Tongji University School of Medicine

Tongji University School of Medicine The history of Tongji University School of Medicine (TUSM) is traced back to 1907 when German doctor Erich Paulun founded the German Medical School in Shanghai. In its second year, it was renamed the Tongji German Medical School because of its close academic affiliation with Germany.

About Tongji University School of Medicine

The school later expanded its areas of concentration, including medicine, and began including engineering as part of its courses. By 1917, the Chinese scholars had taken control of the institution, and in 1923 it was legally reorganized into Tongji University.

Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, a nationwide educational reform reorganized schools and academic disciplines. As part of this process, Tongji’s medical department was relocated to Hubei Province to strengthen healthcare education in Central China. Later, in 2000, Tongji University merged with Shanghai Tiedao University, and on that foundation, the medical school was reestablished as Tongji University School of Medicine.

Tongji University School of Medicine – 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

Currently, TUSM has multiple campuses such as the Siping Campus, North Campus, and West Campus. It has a variety of academic and clinical units like the School of Basic Medicine, the Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanoscience, and multiple affiliated clinical schools like Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, and Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Health Hospital. In addition, it is also affiliated with the Yangpu Center Hospital and cooperates with more than 20 teaching hospitals and practice bases, allowing access to over 12,000 clinical beds to train, educate, and conduct research.

Tongji University School of Medicine-0 — Tongji University School of Medicine 0

Tongji University School of Medicine Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

TUSM has a good reputation in professional medical specialties. It has nine National Key Clinical Specialties, such as thoracic surgery, digestive medicine, obstetrics, occupational medicine, respiratory medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, hematology, emergency medicine, and clinical nursing. Additionally, it operates various Shanghai key disciplines and clinical medical centers, making important contributions to the local healthcare and medical research environment.

The school also has a very distinguished faculty consisting of 373 senior professional instructors, two members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), one foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), 22 principal scientists of national key R&D projects, and many Changjiang Scholars and winners of the National Science Foundation for Distinguished and Young Scholars. Through its groundbreaking Principal Investigator (PI)-oriented research management system, TUSM has been able to recruit and develop high-caliber research talent, promoting world-class research in areas like stem cells, immunology, oncology, and geriatrics.

Supported by influential programs such as Project 973 and the National Key R&D Plan, TUSM has made significant progress in stem cell and regenerative medicine. It also set up the National (East China) Stem Cell Bank, jointly established the Sino-US Stem Cell Research Center, and was commissioned to construct the National International Joint Research Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine. The school has won 1,255 projects supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China in the last five years alone, with funding for research amounting to nearly RMB 16.9 billion.

The school’s contributions to global science are reflected in its prolific research output. TUSM scholars have made outstanding contributions by publishing seminal articles in high-ranked journals such as Nature, Science, and Cell, with more than 35 publications in journals with an impact factor greater than 20.

These accomplishments have won several honor awards, including the National Natural Science Award (Second Class), the National Scientific and Technological Progress Award (Second Class), the Ministry of Education Natural Science Award (First Class), the Shanghai Science Award (First Class), and the Chinese Medical Scientific and Technological Achievement Award (First Class).

With its rich heritage, strong clinical resources, international-class faculty, and internationally renowned research, Tongji University School of Medicine remains one of China’s top medical schools, integrating education, clinical practice, and innovation to build the future of healthcare both domestically and internationally.

Advantages of Studying in Tongji University School of Medicine

Strong Reputation and Rankings:

Tongji University is a well-regarded institution in China, consistently ranked among the top universities. The School of Medicine also holds a strong position in global rankings for clinical medicine.

Focus on Clinical Practice:

The school emphasizes practical experience, including affiliations with community health centers in Shanghai, which provides valuable hands-on training.

International Collaborations:

Tongji has extensive international partnerships, offering opportunities for students to engage with global perspectives and potentially pursue joint degree programs.

Affordable Tuition Fees:

Compared to some other countries, the cost of studying medicine at Tongji University can be relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for international students.

English-Taught Programs:

The School of Medicine offers a significant number of courses in English, making it accessible to students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Integration with Community Healthcare:

The school’s work with community health centers is noteworthy, demonstrating a commitment to improving primary care and public health.

These factors combine to make Tongji University School of Medicine a compelling choice for students seeking a strong medical education with a global outlook and practical focus.

Latest Notifications:

Tongji University School of Medicine – Ranking

The history of Tongji University School of Medicine (TUSM) is traced back to 1907 when German doctor Erich Paulun founded the German Medical School in Shanghai. In its second year, it was renamed the Tongji German Medical School because of its close academic affiliation with Germany.

The school later expanded its areas of concentration, including medicine, and began including engineering as part of its courses. By 1917, the Chinese scholars had taken control of the institution, and in 1923 it was legally reorganized into Tongji University.

