Medical microbiology

The FRCPath examinations in medical microbiology will be drawn from the current curriculum approved by the College. The examination will test core knowledge in medical microbiology and, in particular, the scientific basis of microbiology and infection. 

UK trainees in single or joint training programmes for microbiology should refer to the information available on the Infection specialty page for information regarding their Part 1 examination. 

Part 1

Medical Microbiology Part 1 Examination

Medically qualified candidates are required to have trained in a recognised Regional Specialist Training Programme in microbiology or virology for a period of normally not less than 12 months.

Non-medically qualified candidates are required to have trained in a recognised training programme in microbiology for a period of normally not less than 12 months. In addition, they must be state registered, or the equivalent of state registered in another country.

Purpose

To act as early assessment of the trainee’s knowledge and understanding of the scientific basis of medical microbiology, virology and infectious diseases.

Format

Multiple choice: 125 single best answer questions, designed to test both knowledge and understanding.

Curriculum

The examination will test core knowledge in medical microbiology/virology and, in particular, the scientific basis of virology/microbiology and infection. The medical microbiology and virology curriculum is available in the Curricula section of the College website.

Standards and marking

  • Objective multiple choice question (MCQ) examination (single 3-hour paper) with computerised marking.

  • One best answer and extended matching question formats.

  • Experienced group of examiners involved in standard setting and curriculum mapping.

  • The pass mark is set by an objective procedure by the Panel of Examiners (individual questions reviewed to create minimum standard).

  • Examination review is biannual.

Part 2 

Medical microbiology Part 2 examination

Information on the format of the Part 2 medical microbiology examination can be found in the following document.