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Medical school

Adapted from Wikipedia · Adventurer experience

Medical students practice training with an obstetric mannequin to learn more about healthcare.

Medical school is a special school where people learn to become doctors. They study the human body, diseases, and how to help people stay healthy. After finishing their studies, students receive a degree showing they have completed their training.

Medical schools can also do research and work with hospitals. They teach students real medical practices. The way medical schools work can be different in each country. Getting into medical school is often very hard because schools look for the best students.

Students usually spend several years studying. They learn many subjects, such as how the body works and how diseases affect health. After finishing their studies, new doctors still need to pass tests and get special approval before they can start practicing medicine. This helps make sure they are ready to safely care for patients.

For a broad outline, see Medical education. For a list, see List of medical schools. For trade association, see Medical association. For the experimental music label, see Hospital Records.

Africa

For a more comprehensive list, see List of medical schools in Africa.

By 2005 there were more than 100 medical schools across Africa, most of which had been established after 1970.

Ghana

There are seven medical schools in Ghana: The University of Ghana Medical School in Accra, the KNUST School of Medical Sciences in Kumasi, University for Development Studies School of Medicine in Tamale, University of Cape Coast Medical School and the University of Allied Health Sciences in Ho, Volta Region, the private Accra College of Medicine, and Family Health University College(Accra), another private medical school.

Basic Medical education lasts 6 years in all medical schools. Entry into these medical schools is highly competitive and it is usually based on successful completion of the Senior High School Examinations. The University of Ghana Medical School and the University of Cape Coast have, however, introduced a graduate entry medical program to admit students with mainly science-related degrees into a 4-year medical school program (four and half years for the University of Cape Coast).

Students graduating from any of these medical schools get the MBChB degree and the title "Dr". For the first 3 years, students are awarded BSc in the field of Medical Sciences from the University of Ghana medical school; and Human biology for KNUST and UDS medical schools. The University of Ghana Medical School and KNUST School of Medical Sciences in Kumasi use a traditional medical education model whiles the University for Development Studies School of Medicine and School of Medical science of the University of Cape Coast use the problem-based learning model.

Medical graduates are then registered provisionally with the Medical and Dental Council (MDC) of Ghana as House Officers (Interns). Upon completion of the mandatory 2-year housemanship, these medical doctors are permanently registered with the MDC and can practice as medical officers (General Practitioners) anywhere in the country. The housemanship training is done only in hospitals accredited for such purposes by the Medical and Dental Council of Ghana.

Following the permanent registration with the Medical and Dental Council, doctors can specialize in any of the various fields that is organized by either the West African College of Physicians and Surgeons or the Ghana College of Physician and Surgeons.

Medical officers are also sometimes hired by the Ghana Health Service to work in the District/Rural areas as Primary Care Physicians.

Kenya

In Kenya, medical schools are faculties of a university. Medical education lasts for 6 years after which the student graduates with an undergraduate (MBChB) degree. This is followed by a mandatory 12-month full-time internship at an approved hospital after which one applies for registration with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Board if they intend to practice medicine in the country. The first two years of medical school cover the basic medical (preclinical) sciences while the last four years are focused on the clinical sciences and internship.

Completion of formal specialty training in Kenya is followed by two years of supervised clinical work before one can apply for recognition as a specialist, in their respective field, by the medical board.

There are no medical school entry examinations or interviews and admission is based on the student's performance in the high school exit examination (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education - KCSE). Students who took the AS Level or the SAT can also apply but there is a very strict quota limiting the number of students that get accepted into public universities. This quota does not apply to private universities.

Further information: List of medical schools in Africa § Kenya

Nigeria

There are several medical schools in Nigeria. Entrance into these schools is highly competitive. Candidates graduating from high school must attain high scores on the West African Examination Council's (WAEC) Senior School Certificate Exam (SSCE/GCE) and high scores in five subjects (Physics, Mathematics, English, Chemistry, and Biology) in the University Matriculation Examination (UME). Students undergo rigorous training for 6 years and culminate with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS/MBChB). The undergraduate program is six years and one year of work experience in government hospitals. After medical school, graduates are mandated to spend one year of housemanship (internship) and one year of community service before they are eligible to be fully licensed by the Medical and Dental Council.

South Africa

See also: List of medical schools in South Africa

Further information: Healthcare in South Africa, Category:Teaching hospitals in South Africa, and Dental degree § South Africa

There are eleven medical schools in South Africa, each under the auspices of a public university. As the country is a former British colony, most institutions follow the British-based undergraduate method of instruction, admitting students directly from high school into 6 or 5-year programs. Some universities such as the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg have started offering post-graduate medical degrees that run concurrently with their undergraduate programs. In this instance, a student having completed an appropriate undergraduate degree with basic sciences can enter into a four-year postgraduate program.

South African medical schools award the MB ChB degree, except the University of the Witwatersrand, which styles its degree MB BCh. Some universities allow students to earn an intercalated degree, completing a BSc (Medical) with an additional year of study after the second or third year of the MBChB. The University of Cape Town, in particular, has spearheaded a recent effort to increase the level of medical research training and exposure of medical students through an Intercalated Honours Programme, with the option to extend this to a PhD.

Following successful completion of study, all South African medical graduates must complete a two-year internship as well as a further year of community service in order to register with the Health Professions Council and practice as a doctor in the country.

Specialisation is usually a five- to seven-year training process (depending on the specialty) requiring registering as a medical registrar attached to an academic clinical department in a large teaching hospital with appropriate examinations. The specialist qualification may be conferred as a Fellowship by the independent Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), following British tradition, or as a Magisterial degree by the university (usually the M Med, Master of Medicine, degree). The Medical schools and the CMSA also offer Higher Diplomas in many fields. Research degrees are the MMed and PhD or MD, depending on the university.