Following the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, a nationwide educational reform reorganized schools and academic disciplines. As part of this process, Tongji’s medical department was relocated to Hubei Province to strengthen healthcare education in Central China. Later, in 2000, Tongji University merged with Shanghai Tiedao University, and on that foundation, the medical school was reestablished as Tongji University School of Medicine.

Currently, TUSM has multiple campuses such as the Siping Campus, North Campus, and West Campus. It has a variety of academic and clinical units like the School of Basic Medicine, the Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanoscience, and multiple affiliated clinical schools like Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, and Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Health Hospital.

In addition, it is also affiliated with the Yangpu Center Hospital and cooperates with more than 20 teaching hospitals and practice bases, allowing access to over 12,000 clinical beds to train, educate, and conduct research.

TUSM has a good reputation in professional medical specialties. It has nine National Key Clinical Specialties, such as thoracic surgery, digestive medicine, obstetrics, occupational medicine, respiratory medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, hematology, emergency medicine, and clinical nursing. Additionally, it operates various Shanghai key disciplines and clinical medical centers, making important contributions to the local healthcare and medical research environment.

The school also has a very distinguished faculty consisting of 373 senior professional instructors, two members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), one foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), 22 principal scientists of national key R&D projects, and many Changjiang Scholars and winners of the National Science Foundation for Distinguished and Young Scholars.

Through its groundbreaking Principal Investigator (PI)-oriented research management system, TUSM has been able to recruit and develop high-caliber research talent, promoting world-class research in areas like stem cells, immunology, oncology, and geriatrics. Supported by influential programs such as Project 973 and the National Key R&D Plan, TUSM has made significant progress in stem cell and regenerative medicine.

It also set up the National (East China) Stem Cell Bank, jointly established the Sino-US Stem Cell Research Center, and was commissioned to construct the National International Joint Research Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine. The school has won 1,255 projects supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China in the last five years alone, with funding for research amounting to nearly RMB 16.9 billion.

The school’s contributions to global science are reflected in its prolific research output. TUSM scholars have made outstanding contributions by publishing seminal articles in high-ranked journals such as Nature, Science, and Cell, with more than 35 publications in journals with an impact factor greater than 20.

These accomplishments have won several honor awards, including the National Natural Science Award (Second Class), the National Scientific and Technological Progress Award (Second Class), the Ministry of Education Natural Science Award (First Class), the Shanghai Science Award (First Class), and the Chinese Medical Scientific and Technological Achievement Award (First Class).

With its rich heritage, strong clinical resources, international-class faculty, and internationally renowned research, Tongji University School of Medicine remains one of China’s top medical schools, integrating education, clinical practice, and innovation to build the future of healthcare both domestically and internationally.

Departments And Course Duration in Tongji University School of Medicine

MBBS Program at Tongji University School of Medicine (TUSM)

Program Name: MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery)
Duration: 6 years (including 1 year of clinical internship at affiliated hospitals)
Language of Instruction: Entirely in English for international students.
Intake: Around 30 international students are admitted each year.

The MBBS curriculum at TUSM is designed according to international medical education standards, combining basic medical sciences, clinical training, research exposure, and practical skills. Students undergo five years of academic study, followed by one year of compulsory internship/clinical rotations at Tongji’s well-equipped affiliated hospitals, which collectively provide access to over 12,000 hospital beds. After graduation, students are awarded the MBBS degree, making them eligible to take licensing examinations such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), NMC (India), and others, depending on the regulations of their home country.

Departments at TUSM

TUSM integrates teaching, research, and clinical training across multiple specialized departments and affiliated hospitals. Major academic divisions include:

School of Basic Medicine – Provides foundational courses in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, etc.
School of Clinical Medicine (Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital) – Specializes in multidisciplinary clinical training.
School of Clinical Medicine (Tongji Hospital) – Known for internal medicine, surgery, cardiology, and advanced diagnostics.
School of Clinical Medicine (Shanghai East Hospital) – Focused on general medicine, surgery, and emergency medicine.
School of Clinical Medicine (Pulmonary Hospital) – A national leader in respiratory and pulmonary medicine.
School of Clinical Medicine (Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital) – Specializes in obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, and neonatology.
Affiliated Yangpu Center Hospital & 20 Teaching Hospitals – Provide wide-ranging clinical training bases for medical students.
Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering & Nanoscience – Supports interdisciplinary research and innovation in medical technology, nanomedicine, and biomedical devices.

TUSM offers 9 National Clinical Specialties, including thoracic surgery, digestive medicine, obstetrics, occupational medicine, respiratory medicine, hematology, traditional Chinese medicine, emergency medicine, and clinical nursing, making it one of China’s leading centers for advanced medical education and training.

