Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz The Ludwik Rydygier Medical College of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń (Collegium Medium.
About Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
Ludwika Rydygiera, Universität Mikolaj Kopernika w Toruniu) is one of the leading and dynamically evolving medical schools in Poland, based in Bydgoszcz. Its history begins in 1984, with the founding of the Ludwik Rydygier Medical Academy in Bydgoszcz, initially founded on the grounds of the Faculty of Medicine of the Gdańsk Medical University.
Two decades down the line, a landmark was achieved on November 24, 2004, when the Medical Academy of Bydgoszcz was officially incorporated into Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU) in Toruń. This incorporation was authorized by the Act of October 8, 2004, and gave rise to the Nicolaus Copernicus University Medical College, which now continues to grow in terms of both teaching and research quality.
Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz – Table of Contents
- About
- Advantages
- Ranking
- Departments And Course Duration
- Facilities And Infrastructure
- Fee Structure
- Required Documents
- Eligibility Criteria
- Admission Process
- Benefits
- Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
- FAQ’s
At present, the Medical College has about 1,532 employees, out of which about 915 of them work as academic teachers, adding to its robust academic and research profile. The university trains more than 5,000 students in three major faculties: Medicine, Pharmacy, and Health Sciences.
To further enhance its global reach, the university also provides English-language medical courses that adhere to the Polish curriculum. These programs draw a considerable number of international students—now around 420 students—who come from Ireland, India, Norway, Iran, Spain, Germany, Sweden, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria.
Although viewed as a fairly small university in comparison to some of the other European schools, the Nicolaus Copernicus University Medical College is renowned for its intimate academic culture, where students are not just respected as students but as participants within the larger endeavor of scientific and professional advancement.

Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions
The university has two teaching hospitals that it governs as the original institution. These hospitals provide a solid foundation for both medical education and research, providing students with priceless opportunities for practical training and clinical exposure at the same time as promoting developments in medical science. Each year, these hospitals increase their capacity, further enhancing the university’s teaching and research environment.
A milestone in the development of the institution was reached in 2019, when Nicolaus Copernicus University was awarded the noble title of a “Research University” and became one of only ten Polish universities certified in the Ministry of Science and Higher Education’s “Excellence Initiative – Research University” competition, resolved on October 30, 2019. This acknowledgment powerfully raised the university’s global reputation, confirming the high standard of its research and scholarly performance.
In its quest for excellence, the university has determined a number of key strategic objectives: deepening internationalization, enhancing interdisciplinary interaction, encouraging innovation, and achieving internal integration among its faculties and research entities.
To foster and reward academic excellence, Nicolaus Copernicus University’s Rector annually confers Rector’s Scholarships on researchers—individual scholars as well as research teams—who see their scientific publications receive highest scores from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education’s grading system.
All these activities demonstrate the university’s strong commitment to promulgating world-class research as well as continuing its position of a leader in medical higher education.
Advantages of Studying in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
Internationally Recognized Programs:
The college has programs that are English-taught and globally standard, and as such, the qualifications are worth something anywhere in the world.
Varied Programs:
You may study Medicine, Pharmacy, or Physiotherapy.
Respected Public University: The Collegium Medicum is affiliated with the Nicolaus Copernicus University, a well-respected public university in Poland.
Environment & Location
Lively Student City: Bydgoszcz is a lively city that is student-friendly and warm.
Expanding Global Community: The university creates an international atmosphere, embracing students from across the globe.
Support & Facilities
Extensive Applicant Support: Official partners such as Medical Poland offer end-to-end assistance, from very first inquiries to moving.
State-of-the-Art Clinical Facilities: Students enjoy access to state-of-the-art clinical facilities for practical training.
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Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz – Ranking
In order to reinforce the clinical foundation of the Nicolaus Copernicus University Medical College, steady investments are being undertaken in its affiliated university hospitals so that students and professors can enjoy up-to-date medical facilities.
Some of the most important developments are at the University Clinical Center, where they have implemented new facilities including a state-of-the-art Operating Room Complex combined with the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, a Central Sterilization Facility fully equipped, and a renovated Emergency Department at University Hospital No. 1 bearing the name of Dr. Antoni Jurasz in Bydgoszcz.
