University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida 2025-26

  • Malta

University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida The roots of the University of Malta are traced to the founding of the Collegium Melitense, established by direct papal fiat on 12 November 1592. 

About University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

This college, operated by the Jesuit Order, followed the pattern of other Jesuit colleges throughout Europe and was known as Collegia Externorum, catering to students who were not of the order. By a Papal Bull of Pope Pius IV on 29 August 1561, subsequently reinforced by another Bull of Pope Gregory XIII on 9 May 1578, the Jesuits were conferred the right to award degrees like Magister Philosophiae and Doctor Divinities. 

University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida – Table of Contents

The Collegium’s foundation charter also focused on the teaching of other sciences, such as Grammar, Humanities, Philosophy, and Theology, for a wide and humanist higher education strategy.

Medical education in Malta accelerated further in the late 17th century. After the subsidence of the 1675 plague epidemic, Grandmaster Nicolò Cotoner took an important step in the appointment on 19 October 1676 of Fra Dr Giuseppe Zammit as lettore (lecturer) in Anatomy and Surgery within the Sacra Infermeria. 

University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida
University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

This effort is generally construed to be the first official attempt at creating an organized medical school on the island. Dr Zammit’s contributions were instrumental—he established the first medical library in Malta and a medicinal herb garden in one of Fort Saint Elmo’s defensive ditches, both of which were rich sources of information for the future training of physicians and surgeons.

The contemporary University of Malta was officially constituted following the expulsion of the Jesuits from Malta in 1768. During this period, Grandmaster Pinto seized the proceeds of the Jesuit properties to establish a public university, which came to be known as the Pubblica Università di Studi Generali. 

By action of the papal Brief Sedula Romani Pontifici (dated 20 October 1769), Grandmaster Pinto issued the decree establishing the University on 22 November 1769. Only two years after this, the Collegio Medico was formally established as one of the institution’s founding faculties on 25 May 1771. 

During this period, the eminent surgeon Michelangelo Grima, who was also the chair of Anatomy and Surgery, was made Principe dell’Accademia dei Medici. Together with him, Giorgio Locano was appointed as Professor of Medicine, influencing the initial outlines of institutionalized medical education in Malta.

This line of progress—starting from the Jesuit-guided Collegium Melitense and culminating in the formation of the Faculty of Medicine by Grandmaster Pinto—is the gradual building towards what is now one of the oldest and most esteemed medical schools in the Mediterranean area.

Advantages of Studying in University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

Research-Led, International Curriculum:

The curriculum is based on an advanced, research-led curriculum like the one in the UK, offering an internationally acclaimed education.

Intercalated Year Option: An optional B.Sc. (Honours) in Medical Sciences can be taken for a more extensive academic experience, enriching research skills if you want to pursue a career as a physician-scientist.

Clinical Experience:

Hands-On and Practical Instruction: The curriculum blends didactic instruction with practical hands-on sessions, such as anatomy dissection and bedside teaching in clinical years.

Immersive Healthcare Setting: Malta’s advanced healthcare system provides a superb setting for medical studies through shadowing, observation, skills practice, and ward attachment.

Way of Life and Expenses

Comfortable and Pocket-Friendly Life: Malta offers an excellent life with high-quality education, as well as lower tuition fees and living expenses than many other European nations, which makes it an affordable option.

Good Standard of Living: Malta enjoys a high standard of living.

Professional Development and Recognition:

International Recognition: Medical degrees from Malta’s courses are internationally recognized.

Good Job Prospects: Malta boasts a developing economy with a strong employment level, providing good job prospects after graduation in fields such as healthcare.

Route to Permanent Residency: There is a route to permanent residency for graduates who get jobs, as a student visa can be converted to a work visa.

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University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida – Ranking

The Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (M.D.) program of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery of the University of Malta (UM) has reached a milestone with formal accreditation by both the Association of Medical Schools in Europe (AMSE) and the German accrediting agency ASIIN. This accreditation testifies to the excellence in academic standards, quality assurance, and global competitiveness of the program.

