their desired test location. The Royal College of Physicians will pass this request to Pearson VUE once the application period has closed, and Pearson VUE will confirm final test centre details to candidates via email at least three weeks before the date of the examination. If the exam is not available in a requested location, candidates will be offered a choice of the nearest available test centres.
Please note, international candidates should not book their own test centre with Pearson VUE - attempting to do so may delay a candidate's application.
The full list of international SCE test centres can be found here.
Preparation and Resources for the Respiratory Medicine SCE
It can be difficult for IMGs to know where to start with their preparation and revision. This list should provide a good starting point for any international respiratory medicine doctors preparing to sit the SCE:
Curriculum - Applicants are tested on a range of common and important disorders in Respiratory Medicine as set out in the Joint Royal Colleges’ Curriculum for Respiratory Medicine Specialist Training. We recommend getting to know the curriculum as early as possible and using it as a blueprint for your study.
Guidelines - These tools are helpful for supplementing your knowledge:
- American Thoracic Society
- British Thoracic Society
- European Respiratory Society
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
- Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN)
Journals
- American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
- CHEST
- European Respiratory Journal
- Thorax
Sample questions: It is a good idea to regularly assess your knowledge and progress using example questions from the current exam syllabus. You can find these here.
For an overview of how to prepare for exams, including advice on study groups, online community support, best use of online resources & Royal College materials and courses, check out at our blog: IMG Connects Top Tips for exam preparation.
I’ve passed? What’s next?
First of all, congratulations - this is a massive achievement! With your MRCP(UK) and Respiratory Medicine SCE in hand, you can apply for a full GMC registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC has approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK. Great stuff!
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with an IMG medicine recruitment specialist to discuss GMC registration, respiratory medicine positions in the NHS, including typical NHS salaries, the most suitable UK locations and hospitals for you, and relocation.
To receive the latest news and updates, including the Royal Colleges, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Relevant Jobs
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Respiratory Medicine to join a prominent NHS Trust in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This leading NHS Trust provides extensive health services across a broad region, including acute and community settings. The Trust is renowned for its commitment to high standards of patient care and innovative healthcare solutions. It has received commendable ratings from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and is recognized for its effective and compassionate care. Recent government funding has further strengthened its facilities and capabilities, making it an ideal environment for medical professionals seeking to make an impact in a forward-thinking NHS organization.
What is the department & team like?
The Respiratory Medicine Department offers a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient specialist services. Inpatient care ward features 28 beds and recently received an enhanced ventilation refurbishment. The ward includes a dedicated treatment room with a mobile Sonosite Ultrasound, ensuring top-notch, consultant-led care. Daily multidisciplinary team meetings facilitate best practices and patient-centered approaches, while medical education and quality improvement are integral to our rounds. Outpatient services include a fully equipped lung function laboratory and a range of lung function tests performed by professional physiologists.
They also offer an ambulatory pleural service and share bronchoscopy lists. EBUS, interventional bronchoscopy, and Thoracoscopy procedures are conducted at the Eastbourne endoscopy unit. A committed secretarial team supports the department, providing dedicated office space and IT facilities for the post holder.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Respiratory Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop a sub-specialist interest. The Trust emphasizes continuous professional development with structured mentorship, opportunities for research, and involvement in cutting-edge respiratory care practices. You will have the chance to advance your career while contributing to a high-performing team.
What is the location like?
The region offers a high quality of life with a mix of scenic landscapes and cultural attractions. It boasts charming towns, beautiful coastlines, and vibrant countryside. With excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and affordable living costs compared to major cities, it provides a welcoming environment for international doctors and their families. The area is well-connected to major cities, including London, allowing for easy exploration of the UK while enjoying a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Respiratory Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Respiratory Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Respiratory Medicine
- MRCP UK
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Respiratory Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
Opportunity for Respiratory Medicine specialists with an interest in sleep medicine and ventilation subspecialties at one of the UK\'s most established and renowned NHS Teaching Trusts. The successful candidate will work in both areas, but this is not essential, and if a candidate has limited experience in Sleep/Ventilation but is keen to develop their expertise and take on a role in this area, the department will support with a period of training and mentorship. NUH is one the largest respiratory departments in the country with a wealth of subspecialty services, ranging from asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, ILD including LAM, through lung cancer to
infections including TB. In particular they are a regional centre for complex ventilation and sleep. Overseas applications from experienced Specialty Doctor, Specialist grade or Consultant grade are welcomed.
