International courses

in medicine & health science

The disciplines of medicine and health science have always been popular study subjects for international students, constantly ranking in top 10 lists of course choices. From midwifery and dentistry to medicine and more, the courses available to students in the medical field are vast and varied, though all encompass an aspect of studying the human or animal body and its conditions. This issue of i-MHS is a comprehensive guide for international students looking to study medicine and health sciences overseas. Packed with a range of university profiles and topical articles from experts in the medicine and health science field, i-MHS will help students navigate the application process and find their perfect course match.

The health and medical industry is a huge industry worldwide with 19% of government funding channelled into the health sector in the US alone, according to a recent report from the World Health Organisation. Subjects allied to medicine have always been popular with international students and rank sixth in the top courses of study for international students in the UK.

Students who are suited to studying a course in the field of medicine and health sciences are those that have a keen interest in the human body and how it works, those who are compassionate and enjoy caring for others and those who like to be actively involved along with a strong stomach for the aspects of the job that can at times be shocking and upsetting.

Although the medicine and health science sector includes veterinary science, it generally refers to the study and care of human conditions; this can be anything from mental health to exercise and nutrition. Most courses require a school-leaving qualification in a science-based subject, preferably biology, for acceptance onto a course.

To support applications to a healthcare or medical course students may wish to undertake some extra-curricular work in a 'care' industry such as volunteering in a nursing home or helping out with the first-aiders on a school football team.