Peking University Health Science Center 2025-26

  • China

Peking University Health Science Center The founding of PKUHSC traces back to the early 20th century. 

In 1903, when the late Qing Dynasty was in power, the government set up a Medical Clinic as part of the Royal Capital Higher Educational Institute, which was one of the first official medical education programs of China. In 1904, a year later, the clinic was moved to a refurbished building that was previously called the Xingsheng Temple, at Bajiaoliulijing, Hepingmen Wai. 

About Peking University Health Science Center 

As promising as it was, the clinic did not last long and was closed in 1907. The building was, however, acquired by the Medical Bureau, the forerunner of the current Health Department, in 1910. This acquisition paved the way for the founding of China’s first national public medical school.

After the 1911 Revolution, which overthrew the imperial government and brought in the Republic of China, western ideologies and education picked up speed. This cultural transition greatly improved the position of western medicine in China. The Ministry of Education in September 1912 summoned Mr. Tang Erhe, a famous histologist who had been trained in Japan and was getting ready to set up the Zhejiang Provincial Medical School, to take charge of building a national medical school in Beijing. The old medical clinic’s estate was bought by the Ministry for 10,000 taels of silver and marked as the location of the new school. 

Peking University Health Science Center – Table of Contents

Tang Erhe was formally appointed on October 16, 1912, as President of Peking Medical School, thereby formally establishing China’s first national school of Western medicine. The school started on a small scale with only nine professors and the first batch of 72 students. In succeeding decades, Peking Medical School suffered tremendous hardships from wars and political turmoils. 

Peking University Health Science Center
Peking University Health Science Center

Peking University Health Science Center Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

In the 1930s, the school was officially renamed Peking University Medical School and was eventually merged into Peking University in the 1940s. Following the Anti-Japanese War, in July 1946, Peking University was re-opened in Beijing, and Professor Hu Shi was made its president. 

Under him, the remnants of the medical school, such as the No.6 Preparatory Class and the Affiliated Hospital, were reorganized into the Peking University Medical School. It was in this time that illustrious persons like Dr. Ma Wenzhao (anatomy), Dr. Shen Junqi (physiology), and Dr. Hu Chuankui (dermatology) functioned one after another as deans. Dr. Hu also worked as the chief executive officer of the affiliated hospital, which came to be called the Beida Hospital later on.

In 1952, as part of the nationwide reform of higher education in the early years of the People’s Republic of China, the medical school was spun off from Peking University and made an independent university known as Beijing Medical College. Dr. Hu Chuankui served as its first president in this new organization. 

The control and financing of the college were turned over to the Ministry of Health. The school was also moved to its present location at No.38 Xueyuan Road, inaugurating an era of rapid expansion. Beijing Medical College became a nationally recognized institution and was listed among China’s 16 key universities in 1959, attesting to its academic prestige and strategic significance.

In 1984, 10 institutions were chosen by the State Council for priority development as leaders of Chinese higher education. Beijing Medical College was the sole medical college among them to be so honored. Professor Ma Xu was its president at that time.

The following year, in 1985, the university was officially renamed Beijing Medical University (BMU). Dr. Qu Mianyu, a renowned professor of sports medicine, was elected as the new president. 

During the mid-1990s, as part of a nationwide reformation of tertiary education, the Chinese government initiated the “211 Project”, which had the objective of upgrading the standards of about 100 universities to gain international prestige. BMU was among the first handful of institutions accredited for inclusion in this endeavor. 

On August 28, 1996, it successfully passed the national evaluation and was officially listed as a “211 Project” university. Dr. Wang Debing, a highly renowned hematologist, was president of the university from 1991 to April 2000, enhancing the university’s already strong reputation in the medical profession.

Advantages of Studying in Peking University Health Science Center

Strong Research Focus:

PUHSC is deeply involved in research and innovation, providing students with opportunities to participate in groundbreaking studies and contribute to medical advancements.

Advanced Facilities:

The institution is equipped with state-of-the-art labs and medical equipment, ensuring students receive hands-on training with the latest technologies.

Comprehensive Curriculum:

PUHSC’s curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in medical sciences and clinical practice, meeting international standards.

