Vascular Surgery Curriculum

1 Introduction

The curriculum provides the approved United Kingdom (UK) framework for the training of doctors to the level of independent consultant practice in Vascular Surgery, addressing the requirements of patients, the population and the strategic health services. The curriculum will also be followed for training in the Republic of Ireland. General Medical Council (GMC) approval of the curriculum pertains to UK training programmes while those in the Republic of Ireland are governed by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and the Medical Council of Ireland.

Changes to the Vascular Surgery curriculum from August 2021

Curriculum PDFs:

Vascular Surgery curriculum August 2021 (version 2) July 2023

Vascular Surgery curriculum August 2021

Intercollegiate Specialty Examination

Section 2 (clinical/oral) of the Intercollegiate Specialty Examination in Vascular Surgery includes an Academic Oral. Please find the link below to the list of academic papers used for the examination. Please be advised that the list has been updated to reflect contemporary practice and this updated list is the list that will be used for the Section 2 examination in May 2026. The current list will be used for the last time in the Section 2 examination in November 2025 and will be removed from the website after the Section 2 examination in November 2025.

Examinations from 11 May 2026 

New JCST–RCR statement outlines key actions to strengthen collaborative training in Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery

A joint survey from the RCR and JCST highlights resident concerns about accessing key training opportunities and meeting curriculum requirements across EVAR and peripheral endovascular procedures. Both colleges have committed to improving collaboration between IR and VS training programmes, sharing good practice, and addressing concerns about collaborative training. The joint statement sets out clear actions for IR and VS trainers and the two colleges, with ongoing monitoring to ensure high‑quality, equitable training for all residents. Link to joint statement.