Have you ever wondered if the rumours about doctors working endless, unpaid overtime hours are actually true? Or perhaps you dream of practising medicine internationally but have no idea where to start?
In the second part of Uni Enrol’s “Degree Unboxing” episode, host Angel Lim continued her exploration of the state-of-the-art Manipal University College Malaysia campus. She sat down with Prof. Dr Somsubhra De, Director of the Centre for Professional Advancement (CFPA) at Manipal University College Malaysia, to uncover the truth about a doctor’s work-life balance and explore the incredible international pathways offered by the Manipal University College Malaysia Medicine program.
If you are looking for the ultimate Medicine course in Malaysia that serves as a passport to the world, here is the inside scoop on how MUCM turns students into “Global Doctors.” Only at Lot 463-1, Jalan Batu Hampar, Bukit Baru, 75150 Melaka.
💸 Myth-Busting: Do Doctors Get Overtime Pay?
When asked about the gruelling hours doctors face, Dr Somsubhra had some great news that might surprise you! While the medical scene can be famously demanding, countries like Australia have incredibly strict work ethics and protections for medical professionals.
They do not push young doctors to work beyond their legal time limits. And the best part? If you do end up working past your shift, you are financially compensated. According to trainers from Sydney, hospitals in Australia even pay overtime for just an extra half-hour of work!
🌍 Becoming a Global Doctor: The UK and Australia Pathways
One of the most defining features of the MUCM Medicine curriculum is its commitment to producing internationally employable graduates. When you study Medicine at MUCM, the university’s goal is to ensure you have a guaranteed placement pathway as soon as you finish your MBBS degree.
Currently, the university boasts two highly established international routes for its students: the United Kingdom and Australia.
🇬🇧 The UK Pathway (GIP)
For students dreaming of working in the UK, MUCM offers the Graduate to Internship Programme (GIP). Initiated during a student’s final year, this pathway provides comprehensive training to help students conquer the three major hurdles of UK medical licensing:
- IELTS: The mandatory English language proficiency test.
- UKMLA Part 1: An online medical licensing examination.
- UKMLA Part 2: A physical, clinical exam where students actually fly to Manchester to take the test!
Once these exams are cracked, MUCM helps students secure a job under the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) through the UK Foundation Programme Office (UKFPO).
Dr Somsubhra clarified that in the UK, “Foundation Programme” actually means internship, equivalent to the Housemanship Year 1 (FY1) and Year 2 (FY2) in Malaysia. And yes, these internships are fully paid!
🇦🇺 The Australia Pathway (AMC)
Launched recently with expert trainers flying in from Sydney, the Australian pathway is designed to help students pass the rigorous Australian Medical Council (AMC) exams (Part 1 and Part 2).
After passing the exams, students apply for medical jobs in Australia. Dr. Somsubhra noted that these entry-level jobs are incredibly lucrative, paying almost $40,000 to $45,000 AUD a year. This high starting salary means fresh graduates can comfortably sustain themselves abroad without needing to rely on their parents for financial support while completing their training!
Once they secure their job and finish their internship, young doctors have the freedom to decide whether they want to remain in general practice or pursue a specific medical speciality.
🤔 UKMLA vs. AMC: Which is Better?
With two fantastic global pathways available, Angel asked the ultimate question: Which one is better?
Dr Somsubhra admitted that this is a very tricky question he gets asked all the time! Ultimately, neither is objectively “better” than the other. It completely depends on the individual student’s lifestyle preferences, career goals, and where they ultimately want to live and build their future.
To learn more about our in-depth review of the Manipal University College Malaysia (MUCM) and its fees and courses, check out:
- Manipal University College Malaysia Campus Tour – Book Your Campus Tour!
Ready to Take Your Medical Career Worldwide?
Whether you want to practice locally or take your talents to the UK or Australia, Manipal University College Malaysia provides the training and direct pathways to get you there.
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Find us at B-02-03, Level 2, Sunway Geo Avenue, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor. Our friendly counsellors are ready to help you discover scholarships, compare universities, plan your perfect pathway and submit your application.
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About the Author:
Ken Hoong is the co-founder of Uni Enrol and a contributing writer. Drawing on his close work with Uni Enrol’s counsellors, he brings keen insight into Malaysia’s evolving private higher education landscape and the shifting preferences of students in learning and career choices.
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