The Doctor of Medicine and Surgery, Medicinae ac Chirurgiae Doctoranda, (MChD) is an AQF Level 9 Extended qualification, leading to pre-registration as a junior doctor. It aims to produce graduates who are committed to compassionate, ethical health care and the expansion of medical knowledge. The MChD is underpinned by four themes. Medical sciences covers a vast scope of ever changing and expanding knowledge that forms the basis of modern medicine. Clinical skills ensures the acquisition of knowledge is accompanied by communication skills, the ability to examine patients and critically appraise information. Population health addresses the relationship between humans, their society and environment. Professionalism and leadership develops these vital skills of a good doctor.The curriculum is built on important frameworks that explore the social foundations of medicine, develop understanding of the indigenous health context in Australia, and provide insights and experience in health care in rural and/or remote Australian settings. Consistent with the research intensive nature of ANU, our program also develops the research skills of our students and provides opportunity for high achieving students to pursue a concurrent research focused degree.

Graduates from ANU have been rated as Australia's most employable graduates and among the most sought after by employers worldwide.

The latest Global Employability University Ranking, published by the Times Higher Education, rated ANU as Australia's top university for getting a job for the fourth year in a row.

Learning Outcomes

1. As a graduate of our MChD program you will be prepared to work safely and effectively as an intern delivering quality care as a member of the health professional team in hospital, general practice and rural settings, conversant with issues in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander’s health and wellbeing, and with an understanding of the social foundations of medicine.

2. You will be equipped scientifically

You will have an excellent understanding of the medical sciences and how they underpin our knowledge of the complexity of health, disease and illness. You will understand the relation between individual and population health. You will understand how knowledge of medical sciences and population health are crucial bases for clinical competence.

3. clinically

You will have a clear focus on patient-centred care, with the necessary knowledge, skills and professional behaviours to safely assess and manage a wide range of clinical problems. You will apply the principles of evidence-based medicine in your practice, drawing on relevant legal, ethical, behavioural, and sociological understandings and be equipped to contribute to patient-centred decision-making in circumstances of uncertainty.

4. and professionally

You will demonstrate commitment to professional behaviour and be highly skilled at working in teams. You will be aware of, and committed to, the importance of initiatives that enhance the safety and quality of health care. You will be mindful of your own wellbeing, including the importance of this to high quality practice, and know how to maintain your own mental and physical health.

5. with a strong sense of global connection

Drawing on the ANU's strong global connections, you will be able to discuss the potential impacts of international health, human rights and globalisation on health and health care and justify why respect for cultural, religious and sexual differences are fundamental to health care.

6. in a research-intensive environment at the ANU

Through your association with Australia’s premier research university you will have a sound understanding of the importance of, and a commitment to high quality research for advancing clinical practice. You will have practical experience in undertaking research and gain insight into different research methodologies.

7. with a commitment to life long learning

You will be able to identify your learning needs for ongoing professional development and have well developed strategies for meeting these needs. You will have had experience of being a teacher and have a well-developed understanding of the importance of sound educational practice underpinning lifelong learning.

8. you are on a path to a successful medical career

You will be aware of the range of career pathways open to you and have a developing clarity of your intended career path, including sound knowledge of the admission, education and training requirements. You will understand how the outcomes of the MChd articulate with the skills required of a junior doctor.