The web is a useful way to get a quick insight into a number of specialties. It’s also a good place to get contrasting views or the latest news stories in a given field. With an almost inexhaustible source of information at your fingertips, it’s best used for a broad overview as opposed to in-depth fact finding.

A list of useful websites can be found in the Career resources section and the Specialty pages.

Once you’ve honed down the specialties you wish to consider further you can use your local medical library to investigate them in more detail. You should be able to get books on particular areas which include a clinical overview, as well as journals and other published material. Journals and newsletters in particular can be a useful way of finding the inside track. Try scanning the letter pages to find out about the issues that are currently generating most debate. 

Click through to the Career resources section for a list of books that you may find helpful.

Don’t limit yourself to publications aimed at doctors choosing a specialty. Finding out the current medical topics hitting the headlines, or tapping into a research community forum can help you see a different side to what a particular area has
to offer.

Visiting a medical careers fair is another excellent way of exploring different career options.

Every October BMJ Careers organises a National careers fair held in London. Entry to this fair is free if you pre-register. 

There are many other fairs and events held throughout the UK that may be of interest. See our careers events pages for up-to-date information on further events. We also have a page giving you advice on how to make the most out of attending a careers fair.