Bachelor of Medical Studies

Program Overview

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The Bachelor of Medical Studies is the first step in the University of Adelaide's six-year medical program, providing a foundation in biomedical science and clinical skills. Through scenario-based learning, clinical placements, and research projects, students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and a commitment to patient care. Upon completion, students gain direct entry into the Doctor of Medicine, qualifying them to practice medicine worldwide.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Bachelor of Medical Studies is the first part of the University of Adelaide's six-year medical program. Upon successful completion, students gain direct entry into the Doctor of Medicine. Together, these degrees will qualify you to practice medicine anywhere in Australia and throughout most of the world. The Bachelor of Medical Studies functions as an exit pathway only for students who do not go on to complete the entire six-year program.

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Objectives:

• Provide the foundation knowledge and skills needed to excel in health care.
• Develop critical problem-solving, teamwork, and integrity.
• Foster a passion for healing and a commitment to alleviating pain and suffering.
• Instill a deep understanding of the health care system and how it interacts with patients.

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Description:

• Engage in small group scenario-based problem-solving related to common and important individual, community, Indigenous, and global health issues.
• Gain valuable exposure to real-world clinical practice and develop safe and effective clinical skills in cutting-edge simulation facilities.
• Investigate the social determinants of health and health behaviors.
• Learn to evaluate the health status of individuals and populations.
• Acquire a solid foundation in research skills and evidence-based care.
• Learn collaboratively in interprofessional teams.

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Outline:

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Year 1:

• Fundamental knowledge of biomedical science.
• Patient contact to experience the health care system from the 'consumer' perspective.
• Introduction to underlying mechanisms and concepts from a real-world perspective.

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Year 2:

• Clinical problems through clinically based scenarios.
• Development of clinical skills in diagnosis and management.
• Introduction to the public health and professional aspects of becoming a medical practitioner.

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Year 3:

• Preparation for full-time clinical studies within the Doctor of Medicine.
• First clinical placements.
• Research skills development with the completion of a research proposal and critical appraisal.
• Increased clinical exposure in primary and hospital care settings.

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Assessment:

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Methods:

• Scenario-based learning exercises
• Clinical skills assessments
• Written exams
• Research assignments
• Presentations

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Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding of biomedical science, clinical medicine, and health policy.
• Ability to apply knowledge and skills to real-world clinical scenarios.
• Proficiency in communication, teamwork, and professionalism.
• Commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient care.

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Teaching:

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Methods:

• Lectures
• Small group tutorials
• Clinical placements
• Simulation exercises
• Research projects

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Faculty:

• Practicing clinicians who are leaders in their field.
• Experts in medical education and research.

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Unique Approaches:

• Strong emphasis on scenario-based learning, evidence-based decision making, and professional practice.
• Learning in state-of-the-art facilities, including the Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences building and the Royal Adelaide Hospital.
• Access to world-leading simulation facilities accredited by the Society for Simulation in Healthcare.

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Careers:

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Potential Paths:

• Physician
• Surgeon
• General Practitioner
• Public Health Physician
• Researcher
• Medical Educator
• Administrator in the Health Sector

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Opportunities:

• Work in public hospitals, private practice, public health, teaching, clinical research, aid organizations, the defense forces, and more.
• The full range of medical career paths becomes apparent as students progress through the degree.

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Outcomes:

• Graduates are well regarded in the industry for their knowledge and experience.
• High demand for positions in a variety of settings.
• Successful careers in the medical field, both in Australia and internationally.