Medical students from all over the world come to South Africa to gain practical experience in the country's many teaching hospitals and rural clinics. The language of instruction is English but a few indigenous languages are studied briefly. The University of the Free State has a parallel medium policy, meaning all English classes are also presented in Afrikaans, therefore students who choose to study in Afrikaans, do so separately from the English class.

Sudan

In Sudan, a medical school is a faculty of a university. Medical school is usually 5–6 years, and by the end of the 5–6 years, the students acquire a bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery. Post graduating there is a mandatory one-year full-time internship at one of the universities or Government Teaching hospitals in the four major Specialty in 3 months rotation, then a license is issued after a written exam conducted by the Sudan medical council (SMC).

During the first 3–4 years the curriculum is completed, and throughout the next 2 years it is repeated with clinical training. Students with high grades in high school are accepted for free in Government Universities. Private faculty accept lower grades than governmental faculty but their grades still high. Students who take foreign examinations other than the Sudanese High School Examination are also accepted in Universities, students taking IGCSE/SATs and other Arabian countries. All medical students who want to be enrolled in an internship program should undergo registration under the Sudanese Medical Council. Postgraduate training is conducted by Sudan medical specialisation board (SMSB) and the degree obtained is medical doctor (MD). The duration of training varies from 4–6 years depend on the scientific Council of the specific speciality.

Tanzania

In Tanzania, medical school is a school within a university or can be an independent university dealing with health related courses only affiliated with a large sized hospital. Medical education lasts for 5 years after which the student graduates with an undergraduate (MD) degree. This is followed by a mandatory 12-month full-time internship at an approved hospital after which one applies for registration with the Medical Council of Tanzania (MCT) if they intend to practice medicine in the country. The first two years of medical school cover the Bio medical sciences or simply basic (pre-clinical) sciences while the last three years are focused on the clinical sciences.[citation needed]

There are no medical school entry examinations or interviews and admission is based on students' performance in the high school exit examination (Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education Examination - ACSEE). Alternatively are student who took diploma in clinical medicine with an average of G.P.A 3.5 distinction who have very few seats.[citation needed]

Uganda

As of April 2017[update], there are nine accredited medical schools in Uganda. Training leading to the award of the degree of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) lasts five years, if there are no re-takes. After graduating, a year of internship in a hospital designated for that purpose, under the supervision of a specialist in that discipline is required before an unrestricted license to practice medicine and surgery is granted by the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council (UMDPC).

There is Postgraduate training such as the degree of Master of Medicine (MMed) which is a three-year programme, available at Makerere University School of Medicine in several disciplines. Makerere University School of Public Health, offers the degree of Master of Public Health (MPH) following a 22-month period of study, which includes field work.

Zimbabwe

In Zimbabwe, there are three medical schools is offering Medical degrees. For undergrads, these are University of Zimbabwe - College of Health Sciences {MBChB}, National University of Science and Technology (NUST) Medical school {MBBS} and Midlands State University (MSU) {MBChB}. Only UZ is offering postgrad degrees in the Medical faculty.

Training lasts 5+1⁄2 years. The curriculum is as follows:

  • Part 1 (1 year) – Biochemistry, Communication Skills for Academic Purposes, Anatomy, Physiology and Behavioral Sciences.
  • Part 2 (1 year) – Communication Skills for Professional Purposes, Anatomy, Physiology, Behavioral Sciences.
  • Part 3 (1.5 years) – Pathology (Histopathology), Medical Microbiology, Chemical Pathology, Hematology, Forensic Pathology, Immunology and Toxicology.
  • Part 4 (1 year) – Community Medicine, Psychiatry and Clinical Pharmacology
  • Part 5 (1 year) – Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics

Internships are two years in duration, with the first year spent in medicine and surgery and the second year doing pediatrics, anesthesia/psychiatry and obstetrics and gynecology. Thereafter one can apply for MMED at the university which last 4–5 years depending on specialty.

Zambia

Zambia has several institutions offering medical education at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The country’s medical schools operate under the oversight of the Health Professions Council of Zambia (HPCZ), which regulates training, accreditation, and licensing of medical practitioners.

Medical education in Zambia typically follows a six-year MBChB program, which includes pre-clinical and clinical phases, followed by a mandatory one-year internship at a recognized hospital. Graduates must register with the HPCZ to practice as medical doctors.

The University of Zambia School of Medicine in Lusaka, established in 1966, was the country’s first medical school. Since then, several other public and private institutions have emerged to meet the growing demand for medical professionals.

Notable medical universities in Zambia include:

Medical students undergo intensive academic and clinical training in affiliated teaching hospitals. Upon graduation and completion of internship, they may pursue postgraduate specialization within Zambia or abroad, through recognized programs such as Master of Medicine (MMed) and Doctor of Medicine (MD).

Asia and Oceania

Australia

See also: Medical education in Australia

Historically, Australian medical schools have followed the British tradition by giving out the degrees of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) to graduates. The title of Doctor of Medicine (MD) was kept for research training, similar to a PhD, or for honorary doctorates. Most Australian MBBS degrees have been graduate programs since the 1990s, but under the old Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), they were still Level 7 Bachelor degrees.

Now, the AQF includes Level 9 Master's (Extended) degrees, allowing the use of the title 'Doctor'. Because of this, many Australian medical schools have changed their MBBS degrees to MD. The University of Melbourne was the first to introduce the MD in 2011 as a basic medical degree and renamed its research degree to Doctor of Medical Science (DMedSc).

