2024, November 7
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NU Launches Doctor Training Using a Hybrid International Model for Undergraduate Medical Education
2024, November 7
Share this articleKazakhstan is launching a new program to train physicians based on a hybrid international system, in line with British and North American curricula and medical qualifications.
The NU School of Medicine has proposed a six-year undergraduate medical program focusing on two critical issues of Kazakhstan - the shortage of medical personnel and the improvement of the doctor training quality.
The program includes two years of pre-medical training and four years of training for the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Students in the program will learn the competencies and skills and obtain certifications necessary to work as a physician and practice medicine as part of a world-class international medical program. Graduates will have the opportunity to earn two degrees: the Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences (BMS) and the Doctor of Medicine (MD). However, a residency will be required to independently practice medicine.
"Implementing this program will reduce the time needed to train highly qualified physicians, allow us to train more doctors, and save significant funds. We plan to accept more students, including international students. The MD program has already been accredited by the Eurasian Center for Accreditation that is recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education," said Professor Arman Saparov, Acting Vice Dean for Medical Education and Director of the BMS and MD programs at the NU School of Medicine.
As Dr. Saparov noted, the new six-year undergraduate medical program is specifically designed for talented and motivated high school graduates who will be able to receive intensive training to become world-class physicians. The admission period has already begun and will be open until March 27, 2025. During this time, applicants can apply for a scholarship. Admission will remain open on a paid basis until June 12, 2025.
The NU School of Medicine trains students in a model used at top British and North American universities. The program provides access to state-of-the-art clinical facilities and the latest technology.
"Kazakhstan's deficit of doctors, especially highly qualified specialists, exceeds 6 thousand people. Therefore, under the new program, our task is to train not only practicing doctors but also teachers, who will train the next generation of doctors," said Professor Saparov, who moved to the United States 30 years ago.
Before returning to Kazakhstan in 2010, Dr. Saparov completed his four-year training and served as a faculty member at the US medical school as well as researched molecular mechanisms of disease with Pfizer and Merck. He also worked with hospitals affiliated with Harvard Medical School.
Next year, the program will also be implemented at Astana and Semey Medical Universities. Now, NU professors and colleagues from these universities are working together to adapt the program, accelerating the training of specialists according to modern international standards.