This success followed a pilot accreditation process of six European medical degree programs, jointly evaluated by AMSE and ASIIN. Of these, just three programs attained dual accreditation for a full term of five years, positioning UM’s M.D. degree in a select group of European medical qualifications that are known for excellence.

The accreditation process was stringent and thorough. It exceeded the production of paperwork and involved an on-site visit at the University of Malta. The assessment was founded on a comprehensive Self-Assessment Report and a wide variety of supporting evidence, all of which underwent scrutiny by several authoritative organizations: the Expert Panel, the AMSE Executive Committee, the ASIIN Technical Committee, and the ASIIN Accreditation Commission. 

Members of the Expert Panel came to UM in April 2019 for a two-day inspection involving meetings with students, faculty, administrators, and other stakeholders, in addition to an intensive review of teaching and clinical facilities.

Upon this thorough review, all the accrediting bodies separately and unanimously awarded unconditional accreditation to the University of Malta’s M.D. programme up to 30 September 2024. 

The ASIIN Technical Committee also complimented UM on having responded to the recommendations and suggestions of the review experts in an “exemplary manner.” The programme has since been registered in the ASIIN online directory of Accredited Degree Programmes, which will increase its visibility and credibility in Europe and far beyond.

This accreditation ensures that the University of Malta’s M.D. degree is entirely compliant with the European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance (ESG) for the European Higher Education Area, as well as the WFME Global Standards requirements. 

This recognition not only solidifies the international status of the University but also enhances the mobility of graduates, academic prospects, and access to specialist training globally. Notably, the AMSE–ASIIN accreditation is also accepted by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) of the United States, which as of 2023 mandates that all medical graduates applying for training in the US must be from WFME-accredited institutions.

For the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, the achievement is a significant external quality assurance milestone and a recognition of its high standards of teaching and academic excellence. 

It demonstrates the Faculty’s ongoing commitment to sustaining and improving the quality of its medical education in accordance with international best practices. Building on this success, 170 students will graduate next week as Doctors of Medicine and Surgery, entering the profession with an internationally accepted qualification that provides access to opportunities across the world.

Departments And Course Duration in University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

Course Duration

The University of Malta offers a Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (M.D.) degree, which is a 5-year full-time course.

The course follows a progressive pattern:

Pre-Clinical Years (Years 1–2): Basic sciences, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, histology, microbiology, and behavioral sciences.

Para-Clinical Training (Year 3): Pharmacology, pathology, community medicine, and introduction to clinical practice.

Clinical Years (Years 4–5): Full-time clinical training in partner hospitals and healthcare facilities, including medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, psychiatry, family medicine, and specialist electives.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are granted the Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (M.D.) degree, which is equivalent to an MBBS qualification.

Departments within the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.

The Faculty combines basic medical sciences, clinical training, and specialized fields. Its departments include:

  • Department of Anatomy
  • Department of Physiology & Biochemistry
  • Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics
  • Department of Pathology
  • Department of Microbiology & Immunology
  • Department of Public Health & Community Medicine
  • Department of Family Medicine
  • Department of Surgery
  • Department of Medicine
  • Department of Pediatrics & Neonatology
  • Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology
  • Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health
  • Department of Clinical Radiology & Imaging
  • Department of Orthopedics & Trauma
  • Department of Ophthalmology
  • Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)
  • Department of Neurology & Neurosurgery
  • Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care & Pain Management
  • Department of Medical Education & Research

Such a general departmental framework provides for a broad medical education to the students, blending solid theoretical grounding with practical clinical practice in major medical specialties.

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Facilities And Infrastructure in University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

The University of Malta’s Faculty of Medicine and Surgery offers state-of-the-art infrastructure and well-equipped facilities that cater to both academic education and clinical practice. These facilities allow students to gain a solid grounding in medical sciences and laboratory training as well as hands-on experience in actual healthcare settings.