Bangladesh

See also: List of medical colleges in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, getting into medical college is managed by the Governing Body of the University of Dhaka. There is one big test for both government and private colleges. About 78 times more people apply than get in. Admission depends on the test and students' past school records.

The test lasts one hour and has 100 questions. Biology is worth 30 marks, Chemistry 25, Physics 20, English 15, and general knowledge 10.

Students also use their past school scores. The Secondary School Certificate (SSC) scores count for up to 75 marks, and the Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC) scores count for up to 125 marks.

English students study extra for the test because regular school exams don't cover all the material.

Medical study takes five years plus one year of internship. Graduates get a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). After that, they can do more studies like Diplomas or Degrees (MS or MD), MPhil, and FCPS.

The University of Dhaka started a new BSc in "Radiology and Imaging Technology" for 30 students. This can help with entrance exam grades. For HSC students, it counts for 25% of the mark. For Diploma students, it counts for up to 75%. The course takes four years plus 12 weeks for a project. It covers topics like behavioural science, ethics, imaging physics, and procedures.

Cambodia

After six years of medical education (one foundation year plus five years), students get a Bachelor of Medical Sciences (BMedSc). This degree doesn't let them work alone as doctors, but they can continue to master's degrees in areas like Public Health, Epidemiology, Biomedical Science, and Nutrition.

To become full doctors or specialists, students need to:

  • Finish an 8-year General Practitioner's (GP) course (BMedSc plus a 2-year internship). The degree awarded is Doctor of Medicine (MD), equal to a master's degree.
  • Or, after BMedSc, take a hard entrance exam to join Residency Training Programs, which last 3 to 4 years. After defending their practicum thesis, they get a Degree of Specialized Doctor (MD-with specialization).

All medical graduates must finish a thesis and pass a national exit exam to become a GP or specialist.

China

See also: List of medical schools in China

Medical education is usually a five-year Bachelor degree, with a one-year internship before getting the degree. Some schools have three-year programs, but hospitals usually hire from five-year programs. After medical school, students must work 1–3 years in a university hospital before taking the National Medical Licensing Examination (NMLE) for certification. Passing certifies them as physicians. Specialization usually needs a two-or three-year Master degree. Admission is through a national entrance exam for all universities. The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) is taught in Chinese, but some schools teach in English and accept foreign students, sometimes with six-year courses. The degree is Bachelor of Clinical Medicine (BCM).

Fiji

Medical education is a six-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree, with a one-year internship before the degree. Graduates must do a year of training in a government hospital before they can practice.

Peking University Health Science Center

There are two accredited medical schools:

Specialization usually needs a three-year master's degree. Admission is based on the Fiji Year 13 Certificate Examination. The MBBS is taught in English.

Hong Kong

Main article: Medical education in Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, medical programs are bachelor's degrees that usually last six years, leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. Students can start after secondary school, taking the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE) (JUPAS candidates) or other exams like the International Baccalaureate and GCE A-Level (non-JUPAS candidates).

There are two medical schools:

Both also offer pharmacy programs. Other healthcare programs like nursing are in universities without medical faculties.

CUHK offers the Dynamic Year 2 (DY2) option for high-achieving students to join Year 2 directly.

Before 2012, programs were five years for students taking the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE).

Getting into medical school is very competitive. Students need excellent exam results and good interview performance. Language and communication skills are important.

Students must complete clinical hours before graduating.

To practice, graduates must finish at least one year of supervised practice (internship) in hospitals, rotating through specialties like medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, and others.

India

Main article: Medical college in India

See also: List of medical Colleges in India

In India, students apply to medical colleges through the central government's NTA (National Testing Agency) using the NEET entrance exam. Students with 10+2 education (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) can take the test.

The NEET-UG fills 15% of MBBS seats, taking about 65,000 students from over 15 lakh applicants. The Supreme Court Of India requires entrance exams with multiple-choice questions.

The graduate program takes five and a half years, with three professionals and a one-year internship. The degree is Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS).

Selection for further education is through entrance exams. Postgraduate qualifications include Post-graduate Diploma or Doctoral Degree (MS or MD) after three years of residency.

Indonesia

Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong, among the oldest western medicine schools in the Far East

See also: List of medical schools in Indonesia

In Indonesia, high school graduates apply to medical programs through SNBP or SNBT, both managed by the Institution of Higher Education Admissions Test. Some universities also have their own entrance exams. These are very competitive.

Medical school is six years. The first four years are classroom learning, and the last two are clinical rotations. After the undergraduate program, students get the title "S.Ked" (Bachelor of Medicine). After finishing the professional program and passing the national exam, they become physicians with the prefix "dr."

To become a specialist, doctors must complete a residency of three to four years. They can also do a fellowship for more training.

Japan

See also: List of medical schools in Japan

In Japan, medical schools are part of universities and last six years. Admission is through exams after high school and at the university.

Students study Liberal Arts and Sciences for the first 1–2 years, including Physics, Mathematics, Chemistry, and Foreign Languages. Then they study Basic Medicine and Clinical Medicine for two years, followed by Public health and Forensics.

The last two years are spent training at the University Hospital. After passing the graduation exam, students get an MD. They are titled Doctor, like PhD holders. There is an MD/PhD program.

Students take the National Medical License exam to become Physicians and register with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Kyrgyzstan

In Kyrgyzstan, Kyrgyz State Medical Academy offers a six-year bachelor's program. Other schools like the International School of Medicine at the International University of Kyrgyzstan offer a five-year program recognized by the World Health Organization, the General Medical Council, and UNESCO. It partners with schools in the United States, Germany, Russia, and the UAE.

Other schools include International University of Science and Business, Asian Medical Institute, and Medical Institute, Osh State University.

