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Study medicine in Malaysia: conditions and costs

06/06/2024 | Last update: 13/06/2024 20:08 (Makkah time)

Let's take a closer look at the basic requirements to take the plunge Study medicine in Malaysia 2024. Are you that exceptional analyst, capable of deconstructing and understanding complex medical information? Do you long to conduct scientific experiments and reveal new secrets in the world of medicine? Are you a good listener, able to communicate effectively with your patients and understand their needs?

Malaysia, with its well-established universities and affordable costs, has become a favorite destination for foreign students wishing to study medicine. But, are you ready for this journey?

Mastery of science and mathematics is not just an added advantage, it is the cornerstone for building the edifice of your medical knowledge. Are you prepared to work long hours, rotating night shifts, providing patient care at any time? Most importantly, are you ready for continuous learning, to keep pace with the rapid developments in the world of medicine?

Studying medicine in Malaysia is not just a path to a prestigious career, but a lifelong commitment to serving humanity. It is a journey that requires dedication and persistence, but in the end, it is a rewarding and fulfilling journey. Are you ready to embark on this adventure?

do you know that University of Malaya It is ranked 65th in the world according to the QS University Rankings.

Conditions for studying medicine in Malaysia

You must have studied all science subjects in high school.
Your high school average must not be less than 80% and you must be successful in all subjects.
Age and date of obtaining the certificate do not matter.
You must have a good level of proficiency in the English language.
Requires applicants Take the International Student Admissions Test (ISAT).

The language of studying medicine in Malaysia

For most medical study programs in Malaysia, the language of instruction is Malay, which is the language of the country. However, there are many universities that use English as a medium of teaching, such as International Medical University.

The regulations require that every medical student in Malaysia enroll in a language course with the aim of learning Malay, which can be used for public obligations and services.

Difficulty studying medicine in Malaysia

Studying medicine in Malaysia is growing in popularity, but is it really as easy as some people think? Statistics indicate high dropout rates from medical programs, which raises questions about the difficulty of this field.

One reason for this dropout may be the loosening of admission requirements in the past, which has led to students being accepted who are completely unprepared for the academic challenges that await them. In addition, some students may lack sufficient understanding of the nature of studying medicine in Malaysia and its stringent requirements.

There is no doubt that studying medicine in Malaysia requires dedication and a willingness to sacrifice. It is a long and arduous journey, which includes long hours of studying, intense practical training, and exposure to great psychological and physical pressure. But despite these challenges, many students prove their ability to excel and succeed in this prestigious field.

Studying medicine in Malaysia is more than just an academic achievement, it is a journey of self-discovery and the development of personal and social skills. It is an opportunity to learn from the best experts in the field, gain practical experience in modern hospitals and medical centers, and contribute to improving community health.

If you have determination and determination, and a passion for medicine, do not let challenges stop you from achieving your dream. Studying medicine in Malaysia may be difficult, but it is certainly not impossible.

How to become a doctor in Malaysia

The path to this goal is full of challenges and opportunities. Malaysia is an excellent destination to study thanks to its quality education and advanced infrastructure. Let's go over the steps needed to achieve this dream.

The first step: the preparatory year

After completing high school, you must enroll in a pre-med course. This course is the first and essential step in studying medicine in Malaysia, as it focuses on preparing you with the basic knowledge in the natural sciences and academic skills necessary for success at the university level. This course usually takes one year and includes subjects such as chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics.

Second step: Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery

After completing the preparatory year, you can apply for the MBBS degree, which usually lasts five to six years. During this period, you will learn everything related to medicine from theoretical to practical. Subjects such as anatomy, pathology, pharmacology will be taught, and practical training will also be given in university hospitals. Studying medicine in Malaysia at this stage aims to provide you with a strong and comprehensive foundation in all areas of medicine.

The third step: practicing the temporary profession

After graduation, you will need to complete a mandatory training period known as a temporary apprenticeship programme, which lasts for two years. During this period, you will work as a trainee doctor under the supervision of specialists in recognized hospitals. This step is crucial to gaining practical experience and learning about the working life of a doctor. Studying medicine in Malaysia includes this stage as necessary to ensure your readiness to work as a professional doctor.

The fourth step: specialization

If you want to specialize in a particular field such as anesthesiology, obstetrics and gynecology, or pediatrics, you will need to work for several years as a general practitioner. This period enables you to build extensive practical experience and helps you determine the specialization you wish to pursue. Studying medicine in Malaysia includes this path to ensure that doctors obtain diverse and wide-ranging experience before specializing.

Fifth step: postgraduate studies

After gaining the necessary experience, you can pursue postgraduate studies in your chosen specialty. This stage takes about four to five years, interspersed with 2-4 years of supervisory training as part of your specialization. This stage is considered one of the most difficult stages in studying medicine in Malaysia, as it requires great commitment and increased effort to acquire advanced skills and specialized knowledge.

Step Six: Register as a specialist

Once you achieve the required standards and pass all the necessary tests and training, you can register with the Malaysian Medical Council as a specialist. This registration is the final step in studying medicine in Malaysia, and qualifies you to work as a certified specialist in your field. Registration gives you official recognition and allows you to practice your chosen specialty legally and professionally.