1. Campus & Academic Facilities

The Msida main campus accommodates the Faculty, a focus point of academic and research activity.

Lecture theatres and seminar halls are provided with multimedia technology for the purposes of teaching and interactive learning.

Tutorial small group rooms facilitate problem-based learning and individualized academic interaction.

2. Laboratories & Research Units

Anatomy & Dissection Halls: Fitted with cadaveric study equipment and state-of-the-art 3D anatomical models.

Biomedical Science Labs: Specializing in physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, and pathology.

Simulation & Clinical Skills Laboratories: Offer realistic simulation with manikins, virtual reality systems, and simulation-based case scenarios.

Specialized research departments promote innovation in molecular medicine, clinical pharmacology, epidemiology, and public health research.

3. Teaching Hospitals & Clinical Training

Students receive practical training in Mater Dei Hospital, Malta’s biggest public hospital and a main teaching hospital with affiliation to the University.

Exposure to clinics is across various departments including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology, psychiatry, emergency medicine, and specialist units.

4. Library & Learning Resources

Extensive collections of textbooks, reference materials, journals, and e-materials are available at the Medical Library.

Students can access online databases of medicine, electronic journals, and digital repositories for research and independent learning.

Individual and group study areas, together with IT facilities, are set aside for focused learning.

5. Student Accommodation & Support Facilities

On-campus and off-campus student accommodations are provided, with study-oriented facilities, internet connectivity, and recreation areas.

There are various cafeterias and food centers offering easy food facilities.

Health and counseling facilities are offered to promote student well-being.

6. Sports & Extracurricular Facilities

The University facilitates a healthy student lifestyle by providing access to playing fields, gyms, swimming pools, and indoor sports halls.

Student societies, clubs, and cultural activities promote individual development and community interaction.

Official site For University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida: Click Here 

University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida Fee Structure

Approximately fee structure will be 1 CR to 1.5 CR.

Required Documents For Admission in University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

  • Letter of Recommendation from the previous institute
  • Copy of Mark Sheets (10th and 12th)
  • Birth Certificate
  • Medical Certificate
  • NEET Report Card
  • Copy of Passport
  • Statement of Purpose (legalized by the previous school)
  • Financial Statement
  • Passport Size Photographs

Eligibility Criteria For Admission in University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida  

  • 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
  • No Criminal Record: A police clearance certificate can be procured in order to check whether the candidate is free from a criminal background.

Admission Process For University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

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.”

4.Submit all documents before the application deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.

5.The University will verify the submitted documents and send an acceptance or rejection letter.

6.If accepted, pay the initial fees. After payment, the University will issue a fee acknowledgment letter.

7.Complete the translation and apostille attestation of educational documents.

8.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 University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

1. Honored History and Reputation

The oldest medical school in Europe with its roots tracing back to the 16th century.

Trusted for blending classic traditional medical teaching excellence with contemporary research-oriented methods.

2. Globally Accredited Programme

The Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (M.D.) programme is accredited by both AMSE (Association of Medical Schools in Europe) and ASIIN (Germany).

Completely consistent with the WFME standards, which ensure international recognition of the degree.

Recognized by the US Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), which opens up doors for postgraduate education in the United States.

3. Broad Medical Curriculum

An integrated 5-year MBBS-equivalent program that balances the basic sciences, clinical training, and research.

Emphasis on early patient contact, practical learning, and problem-based learning.

Choice of electives and research projects in advanced medical specialties.

4. World-Class Clinical Training

Partnered with Mater Dei Hospital, Malta’s largest and most technologically equipped hospital, exposing students to a diverse spectrum of clinical cases.

Clinical rotations among various specialties like medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, psychiatry, family medicine, and others.

Simulation lab training with hands-on practice prior to actual patient interaction, allowing for skill acquisition in a secure learning environment.

5. International Opportunities and Mobility

Qualifications by a recognized UK degree enable students to pursue further postgraduate education and specialist training globally.