Macau

Macau University of Science and Technology has the only Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program in Macau.

Malaysia

See also: List of medical schools in Malaysia

In Malaysia, getting into medical school is hard because of high costs and strict selection. Some schools offer a foundation in medicine before the full program. Most government and some private schools offer MD, while others offer MBBS.

Myanmar

See also: List of medical schools in Myanmar

As of 2015, there are six medical institutions in Myanmar. They are government-funded and require Myanmar citizenship. No private medical schools exist. Admission is through the Department of Health Science, part of the Ministry of Health and Sport.

Students join if they score highest in the science part of the matriculation exam. It's very competitive. The program is five years plus one year of work experience in government hospitals. After medical school, graduates must spend one year as interns and three years in rural areas before they can do residency. The degree is Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). They can then do more studies like MMedSc and DrMedSc.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.

Nepal

See also: List of medical schools in Nepal

As of 2020, Nepal had 23 medical schools (6 public, 17 private). Studies start at undergraduate level and are mostly taught by Indian and Nepalese faculty. They take four and a half years plus a one-year internship. Graduates get the MBBS degree. Some students get scholarships and must work in rural Nepal for two years after graduation.

There are four main medical bodies:

The Medical Education Commission was started in 2017 to improve quality. The Nepal Medical Council (NMC) started in 2020 to register qualified doctors.

New Zealand

See also: List of medical schools in New Zealand

New Zealand medical programs are six years. Students start after a year of basic sciences or a bachelor's degree. There are two main schools: University of Auckland and University of Otago, each with subsidiary schools.

The first year covers basic sciences like chemistry, biology, physics, and biochemistry, plus population health. The next two years study human systems and diseases, plus professional development. Near the end of year 3, students start hospital visits.

Clinical training starts in year 4, with rotations in medicine, surgery, and other areas. Year 5 focuses on specialties. Final exams are at the end of year 5, not the very end of the degree. Students must pass these to enter year 6.

Year 6, called "Trainee Intern" year, has students repeating rotations with more responsibility. They get a government stipend of $NZ 26,756/year (about $US 18,500). Trainee Interns care for patients under supervision but need a registered doctor's signature for prescriptions and orders.

New Zealand schools award Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB).

After year 6, students become "House Officers" for 1–2 years, rotating through specialties. After that, they apply for training in a specialty.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, medical schools are often called medical colleges and are part of universities. They are regulated by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) in Islamabad. There are many government and private colleges, over 50 total. Getting into government colleges is very competitive and based on merit, including school grades and exams like MCAT. After five years of study and clinical training, students get a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree and must do a one-year house job in a teaching hospital before getting a medical license from PMDC.

Philippines

Main articles: List of medical schools in the Philippines and Medical education in the Philippines

The oldest medical school was started in 1871 by the Dominicans under Spanish rule, at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery in Manila.

Medical education grew under American rule. The University of the Philippines College of Medicine was built in 1905.

A group of Indonesian medical students at Trisakti University trains with an obstetric mannequin

Today, there are many medical schools, like University of the Philippines College of Medicine, Our Lady of Fatima University, Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation, and others.

In 1994, Ateneo de Zamboanga University started the first double-degree program, leading to Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health.

Anyone can apply to medical school if they meet the requirements, including the National Medical Admission Test (NMAT). High scores are needed for top schools.

Medical education usually takes four years. The first two years cover basic subjects, and the next two focus on clinical sciences. In the fourth year, students rotate through hospital departments like medicine, surgery, obstetrics, and pediatrics. After graduating with a Doctorate in Medicine, they do a postgraduate internship and then take the Medical Licensure Examination to practice. Passing allows them to apply for Residency Training.

Singapore

There are three medical schools in Singapore. Two offer undergraduate programs (5 years), and one offers postgraduate (4 years).

South Korea

See also: List of medical schools in South Korea

There are 41 medical schools in South Korea. Programs are six years and start after high school, like in the United Kingdom.

In 1996, South Korea discussed changing medical education to graduate-level institutions, like in the United States and Canada. This was controversial because people were worried about fairness. In 2005, the changes started, but schools could keep undergraduate and postgraduate programs. After ten years, many returned to undergraduate programs. As of 2023, Cha University School of Medicine is the only school with a postgraduate program.

Sri Lanka

See also: List of medical schools in Sri Lanka

There are eight medical schools in Sri Lanka. The oldest is the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, started in 1870. Others are in Peradeniya, Kelaniya, Sri Jayawardanepura, Galle, Batticaloa, Jaffna, and Rajarata.

Kelaniya Medical Faculty started as the North Colombo Medical College (NCMC), a private school. It became public due to protests and was renamed.

The Faculty of Health-Care Sciences offers MBBS and para-medical courses. It is part of Eastern University.

The Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM) is the only place for specialist training.

The Institute of Indigenous Medicine and others teach Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha Medicine.

Taiwan

See also: List of medical schools in Taiwan

Medical education in Taiwan is usually seven years (six years learning plus one year internship). It starts after high school. The first two years cover basic sciences and liberal arts. Doctor-patient classes are important, and schools require volunteer hours. Clinical sciences are taught in the third and fourth years. The duration of clerkships and internships varies, but all end in the seventh year. Taiwan's medical education began in 1897 and is over 100 years old. Students graduate with a Bachelor of Medicine (MB) or Doctor of Medicine (MD). Since 2013, students have a 6+2 curriculum, with the first six years like before and the last two as postgraduate years to increase primary care skills.

