Medicine

What is this course about? In the Medicine course, you will be taught how to diagnose and treat a host of common illnesses including cough & fever, to full-blown pandemics such as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus & recent Mexican swine flu. You will also learn how to contain and control the spread of diseases by promoting public healthcare and safety. Two of the most common undergraduate medical degrees are the Doctor of Medicine (MD) and the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). The MD is the North American degree, whereas the MBBS is the UK degree. To be able to practice as a doctor in Malaysia, you must enrol in a medical school recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC). For a list of recognised medical schools, visit the MMC’s official website at: http://www.mmc.gov.my What subjects will I be taking? You will gain clinical exposure and patient contact as early as the first year. Some of the subjects you can expect to take are: Cells & Molecules Cardiovascular System Community Health & Medicine Internal Medicine Psychiatry Surgery How long is this course? A bachelor’s degree in Medicine takes approximately 5 years to complete. What are the skills and characteristics required in this field? To become a doctor, you have to be academically, emotionally and physically tough. You must enjoy working with others and be able to communicate with your fellow doctors and patients. You should also possess sound judgment and a high level of compassion, especially when dealing with patients’ lives and wellbeing. Where do I go after my diploma/degree? All medical graduates have to undergo a two to 3 years housemanship at a local or overseas hospital. After that, it is compulsory for all Malaysian doctors who wish to practise in Malaysia to serve the government for three years. On completion, you can take up a multiple year residency under the supervision of fully licensed physicians in a hospital or clinic to become a specialist. You can specialise in a specific branch of medical science, such as surgical specialties, internal medicine, diagnostic specialties and neurology. What can I do with a degree in Medicine? You will be able to find employment in private and public hospitals, as well as health care organisations. You can also join a medical institution, teach or conduct research. Upon specialising, you can start your own private practice and be eligible to become a consultant.