Medical Education in Australia

Australia has many medical schools. The majority of schools offer the MBBS or MD degree though some may offer the BMed or Bachelor of Medicine instead.

Types of Courses Available

Students can enter medical school either directly from high school or after completing an undergraduate degree. Medical schools offer degrees such as MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) or MD (Doctor of Medicine).

Undergraduate Medical Degrees

For students directly entering from high school, offering a comprehensive foundation in medical science and clinical practice.

This option can be taken directly after secondary school completion and generally involves a four to six year course at a university level. Entry to undergraduate medical degree is usually based on senior secondary results, an admission test called the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT), and an interview.

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS): This is the most common undergraduate medical degree, typically spanning five to six years. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical training.

See – After completing MBBS in Australia

Here are the names of some other undergraduate medical degrees offered by universities in Australia:

1. Doctor of Medicine (MD) – Direct Entry:
   Some universities, like the University of Sydney and the University of Melbourne, have replaced the MBBS with the MD for undergraduate pathways.
2. Bachelor of Medical Studies and Doctor of Medicine (BMed/MD):
   Offered by the University of New South Wales (UNSW), University of Newcastle, and the University of Wollongong.
3. Bachelor of Health Sciences/Master of Medicine (MD):
   Combined undergraduate and postgraduate programs offered at certain universities like the University of Queensland.
4. Bachelor of Clinical Sciences/Doctor of Medicine (BCS/MD):
   Offered by Flinders University as a combined pathway.
5. Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS):
   Available at institutions like Deakin University and Bond University.

Graduate Entry Medical Programs

For those who have completed a bachelor’s degree. These programs often emphasize critical thinking, research, and clinical skills.

This option, requires students to have completed a bachelor degree of any discipline. Graduate medical programs typically last 4 years and admission involves an admission test called the graduate Australian Medical Schools Admission Test or the GAMSAT. Those who pass the test can then apply centrally through the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER), stating their individual preferences for the Graduate Entry Programs followed by an interview.

Doctor of Medicine (MD): An MD is a graduate-entry program that usually requires a previous undergraduate degree. It typically lasts four years and focuses on clinical training and research.

Postgraduate Specialization

After completing initial medical training, graduates can specialize in fields such as surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, or general practice.

Short Courses and Workshops

For those looking to enhance specific skills or knowledge areas, many universities offer short-term courses and workshops.

Costs of Studying Medicine

Studying medicine in Australia can be a significant financial investment. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you might encounter:

• Tuition Fees: Tuition fees for international students typically range from AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000 per year, depending on the university and program. Graduate-entry programs may be slightly higher.
• Living Expenses: On average, international students should budget around AUD 20,000 to AUD 30,000 annually for living expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
• Additional Costs: Students may also incur costs for textbooks, equipment, insurance, and clinical placements.

It’s essential to research and budget accordingly to ensure you can manage the financial demands of your medical education. Scholarships may be available for international students.

Top Universities Offering Medical Courses

Australia is home to several universities that offer medical courses for international students. Here are some of the top institutions:

• University of Melbourne: Known for its world-class medical program and research facilities.
• Monash University: Offers a comprehensive medical program with a strong focus on clinical practice.
• University of Sydney: Provides a highly regarded Doctor of Medicine (MD) program.
• University of Queensland: Features extensive research opportunities and clinical placements.
• University of Adelaide: Offers a range of medical and health sciences programs.
• UNSW Sydney: Known for its innovative medical curriculum and research excellence.
• Australian National University (ANU): Offers a unique medical program with a focus on rural and Indigenous health.
• University of Western Australia (UWA): Provides a strong medical program with excellent clinical training.

Regulation and Accreditation

The Australian Medical Council (AMC) (http://www.amc.org.au/) is an independent national standards body for medical education and training. It assesses and, if appropriate, accredits the medical courses offered by Australian university medical schools. It also assesses and, where appropriate, accredits postgraduate medical specialist training programs and continuing professional development programs.

Overseas Qualifications

Most overseas trained doctors have medical qualifications not recognised in Australia. In these cases they must gain eligibility by passing the AMC MCQ and Clinical examinations. There after they are required to work as an intern in any Australian accredited hospital, completing a year of supervised training approved by the relevant State Medical Board. Afterwards, they can obtain their general registration as a medical practitioner in Australia.

Also See

• Nursing in Australia