Shortage of medical specialists
> MMMC offers MBBS and BDS programmes
ALTHOUGH there have been adverse reports published about the number of medical graduates inundating the Malaysian health system, the fact remains that our nation is short of medical specialists. Adding to this, are dwindling figures reported across the globe; in Malaysia itself an estimated measly 7,000 medical specialists only.
It has therefore become of utmost importance that students who intend to take on the noble career of healing choose the right medical school.
Correspondingly, Melaka-Manipal Medical College (MMMC) is offering its Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) and Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programmes.
Preparatory courses for the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) and United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) are also available at its campus in Malacca.
In hindsight, MMMC has been at the forefront of medical education since its inception in 1997. Its twinning degree programmes provide students with preclinical training at the Manipal, India campus. On return to Malaysia, students can look forward to perfecting their clinical skills via training at Malaysian hospitals in Malacca, Muar and Jasin and other government hospitals. BDS students on the other hand, get to refine their skills in the college’s own oncampus dental clinic.
While the MBBS is the college’s flagship programme, it is also a twinning course that allows students to complete 2.5 years of pre-clinical basic science studies at the Manipal campus, then return to Malaysia for another 2.5 years to complete comprehensive clinical training.
MMMC has delivered high quality medical professionals; some 3,700 doctors graduating to-date. Many of the alumni are now practising across the globe.
Students interested in studying medicine with MMMC will be happy to learn that they will be able to apply for the full RM150,000 PTPTN loan.
The BDS programme launched in 2009 has been well received, with placings filled up some 18 months before intakes.
This programme resonates with the high quality and good performance of the Manipal College of Dental Surgery in India – the college is awarded the top dental school accolade in India for the past few years.
PTPTN loans are also available for BDS programme applicants although terms and conditions vary from those registered with the MBBS programme.
However, both programmes are conducted in collaboration with the renowned Manipal University in India.
Additionally, MMMC’s Foundation in Science (FIS) is a one-year pre-university programme fully conducted at the Malacca campus. This programme is designed to provide students with a sound academic foundation for those intending to study medicine, dentistry or other health science programmes.
Apart from pure science and mathematics that are offered in general foundation programmes in Malaysia, the FIS encompasses pre-clinical introductory subjects such as Basic Anatomy, Physiology, Basic Pharmacology, Forensic Science and Oral Biology.
Scholarships are now available for students with straight As in their SPM and GCE O-Level examinations. They will be eligible for a 100% waiver for the FIS programme, while those with 7As will be offered financial incentives.
MMMC’s campus is equipped with the finest infrastructure to ensure that all students are inspired to pursue their career with zest and passion. The facilities cater to both teaching and learning as well as recreational needs.
The college takes modern technology as a key factor to facilitate the teaching and learning process and has created tech-savvy environments for students.
Every teaching and learning centre is well-equipped with facilities to provide both teachers and students the best learning ambiance.
Academic facilities include lecture theatres, tutorial rooms, laboratories, clinical skills learning centre and a fully equipped library.
Facilities at both Manipal and Malaysia campuses are second to none, across teaching and learning facilities, auditorium, lecture halls, classrooms, multidisciplinary labs, clinical skills learning centre and computer labs.
Drop by MMMC’s campus for a better feel of the ambiance. Otherwise, call 1-800-226662, 017-289 3055, 017-219 3055, 017-374 3055, 017-691 3055 or +606-289 6662 ext 100 5/1020/1032/1035/1142, email info@manipal.edu.my or visit www.manipal.edu/melaka for comprehensive details of all its programmes.