University: Curtin University

Degree: Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

School Subjects: Mathematics Applications, Literature, Human Biology, Modern History, Chemistry, Music

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Starting a uni course in Medicine is an exciting yet challenging step for many prospective students. As a current Curtin medical student, I’d like to share some insights into what studying medicine entails, as well as some personal experiences that may help you decide if this path is right for you.

Social Aspect

One aspect I’ve particularly enjoyed is the smaller class sizes within our program. These create a more intimate learning environment where class discussions feel more engaging and productive. It also allows tutors to provide personalised feedback, which is invaluable for developing both academic understanding and practical skills. This dynamic is a stark contrast to larger lecture-based courses and offers a unique advantage for students in Curtin Medicine.

Additionally, medical school at Curtin offers a variety of social opportunities. There are numerous clubs and societies tailored to medical students, providing not just social connections but also professional development. These groups are an excellent way to form friendships and find support networks with peers.

Structure of the Degree

The structure of Curtin’s medical degree is organised across five years:

• 1st Year: You’ll be introduced to the curriculum domains that underpin a holistic approach to medicine. Patient cases help integrate the basic and clinical sciences, while problem-based learning (PBL) gives you the tools to think like a doctor.
• 2nd and 3rd Years: These are focused on intensive learning of the human body in health and disease. Subjects like anatomy, pathology, and pharmacology are explored in depth alongside clinical skills development.
• 4th Year: You transition from campus-based learning to hands-on experience in hospital and community settings, including rural and remote placements.
• 5th Year: This final year immerses you in clinical practice, where you’ll work as part of healthcare teams, honing your skills in preparation for your internship.

Content & Assessment Types

An aspect of learning medicine at Curtin that I enjoy is how it blends theoretical and practical learning. A typical week might include:

• Anatomy Labs: Hands-on sessions exploring the human body.
• PBL Classes: Small group discussions centred around medical cases, fostering critical thinking and collaboration.
• Clinical Tutorials: Focused on developing practical skills like history-taking and physical examinations, bridging theory and application.
• Lectures: Supplementing PBL and clinical tutorials, lectures provide foundational knowledge essential for all other learning components.

The range of assessments is designed to test both theoretical knowledge and clinical aptitude. For written assessments, we sit CAT exams, which consist of single-best-answer questions. These focus on applying knowledge rather than rote memorisation. On the practical side, we have simulated patient sessions and OSCEs, which evaluate our ability to perform clinical tasks under exam conditions, ensuring we’re prepared for real-world scenarios.

The blend of academic and practical learning makes this degree both rewarding and challenging. If you thrive in a collaborative learning environment, enjoy problem-solving, and are passionate about making a difference in people’s lives, medicine could be a great fit for you.