Equal-scale investments are being made at Bydgoszcz’s University Hospital No. 2 Dr. Jan Biziel, such as the priority project: “Reconstruction and Extension of the Emergency Department of University Hospital No. 2,” co-financed from the European Union as part of the Infrastructure and Environment Operational Programme.
These projects not only update the infrastructure of the hospitals but also enable the university to bring out the full potential of what it already has, streamline organizational work, and significantly increase the level of education and practical training for its medical students.
Understandably acknowledging the significance of international cooperation and intellectual innovation in contemporary scientific society, the university actively cultivates cooperative ties with major international research institutions.
Such partnerships provide opportunities for scholarly exchanges, collaborative research studies, and foreign internships and placements that expose students to new professional opportunities outside Poland. In addition to education development, the university supports active student life through promoting participation in cultural, scientific, and extracurricular activities.
The students become members of a myriad of organizations, including the Student Government, the Student Scientific Society, the Student Society of Laboratory Diagnosticians, IFMSA-Poland (International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations), the Cosmetology Student Organization, and even the Collegium Medicum Choir.
By taking part in these organizations, students not only upgrade their educational know-how by conducting workshops, training sessions, scientific conferences, and health prevention campaigns, but also learn important interpersonal, leadership, and organizational skills directly applicable to their future careers as doctors. Notably, the majority of such student clubs come together to organize city- and regional-scale events, enhancing the connection between the university and the surrounding community.
Equally dynamic is the activity of doctoral students, who pursue advanced education at the Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences, established by Rector’s Order on May 28, 2019. The school trains doctoral candidates in three primary scientific disciplines: pharmaceutical sciences, medical sciences, and health sciences.
Doctoral students also get organized under the Doctoral Student Government of Nicolaus Copernicus University, which is active in academic and cultural life. Their most significant contribution, among others, is organizing the International Medical Interdisciplinary Congress (iMEDIC)—an elite professional gathering of researchers from various disciplines. iMEDIC is an international platform for the sharing of advanced scientific information that allows young researchers and doctoral students to deliver their papers, establish global networks, and extend knowledge in the entire range of contemporary medical sciences.
Departments And Course Duration in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
MBBS Departments & Course Duration
Course Duration
- The MBBS program (offered in English) follows a 6-year long-cycle program (12 semesters).
- It includes pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical training, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
- Students complete:
- Basic sciences (Years 1–2): anatomy, histology, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, biophysics.
- Pre-clinical & para-clinical subjects (Years 3–4): pathology, microbiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, immunology.
- Clinical sciences (Years 4–6): internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, psychiatry, family medicine, and other specialties.
- The final year includes clinical rotations, clerkships, and internship-style training at the university’s teaching hospitals.
Major Departments Involved in the MBBS Program
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Faculty of Medicine
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- Department of Anatomy
- Department of Physiology
- Department of Histology & Embryology
- Department of Biochemistry
- Department of Pathology
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology
- Department of Pharmacology
- Department of Pathophysiology
- Department of Forensic Medicine
- Department of Medical Genetics
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Clinical Sciences Departments
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- Department of Internal Medicine
- Department of General & Specialized Surgery
- Department of Pediatrics & Neonatology
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
- Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery
- Department of Cardiology
- Department of Dermatology & Venereology
- Department of Family Medicine
- Department of Oncology & Radiotherapy
- Department of Orthopedics & Traumatology
- Department of Emergency Medicine & Anesthesiology
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Public Health & Interdisciplinary Sciences
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- Department of Social Medicine & Public Health
- Department of Medical Ethics & Humanities
- Department of Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation
At the end of the 6-year MBBS program, graduates are awarded the degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD/MBBS equivalent), which is recognized across the EU and accepted by various international medical councils.
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Facilities And Infrastructure in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
1. Academic Infrastructure
State-of-the-Art Lecture Halls & Classrooms – Fitted with multimedia systems, smartboards, and interactive learning tools.