What is the NHS Trust like?
Established in 2006 through a merger of two hospitals, the Trust stands as a cornerstone of healthcare in the city, boasting a prominent position in supporting the health and wellness of its local populace. Renowned for its contributions to research, education, and innovation, the Trust delivers secondary care services to over one million individuals in the county and specialized tertiary care to patients throughout the East Midlands. With approximately 17,000 employees spread across three sites, the Trust operates under a budget of under £1 billion, maintaining 90 wards and 1,700 beds. Serving as a linchpin for district general services to 2.5 million residents and surrounding communities, the Trust\'s specialized services extend care to 4.5 million individuals from across the East Midlands and beyond for select services. As a teaching institution, the Trust nurtures strong partnerships with the local University and other regional universities. The Trust assumes a pivotal role in the education and training of medical professionals, nurturing the development of doctors, nurses, and allied healthcare staff.
What is the Respiratory Medicine Department & Team like?
NUH is one the largest respiratory departments in the country with a wealth of subspecialty services, ranging from asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, ILD including LAM, through lung cancer to infections including TB. In particular they are a regional centre for complex ventilation and sleep. The Respiratory service runs on both campuses; therefore cross site working is a requirement of the post. Respiratory inpatient beds are currently predominantly on the City campus. NUH has a dedicated respiratory assessment unit (RAU), taking direct admissions via 999 ambulance service, as well as transfers from the Emergency Department based at Queen’s Medical Centre campus. RAU has 20 beds, including 4 side rooms, and is led by a strong team of nurses, including Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) and a team of doctors, including a dedicated Trust grade post. On the QMC campus we have the 12 bedded Advanced Respiratory Care Unit (ARCU). The Respiratory team also provides in-reach cover to the Emergency department and acute medical admissions area based on the QMC campus. The successful candidate will join a team of 24 NHS Respiratory consultants and 8 academics, who also have a wide range of sub-specialty interests. The consultant team is supported by 8 middle grade doctors and a team of nurse specialists across COPD, lung cancer, oxygen, ILD, Asthma and TB. We also have Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) supporting the acute pathway and some chronic disease clinics.
What is life like in East Midlands of England?
The city offers a dynamic blend of urban and rural settings, catering to diverse lifestyles for doctors living nearby. The city boasts esteemed schools and universities, and the transportation links are robust, connecting locally and to neighboring cities and airports. Housing options range from historic properties in the city center to modern developments in suburban areas, accommodating various preferences and budgets.
Career Development & Further Opportunities Available at the NHS Trust
The department has a strong research reputation and we are proud to have team members with national and international profiles. A new consultant will join a well-established team and will help us to consolidate and expand the services we provide. The trust has an active education/teaching programme which is supported by the consultant team.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Respiratory, Sleep and/or ventilation
- Specialist Qualification in Respiratory Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP UK or MRCPI (or any other GMC recognised qualification)
- Experience of working in Respiratory, Sleep and/or ventilation
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Respiratory, Sleep and/or ventilation
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An outstanding opportunity for motivated and enthusiastic Middle Grade Doctors in General Medicine with medical sub-specialties being considered, such as stroke, neurology, respiratopry, acute and general medicine, gastroenterology and diabetes & endocrine. The trust houses four main hospitals, offering busy, modern & well-equipped departments. This is a great NHS job opportunity suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
WHAT IS THE HEALTH BOARD LIKE?