Latest Updates:

Facilities And Infrastructure in Tongji University School of Medicine

Campus & Academic Infrastructure

Campuses: TUSM operates on the Siping Campus, North Campus, and West Campus, each providing advanced facilities for medical education, research, and student development.
Classrooms & Lecture Halls: Equipped with multimedia technology, simulation-based learning systems, and smart classrooms to enhance interactive teaching.
Libraries: Tongji University Library system holds over 4.5 million volumes of books, electronic resources, international journals, and medical databases. A dedicated Medical Library provides access to Chinese and international research publications, e-journals, and clinical case archives.
Research Facilities: Includes the Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering & Nanoscience and state-of-the-art labs focusing on stem cell research, regenerative medicine, immunology, oncology, and geriatrics.

Clinical & Hospital Facilities

Affiliated Hospitals: TUSM has more than 20 affiliated teaching hospitals and practice bases, including:
- Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital
- Tongji Hospital
- Shanghai East Hospital
- Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital
- Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital
- Yangpu Center Hospital
Clinical Resources: Collectively, these hospitals provide access to over 12,000 beds, ensuring abundant clinical training, internships, and patient-care exposure.
National Key Specialties: The school is renowned for 9 National Key Clinical Specialties (thoracic surgery, digestive medicine, obstetrics, occupational medicine, respiratory medicine, hematology, TCM, emergency medicine, and clinical nursing).

Laboratories & Research Centers

National (East China) Stem Cell Bank – a leading platform for stem cell and regenerative medicine.
Sino-US Stem Cell Research Center – collaborative international research center.
National International Joint Research Center of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine – approved by the Chinese government.
Advanced laboratories for biochemistry, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, molecular biology, nanoscience, and translational medicine.

Hostels & Student Accommodation

Modern student dormitories for international and Chinese students with fully furnished rooms, internet access, study areas, and recreational facilities.
On-campus canteens serving both Chinese and international cuisines at affordable prices.
Additional student amenities include common rooms, gyms, laundry facilities, and secure living arrangements.

Sports & Extracurricular Facilities

Well-equipped sports complex with facilities for basketball, football, badminton, table tennis, swimming, and athletics.
Student activity centers for cultural clubs, music, arts, and international student associations.
Annual medical student competitions, cultural festivals, and academic conferences foster all-round development.

Technology & Innovation Infrastructure

Virtual dissection and anatomy labs with 3D imaging and simulation.
E-learning platforms with online medical resources and digital libraries.
Advanced clinical simulation centers for training in surgery, emergency medicine, and diagnostics.
High-tech research equipment for biomedical engineering and nanotechnology.

Tongji University School of Medicine offers world-class facilities and infrastructure, blending modern technology, extensive clinical resources, and student-friendly amenities, making it a leading hub for medical education, research, and healthcare training in China.

Official site For Tongji University School of Medicine: Click Here

Tongji University School of Medicine Fee Structure

Approximately Estimated fee will be 35 lakhs to 40 lakhs.

Required Documents For Admission in Tongji University School of Medicine

Application Form
Passport size photographs
Certificates of class 11 and 12 from the respective board of education
School leaving certificate
Scanned copy of a valid passport including image
Certificates of extracurricular activities if any
All the documents should be attested and notarized from the relevant authorities

Eligibility Criteria For Admission in Tongji University School of Medicine

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 Admission in Tongji University School of Medicine

Online Application: Fill out the application form and submit the required documents online.
Fee Payment: Once the university reviews and approves the application, pay the required fees.
Immigration Process: The university initiates the immigration process and issues an invitation letter after receiving the ministry order.
Visa Approval: The visa approval process takes around 30 days.
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 in Tongji University School of Medicine

Global Recognition & Reputation

TUSM is part of Tongji University, one of China’s top universities with over a century of history in medical education.
The MBBS degree is internationally recognized and graduates are eligible for licensing exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), and NMC (India).
Accredited by WHO and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, ensuring global mobility for graduates.

Strong Clinical Training

Over 20 affiliated teaching hospitals and practice bases with 12,000+ beds, including leading hospitals like Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji Hospital, Shanghai East Hospital, and Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital.
Access to 9 National Key Clinical Specialties (thoracic surgery, digestive medicine, respiratory medicine, obstetrics, hematology, etc.), giving students rich exposure to specialized areas.
Simulation centers, virtual anatomy labs, and advanced clinical facilities ensure hands-on learning.