Specialized Laboratories – State-of-the-art labs for anatomy, physiology, histology, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, and genetics.
Simulation & Skills Centers – High-fidelity medical simulators, mannequins, and virtual patient technology for clinical skill development.
Dissection & Anatomy Facilities – Up-to-date cadaver labs and digital anatomy learning systems.
Computer & IT Labs – With state-of-the-art software for bioinformatics, e-learning, and medical research.
2. Clinical Training Facilities
Two University Hospitals:
University Hospital No. 1 (Dr. Antoni Jurasz Hospital, Bydgoszcz) – With a modern Operating Room Complex, Department of Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Emergency Department, and Central Sterilization Facility.
University Hospital No. 2 (Dr. Jan Biziel Hospital, Bydgoszcz) – Provides contemporary equipment, including the renewed and enlarged Emergency Department, co-financed by the EU.
University Clinical Center – The main teaching and research center, combining patient care and student training.
Specialized Clinics – Cardiology, neurology, oncology, pediatrics, gynecology, psychiatry, orthopedics, and others.
3. Library & Research Resources
Main Medical Library – Offers thousands of books, journals, e-resources, and access to international medical databases.
Reading Rooms & Study Spaces – Quiet, well-facilitated spaces for individual and group study.
Research Laboratories – Specialized labs for biomedical sciences, clinical research, molecular biology, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Excellence Initiative – Research University (2019) – Supports international collaboration, innovation, and research infrastructure.
4. Student Life & Extracurricular Facilities
Student Organizations & Associations – Comprises the Student Government, Student Scientific Society, IFMSA-Poland, Cosmetology Student Organization, Collegium Medicum Choir, and others.
Conferences & Events – Students conduct scientific conferences, preventive health campaigns, and cultural events in Bydgoszcz and the wider area.
Cultural & Social Facilities – Music rooms, arts spaces, and student-run initiatives.
5. Hostels & Accommodation
Student Dormitories – Affordable on-campus and off-campus housing for both Polish and foreign students.
Modern Amenities – Internet, laundry, common kitchens, and recreational areas.
International Student Housing – Constructed to accommodate English-language program students.
6. Sports & Recreation
Sports Facilities – Fitness centers, gyms, and indoor/outdoor sports courts.
Recreational Programs – Student activities and clubs that support health, wellness, and team building.
City Integration – Students engage in active cultural and recreational events in Bydgoszcz.
7. Doctoral & Advanced Studies Facilities
Doctoral School of Medical & Health Sciences (founded in 2019) – Offers education in pharmaceutical sciences, medical sciences, and health sciences.
Academia Medica Bydgostiensis – An energetic doctoral community running academic events, such as the International Medical Interdisciplinary Congress (iMEDIC).
Nicolaus Copernicus University in Bydgoszcz Collegium Medicum brings together state-of-the-art medical facilities, high-tech research centers, efficiently equipped hospitals, and a lively student life, thus constituting a robust academic and clinical training ground for MBBS and advanced studies.
Official site For Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz: Click Here
Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz Fee Structure
Approximately fee structure will be 60 lakhs to 70 lakhs.
Required Documents For Admission in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
- Copy of 10th grade mark-sheet
- Copy of 12th grade mark-sheet
- NEET scorecard
- 10 passport size photographs
- Official invitation letter from university
- Copy of International passport of student
- Copy of Birth certificate
- Medical test report
Eligibility Criteria For Admission in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
Candidates must have passed higher secondary school with science subjects – Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
A minimum of 50% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) is required in Class 12.
The minimum age for admission is 17 years.
Indian students must qualify for the NEET exam to study MBBS abroad.
Admission Process For Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
1: Complete the online application form on the University website, or fill out the course registration form.
2: Print the application, sign it, and send it along with the required documents to the University.
3: Scan and email the documents to the admissions office with the subject line “Application for Admission.”
Submit all documents before the application deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
The University will verify the submitted documents and send an acceptance or rejection letter.
If accepted, pay the initial fees. After payment, the University will issue a fee acknowledgment letter.
Complete the translation and apostille attestation of educational documents.
Once accepted, apply immediately for a student visa. The University will provide the official invitation letter required for the visa process.