The University Health Board provides healthcare services to a total population of three towns. The Health Board provides Acute, Primary, Community, Mental Health and Learning Disabilities services via General and Community Hospitals, Health Centres, GP\'s, Dentists, Pharmacists and Optometrists and other sites. They also provides a range of services for people living in south Gwynedd and Powys. Integrated health boards are a key first step in creating a world class NHS in Wales. The Health Board has 11,000 members of staff provide primary, community, in-hospital, mental health and learning disabilities services for around 384,000 people across a quarter of the landmass of Wales.
The University Health Board have always aimed to provide safe and timely care for their patients. The Health Board continuously make improvements in order to be better. The Health Board partners with the local government and the third sector to improve local care services and ensure that the right care is provided in the right place, at the right time.
The Health Board shape the identity of their organisation and act as a guiding light for their employees. They aim to be an enjoyable and fulfilling place to work at.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE REGION?
The University Health Board is in an area wherein there are excellent choice of schools and very reasonable property prices while having a picturesque countryside view. Carmarthenshire is home to the Brecon Beacons, National Botanic Gardens of Wales and some of the longest and most beautiful beaches. West Wales provides wonderful lifestyle opportunities.
There are other activities such as climbing and mountain biking, as well as walking, surfing, fishing, sailing and hiking. There are also excellent road and rail connections to London and the larger cities. Wales has a low crime rate and is a safe and friendly place to live and work.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The Health Board has University status with strong links to other Universities to develop and strengthen multi-profession teaching. This initiative programme aims to engage and capture the enthusiasm and commitment of their up and coming clinicians in Wales in addressing Prudent Health Cares.
They have an 8-room Clinical Research Facility in PPH, with state of the art facilities that opened in 2012 and new initiatives involve BioBanking, EU Lead for telemonitoring at scale and new Clinical Research Fellowships.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Board Certified Specialist (desirable)
- Experience working across / in medicine specialties
Non-EEA Candidates:
- Experience working across / in medicine specialties
- Full MRCP UK
- Eligibility for GMC registration
UK based applicants
- Experience working across / in medicine specialties
Discover an exciting opportunity as a Specialty Doctor in Acute & General Internal Medicine, you\'ll be a driving force in reshaping the future of acute care in the captivating region in Scotland! Embrace the chance to join a dynamic, forward-thinking team dedicated to revolutionizing medical care. The hospital you will be assigned to proudly serves its community, offering essential emergency, acute, and elective services. Be a part of a team that champions local care, ensuring patients receive support within their familiar surroundings.
Delve into the Medicine Department\'s transformation and collaborate closely with the Emergency Department, backed by adept hospital management. Experience unwavering support within a contemporary, well-equipped environment. The department sits within a health board that stands as a pillar of healthcare excellence in Scotland, collaborating with national bodies to deliver quality care. With around 14,000 staff, it oversees clinical governance and provides specialized hospital services. It serves as a tertiary and teaching center, delivering specialized care to the North of Scotland.
It is located in a place that captivates with its landscapes. From coastal tranquility to fertile expanses, this region offers a soothing commute amid picturesque beauty. Navigate well-maintained roads with a tranquil pace, enjoying a connection with nature as you journey.
The opportunity extends to education, with advanced facilities and affiliations with institutions like the University of the Highlands and Islands. For IMGs seeking CESR, this is your pathway to growth.
Seize the chance for leadership, teaching, research, and continued professional development. Whether a new consultant or an experienced practitioner, you\'ll thrive within a supportive network of high-caliber professionals.
In summary, embark on a journey that combines medical excellence, natural allure, and career growth. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Acute & General internal Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP UK
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Acute & General internal Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An outstanding opportunity for an enthusiastic & determined Consultant in Respiratory Medicine to join a close-knit department that works together to provide the best quality of service to their patients. The department sits within the Integrated Adult Care Directorate and is part of the Cardiorespiratory Clinical Business Unit. The department is part of an NHS Trust that is busy, exciting and diverse place to work. This is a perfect chance for Consultants in Respiratory Medicine looking to grow their career in the NHS.
