University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine 2025-26

  • Canada

University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine “The University of British Columbia” (UBC) is a globally recognized institution known for its excellence in teaching, learning, and research. As one of the world’s leading public universities, UBC consistently ranks among the top institutions, attracting students, researchers, and professionals from around the globe. 

About University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

The university fosters a culture of innovation, creativity, and collaboration, transforming ground breaking ideas into real-world solutions. Since its establishment in 1915, UBC has been committed to opening new avenues of opportunity for individuals who possess the curiosity, determination, and vision to drive positive change and shape a better future for society.

Within UBC’s esteemed Faculty of Medicine, the UBC Continuing Professional Development (UBC CPD) unit plays a crucial role in advancing lifelong learning for health professionals. UBC CPD is dedicated to enhancing the quality of health care by designing, delivering, accrediting, and evaluating educational programs that support ongoing professional development. By integrating innovative research and best practices into its learning initiatives, UBC CPD ensures that medical practitioners in British Columbia and beyond remain at the forefront of their fields.

University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine – Table of Contents

As a dynamic and forward-thinking learning organization, UBC CPD believes in the transformative power of education, collaboration, and introspection. Its mission extends beyond traditional professional training, aiming to foster a thriving health-care system rooted in evidence-based practice, social justice, and the seamless translation of knowledge into clinical applications. Through its comprehensive approach to continuing education, UBC CPD empowers health professionals to contribute to healthier communities while addressing the evolving challenges of modern health care.

University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine
University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

Advantages of Studying in University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

  • University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

      • UBC is consistently ranked among the top public universities globally, with its Faculty of Medicine leading in both the science and practice of medicine.
  • Interdisciplinary Approach

      • Strengths in brain health, biomedical engineering, cancer, and Indigenous health.
      • Combines interdisciplinary approaches to position UBC as a world leader in impactful education, training, and discoveries.
  • Diverse Training

      • Provides cutting-edge research experiences in the biosciences.
      • Offers globally recognized population health education and quality health professional training.
      • Includes several certificate and online training options.
  • Clinical Training and Patient Care

    • Early Clinical Experience: Students begin learning clinical skills and enter family practice in their first semester.
    • Rural Training Opportunities: Students complete at least one rural training experience during their medical education.
    • Hands-on Clinical Experience: Students train with physicians and health professionals in urban and rural communities.
    • Patient-Centered Care: Emphasizes patient-centered care, equipping students to meet current and future healthcare challenges.

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Departments And Course Duration in University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

The University of British Columbia (UBC) Faculty of Medicine is one of Canada’s leading medical schools, offering a range of programs, including the MD Undergraduate Program (MDUP), which is equivalent to the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) degree in other countries.

MD Undergraduate Program (Equivalent to MBBS)

  • Duration: 4 years
  • The program is designed to train future physicians in clinical skills, medical knowledge, and patient care. It follows a competency-based curriculum.

Program Structure:

  • Foundations of Medicine:

      • Focus on basic medical sciences, clinical skills, and early patient exposure.
      • Topics include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, and medical ethics.
      • Integrated clinical experiences begin early in the program.
  • Clinical Clerkship:

    • Students rotate through various medical specialties in hospital and community settings.
    • Core rotations include Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, and Emergency Medicine.
    • Elective rotations allow students to explore specific areas of interest.

Departments at UBC Faculty of Medicine

The UBC Faculty of Medicine is organized into several departments, each focusing on a specific area of medical education, research, and clinical practice.

  1. Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology & Therapeutics:
    • Focuses on pain management, anesthesia, and drug therapies.
  2. Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology:
    • Studies the molecular basis of health and disease.
  3. Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences:
    • Explores cell biology, physiology, and related disciplines.
  4. Department of Emergency Medicine:
    • Trains physicians in acute care and emergency response.
  5. Department of Family Practice:
    • Focuses on primary care and family medicine.
  6. Department of Medicine:
    • Covers internal medicine subspecialties like cardiology, gastroenterology, and endocrinology.
  7. Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology:
    • Focuses on women’s health, pregnancy, and reproductive medicine.
  8. Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences:
    • Deals with eye health and vision sciences.
  9. Department of Orthopaedics:
    • Focuses on musculoskeletal health and surgery.
  10. Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine:
    • Studies disease diagnosis through laboratory techniques.
  11. Department of Pediatrics:
    • Focuses on child health and development.
  12. Department of Psychiatry:
    • Deals with mental health and behavioral sciences.