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Benefits of Studying in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
Learning at Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera (the Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum) of Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń (UMK) in Bydgoszcz provides an exceptional and extremely rewarding set of opportunities to students of medical and health sciences.
1. Prestigious University Affiliation
The Collegium Medicum is not an independent institution; it is the medical faculty of one of Poland’s most established and recognized universities, Nicolaus Copernicus University (established in 1945). This belonging entails:
High Academic Standards: You graduate with a diploma from a high-quality, research-oriented university recognized worldwide.
Reputation: The NCU name holds considerable value in Poland and throughout Europe, adding to the prestige of your diploma.
Interdisciplinary Opportunities: Although operating from Bydgoszcz, you are connected to a broader university environment with access to facilities, libraries, and possible collaborations with other faculties in Toruń (such as biology, chemistry, or physics).
2. Solid Historical Roots and Contemporary Focus
The college is named after the famous Polish surgeon Ludwik Rydygier, a trailblazer for contemporary gastrointestinal surgery. This heritage fosters an atmosphere that:
Respects and expands on a strong tradition of medical innovation.
Blends time-honored medical values with state-of-the-art, contemporary teaching and research.
3. Varied and Broad Program Offerings
Collegium Medicum offers a broad array of programs in English, addressing a variety of career opportunities in the healthcare field:
- Medicine (6-year MD program): The most prestigious program, extremely popular with international students.
- Dentistry (5-year DDS program): A thorough program in dental surgery.
- Nursing: Trains students for a critical and sought-after worldwide profession.
- Other Health Sciences: Courses such as Physiotherapy, Medical Analytics, Dietetics, and Public Health.
This variety provides for a rich, interdisciplinary learning experience.
4. High-Quality Clinical Training
This is perhaps the most important advantage. Bydgoszcz is a big medical center in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian voivodeship. Students obtain practical skills at:
- Dr. Antoni Jurasz University Hospital No. 1: A big, multi-specialist educational hospital directly connected to the university.
- Dr. Jan Biziel University Hospital No. 2: A second large teaching hospital with a broad range of clinical rotations.
Many other city and specialist hospitals in the city.
This equates to students being educated in real-life, high-volume clinical environments right from the start of their studies.
5. Up-to-date Facilities and Infrastructure
The university has invested considerably in its Bydgoszcz campus. Students take advantage of:
- State-of-the-art Simulation Centers: Equipped with high-fidelity patient simulators and virtual reality for procedure practice in a risk-free setting.
- Contemporary Laboratories: Modern, well-stocked labs for anatomy, histology, biochemistry, and other pre-clinical courses.
- The New University Library: Contemporary resource library with comprehensive medical literature, databases, and study areas.
6. Vibrant and Student-Friendly City
Bydgoszcz provides a very good quality of life, a big plus for students:
- Low Cost of Living: Much cheaper than large Western European cities or even Warsaw.
- Charming and Cultural City: Famous for its scenic canals (giving it the nickname “Little Berlin”), Art Nouveau buildings, and lively cultural life with music, theaters, and museums.
- Great Transport: Well linked by train and bus to other major Polish cities such as Gdańsk, Warsaw, and Poznań. The city is well served with a decent public transport system.
- Green Spaces: Ample parks and spaces to spend time outdoors away from studying.
7. Vibrant International Community
The English Division programs have students coming from all over the globe (Norway, Sweden, UK, USA, Canada, Asia, and beyond).
Multicultural setting that enriches your professional and personal development.
Solid support system for international students, such as mentorship programs and student organizations.
Global focus on medicine and health care.
8. EU Diploma Recognition
A degree from Collegium Medicum, UMK is granted by an EU university. This implies:
This diploma is recognized instantly throughout the European Union, making it easy to get a job and pursue further specialization in any EU nation.
It is also very well regarded and recognized in most other nations around the globe, although particular licensing exams might be needed (such as the USMLE in the USA).
9. Research Opportunities
As a part of a large university, students are able to engage in scientific research projects under the guidance of faculty members, which is highly beneficial for those planning careers in academic medicine or competitive specializations.