Thailand

See also: List of medical schools in Thailand

The first medical school in Thailand was started in 1890 at Siriraj Hospital, now the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University. Now there are 26 medical programs nationwide. Most are government-funded and need Thai citizenship. Two private schools exist. Some Thais go to private schools or abroad because there are few spots and the entrance exam is very hard.

Thai medical education is six years: one year of basic science, two years of pre-clinical training, and three years of clinical training. After graduation, students must pass national and university exams. New doctors must do a year of internship and two years in rural areas before they can do specialty training, mostly outside Bangkok.

Students get a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, which is equal to a master's degree in Thailand.

Caribbean

See also: List of medical schools in the Caribbean

In 2011, there were 59 medical schools in the Caribbean. Most of these schools give students a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. A few schools offer a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree.

Some schools train students to work as doctors in their own country or area. Other schools, called offshore schools, train many students from the United States and Canada. These students usually study basic sciences in the Caribbean and finish their training in hospitals in the United States.

Several groups give official approval to Caribbean medical schools. Many of the schools that train doctors for their own countries and some of the offshore schools have this approval.

Curaçao

Centro Hospitalario at the Eastern Central University in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic.

As of 2021, Curaçao has five medical schools in Willemstad. These schools offer programs for students to become Medical Doctors or Doctors of Medicine. After finishing their studies in Curaçao, students must take exams to work as doctors in countries like the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom.

Dominican Republic

Medical studies in the Dominican Republic start after high school. These programs usually take about 6 years and are often taught in Spanish, though some programs in English exist for American students. Students learn about pre-medicine, basic sciences, and clinical sciences. They also do a required one-year internship in a hospital to get their medical license.

Haiti

Medical schools in Haiti teach in French. The universities that offer medical training include Université Notre Dame d'Haïti, Université Quisqueya, Université d'Etat d'Haïti, and Université Lumière. These schools give students medical education. Students should know that the country's political situation can affect safety.

Europe

Albania

See also: List of medical schools in Albania

There are two Medical Schools in Albania:

These medical schools are usually connected to nearby hospitals. The course of study lasts 6 years. Students earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree after finishing.

Austria

Belarus

See also: List of medical schools in Belarus

There are four medical schools in Belarus:

Belgium and Netherlands

See also: List of medical schools in Netherlands and List of medical schools in Belgium

In Belgium and Netherlands, students study medicine for 6 years at a university before graduating.

In the Netherlands, students used to study for four years in a general science program, then two years in hospitals. Now, many schools have three years of general science and three years in hospitals. After 6 years, students become basic doctors. Because of changes in how education works, students in the Netherlands now earn a bachelor's degree after three years and a master's degree after six years. Students can start medical school right after high school; they don’t need another degree first.

In Belgium, learning is more focused on theory than in the Netherlands. In the first three years, students take many science classes and earn a bachelor’s degree. To start this program in Flanders, students must pass an exam. In the French-speaking part of Belgium, only the top students after the first year can continue.

After the bachelor’s degree, students start a four-year master’s program in medicine. The first two years are mostly theory, and the next two years include time in hospitals. The final year helps students decide what kind of doctor they want to become.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

See also: List of medical schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina

There are five Medical Schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

The European University (Georgia)

These schools usually work with nearby hospitals.

Students study for 6 years, or 12 semesters. After finishing, they earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

Bulgaria

For a more complete list, see List of medical schools § Bulgaria.

In Bulgaria, a medical school is part of a university. Classes are mainly in Bulgarian, but some schools now offer programs in English. Bulgarian students need to finish high school and pass entrance exams in Biology and Chemistry. The course lasts 6 years: the first two years are mostly theory, the next three years include time in hospitals, and the final year is an internship. Students must pass exams at the end to earn an MD degree.

Doctors who want to specialize need to take more tests and interviews. Specialties can take three to five years of extra training.

There are four main medical universities in Bulgaria and a few others that also offer medical programs.

Croatia

See also: List of medical schools in Croatia

In Croatia, four universities offer medical degrees. Students start medical school after finishing high school. The course lasts 6 years, with the first three years focused on science classes and the next three years spent in hospitals. After six years, students pass a final exam and earn an MD degree. New doctors then do a one-year internship in a hospital before taking a license exam to practice. After that, they can choose to become general doctors or start specialty training.

Czech Republic

Medical study in Czech Republic has a long history, with the first school starting in 1348. Many students from around the world study there because of high education standards. Most schools offer a 6-year program in Czech or English.

Students need good high school grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, and they must pass entrance exams. Many schools are approved for international students to get financial aid, and their degrees are recognized in many countries.

There are nine public medical schools and one military medical school in the Czech Republic.

Denmark

See also: List of medical schools in Denmark

In Denmark, basic medical education is offered at four universities. The program lasts six years, with the first three years as a bachelor’s degree and the next three years as a candidate (master’s) degree. After six years, students earn the title of Candidate of Medicine (MD). After this, doctors do a one-year internship to practice before choosing a specialty. There are 38 recognized specialties, and becoming a specialist takes at least five more years of training.

Finland

See also: List of medical schools in Finland

In Finland, basic medical education is given at five universities. Students must pass an entrance exam to get in. The first two years focus on science classes, but students also meet patients early. The next four years include more time in hospitals. Some schools mix science and hospital training together. All schools have research opportunities. The program lasts six years and leads to the degree of Licentiate of Medicine.

France

The University of Freiburg Faculty of Medicine

Medical studies in France start right after high school. Students can join one of about 30 medical universities. At the end of the first year, there is a big test to decide who continues. The first year includes classes like biology, chemistry, and ethics. Passing this year is very hard, and students can only try twice.

The next years include more theory and some time in hospitals. By the fourth year, students become “Externe,” working in hospitals each morning and studying in the afternoon. Each year, students spend about five weeks on break.

