5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
Western Sydney University offers a Bachelor of Clinical Science (Medicine)/Doctor of Medicine (MD) as a combined five-year undergraduate-entry medical program. This joint initiative with Charles Sturt University is designed to prepare students for medical practice in Australia and New Zealand.
Program Overview
Duration: 5 years full-time
Campuses: Campbelltown (Western Sydney University) and Orange (Charles Sturt University)
Accreditation: Fully accredited by the Australian Medical Council
Qualification: Graduates are eligible for provisional registration with the Medical Board of Australia and can commence medical internships.
Curriculum Structure
Years 1–2: Foundational studies in biomedical sciences, early clinical exposure, and development of research skills.
Year 3: Full-time clinical and community placements in various hospitals and health services across Greater Western Sydney and rural NSW.
Years 4–5: Advanced clinical rotations in specialty and subspecialty medicine, including general practice and Aboriginal medical services.
A significant component of the program is the MD Project, which provides students with the opportunity to conduct a hands-on, in-depth investigation of a health-related topic. Projects can be research-based, service learning, or education-focused, and are developed within streams such as Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Medicine, Community Health, Health Innovations, Indigenous Health, Medical Education, or Rural Health. Students work under the guidance of a supervisor and are expected to produce scholarly work that meets the standards of a professional master's level. The project spans across Years 3 and 4, with dedicated time allocated for project work.
Immediate Post-Graduation Steps (Internship Year)
Internship (PGY1 – Postgraduate Year 1)
All graduates must complete a 1-year supervised internship at an accredited hospital in Australia.
This is required for full registration with the Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA).
It is also the stepping stone for specialty training programs.
International students can apply for internships via the Australian Medical Council (AMC) and state health departments, but competition is strong as domestic applicants are prioritized.
Residency and Further Clinical Training
Residency (PGY2 and PGY3)
After the internship, graduates work as resident medical officers (RMOs).
This phase allows doctors to rotate through various specialties to gain broad experience.
It also serves as preparation for entry into postgraduate specialty training programs.
Postgraduate Specialty Training
Specialist Training Programs
Entry into specialist training is through one of Australia’s recognized medical colleges.
Examples of specialty pathways include:
General Practice (RACGP)
Surgery (RACS)
Internal Medicine (RACP)
Emergency Medicine (ACEM)
Psychiatry (RANZCP)
Training duration varies between 3 to 7 years depending on the specialty.
Admission is competitive, typically requiring clinical experience, references, exams, and interviews.
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