Experienced Faculty:

The institution employs experienced faculty members who are proficient in English, facilitating learning for international students. 

Global Opportunities and Environment:

International Collaborations:

PUHSC has established international collaborations, offering exchange programs and joint research projects that broaden students’ global perspective.

Multicultural Environment:

The student body is diverse, fostering a multicultural environment that encourages cultural exchange and understanding.

Student Services:

PUHSC provides various student services, including housing (a dedicated apartment building for international students), library resources, and medical services. 

Student Life:

The university offers a range of student clubs, including those focused on sports, arts, and other interests, contributing to a vibrant campus life. 

Accessibility:

PUHSC provides accessible facilities for students with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking.

Strong Reputation:

PUHSC is affiliated with Peking University, a highly regarded institution, and is part of the prestigious. 

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Peking University Health Science Center – Ranking

Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) is a world-class, comprehensive medical center with a long history and a strong academic framework. PKUHSC is one of China’s most prominent centers for medical education and research, and it provides a wide range of programs, including 76 accredited doctoral programs and 79 master’s programs, as well as undergraduate and continuing education programs. 

It has six postdoctoral research programs and accommodates more than 10,000 students, including 2,733 doctoral candidates, 2,595 master candidates, 3,916 undergraduates, 495 adult learners, and 408 international students. It has five schools, namely School of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Public Health, School of Nursing, and School of Health Humanities, and cooperates with 10 university hospitals and 14 teaching hospitals affiliated to Beijing.

PKUHSC has become a national model of academic excellence with 20 disciplines identified at the national level. The college has one national key laboratory and 68 ministry-level key laboratories. 

PKUHSC directed some national research projects during the period from 1993 to 2004, including “Eighth Five-Year Plan,” “Ninth Five-Year Plan,” “863 Project,” and “973 Project,” and obtained more than 1,000 research grants from different domestic foundations. Its work has won over 30 national and provincial-level awards with great prestige, and its research findings are frequently cited. For 11 consecutive years, PKUHSC ranked top in the country in terms of winning research findings from the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Appreciating that an excellent faculty is the cornerstone to the pursuit of education, PKUHSC attaches utmost emphasis to talent cultivation and establishment of an academic-friendly environment. It is staffed with numerous well-known experts and dedicated teachers, both older and younger. 

Since its incorporation into Peking University on April 3, 2000, PKUHSC has followed the ideals of “seeking truth from facts” and “development as the top priority,” and is managed with a framework that integrates centralized and departmental management. Leveraging the interdisciplinary power of its association with Peking University, PKUHSC continues to pursue innovation in medical education and research. It has introduced cutting-edge academic models, such as an 8-year MD/Ph.D. 

program in clinical medicine and a 7-year MS program in preventive medicine. The university has also set up cross-disciplinary biomedical research centers that bring together basic and clinical sciences with humanities.

As the initial Western medical institution founded by the Chinese government, PKUHSC has flourished in the contemporary era with a culture of hard work, stringency, objectivity, and creativity. In accord with the principles of strong political commitment, academic integrity, and commitment to serving the people, PKUHSC remains committed to providing world-class medical education and assisting in global health progress with unshakeable dedication.

Departments And Course Duration in Peking University Health Science Center

MBBS Program Overview:

Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) offers a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program taught in English, specifically designed for international students. This program combines rigorous academic training with clinical practice, aligned with global standards in medical education.

Course Duration:

The MBBS program spans 6 years, structured as follows:

  • Years 1–2 (Basic Sciences & Pre-clinical Training):
    Focus on foundational subjects such as Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, and Behavioral Science. Courses also include Chinese language and culture to aid in communication during clinical rotations.
  • Years 3–4 (Clinical Medicine):
    Emphasizes systemic clinical sciences such as Pathology, Pharmacology, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Psychiatry, and Diagnostics. Students engage in case studies, simulation-based training, and hospital-based learning.
  • Years 5–6 (Clinical Rotations/Internship):
    Hands-on clinical training at affiliated hospitals under professional supervision. Students rotate through major departments like Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Neurology, Psychiatry, and Emergency Medicine.