After six years, students pass a national exam to choose their specialty. They then start as residents, getting paid while learning. Near the end, students must defend a thesis to earn the Doctor of Medicine degree.

Georgia

In Georgia, medical schools are part of universities. Teaching is mainly in Georgian, but English programs exist.

Getting in doesn’t require very strict exams, and the focus is more on interviews and science subjects.

Many students from Europe, Asia, and Africa study there because of lower costs and recognized degrees.

The program lasts six years: the first two years are mostly science classes, the next three years include hospital training, and the final year is an internship. After six years and passing exams, students become Physicians. Those who want to specialize must take more tests and interviews.

Germany

See also: List of medical schools in Germany

In Germany, getting into medical school is very competitive. The most important thing is a high grade from high school. Some schools also look at other things, but the high school grade is always key. There are 36 medical schools in Germany.

The first two years are mostly science classes. After that, students spend three years learning in hospitals. In the final year, students rotate through different hospital departments. After six years, students pass a final exam and become licensed Physicians. Some also earn a Doctor of Medicine degree by doing extra research. To open a practice, doctors need more training in a specific area.

Greece

In Greece, medical schools are part of public universities. They offer both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education. Greek is the main language, but some schools now offer programs in English for international students.

Hungary

Hungary has four medical schools. The most famous is Semmelweis University in Budapest. Other schools are at the University of Debrecen, the University of Pécs, and the University of Szeged. Training takes six years, with the last year as an internship. Graduates earn a Dr. med. degree, which is like an MD. Hungarian medical degrees are accepted in many countries.

Iceland

In Iceland, getting into medical school needs a test controlled by the University of Iceland. Only the top 75 scores each year get in. Medical school takes six years, and students earn a cand.med. degree after finishing. Then, they must do a 12-month internship before getting a full medical license. The internship includes time in internal medicine, surgery, family medicine, and an elective. After the license, doctors can start specialist training, which takes at least five more years.

Ireland

See also: List of medical schools in Ireland

There are six medical schools in Ireland, located at several universities. Training lasts four, five, or six years. For the six-year programs, students need good high school grades. For shorter programs, students need a prior university degree. Some schools now offer four-year graduate entry programs for those who already have a degree and healthcare experience.

After graduation, doctors earn a BM BS or MB BCh BAO degree and must do a one-year internship before getting full registration to practice. Some schools also award a Licenciate of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons and Physicians.

Shepherd's House at King's College London School of Medicine and Dentistry in London

Italy

In Italy, getting into medical school involves a test decided by the Ministry of University and Research each year. The test has 60 questions in logic, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Public and private schools hold the test on different days.

Some universities offer medical degrees entirely in English for both Italian and foreign students. These schools often have lower costs because the government helps pay for education. They include universities in Milan, Bologna, Cagliari, Catania, Pavia, Padua, Parma, Rome, Naples, Messina, Bari, Ancona, and Turin.

Medical school in Italy lasts six years, with the first three years focused on science subjects and the next three on clinical training. Students take many exams and do rotations in hospitals. At the end, they defend a thesis and earn a Doctor of Medicine degree, which is like a master’s level qualification.

After graduating, doctors used to do a three-month internship and pass a state exam, but since 2020, this is no longer required. New doctors must register with the Order of Doctors to practice. They can then choose to become a general practitioner or start specialty training.

Lithuania

Lithuania has two medical schools, in Kaunas and Vilnius. The program lasts six years, with the last year as an internship. Both schools offer programs in English.

Norway

Medical education in Norway is a six- to six-and-a-half-year program at a university. Getting in is very hard because medicine is one of the most competitive programs. Students need high grades in chemistry, mathematics, and physics. The first two years focus on science, and the next four years mix science and hospital training. After finishing, students earn a candidatus/candidata medicinae degree and a medical license. They then must do an 18-month internship before applying for specialty training, which takes at least five more years.

Poland

In Poland, medicine is taught as an undergraduate degree. After six years, graduates earn the title of lekarz, which is like a master’s degree. All graduates must complete a 13-month internship to practice medicine.

Portugal

In Portugal, the medical course is a postgraduate degree, so students need a prior undergraduate degree. Most students join through an integrated master’s program that includes three years of basic health sciences and three years of clinical training. Getting in requires exams in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. After earning their master’s degree, new doctors must register with the national medical association and pass a final exam. The top scorers choose their specialty first; others may wait or seek training abroad. All doctors must complete a one-year internship to practice independently.

Medical schools in Portugal include:

Romania

See also: List of medical schools in Romania

In Romania, medical school is part of a medical university, which may also include dentistry and pharmacy. The program lasts six years, earning a status similar to a Master of Science. Getting in usually needs passing tests in human biology, organic chemistry, or physics. Programs are available in Romanian or English, and English programs are popular with international students.

The first two years are mostly science classes, and the next four years focus on clinical training. After six years, students must pass a national license exam and write a thesis. The final title is Doctor-Medic, which is not an academic degree. All graduates must complete residency training to practice.

Russia

See also: List of medical schools in Europe § Russia

Medical schools in Russia offer a six-year program leading to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree called “Physician.” Some schools are not included in international lists because of lack of cooperation with Russian authorities.

University of Edinburgh Medical School

Serbia

In Serbia, medical school is part of a medical university, which may also include dentistry and pharmacy. The program lasts six years, earning a status similar to a Master of Science. Getting in usually needs passing tests in human biology, organic chemistry, or physics. English programs are available and popular with international students.

The first two years are mostly science classes, and the next four years focus on clinical training. After six years, students must pass a national license test and write a thesis. The final title is Doctor-Medic, which is not an academic degree.

