The MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) program in China is structured to provide a comprehensive medical education over a period of 5 to 6 years. Here’s a typical breakdown of the MBBS program structure:
Duration
- 5 to 6 years: Most MBBS programs in China last for 6 years, including 1 year of internship.
- 5 years: In some cases, the program is shortened to 5 years, especially if students return to their home country for the internship.
Language of Instruction:
- English: Many Chinese universities offer MBBS programs in English for international students.
- Chinese Proficiency: While the program is in English, learning Chinese (Mandarin) is crucial for communication with local patients during clinical training. Students must pass the Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) exam, a Chinese language proficiency test (usually level 4) by the end of the course to ensure they can communicate in hospitals.
Curriculum Structure
- Pre-Clinical Phase (Years 1-2):
- Focuses on basic medical sciences like Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology, and Microbiology.
- Introduction to Chinese language and culture, as many universities require students to learn basic Chinese for communication with patients.
- Clinical Phase (Years 3-4):
- Involves theoretical and practical exposure to clinical subjects such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Gynecology & Obstetrics, Ophthalmology, and ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat).
- Laboratory work and simulation-based training may be used to help students practice clinical skills.
- Internship/Practical Training (Year 5 or Year 6):
- Students are required to complete an internship in affiliated hospitals where they gain hands-on experience under the supervision of senior doctors.
- Rotations in various departments like Internal Medicine, Surgery, Gynecology, Pediatrics, etc.
- Students must develop essential medical skills, diagnose patients, and assist in surgeries.
- The internship can usually be completed in China, and in some cases, students may be allowed to do it in their home country, depending on university regulations.
Degree Award
- After successful completion of the program, students are awarded an MBBS degree which is recognized globally. However, graduates must pass medical licensing exams (such as FMGE, USMLE, PLAB, etc.) in their respective countries to practice.