After successfully completing all academic and clinical requirements, students are awarded the MBBS degree, and are eligible to apply for medical licensure exams in their home countries (e.g., FMGE/NExT in India, USMLE in the USA, etc.), provided they meet respective regulations.

Major Departments Involved in the MBBS Program:

School of Basic Medical Sciences

      • Human Anatomy
      • Histology and Embryology
      • Physiology
      • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
      • Pathology
      • Microbiology
      • Pharmacology

School of Clinical Medicine (via affiliated hospitals)

      • Internal Medicine
      • Surgery (General, Orthopedics, Neurosurgery, etc.)
      • Pediatrics
      • Obstetrics and Gynecology
      • Psychiatry
      • Dermatology
      • Radiology
      • Anesthesiology
      • Emergency Medicine

School of Public Health

      • Preventive Medicine
      • Epidemiology
      • Biostatistics
      • Environmental Health

School of Pharmaceutical Sciences

      • Pharmacology and Toxicology
      • Clinical Pharmacy

School of Health Humanities

    • Medical Ethics
    • Medical Psychology
    • History of Medicine
    • Doctor-Patient Communication

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Facilities And Infrastructure in Peking University Health Science Center

Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) boasts a modern and well-developed infrastructure designed to support high-quality medical education, advanced research, and comprehensive clinical training. The campus is located at No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, offering a conducive environment for academic and professional development.

Campus Infrastructure

  • Academic Buildings:
    Equipped with lecture halls, multimedia classrooms, seminar rooms, and smart boards to support interactive teaching. The classrooms are air-conditioned and Wi-Fi enabled.
  • Modern Laboratories:
    State-of-the-art labs for Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology. These labs support both undergraduate and advanced research training.
  • Simulation Centers:
    Clinical skills training centers include high-fidelity simulators and virtual patient stations to enhance hands-on learning before students enter real hospital settings.

Affiliated Teaching Hospitals

PKUHSC is affiliated with 10 university hospitals and 14 teaching hospitals, all located in Beijing. Peking University First Hospital

  • Peking University People’s Hospital
  • Peking University Third Hospital
  • Peking University Cancer Hospital
  • Peking University Dental Hospital

These hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge medical technologies and provide training in all major specialties and subspecialties.

 Library and Digital Resources

  • Medical Library:
    One of the largest medical libraries in China with a collection of over 700,000 volumes, including books, journals, and digital resources in both Chinese and English.
  • Online Access:
    Students and faculty have access to global medical databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and CNKI.

Student Accommodation

  • International Student Dormitories:
    Fully furnished rooms with beds, study desks, internet access, heating, and air conditioning. Options include single and shared occupancy.
  • Hostel Facilities Include:
    • 24/7 security
    • Laundry rooms
    • Common kitchen areas
    • Recreational lounges

Cafeterias and Dining

  • Multiple canteens serving Chinese and international cuisine at affordable prices.
  • Dedicated vegetarian and halal food sections available for diverse student needs.

 Sports and Recreation

  • Sports Complex:
    Includes football fields, basketball and volleyball courts, tennis courts, and a well-equipped gym.
  • Indoor Facilities:
    Table tennis, fitness training centers, and yoga rooms.
  • Recreational Clubs:
    Cultural and artistic clubs, student associations, and language exchange programs enhance social and extracurricular life.

Technology and IT Infrastructure

  • Campus-Wide Wi-Fi and smart classrooms
  • E-learning platforms and access to lecture recordings, assignments, and faculty communication through internal portals
  • Medical Informatics Labs supporting research and telemedicine

Research Facilities

  • National and Ministry-Level Laboratories:
    • 1 National Key Laboratory
    • 68 Ministry-level key labs focusing on molecular medicine, pharmacology, public health, and clinical translational research.
  • Biomedicine Cross-Disciplinary Research Centers:
    Promote collaboration between basic science, clinical departments, and humanities.