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Facilities And Infrastructure in University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

Academic and Training Facilities

  1. Life Sciences Centre:
    • A hub for medical education and research, featuring modern lecture halls, laboratories, and study spaces.
    • Houses the Centre for Brain Health and other research institutes.
  2. Clinical Skills Centre:
    • Equipped with simulation labs and standardized patient rooms for hands-on training in clinical skills.
    • Includes high-fidelity mannequins and virtual reality tools for realistic medical scenarios.
  3. Anatomy Labs:
    • State-of-the-art dissection facilities for teaching human anatomy.
    • Includes digital anatomy resources and 3D imaging tools.
  4. Medical Libraries:
    • The Woodward Library and other UBC libraries provide access to a vast collection of medical textbooks, journals, and online resources.
    • Study spaces and research support services are available.
  5. Research Laboratories:
    • Cutting-edge labs for biomedical, clinical, and population health research.
    • Facilities for genomics, proteomics, imaging, and other advanced technologies.

Clinical Training Facilities

  1. Rural and Regional Training Sites:
    • UBC’s distributed medical education model allows students to train in rural and regional communities across British Columbia.
    • Sites include Prince George, Victoria, Kelowna.
  2. Simulation and Interprofessional Education:
    • The Clinical Simulation Centre provides immersive training for medical students, residents, and healthcare professionals.
    • Focus on teamwork, communication, and emergency response skills.

Research Facilities

  1. Biomedical Research Centre:
    • A leading facility for translational research, focusing on diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
  2. Centre for Brain Health:
    • Dedicated to neuroscience research and patient care, with advanced imaging and diagnostic tools.
  3. Centre for Heart Lung Innovation:
    • Focuses on cardiovascular and respiratory research, with state-of-the-art labs and clinical trials facilities.
  4. Genome Sciences Centre:
    • A world-class facility for genomics and personalized medicine research.
  5. Centre for Health Education and Research (CHER):
    • Supports interdisciplinary research and education in health sciences.

Student Support Facilities

  • Student Learning Commons:
      • Offers academic support, tutoring, and workshops for medical students.
  • Wellness and Counselling Services:
      • Provides mental health support, counselling, and wellness programs for students.
  • Student Lounges and Study Spaces:
      • Comfortable spaces for studying, collaboration, and relaxation.
  • Fitness and Recreation Facilities:
    • Access to UBC’s gyms, swimming pools, and sports facilities.

Technology and Innovation

  1. Digital Learning Tools:
    • Online platforms for course materials, virtual lectures, and interactive learning.
    • Access to medical databases, e-books, and research tools.
  2. Telemedicine and Virtual Care Training:
    • Facilities for training in telemedicine and remote patient care.
  3. 3D Printing and Imaging:
    • Advanced imaging and 3D printing technologies for research and education.

Distributed Campuses

UBC Faculty of Medicine operates a distributed medical education model, with training sites across British Columbia:

  1. Island Medical Program (IMP) – Based in Victoria.
  2. Northern Medical Program (NMP) – Based in Prince George.
  3. Southern Medical Program (SMP) – Based in Kelowna.
  4. Vancouver Fraser Medical Program (VFMP) – Based in Vancouver.

Each campus has its own facilities, including lecture halls, labs, and clinical training sites, ensuring students receive consistent, high-quality education across the province.

Commitment to Sustainability

  • UBC’s facilities are designed with sustainability in mind, featuring energy-efficient buildings, green spaces, and eco-friendly practices.

The UBC Faculty of Medicine’s world-class facilities and infrastructure provide an exceptional environment for medical education, research, and clinical training, preparing students to become skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.

Official site For University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine: Click Here 

Required Documents For Admission in University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

  1. Bachelor’s Degree – A degree in science or a related field.
  2. Transcripts – Official transcripts from high school and undergraduate studies.
  3. MCAT Scores – Required for admission.
  4. English Proficiency Test – IELTS or TOEFL scores.
  5. Statement of Purpose (SOP) – A personal essay explaining your motivation.
  6. Letters of Recommendation – At least two from professors or supervisors.

Eligibility Criteria For University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

  1. Bachelor’s Degree Requirement – Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Biology or Science with a minimum GPA.
  2. English Proficiency – Candidates must take IELTS or TOEFL:
    • Undergraduate programs: IELTS 7 / TOEFL 80
  3. Entrance Exams –
    • Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required.
    • Indian students are not required to pass NEET to study medical courses in Canada.
  4. Student Visa & Medical Exam – Indian students should check visa requirements and the medical exam process for studying in Canada.