Study medicine in Malaysia It is a long and arduous journey, but in the end, it is a rewarding journey, full of challenges and rewards. It is a journey worth taking if you dream of wearing the white coat and helping others.

This is the general path to achieve your goal of becoming a doctor in Malaysia. This path requires a lot of effort and dedication, but ultimately provides an opportunity to work in a noble and rewarding humanitarian field. Remember that every step on this path is important and contributes to preparing you to be a successful doctor. Studying medicine in Malaysia is not just an academic study, but rather a complete life experience that contributes to developing your personality and practical and human skills.

Curriculum for studying medicine in Malaysia 2024

When you consider studying medicine in Malaysia, you will be exposed to a specific curriculum consisting of two basic stages that form the path to achieving your dream in the field of medicine. Let's take a look at these stages and what they offer.

The first stage: basic construction of medical knowledge

This stage covers the first two years of your medical studies and focuses mainly on developing your theoretical understanding of basic medical concepts. During this period, you will learn in an academic environment focusing on the theoretical and scientific aspects of medicine. Some of the topics you will cover are:

Anatomy: Understanding the structure of the human body and its various organs.
Biochemistry: The study of chemical processes in living organisms.
microbiology: Exploring microorganisms and their impact on health.
pharmacology: Understanding medications, their effects, and their use in treatment.
Pathology: The study of diseases, healing processes, and prevention.
Clinical medicine: Identify the foundations of diagnosis and treatment in the clinical context.

Phase II: Clinical trial and specializations

After completing the first phase, you will move to the second phase which consists of the remaining years of your studies. This stage mainly focuses on clinical training and applying theoretical concepts and knowledge to real patients. This stage will include:

Clinical courses: You will train in hospitals and medical clinics where you will interact with patients and participate in their care.
Specialized depth: You will get the opportunity to experience a variety of clinical specialties such as general medicine, surgery, pediatrics and internal medicine.

Studying medicine in Malaysia combines basic theories with practical experience to qualify you to become a qualified doctor. Overcome obstacles and stages to achieve your dream in the field of medicine and provide important health care.

Duration of studying medicine in Malaysia

When you begin your journey to study medicine in Malaysia, you will pass many stages to achieve your dream of obtaining a medical degree. This journey, full of challenges and opportunities, takes 6 full years, and also includes a medical preparatory year that prepares you to start.

1. Medical preparatory year: establishing your foundations

Your journey begins in the medical preparatory year, where you will build the initial foundations of your scientific and medical understanding. This period aims to prepare you for the subsequent stages and establish your theoretical foundations.

2. The first stage: the first two years of study

At this stage, you will gain basic and theoretical knowledge in medical sciences by studying subjects such as anatomy and biochemistry. This stage focuses on developing your understanding of basic concepts.

3. The second stage: the remaining years of study

Once you pass the first stage, you move on to the second stage which focuses mainly on clinical training and practical application. You will undertake clinical rotations in hospitals and clinics to gain experience with patients and apply theoretical concepts to reality.

In short, your journey will end with obtaining a medical degree from a medical college in Malaysia after 6 years full of challenges and successes. These years will be full of learning and development, and you will acquire the skills and knowledge that will qualify you to successfully practice the medical profession.

Costs of studying medicine in the best Malaysian universities 2024

There are many universities that offer distinguished programs in this field, including the University of Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), and Taylor's University.

Annual tuition costs in US dollars by university:

University of Malaya (UM)	20,000 – 30,000
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)	15,000 – 25,000
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)	18,000 – 28,000
Taylor's University	25,000 – 35,000

University of Malaya (UM)

University of Malaya (UM) is the oldest and most prestigious university in Malaysia, with a strong reputation both locally and internationally. The university offers a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery program which is considered among the best in the region. The program is based on a combination of theoretical education and practical training in university-affiliated teaching hospitals, ensuring that students are equipped with the comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to practice medicine.

The University of Malaya is distinguished by its modern facilities and advanced laboratories, in addition to its academic staff, which includes an elite group of doctors and experts in various medical specialties. The university provides a supportive educational environment that enhances the development of students' academic and practical capabilities, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to study medicine in Malaysia.

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) occupies a prominent position among Malaysian universities, especially in the field of agricultural science and research. However, its medicine program is considered strong and internationally recognized. The MBBS program at Universiti Putra Malaysia offers a comprehensive education covering various aspects of medicine, from basic sciences to clinical specialties.

Universiti Putra Malaysia cooperates with a number of teaching hospitals and research centres, giving students the opportunity to learn and train in diverse and challenging environments. The university aims to graduate qualified doctors who are able to meet contemporary health challenges, which enhances its attractiveness as a preferred destination for international students who aspire to study medicine in Malaysia.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is one of the leading universities in science and medicine in Malaysia. The university offers a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery program that is distinguished by its innovative and comprehensive approach. The program is based on an integrative educational system that links basic sciences and clinical sciences, ensuring that students are provided with a deep and comprehensive understanding of different fields of medicine.