Official site For Peking University Health Science Center: Click Here 

Required Documents For Admission in Peking University Health Science Center

  • A birth certificate as an age proof is mandatory.
  • 10th and 12th class mark sheets.
  • Passport size photo.
  • Valid passport with 18 months of validity.
  • Student VISA is mandatory.
  • Report of HIV test.
  • Bank statements are required for the submission.
  • Medical certificates for fitness proofs.
  • Invitation letter from concerned university.
  • Approved documents from the Ministry External Affairs.
  • Legalized papers from the embassy.

Eligibility Criteria For Peking University Health Science Center

  • Age: The student should be at least 17 years old
  • Academic Qualification: Students must have completed their secondary education or equivalent from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as mandatory subjects.
  • Language Proficiency: International students must be proficient in the Chinese language as it is the language of instruction for the MBBS program. 
  • Entrance Exam: Students must clear the entrance exam conducted by the respective university.
  • Health Checkup: International students must pass a medical examination to ensure they are fit to pursue MBBS studies

Admission Process For Peking University Health Science Center

  1. Online Application: Fill out the application form and submit the required documents online.
  2. Fee Payment: Once the university reviews and approves the application, pay the required fees.
  3. Immigration Process: The university initiates the immigration process and issues an invitation letter after receiving the ministry order.
  4. Visa Approval: The visa approval process takes around 30 days.
  5. Travel to China: After receiving the student visa, students can finalize their travel plans and prepare for departure.

Get more details about the colleges in China: Click Here

Benefits of Studying at Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC)

Studying at Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) offers students a wealth of academic, professional, and personal advantages. Recognized as one of China’s most prestigious medical institutions, PKUHSC combines excellence in education, research, and clinical training with global exposure.

1. Academic Excellence

  • Top-Tier Medical Institution: PKUHSC is consistently ranked among China’s best medical schools and is internationally recognized for its high academic standards.
  • Comprehensive Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, including a globally-aligned MBBS in English.
  • Nationally Accredited: Home to 76 doctoral and 79 master’s programs, many of which are nationally recognized and supported by China’s “211” and “Double First-Class” development projects.

2. Strong Clinical Training

  • Affiliated Hospitals: Students gain hands-on experience at 10 university hospitals and 14 teaching hospitals, including renowned institutions like Peking University First Hospital, People’s Hospital, and Cancer Hospital.
  • Clinical Skills Centers: High-fidelity simulation labs and early exposure to patient care prepare students for real-world medical practice.

3. Global Recognition & Opportunities

  • Internationally Aligned MBBS: The curriculum is aligned with global standards (such as MCI/NMC, USMLE, PLAB), making graduates eligible for licensure in multiple countries.
  • International Collaborations: PKUHSC maintains academic partnerships with leading universities and research institutes worldwide, facilitating exchange programs, joint research, and dual degrees.

4. Advanced Research Opportunities

  • Rich Research Ecosystem: Involvement in major national research projects such as the 863 and 973 programs.
  • Laboratories: One National Key Lab and 68 Ministry-level labs support cutting-edge research in medical sciences.
  • Top in Research Funding: Ranked first in receiving National Natural Science Foundation grants for over a decade.

5. Renowned Faculty

  • Distinguished Professors: A strong academic team including leading specialists, researchers, and award-winning educators guide students throughout their academic journey.
  • Mentorship Culture: Individual attention and research mentorship are emphasized, particularly for graduate and doctoral students.

6. World-Class Facilities

  • Modern classrooms, laboratories, simulation centers, and digital learning platforms enhance the academic experience.
  • Access to one of China’s largest medical libraries and digital databases ensures up-to-date learning resources.

7. Multicultural Environment

  • Diverse Student Body: Hosts over 400 international students, creating a globally enriched campus culture.
  • Language & Culture Support: Chinese language and cultural education is part of the curriculum, helping international students integrate smoothly into clinical practice in China.

 8. Strong Career Prospects

  • High Employability: Graduates of PKUHSC enjoy high employment rates and acceptance into prestigious postgraduate programs worldwide.
  • Alumni Network: A powerful alumni network in healthcare, academia, and research provides long-term career support.

9. Emphasis on Ethics and Humanity

  • PKUHSC promotes a holistic approach to medicine, blending scientific training with medical humanities, ethics, and public service—preparing students to be compassionate, responsible healthcare professionals.