Admission Process For University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

  • Academic Background – A bachelor’s degree in science or a related field.
  • English Proficiency – IELTS or TOEFL scores required.
  • MCAT – Mandatory for admission.
  • Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) – If needed.

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Benefits of Studying in University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

1. World-Class Education

  • Reputation and Rankings: UBC is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, and its Faculty of Medicine is renowned for excellence in medical education, research, and clinical training.
  • Innovative Curriculum: The MD Undergraduate Program (equivalent to MBBS) follows a competency-based curriculum that integrates basic sciences, clinical skills, and patient care from the first year.

2. Distributed Medical Education Model

  • Broad Clinical Exposure: UBC’s distributed model allows students to train in urban, rural, and remote communities across British Columbia, providing diverse clinical experiences.
  • Four Campuses: Students can study at the Vancouver Fraser Medical Program (VFMP), Island Medical Program (IMP), Northern Medical Program (NMP), or Southern Medical Program (SMP), each offering unique learning environments.

3. Cutting-Edge Facilities

  • State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Access to modern lecture halls, simulation labs, anatomy facilities, and research centers.
  • Clinical Skills and Simulation Training: High-fidelity mannequins, virtual reality tools, and standardized patient programs for hands-on learning.

4. Research Opportunities

  • Leading Research Institution: UBC Faculty of Medicine is a hub for groundbreaking research in areas like neuroscience, genomics, cardiovascular health, and public health.
  • Integrated Research Programs: Opportunities to participate in research projects through the MD/PhD program or as part of the MD curriculum.
  • Research Funding: Access to grants and funding for student-led research initiatives.

5. Focus on Rural and Underserved Communities

  • Rural Training Opportunities: Programs like the Rural Education Action Plan (REAP) and Integrated Community Clerkships (ICC) prepare students to work in underserved areas.
  • Community Engagement: Emphasis on addressing healthcare disparities and improving access to care.

6. Interprofessional Education

  • Collaborative Learning: Opportunities to work with students from other health disciplines, such as nursing, pharmacy, and physiotherapy, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
  • Interprofessional Simulation Training: Joint training sessions to prepare for real-world healthcare settings.

7. Supportive Learning Environment

  • Student Wellness Services: Access to counselling, mental health support, and wellness programs.
  • Academic Support: Tutoring, workshops, and mentorship programs to help students succeed.
  • Diverse and Inclusive Community: UBC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.

8. Global Opportunities

  • International Electives: Opportunities to complete clinical rotations abroad, gaining experience in global health.
  • Global Health Programs: Initiatives like the Global Health Initiative and partnerships with international organizations.

10. Strong Alumni Network

  • Connections and Mentorship: UBC’s extensive alumni network includes leaders in medicine, research, and public health, providing mentorship and career opportunities.
  • Career Support: Access to career counselling, residency match support, and networking events.

11. Location and Lifestyle

  • Vancouver and Beyond: UBC’s main campus is located in Vancouver, consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. Other campuses offer unique experiences in Victoria, Kelowna, and Prince George.
  • Outdoor Activities: Proximity to mountains, oceans, and parks for hiking, skiing, and other recreational activities.
  • Cultural Diversity: Vancouver’s multicultural environment enriches the student experience.

12. Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

  • Sustainability Initiatives: UBC is a leader in sustainability, with eco-friendly campuses and green practices.
  • Innovation in Medicine: Emphasis on integrating technology, such as telemedicine and AI, into medical education and practice.

13. Residency and Career Preparation

  • High Residency Match Rates: UBC graduates have a strong track record of matching to competitive residency programs in Canada and abroad.
  • Career Development: Workshops, seminars, and resources to help students navigate their medical careers.

14. Financial Support

  • Scholarships and Bursaries: UBC offers financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to support medical students.
  • Affordable Tuition: Compared to many international medical schools, UBC offers relatively affordable tuition for Canadian students.

15. Contribution to Society

  • Focus on Social Accountability: UBC Faculty of Medicine emphasizes training physicians who are committed to improving health equity and addressing societal health challenges.
  • Community Service: Opportunities to participate in outreach programs and volunteer initiatives.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine

1. High-Quality Education and Global Recognition

  • World-Class Medical Degree: UBC’s MD program is globally recognized, ensuring that Indian students receive a degree that is respected worldwide.
  • Competency-Based Curriculum: The program prepares students for medical practice with a strong emphasis on clinical skills, patient care, and research.