Universiti Sains Malaysia is proud of its advanced facilities and cutting-edge research centers that contribute to enriching students’ academic and research experience. The university provides a stimulating learning environment that encourages critical thinking and innovation, making it an ideal choice for those wishing to study medicine in Malaysia.

Taylor's University

Taylor's University is one of the leading private universities in Malaysia, offering an MBBS program of high quality and international recognition. The program is based on an innovative educational approach that focuses on developing students' clinical and communication skills, in addition to enhancing their capabilities in scientific research.

Taylor University provides its students with modern educational facilities that include laboratories equipped with the latest technology, libraries rich in medical references, and cooperating teaching hospitals. The university aims to prepare distinguished doctors with the knowledge and skills necessary to address global health challenges, making it a preferred destination for students wishing to study medicine in Malaysia.

Medical specialization in Malaysia 2024

After successfully completing medical school in Malaysia, a new and exciting chapter begins in the young doctor's career: specialization. Medical specialization in Malaysia is considered a gateway to delving deeper into a specific field of medicine and gaining advanced experience and knowledge in it.

The specialty journey usually begins after completing an internship, which is a mandatory training period that allows newly graduated doctors to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real clinical environment. Doctors can then choose the specialty they want to delve into, whether it's surgery, pediatrics, cardiology, or other diverse specialties.

Admission requirements for specialization programs vary depending on the university and the chosen specialization. However, general requirements usually include obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery with a good grade point average, and passing entrance exams and interviews.

Medical specialization in Malaysia requires an intensive training period extending over several years, during which trainee doctors receive supervision and guidance by specialized doctors with extensive experience. Trainees participate in medical examinations, diagnose medical conditions, develop treatment plans, follow up on patients, and participate in surgical operations (if the specialty is surgical).

Medical specialization in Malaysia opens wide horizons for doctors, as they can work in leading hospitals and medical centers, engage in scientific research, or even establish their own clinics.

There is no doubt that the journey to medical specialization requires a lot of effort and dedication. Long work hours, mental and physical stress, and academic challenges are all part of this journey. However, the rewards that await specialist doctors are worth all these sacrifices.

In short, medical specialization in Malaysia is an investment in the future, an opportunity for self-realization and to contribute to serving society in an effective and influential way.

The most important medical specialties in Malaysia

In nuclear medicine It deals with the use of nuclear science in diagnosing and treating diseases and studying organ functions using radiation and radioactive materials.
In sports medicine It is concerned with providing health care to athletes, treating injuries resulting from physical activity, and providing advice to improve sports performance.
In psychiatry It is concerned with diagnosing and treating mental and psychological health disorders, and includes treating depression, anxiety, psychosis, and other psychological illnesses.
In aesthetic medicine It deals with procedures to improve beauty and external appearance, such as plastic surgery and treatments to reduce wrinkles and improve facial and body features.
Forensic medicine He specializes in providing medical information for legal and criminal cases, such as determining causes of death and estimating bodily damages.
infectious diseases It deals with the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases, such as viral and bacterial diseases, and includes the development of vaccines to protect against them.
Ophthalmology It is concerned with diagnosing and treating diseases and disorders that affect the eyes and vision, and includes vision correction surgeries and eye treatments.
Otorhinolaryngology It treats disorders and diseases of the ear, nose and throat, and includes medical and surgical treatments to improve the functions of these organs.
with skin diseases He specializes in diagnosing and treating skin, nail and hair diseases, such as eczema, acne and psoriasis.
Diagnostic x-rays Radiology and medical imaging are used to diagnose diseases and injuries, and include specialties such as radiology and magnetic resonance imaging.

Important note for doctors:

The medical master's course lasts for a period ranging from two to four years, and the duration depends on the specialty chosen by the doctors. During this course, doctors can improve their specialization and gain more practical experience and theoretical knowledge in their specialized field. After passing the medical master's course, they have a wider opportunity to integrate into specialized fields or work as consultant doctors.

After this stage, doctors interested in developing their specialties can benefit from advanced specialty courses that enhance their skills and deepen their understanding of specific fields, enabling them to provide high-level health care and achieve advanced specializations in the field of medicine.

Work after graduation as a doctor in Malaysia

In recognition of your choice of medicine and your studies in Malaysia, there are a wide range of career options that can be available to you after obtaining a Malaysian medical degree:

Specialized clinical professions:

Pediatrician: Specializes in caring for children and their health problems.
Psychiatrist: diagnoses and treats psychological and mental disorders.
Dermatologist: Specializes in treating skin diseases and problems.
Orthopedic surgeon: diagnoses and treats injuries and diseases of bones and joints.
Optometrist: Provides eye health care and prescribes eyeglasses and contact lenses.
Radiologist: Using x-ray imaging to diagnose and monitor health developments.

Non-clinical professions:

Hospital operations management and administrative organization.
Work in the field of medical research to develop technology and treatments.
Coverage of medical news and information in the media.
Providing lectures and teaching at universities and educational institutions.
Working in areas in need to provide medical care and relief.

It generally takes a total of 8-9 years to become a doctor and more than 10 years to become a specialist. Ensure that your medical degree is recognized by the Malaysian Medical Council. Otherwise, you may risk not being able to practice medicine in Malaysia.

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