Sweden

See also: List of medical schools in Sweden

Medical education in Sweden is a five-and-a-half-year program leading to a Master of Science in Medicine. After this, the National Board of Health and Welfare requires an 18-month clinical internship before granting a medical license. The internship includes surgery, internal medicine, psychiatry, and family medicine. After the license, doctors can apply for specialist training, which takes at least five years.

Switzerland

There are eight universities granting medical degrees in Switzerland and six university hospitals.

Turkey

All high school graduates in Turkey must take a multiple-choice exam covering high school and secondary school material. Students who score high enough can get into a medical school of their choice. Getting in is very competitive.

Medical education in Turkey is regulated by the Ministry of Health and the Council of Higher Education. It lasts six years: the first three are pre-clinical, and the last three are clinical. During the clinical phase, students rotate through departments like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and more. After graduating, new doctors can work as general practitioners or take an exam to start residency in a specific department.

Most medical schools in Turkey are public, but private schools are increasing. The exam scores needed for private schools are lower than for public ones. Classes are usually in Turkish, but some universities offer programs in English, making Turkey popular for students from nearby regions.

Ukraine

Medical degrees in Ukraine are offered at separate medical universities, though some are now part of traditional universities. These include:

United Kingdom

See also: List of medical schools in the United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, medical degrees are integrated programs that take several years and include professional practice. These degrees meet the standards for a UK master's level qualification. They are often called “Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery” and abbreviated to MBChB or MBBS.

There are currently 32 institutions that offer medical degrees in the UK. Getting in usually needs good A-Levels/Highers, performance on an aptitude test like the UKCAT, BMAT, or GAMSAT, and an interview. As of 2008, there are about 8000 places for medical students in the UK.

Teaching methods vary: some schools use problem-based learning, while others have a more traditional pre-clinical/clinical structure. Some combine these approaches.

After qualifying, UK doctors enter a two-year foundation programme, gaining full GMC registration at the end of the first year and applying for specialist training after the second year. Many schools also offer intercalated degree programmes where students can focus on research for a year. Some schools provide graduate entry programmes that are four years long for those who already have a degree in another subject. Competition for these is very high.

Latin America

Argentina

The first medical school in Argentina began in Buenos Aires in 1821. As of 2006, there were 29 medical schools in Argentina. Medical programs usually last six years, but some take seven. The first three years study basic sciences, the next two study clinical sciences, and the last year is an internship in a hospital linked to the university. Some provinces have government hospitals that pay for internships.

Argentina has both public and private medical schools. Public schools are open to anyone with a high school diploma and do not require difficult entrance exams. However, many students drop out in the first years. The University of Buenos Aires Faculty of Medical Sciences is considered the top medical school in the country.

Graduates receive a Doctor of Medicine or both Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Surgery. There is no central system for applying for medical residency. Doctors must take entrance exams at the institution of their choice. Most specialty courses last four years.

El Salvador

The Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires

The University of El Salvador offers an eight-year medical program. The first six years cover basic and clinical sciences, followed by a rotating internship and a social service year. Graduates receive an MD and must register with the Public Health Superior Council to practice.

To specialize, doctors must apply for residency programs through independent exams and interviews. Basic residencies last three years, with options to become a chief resident or continue further studies.

Bolivia

In Bolivia, medical schools are part of universities and follow a six-year European model. The first two years cover basic sciences, the next three focus on clinical specialties, and the last year is an internship in surgery, internal medicine, gynecology, and pediatrics. After internship, doctors must complete a mandatory service in a rural area to get their license.

Graduates can pursue post-graduate residencies in specialties lasting three to six years.

Brazil

See also: Category:Medical schools in Brazil

Main building at the School of Medicine of the University of El Salvador

Brazilian medical schools also follow a six-year European model. The first two years are basic sciences, the next two are clinical training, and the last two are internships in teaching hospitals and clinics. After six years, students graduate as physicians and can work as general practitioners or apply for postgraduate training.

In 2012, graduates in São Paulo must pass a test to register with the Regional Council of Medicine. Specialization programs require a new selection exam and last two to six years. Brazil recognizes 53 residency programs.

Chile

Chile has 21 medical schools, with main ones at Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad de Concepción, Universidad de Valparaíso, and Universidad de Santiago de Chile. Programs last seven years, with the last two being internships. Graduates receive a Licenciate in Medicine and must pass a national exam to practice or start a specialty.

Colombia

See also: Category:Medical schools in Colombia

Colombia has 50 medical schools, with 27 active and accredited. Programs typically last six to seven years and award a Doctor of Medicine. Admission depends on university applications, entrance exams, interviews, and high school performance.

The first two years cover basic sciences, followed by organ system-based pathophysiology. Clinical rotations start in year three, covering specialties like internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, and more. The final year is an internship with rotations in various specialties.

After graduation, physicians must complete a year of social service to practice general medicine or apply for residency. Residencies are unpaid and depend on the specialty, lasting from three to six years.

Guyana

See also: Category:Medical schools in Guyana

In Guyana, medical programs last four to six years. The first two years cover basic sciences, and the next years provide clinical training in hospitals. The University of Guyana does not require board exams to practice, while other schools have exams like USMLE.

Panama

Main article: Medical education in Panama

Panama’s medical education is a six-year course with a two-year internship. To practice or enter residency, one must be a Panamanian citizen. Requirements include a one-year rotatory internship and a two-year rural internship.

Uruguay

Uruguay has three universities offering medical degrees. The University of the Republic has a seven-year program, while the Latin American Center for Human Economy and the Catholic University of Uruguay offer six-year programs with mandatory internships.