The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
The NHS Trust was formed in August 2010 through the integration of two health services. Currently the NHS Trust employs 3,600 that provides services for a population of over 360,000 people who are relatively young with a high level of ethnic diversity. The NHS Trust strongly believe that their employees are their greatest asset and so through Listening into Action – the NHS Trust\'s way of engaging staff - they empower everyone at any level to initiate and bring about real improvements in their care.
The Trust provides integrated NHS services to care for people at home, in schools, and health clinics across the borough as well as at their two main hospitals. The NHS Trust provides more than 100 specialist services and is home to the borough’s only Emergency Department and 24/7 maternity services, including a labour ward, midwifery-led birth centre and the home birthing team. They also offer outpatient care, including diagnostic services, physiotherapy and ophthalmology services, alongside an onsite GP surgery.
This is a perfect time to join the NHS Trust they will provide a strong visible presence across the organisation, be a role model of good leadership and effective communication at individual, team, directorate and whole organisation level.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Department of Respiratory Medicine is a team of five full time Consultants who are responsible for the delivery of COPD, Lung Cancer, Pleural and TB services in this Trust. The junior medical team comprise one Specialty Registrar, a Trust Grade registrar, one CMT Senior House Officer, one FY2, three FY1 doctors and a physician associate. The department has a dedicated chest x-ray facilities, and a lung function laboratory. They also have a state-of-the-art endoscopy suite that accommodates full diagnostic bronchoscopy and EBUS facilities.
The ward currently has 27 beds on one of their sites, including four negative pressure side rooms, and provides acute non-invasive ventilation (NIV). There are also 14 beds on another site. The in-patient work also involves reviewing ward referrals. The respiratory firm receives a large number of ward referrals (20-25 per week) from other medical teams. The TB caseload is 100 notifications per year. The TB team is well staffed by 4 WTE nurses & 0.6 WTE case worker to provide latent TB screening, screening for immunosuppressive therapies, direct-observed therapy, community outreach as well as inpatient support.
The post holder is expected to lead the development of an outpatient sleep and ventilation service. The post holder is expected to provide General Internal Medicine and specialist respiratory and TB medicine service; this includes all aspects of treatment and relevant management duties for the proper functioning of the department and the patient flow across the Directorate.
WHAT IS THE AREA LIKE?
Living in the area means that you will never be short of something to do! The area is a bustling area and offers a great selection of shops, restaurants, transport links and leisure facilities. The successful candidate can enjoy a jog in the local parks. There are a variety of pubs and clubs located in the town centre. Residents also have access to some excellent outdoors locations.
The area is a trendy, up-and-coming area on the road to becoming the golden town of London with the government dedicating a £5.7 billion regeneration budget to build new homes, hotels and public spaces including a new Westfield shopping centre. It’s a great place to visit and an even greater place to buy a home. Croydon is also part of London’s premier tram network. A unique way to explore the area as a visitor. Connecting to Wimbledon, Beckenham and Merton, as many as 30 million people use the tram every year.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
The NHS Trust is a teaching hospital, and works in partnership with St Georges University of London to provide the highest possible quality of medical education. Involvement in high quality research & development is strongly encouraged at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, as this supports both the delivery of high quality clinical care. The undertaking of research within a job plan should be discussed during appraisal and as part of job planning activities.
CUH offers newly appointed Consultants 4 free coaching/mentoring sessions. This is in line with the GMC’s recommendations for Good Medical Practice. The success of coaching and mentoring is aimed at establishing effective relationships with mentors based upon mutual respect, honesty and understanding, combined with structured questioning to enable the mentee to find their own solutions.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
UK based candidates:
- Specialist register, or within 6-12 months of completing CESR
- Specialisation in Respiratory Medicine
- Consultant experience
- Consultant experience
- Preferably MRCP