BSc Manch 1928, MB ChB 1932, DPH 1933, MD 1939.
Starkie studied medicine and public health, at the University of Manchester. He was senior AMO at St Mary's Hospital and deputy medical officer of health in Hyde, Cheshire. Starkie was later appointed medical officer of health for Kidderminster and area medical officer for Worcester. Starkie was a member of the Society of Medical Officers of Health.