Venezuela

Universities with medical schools in Venezuela include:

Middle East

Egypt

Medical schools in Egypt last five years. Students learn in English and earn a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degree. After finishing, they do a two-year internship to get their license. They learn in teaching hospitals and sometimes in hospitals run by the government.

Students apply through a system managed by the government. They are placed in schools based on their high school results.

There are two ways to study more after medical school. One is to earn higher degrees like a Master’s or PhD. The other is to join the Fellowship of the Egyptian Board program. About 20% of graduates go on to more studies, while others start working as doctors.

Iran

In Iran, becoming a doctor takes about seven years. Students start after high school and study medical sciences for 2.5 years. After an exam, they study how the body works. Then they spend two years in clinics and hospitals, learning skills like checking a patient’s history. Finally, they work as interns for 1.5 years with real patients. After this, they earn an MD degree and can choose to train more in a special area.

Iraq

In Iraq, medical schools usually last six years. The first year teaches basic biology and other important subjects. The next two years focus on studies before clinical work. Years four and five include hands-on training in hospitals. The final year is mostly spent in hospitals, with less classwork.

Students may take exams that many schools use together, but the timing can vary. Most schools have a big exam at the end of year six, which is important for the final grade. After finishing, graduates earn a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degree and can start a one-year training period called Rotating Residency. Some top students may also help teach. After Rotating Residency, there is another year called Gradation, usually served in a rural area. Then, students can choose a specialty for more training.

Israel

There are five medical schools in Israel. They mostly follow a six-year program, but one school has a four-year program.

Getting into medical school is very hard. Students need high grades and good scores on an entrance exam. After medical school, all doctors must pass a licensing exam and do a one-year internship. There are two types of internships. After the internship, doctors can start practicing medicine or begin a specialty program.

Jordan

In Jordan, earning a Doctor in Medicine degree takes six years. The first three years cover medical sciences, and the next three are clinical years. Jordan has six universities with medical schools, including the University of Jordan in Amman and the Jordan University of Science and Technology in Irbid.

Jordan’s medical education began in the 1970s. Many students come from other countries because of the high quality. Admission depends on high school exam results. The first three years are pre-clinical, and the next three are clinical with training in hospitals. At the end of the sixth year, students pass exams to earn their degree.

Lebanon

In Lebanon, there are two types of medical programs: one is four years long and the other is six or seven years long. The four-year program requires a bachelor’s degree and specific pre-medical courses, along with an exam called the MCAT. The longer program usually needs one year of general science and then an entrance exam.

Schools with the four-year program include the American University of Beirut in Beirut, which is the oldest and started in 1867. The Lebanese American University began in 2009 and works with a hospital in Beirut. The University of Balamand started in 2001 and trains doctors at a hospital in Beirut.

Schools with the longer program include the Lebanese University, Saint Joseph University, Beirut Arab University, and the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik. They teach in French or English and train doctors in hospitals in Beirut or other cities.

Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, medical education is free for citizens. Students must pass an entrance exam and complete a one-year pre-medical course before starting the five-year medical program and one year of training. By 2010, there were 24 medical schools in the country.

Syria

In Syria, medical education takes six years after high school. The first three years cover basic sciences, followed by two years of clinical training. The final year includes more clinical work. Students must pass a standardized exam to graduate. Placement in further training depends on exam scores and school grades.

Tunisia

In Tunisia, medical education is free for citizens and some foreigners. The oldest school is the Medicine School of Tunis. There are four medical schools in cities like Tunis, Sfax, Sousse, and Monastir. Getting in is very hard, based on high school exam scores.

The program takes seven years: two years of theory covering basic medical sciences, three years of hospital training, and two years of internship. During internship, students work under supervision in different specialties. After that, they can take an exam to enter a residency program or continue internship to become a family doctor. Residency lasts four to five years, depending on the specialty, and ends with a thesis defense to earn the Doctor of Medicine degree.

North America

Canada

See also: List of medical schools in Canada

In Canada, a medical school is part of a university. It offers a four-year program that leads to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Students usually start after earning a bachelor's degree, often in biology or a related field. Some schools may accept students earlier, but most require at least two years of study before applying.

Getting into medical school in Canada depends on several things, including grades, a personal essay, interviews, and sometimes volunteer work. Some schools also require scores from a special test called the MCAT. The first part of medical school focuses on basic sciences, while the second part involves working with real patients under supervision.

United States

See also: List of medical schools in the United States

The United States has many medical schools that offer two main degrees: Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). Both allow graduates to practice medicine after completing further training.

Getting into medical school in the U.S. usually requires good grades, a strong score on the MCAT, a personal essay, an interview, and experience working with healthcare professionals. Most students have a bachelor's degree before starting medical school, though some schools offer special programs that combine undergraduate and medical studies.

Medical school in the U.S. typically lasts four years. The first two years focus on classroom learning, while the last two years involve hands-on training in hospitals. After graduating, students join a matching program to find a hospital for further training called a residency.

Medical students

Main article: Medical student

A person who joins a medical school and starts learning to become a doctor is called a medical student.

Medical students can sometimes feel very stressed while learning, especially when they work with real patients. This can make it hard for them to feel good. Many students feel worried or sad during their training. It can be difficult for them to ask for help. These challenges can become bigger during difficult times.

Images

A wide view of the Lanmadaw campus buildings at the University of Medicine 1 in Yangon.
The Grafton campus buildings of the University of Auckland's Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences.
The Scott Building at the University of Otago Medical School in Dunedin, New Zealand.
A monument at King Edward Medical University in Lahore, Pakistan.

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This article is a child-friendly adaptation of the Wikipedia article on Medical school, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

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