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika w Toruniu Bydgoszcz
Indian students in particular, who study at Collegium Medicum im. Ludwika Rydygiera (NCU Toruń, Bydgoszcz) present a unique combination of privileges that suits well the wishes and shared problems of Indian students studying medicine abroad.
The following are the most important privileges and advantages for Indian students:
1. Easier Admission Process (No NEET UG Requirement for Application)
While Indian students must qualify the NEET UG exam to be eligible to study medicine abroad (as per the National Medical Commission (NMC) rules), the university’s own admission process does not require a NEET score.
Admission is mostly determined by the score in the University Entrance Exam (which generally includes Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) and your high school (10+2) grades. What this implies is that your performance in the university test is the major deciding factor, not your NEET rank.
2. Internationally Recognized Degree & NMC (National Medical Commission) Approved
The university is registered in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), and the degree is internationally recognized.
Most importantly for Indian students, the medical course is validated by the National Medical Commission (NMC). That makes Indian graduates admissible to sit for the NExT (National Exit Test) in India to become a doctor or continue postgraduate studies in India.
3. Strong Support System for Indian Students
Established Indian Community: Bydgoszcz has an increasing and vibrant Indian student community. This offers an instant support system for newcomers, assisting with anything from finding accommodation to understanding cultural differences.
Student Organizations: Active student organizations and unions usually host events, festivals (such as Diwali and Holi), and offer a “home away from home” environment.
Indian Cuisine: Availability of Indian restaurants and stores simplifies dietary preferences management.
4. English-Tutored Programs for Internationals
The full MD (Medicine) and DDS (Dentistry) programs are taught in English, and the language barrier is eliminated while studying.
The curriculum is tailored for an international student body, and staff are experienced to teach students from all corners of the globe, including India.
5. High-Quality Clinical Exposure from Early Years
Indian students gain significantly from the hands-on clinical practice in the huge university hospitals at Bydgoszcz (Dr. Antoni Jurasz Hospital and Dr. Jan Biziel Hospital).
The ratio of patients to doctors is good, with more hands-on practice possible than in congested systems in some other nations. Such a practical skill base is priceless for FMGE/NExT as well as an international career.
6. Gateway to Europe
A Polish student visa is a Schengen visa. This enables Indian students to travel hassle-free across 27 European nations (such as Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands) during weekends and semester breaks. This is a great concession for visiting various cultures, touring, and even visiting international conferences.
7. Safe and Welcoming Environment
Poland, and Bydgoszcz in general, is considered a very secure nation with minimal crime.
Poles tend to be friendly towards foreign students, and there is infrastructure at the university to welcome them.
9. Post-Graduation Opportunities
EU Recognition: The degree is automatically recognized throughout the European Union, providing opportunities for postgraduate specialization (residency) in Poland or other EU nations such as Germany, Sweden, or Ireland.
USMLE & PLAB Pathway: The solid foundation of knowledge makes students ready to sit for licensing exams for the USA (USMLE) or the UK (PLAB) in case they plan to work in either country.
FAQ’s
What is the duration of the MBBS program at Collegium Medicum?
The MBBS (Doctor of Medicine) program is a 6-year long-cycle program (12 semesters), taught in English for international students.
Are the degrees internationally recognized?
Yes, The MD/MBBS degree is recognized across the European Union (EU) and accepted by many international medical councils, though graduates must pass local licensing exams (e.g., FMGE/NExT in India, USMLE in the USA, PLAB in the UK).
What student organizations and extracurricular activities are available?
Students can join associations such as the Student Scientific Society, IFMSA-Poland, Student Society of Laboratory Diagnosticians, Cosmetology Student Organization, and the Collegium Medicum Choir, as well as participate in cultural and community events.
Where is the university located?
The Collegium Medicum campus is located in Bydgoszcz, Poland, while the main Nicolaus Copernicus University campus is in Toruń.
Does the university offer doctoral programs?
Yes. The Doctoral School of Medical and Health Sciences (established in 2019) offers PhD-level training in medical sciences, health sciences, and pharmaceutical sciences.
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