2. Support for International Students

  • International Student Advising: UBC offers dedicated advising services to help Indian students navigate academic, cultural, and visa-related challenges.
  • Orientation Programs: Special orientation sessions for international students to help them adjust to life in Canada and at UBC.

3. Cultural Diversity and Inclusivity

  • Multicultural Environment: UBC and Vancouver are known for their cultural diversity, making it easier for Indian students to feel at home.
  • Indian Student Associations: Groups like the UBC Indian Students Association provide a sense of community and organize cultural events, festivals, and networking opportunities.

4. Clinical and Research Opportunities

  • Global Health Electives: Indian students can participate in international electives, including opportunities to work in India or other countries.
  • Research Collaborations: UBC’s strong research focus allows Indian students to collaborate on global health projects or research relevant to India.

5. Pathway to Residency and Licensure in Canada

  • Residency Training: Graduates of UBC’s MD program are eligible to apply for residency programs in Canada, which can lead to permanent residency and licensure.
  • Support for Licensing Exams: UBC provides resources and guidance for preparing for Canadian medical licensing exams (e.g., MCCQE).

6. Work Opportunities During and After Studies

  • On-Campus Work: Indian students can work part-time on campus during their studies to gain experience and support themselves financially.
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): After completing their degree, Indian students can apply for a PGWP, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years.
  • Pathway to Permanent Residency: UBC graduates may qualify for Canada’s Express Entry system or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), facilitating their transition to permanent residency.

7. Access to World-Class Facilities

  • Modern Learning Resources: Indian students benefit from UBC’s state-of-the-art facilities, including simulation labs, research centers, and libraries.
  • Clinical Training in Top Hospitals: Exposure to advanced healthcare systems in Canada through UBC’s affiliated teaching hospitals.

8. Support for Wellness and Mental Health

  • Counselling Services: UBC offers free and confidential counselling services to help students manage stress, cultural adjustment, and mental health.
  • Cultural Support Groups: Access to support groups and workshops tailored to the needs of international students.

9. Networking and Career Development

  • Alumni Network: UBC’s global alumni network includes many Indian professionals who can provide mentorship and career guidance.
  • Career Services: Workshops, seminars, and resources to help Indian students prepare for residency applications and job opportunities in Canada or abroad.

10. Cultural and Recreational Activities

  • Celebration of Indian Festivals: UBC and Vancouver host events for Diwali, Holi, and other Indian festivals, helping students stay connected to their culture.
  • Outdoor Activities: Vancouver’s natural beauty offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other recreational activities, providing a balanced lifestyle.

11. Safe and Welcoming Environment

  • Safe Campus and City: UBC and Vancouver are known for their safety and welcoming attitude toward international students.
  • Anti-Discrimination Policies: UBC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment free from discrimination.

12. Pathway to Global Health Careers

  • Global Health Programs: Indian students can participate in UBC’s global health initiatives, gaining experience in addressing health disparities and working in diverse settings.
  • Opportunities to Work in India: UBC’s global health partnerships may provide opportunities for Indian students to contribute to healthcare in their home country.

13. Support for Families

  • Family Accommodation: UBC provides resources for students bringing their families to Canada, including housing options and childcare services.
  • Spousal Work Permits: Spouses of Indian students can apply for open work permits, allowing them to work in Canada during their partner’s studies.

FAQ’s

What are the clinical training opportunities?

  • Students train at top hospitals like Vancouver General Hospital, St. Paul’s Hospital, and BC Children’s Hospital.
  • Rural and regional training opportunities are available through UBC’s distributed medical education model.

What support services are available for international students?

  • International Student Advising: Guidance on visas, academics, and cultural adjustment.
  • Wellness and Counselling Services: Mental health support and wellness programs.
  • Academic Support: Tutoring, workshops, and mentorship programs.

How does UBC support research opportunities for students?

  • Integrated Research Programs: Opportunities to participate in research projects during the MD program.
  • MD/PhD Program: For students interested in combining clinical training with research.
  • Funding and Grants: Access to research funding and scholarships.

What is the student life like at UBC?

  • Vibrant Campus Life: Clubs, societies, and cultural events.
  • Outdoor Activities: Proximity to mountains, oceans, and parks for hiking, skiing, and more.
  • Cultural Diversity: A welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.

What is the acceptance rate for the MD program?

The acceptance rate is highly competitive, typically around 10–15%. UBC receives thousands of applications for a limited number of seats.

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