Australia is a popular destination for international students who want to pursue a career in medicine. The country offers a world-class medical education system, a rich history of medical innovation, and a diverse and vibrant culture. Australia has a long and rich history of medical education and research, dating back to the 19th century when the first medical schools were established. Today, Australia boasts 21 medical schools that offer high-quality education and training in various fields of medicine, from general practice to surgery to public health. According to the World University Rankings by Subject 2023, four of the top 50 and seven of the top 100 medical schools in the world are located in Australia. The best medical universities in Australia provide high-quality medical courses that cover a range of specialties, from general practice to surgery, from public health to biomedical research.
Studying medicine in Australia also gives students the chance to learn from leading experts, access state-of-the-art facilities, and participate in clinical placements in various settings, including rural and remote areas. Australian medical graduates are well-regarded and sought-after by employers both locally and internationally. They also have the opportunity to work in a multicultural and multiethnic environment, where they can interact with patients and colleagues from different backgrounds and perspectives. In this article, we will explore some of the best medical universities in Australia, and look at some factors such as the admission requirements, fees, and career prospects for medical students in Australia.
Overview of Best Medical Universities in Australia
| Degree Offered | Doctor of Medicine (MD), Bachelor of Medicine and Doctor of Medicine |
| No. of Universities ` | 15+ |
| Duration | 4-6 years |
| Eligibility |
|
| Tuition Fees | 80,000-90,000 AUD |
| Scholarships | Available |
| Career Prospects | Clinical practice, research, academia, public health, and healthcare administration |
| Median Salary for Graduates | 156,000 USD |
Why Study Medicine in Australia?
High-Quality Education: Australian universities are known for their high academic standards and rigorous quality assurance processes. Medical programs are designed to meet international standards, and graduates are well-prepared for global medical practice.
Global Recognition: Australian medical degrees are recognized worldwide. Graduates from Australian medical schools are eligible to practice medicine in many countries, making it easier to pursue international career opportunities.
Cutting-Edge Research: Australian medical universities are at the forefront of medical research and innovation. Students have the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research, work with leading experts, and contribute to advancements in healthcare.
Clinical Experience: Medical programs in Australia typically incorporate a significant amount of clinical experience and practical training. This hands-on approach allows students to develop the skills needed for real-world medical practice.
Quality of Life: Australia is known for its high quality of life. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer a safe and comfortable environment for students. The country’s healthcare system is also well-regarded, providing students with exposure to different healthcare models.
Pathways for International Graduates: Australia has pathways for international graduates to stay and work in the country after completing their medical degrees. The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows graduates to gain practical experience in Australia, increasing their chances of securing permanent residency.
Best Medical Universities in Australia
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is a public research university in Melbourne, Australia, founded in 1853. It is the second-oldest university in Australia and the oldest in Victoria. It is ranked among the leading universities in the world and number one in Australia by various indicators. The university has ten faculties, including the Melbourne Medical School, which offers world-class research, degrees, and opportunities to practice medicine. The Melbourne Medical School is the oldest medical school in Australia and has produced many distinguished alumni, including four Nobel Laureates. The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is a four-year postgraduate, entry-to-practice medical course that prepares graduates to join the medical workforce as interns. The MD program is delivered in partnership with leading health service providers in the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct, the largest biomedical cluster in the southern hemisphere. The MD program also offers rural and international clinical placements, as well as opportunities for research and interprofessional learning.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Doctor of Medicine (MD) | 4 years | 85,088 AUD |
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Monash University
Monash University is a public research university based in Melbourne, Australia. It was established in 1958 by an Act of Parliament as the second university in the state of Victoria, and named after the prominent Australian general Sir John Monash. Monash University is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world by various indicators and is a member of the Group of Eight, an alliance of leading Australian universities recognized for their excellence in teaching and research. The Monash medical program is internationally ranked among the best in the world and is designed to prepare students for professional practice as doctors in various settings and specialties. The Monash medical program consists of two degrees: the Bachelor of Medical Science and the Doctor of Medicine (MD). The Bachelor of Medical Science is a three-year degree that provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills in biomedical sciences, while the MD is a two-year degree that focuses on clinical training and professional development. The Monash medical program is accredited by the Australian Medical Council and recognized by the Medical Board of Australia. The Monash School of Medicine has access to the largest healthcare provider network in Australia and provides students with diverse and immersive clinical experiences across metropolitan and regional Victoria.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Medicine and Doctor of Medicine | 4-5 years | 92,200 AUD |
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University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is the oldest university in Australia and one of the country’s six sandstone universities. It was founded in 1850 and was one of the first universities in the world to admit students solely on academic merit and regardless of gender. The university is ranked among the top 20 universities in the world by QS World University Rankings and has a reputation for excellence in research, teaching, and innovation. The university has eight academic faculties and schools, including the Sydney Medical School, which offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine, surgery, and health sciences. The Sydney Medical School offers a four-year graduate-entry Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, which is accredited by the Medical Board of Australia and prepares graduates for a career in clinical practice, medical research, or public health. The MD program features a hybrid problem-based learning model, early clinical exposure, online learning resources, and a focus on evidence-based medicine. The MD program also offers clinical placements in some of the country’s most prestigious teaching hospitals in urban, regional, and remote areas.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Doctor of Medicine (MD) | 4 years | 91,000 AUD |