 Scholarship and agreements with European and international schools of medicine extend academic frontiers.

Recognized throughout the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), facilitating mobility for further study and professional practice.

6. Research and Innovation

Student opportunities to participate in innovative research projects in fields of molecular medicine, public health, and clinical sciences.

Cooperation with overseas institutions stimulates innovation and academic growth.

7. Learning Environment Focused on Students

Class sizes are small, enabling personalized instruction and mentorship.

Friendly staff and facilities for learning in state-of-the-art facilities such as advanced laboratories, medical libraries, and simulation centers.

8. Multicultural and Secure Environment

Malta has a reputation for having a friendly culture, being secure, and being an English-speaking community, making it the perfect destination for international students.

The University has a multicultural student body, promoting cross-cultural exchange and international insight into medicine.

9. Low-Cost European Education

Compared to other European and Western universities, the University of Malta provides excellent medical education at relatively low tuition fees and living expenses.

Availability of scholarships and funding options for deserving students.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in University of Malta Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Msida

1. World Recognized MBBS Degree

The University of Malta’s Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (M.D.) is comparable to the MBBS degree in India.

The programme is recognized by AMSE, ASIIN, and WFME, and is approved by the ECFMG (USA), allowing Indian graduates to seek postgraduate training and licensing examinations in the USA, UK, Europe, and other nations.

Graduates are also eligible to appear for the National Exit Test (NExT) in India, which is a qualification to practice medicine upon returning home.

2. English-Medium Education

The whole program is conducted in English, thereby eradicating language barriers for Indian students.

This facilitates easier adaptation and enables clinical communication and academic success with ease.

3. Affordable European Medical Education

Tuition and living expenses in Malta are relatively lower than in the UK, USA, or Australia, yet with the same European standards of education.

This provides India-based families with a beneficial choice to enjoy quality education at an affordable price.

4. Excellent Clinical Training

Clinical exposure is gained by students in Mater Dei Hospital, which is one of the most advanced teaching hospitals in Europe.

Training encompasses a broad spectrum of clinical specialties and departments to equip Indian students to practice globally.

5. International Career Path

Accreditation allows Indian students to sit for postgraduate studies and licensing exams globally (USMLE, PLAB, AMC, MCCQE, etc.).

The program is in line with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) system, providing mobility across Europe.

6. Warm and Secure Environment

Malta is a peaceful, secure, and student-friendly nation, apt for Indian students pursuing studies abroad.

The multicultural setting, along with the warm hospitality of Malta, facilitates Indian students to settle down easily.

7. Supportive Student Community 

An increasing number of international and Indian students are studying at the University of Malta.

This offers a sense of community, familiarity with cultures, and networking opportunities.

8. Opportunities for Research and Specialisation

Indian students can engage in medical research studies and also gain through partnerships with European institutions.

Being exposed to new modes of research makes career progression better in academic medicine and specialized practice.

9. Comfortable Lifestyle for Indian Students

Access to Indian cuisine, cultural groups, and religious centers enhances student comfort.

Malta’s warm Mediterranean climate and rich culture also make life enjoyable while learning.

FAQ’s

What is the medium of instruction?

The entire course is taught in English, which is also one of Malta’s official languages. This is highly advantageous for international students, including Indians.

What is the duration of the course?

The M.D. degree is a 5-year full-time course. The first two years cover basic medical sciences, the third year para-clinical subjects, and the final two years focus on intensive clinical training.

Where do students undergo clinical training?

Clinical rotations are conducted at Mater Dei Hospital, Malta’s largest and most advanced hospital, along with affiliated healthcare institutions and community clinics.

How affordable is it compared to other European medical universities?

The University of Malta offers high-quality education at relatively lower tuition fees compared to Western Europe. Living expenses in Malta are also moderate, making it a cost-effective option.

Is Malta safe for international students?

Yes, Malta is regarded as one of the safest European countries, with a welcoming and multicultural environment. This makes it especially comfortable for Indian and other international students.

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