High-Quality Education & Research Opportunities

MBBS program in English designed for international students, blending theory with extensive practical training.
TUSM is a leader in research areas such as stem cells, regenerative medicine, oncology, immunology, and geriatrics.
Access to research platforms like the National Stem Cell Bank and Sino-US Stem Cell Research Center.
Opportunities to publish in top international journals like Nature, Science, and Cell.

International Collaborations & Exchange Programs

Partnerships with top medical schools in the United States, UK, Germany, and Australia.
Around 30% of students get the chance to participate in overseas clinical rotations, exchange programs, and short-term training.
Opportunities for CSC-funded study abroad programs at partner universities.
Regular visits from international professors for teaching and academic exchanges.

Student Achievements & Recognition

TUSM students have won awards in the National Clinical Skills Competition, national science contests, and innovation design competitions.
Recognized through prestigious honors such as the Baosteel Education Fund Outstanding Student Award and Shanghai Person of the Year.

Campus Life & Supportive Environment

Modern student hostels with furnished rooms, internet, laundry, gyms, and recreational areas.
On-campus canteens offering diverse cuisines, including options for international students.
Vibrant student community with sports facilities, cultural clubs, and international student associations.

Future Prospects & Career Growth

Graduates are highly employable in China and abroad due to Tongji’s strong reputation.
Eligibility for international residency training programs.
A strong alumni network across medicine, research, and global healthcare institutions.

studying at Tongji University School of Medicine provides students with world-class medical education, extensive clinical exposure, international opportunities, and a supportive learning environment, making it one of the top choices for aspiring doctors worldwide.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in Tongji University School of Medicine

MBBS in English

TUSM offers a 6-year MBBS program taught in English, specifically designed for international students, including Indians.
Eliminates the need for students to learn Mandarin for academic coursework (though basic Chinese is taught to help in hospital communication).

Global Recognition of Degree

The MBBS degree is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
Graduates are eligible for licensing exams such as FMGE/NExT (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), MCCQE (Canada), and others.

Strong Clinical Exposure

Access to 20+ affiliated hospitals with over 12,000 beds, ensuring exposure to a large and diverse patient population.
Specialized training in 9 National Key Clinical Specialties (respiratory medicine, obstetrics, thoracic surgery, hematology, digestive medicine, etc.), which provides Indian students with advanced clinical learning.

Quality Education & Research Opportunities

International-standard curriculum with a balance of basic sciences, clinical practice, and research.
Opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research in fields like stem cells, regenerative medicine, oncology, and immunology.
Exposure to international journals and collaborations, beneficial for students who wish to pursue postgraduate training abroad.

International Collaborations & Exchange Programs

TUSM has tie-ups with universities in the USA, UK, Germany, and Australia.
Indian students may apply for student exchange programs, overseas clinical rotations, or CSC-funded postgraduate studies.
About 30% of students get the chance for short-term training abroad, enhancing global exposure.

Accommodation & Student Life

Separate hostel facilities for international students, with fully furnished rooms, internet, study areas, and recreational spaces.
Indian food availability on or near campus, with canteens serving multiple cuisines.
Vibrant student community with opportunities for sports, cultural festivals, and international student associations, making adaptation easier.

Affordable Education Compared to Private MBBS in India

Tuition fees and living expenses are significantly lower than private medical colleges in India.
High return on investment due to global recognition of the degree.

Support for Indian Students

The MBBS program prepares Indian students for the FMGE/NExT exam, required to practice in India.
Exposure to community medicine and public health systems, relevant to Indian healthcare.
A growing Indian student community at Tongji University helps new students adjust comfortably.

Indian students at TUSM enjoy the advantages of studying MBBS in English, affordable fees, international recognition, strong clinical exposure, research opportunities, and access to global exchange programs—all within a culturally supportive environment.

FAQ’s

What is the duration of the MBBS program at TUSM?

The MBBS program is 6 years long, which includes 5 years of classroom and clinical study plus 1 year of compulsory internship/clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals.

What is the language of instruction for MBBS?

The MBBS program for international students is taught entirely in English. However, students are also taught basic Chinese language to help with communication during clinical practice and daily life.

What kind of clinical exposure will MBBS students receive?

Students get hands-on training at more than 20 affiliated hospitals and practice bases with access to over 12,000 beds, ensuring exposure to a wide variety of medical cases.

Can graduates pursue postgraduate medical education abroad?

The MBBS degree is globally recognized, and graduates can pursue residency or postgraduate studies in countries like the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, India, and others (after clearing the respective licensing exams).

What facilities are available for international students?

International students have access to modern hostels, furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, canteens (with Indian food options), libraries, gyms, and sports complexes. The campus also has student associations and cultural events to support integration.

How safe is China for Indian students?

China is generally safe for international students. Tongji University provides a secure campus environment, 24/7 hostel supervision, and a supportive international student office to assist with daily needs.