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University of Queensland
The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Australia, founded in 1909 by the Queensland parliament. It is a member of the Group of Eight, a coalition of leading research-intensive universities in Australia, and the Association of Pacific Rim Universities, a network of prominent universities in the Asia-Pacific region. UQ ranks among the world’s top universities in various fields, especially in life sciences and medicine123 UQ’s medical department, also known as the Faculty of Medicine, is the largest and most diverse medical faculty in Australia, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine, health sciences, biomedical sciences, public health, and clinical research. The faculty is home to the UQ Medical School, which offers the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, a four-year postgraduate-entry degree that prepares students for a career in medicine. The MD program is internationally renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, and clinical practice, and is accredited by the Australian Medical Council and recognized by the Medical Board of Australia. The program features a streamlined structure that takes an integrated approach to active learning, with early patient contact, clinical immersion, and transition to practice. Students can also choose from various learning communities and enrichment opportunities to tailor their learning and develop their skills and interests.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Doctor of Medicine | 4 years | 91,819 AUD |
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University of New South Wales
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a public research university based in Sydney, Australia. It was established in 1949 as the New South Wales University of Technology, and later renamed in 1958. It is one of the founding members of the Group of Eight and a member of several international networks, such as Universitas 21 and the Global Alliance of Technological Universities. UNSW is ranked among the top 50 universities in the world by various ranking tables. The medical department at UNSW is known as the Faculty of Medicine and Health. The flagship program is the Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine, a six-year combined degree that prepares students for professional practice and research in medicine. The program is highly competitive and selective, and it features progressive clinical exposure, research skills development, and learning within a world-class biomedical precinct. The program is accredited by the Australian Medical Council and graduates are eligible for provisional registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine | 6 years | 74,445 AUD |
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The University of Western Australia
The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a public research university in Perth, founded in 1911 as the first university in the state. UWA is ranked in the world’s top 100 universities by several publications and is a member of the Group of Eight, a coalition of leading Australian universities. UWA has produced many notable alumni, including Nobel laureates, politicians, and artists. UWA’s Medical School offers a four-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program that aims to produce graduates who are committed to the well-being of the patient, community, and society. The MD program is taught by top clinical and academic staff, and students can pursue placements in Perth, rural areas, or overseas. The Medical School also has a strong research culture, with 10 divisions covering various medical disciplines.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Doctor of Medicine | 4 years | 85,800 AUD |
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Admission Requirements for Best Medical Universities in Australia
- A completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. The degree should include the necessary prerequisite subjects, often in the sciences. Some universities may require a high level of academic achievement, such as a minimum GPA.
- You need to take an aptitude test such as GAMSAT, MCAT, DAT, or BMAT and achieve a minimum score.
- International students are typically required to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like the IELTS (6.0) or TOEFL (90).
- Many medical schools in Australia require applicants to attend an interview as part of the selection process.
- Some universities value applicants with relevant professional experience or volunteer work in healthcare settings. This can demonstrate a commitment to the field of medicine.
- Students may be required to undergo health and character assessments as part of the visa application process.
- You need to meet the post-offer requirements such as NSW Ministry of Health Compliance Checking, NSW Working with Children Check, first aid training, inherent requirements, and professionalism requirements.
Career Opportunities for Medical Graduates in Australia
Medical graduates in Australia experience a broad and dynamic scope of career opportunities. Upon completing their education and training, they can pursue diverse paths, such as clinical practice, research, academia, public health, and healthcare administration. Australia’s healthcare system offers avenues for specialization in areas like surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, and more. Additionally, the country actively encourages global health initiatives, providing opportunities for medical professionals to engage in international collaborations and contribute to global healthcare advancements. The demand for healthcare professionals in Australia, combined with a commitment to providing quality healthcare services, ensures that medical graduates have a multitude of rewarding and impactful career options.
The salary profile for medical professionals in Australia is generally lucrative, reflecting the high demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Entry-level doctors and medical practitioners can expect competitive salaries, and as they gain experience and specialize, their earning potential increases significantly. Specialists in fields such as surgery, cardiology, and neurology often command higher salaries. Additionally, healthcare professionals working in rural or remote areas may receive additional financial incentives as part of efforts to address regional healthcare disparities. According to Indeed, the average doctor salary in Australia is 156,000 USD per year. However, this figure may not reflect the actual earnings of medical graduates, as it includes doctors at different stages of their careers and in different specialties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best medical university in Australia is not an easy task, as there are many factors to consider and a plethora of options to compare. However, the best medical universities in Australia offer high-quality education, excellent research opportunities, and a diverse and supportive environment for students. Therefore, prospective students should make a balanced and informed decision based on their academic goals, personal preferences, and financial situation. The most important factors to consider while selecting a university include tuition fees, admission requirements, curriculum, faculty, facilities, location, and reputation. You’ll often need to apply to multiple universities to maximize your chance of admission. We at OneApply, understand the need to make the correct decision, and we are here to help you make it! Let our admission experts guide you through the entire admission process. Book your free video call appointment now!
