Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB)
Medicine
A course by
Otago University
The University of Otago MB ChB is the primary medical degree, preparing graduates for a career as doctors providing high-quality, patient-centred, evidence-based care.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 6 years


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Graduate as a Doctor
Graduate prepared for registration as a doctor in New Zealand, committed to high-quality, patient-centred, and evidence-based medical care.

Clinical Knowledge and Skills
Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the human body, diseases, diagnostics, and treatment, with practical clinical experience.

Professionalism and Ethics
Exhibit professional, ethical, and culturally appropriate behaviours required for medical practice, including communication and teamwork.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB) at the University of Otago is a six-year program that prepares graduates to become doctors. Students begin with a Health Sciences First Year followed by five years of medical courses and clinical placements. The degree covers a wide range of specialties, including Cardiology, Oncology, Paediatrics, Public Health, Pathology, General Practice, and Surgery. After graduation, students work under probation for general registration. Medicine offers a respected, rewarding, and internationally recognised career, and most doctors pursue postgraduate training in their chosen field.
Course Content
- Health Sciences First Year (HSFY): foundational sciences, diagnostic English test
- Second Year: Medicine (MICN 201)
- Third Year: Medicine (MICN 301)
- Fourth Year: Medicine (MICN 401)
- Fifth Year: Medicine (MICN 501)
- Sixth Year: Clinical modules (MICN 641-644) and elective quarter (MICN 648)
- Patient-centred, evidence-based medical care
- Clinical rotations and placements in Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington
- Preparation for general registration and a range of specialisations (e.g., Cardiology, Oncology, Paediatrics, Psychological Medicine, Surgery, Pathology, Public Health, General Practice)
What you need to know first
University Entrance qualification (NZ or equivalent) and English language requirements for entry to Health Sciences First Year
Completion of Health Sciences First Year with satisfactory marks for school leavers
Graduates or applicants with relevant academic/professional experience may be eligible for alternative admission categories
Competitive selection for entry to second year Medicine based on academic record and attributes

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Healthcare
Medical Practice
Public Health

Future employment opportunities might be
Doctor (house officer, then specialist registrar)
General practitioner
Medical specialist (e.g., cardiology, paediatrics, oncology, psychiatry, surgery, pathology)
Public health practitioner
Medical research
Academic medicine


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Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details