10. Government Support & Legacy

  • As the first Western medical school established by the Chinese government, PKUHSC benefits from strong state support and a legacy of over a century in shaping modern medical education in China.

Privileges and Benefits for Indian Students at Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC)

Indian students who choose to study at Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC) benefit from a wide range of academic, cultural, and professional advantages. The institution’s global standards, English-medium MBBS program, and multicultural environment create a supportive platform for Indian students to thrive.

1. MBBS Program Taught in English

  • PKUHSC offers a dedicated MBBS program in English, specially designed for international students, including those from India.
  • This eliminates language barriers in learning medical theory and practicing clinical skills.

2. NMC/MCI Recognition & Licensing Support

  • The MBBS degree from PKUHSC is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.
  • Graduates are eligible to appear for India’s FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) and NExT, as per the latest NMC regulations.
  • PKUHSC also prepares students for international exams such as USMLE and PLAB, opening opportunities for global medical practice.

3. Strong Clinical Training in Top Hospitals

  • Indian students benefit from clinical exposure in top-tier hospitals affiliated with PKUHSC, such as Peking University First Hospital and People’s Hospital.
  • These hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge technologies and serve large, diverse patient populations—providing excellent learning opportunities.

4. Affordable Tuition with High Value

  • Compared to private medical colleges in India or MBBS in the West, studying at PKUHSC is cost-effective.
  • Despite its affordability, the university offers a world-class education that is globally respected.

 5. Comfortable Accommodation and Indian-Friendly Dining

  • International student hostels offer fully furnished, secure, and comfortable accommodation.
  • Canteens and nearby eateries in Beijing offer vegetarian and Indian food options, catering to dietary preferences.

6. International Community and Cultural Integration

  • PKUHSC has a vibrant international student community, including a notable number of Indian students.
  • Students participate in cultural exchange events, language programs, and social clubs, helping them adapt smoothly to life in China.

7. Research & Career Development Opportunities

  • Indian students can participate in national research projects and access modern laboratories and interdisciplinary research centers.
  • Opportunities for research assistantships, conference participation, and internships enhance professional development.

8. Experienced and Supportive Faculty

  • Indian students receive guidance from highly qualified professors, some of whom have international training or teaching experience.
  • Faculty are supportive and attentive to international students’ learning needs.

9. Chinese Language & Communication Training

  • PKUHSC includes basic Chinese language training in the curriculum, helping Indian students communicate with patients during clinical rotations and daily life.

10. Safety, Health, and Student Services

  • The campus ensures 24/7 security, access to on-campus clinics, insurance support, and international student advisors who assist with academic, legal, and personal matters.

11. Strong Alumni Presence

  • Many Indian alumni of PKUHSC are now practicing doctors, residents, or postgraduate students in India and abroad.
  • A growing Indian alumni network helps with mentorship, networking, and career guidance.

Indian students at PKUHSC enjoy:

  • Globally recognized MBBS program
  • NMC compliance and exam eligibility
  • Cost-effective education
  • Quality clinical and research exposure
  • Cultural comfort and language support
  • Excellent campus life and global career prospects

FAQ’s

Is PKUHSC a government university?

PKUHSC is a public medical institution affiliated with Peking University, one of China’s top universities. It is also supported by the Chinese Ministry of Education and recognized as a “Double First-Class” university.

Is the MBBS degree from PKUHSC recognized in India?

The MBBS degree from PKUHSC is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) (formerly MCI) in India, provided the student qualifies in the FMGE/NExT screening exam.

What is the duration of the MBBS program?

The MBBS program lasts for 6 years, which includes 5 years of academic coursework and 1 year of clinical internship at affiliated hospitals.

How is the campus life for Indian/international students?

Campus life at PKUHSC is vibrant and multicultural, with students from all over the world. Cultural events, clubs, Indian festivals, and language exchange programs help international students feel at home.

Is learning Chinese mandatory?

Basic Chinese language training is included in the curriculum to help students communicate with patients during clinical practice. However, the core medical curriculum is taught in English.

Is there any entrance exam for admission?

Generally, Indian students are admitted based on academic performance and NEET scores. An interview or written test may be conducted in some cases.

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