By Upasana Tayal BMJ

The United Kingdom's first fast track medical students have graduated from the University of Leicester's medical school. The 15 students, a pilot group who began the new course four years ago, were presented with their degrees on Friday 11 July at DeMontfort Hall, Leicester.

The fast track medical degree is aimed at graduates of biological sciences degrees who hadn't chosen medicine when they left school. The course is shorter and more intensive than traditional medical degrees. It is hoped that the course, now run across many universities, will produce new doctors quickly to help fill the current national shortfall.

Christopher Johnson is one of the newly qualified doctors. His first degree was in zoology, and then he did a PhD in physiology in Canada. He admits that he would probably not have gone into medicine when he was 17 years old, but by the time he was in his 20s he knew he wanted a change of direction: "Physiology and people came to equal doctor. It became a burning ambition."

Professor Ian Lauder, dean of medicine, said, "We have been delighted with the success of these pioneering students, and wish them well as they start their careers in the health service. Our school is committed to innovation in medical education. This autumn we look forward to welcoming the first cohort of students on a new four year programme, this time designed for people with previous qualifications in other health sciences."