Student Stories: Studying Medicine at Flinders University (as a Canadian)
If your dream of becoming a doctor is driven by your interest in science and your desire to help others, Flinders University could be the perfect place to complete your medical degree.
The Flinders University Doctor of Medicine aims to develop knowledge, understanding, and skills central to varied areas of medical practice and has a strong presence in rural and remote communities throughout South Australia.
That’s why Cassidy made the leap to Flinders University after completing her undergraduate degree in Canada then living in the United States.
But how did she end up there, and how’s she liking it? Keep reading to find out!
Why did you choose to study medicine in Australia?
“I chose this path because medicine for me represents that perfect intersection between science, human connection, and purpose. As a physician, I want to be someone that really advocates for their patients and brings them the most advanced and evidence-based patient care.”
Over the last 50 years, Flinders University’s medical program has been recognized internationally for its teaching, research, and clinical practice. The program’s commitment to patient care is so strong that it was the first in Australia to offer a full medical program in a rural and remote setting. The Doctor of Medicine program in Darwin, Northern Territory is still the only full medical program in the state!
Why did you choose Flinders University for medical school?
“I have always had a dream to do medical school abroad and with that I’ve also had a dream to live in Australia for a long period of time. So, coming to Adelaide specifically and attending Flinders University allowed me to accomplish both dreams.
“Flinders stands out to me because they really emphasize clinical-based learning from the get-go. You have a placement in your first year and that is different than anything that you would see in Canada.
“Second, is that they also emphasize team-based learning. So, every single week we have editorials that we work amongst our peers and we’re able to learn from them.
“And third, I would say is that there is a strong community here for international students. So specifically in my own class, we have about twenty international students that are specifically from Canada. So that is just amazing in general because you are able to share experiences and explore the city together.”
Flinders University medical school celebrated 50 years of medicine in 2024. The program has grown substantially since first opening in 1974 with an initial intake of 64 students. It’s now one of the most diverse medical programs in Australia, home to more than 700 students.
What is student life like at Flinders University?
“I love that there are so many societies, the clubs that I have the opportunity to jump into Adelaide and the lifestyle stands out to me because it’s quite relaxed. For someone like myself that is pursuing a Doctor of Medicine degree that can be quite stressful at times, that is definitely A plus!”
Whether you’re spending a night at the Adelaide Central Market or going on a day trip to Kangaroo Island, there’s no shortage of things to do in Adelaide!
What makes Flinders University campus special for a med student?
“The Flinders campus really stands out from any other school that I have looked at because their teaching facility is actually connected to the hospital, which for me as an aspiring doctor, that is really inspiring that I can walk out my front door and I can see a patient that may be going to the OR right then and there.”
Flinders’ medical students benefit from the new Health and Medical Research Building that opened in 2024. Located beside the Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders Private Hospital, this building enables researchers, practitioners, and industry partners to work closely together and make immediate improvements on people’s health and well-being.
Flinders University’s medical school really does offer the perfect combination of science, human connection, and purpose.
Whether you choose to study on their main campus in Adelaide or undertake the adventure of rural healthcare in Darwin, you’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to be an incredible doctor.
Flinders Doctor of Medicine Fast Facts
The Doctor of Medicine program offers a hand-on approach, blending community and hospital training that offers you exposure to the broad spectrum of health care from the primary to the tertiary level. You will be introduced to clinical practice and performance, and you will undertake practicals and clinical placements throughout the degree. In Year 4, there is an option to do two 6-week clinical placements overseas.
All students will have rural experiences throughout the course, and in Year 4, you’ll be offered a wide range of elective possibilities.
Program: Doctor of Medicine
Location: Darwin, Northern Territory & Adelaide, South Australia
Duration: 4 years
Semester intake: February
Application deadline: Rolling admissions. Applications are assessed as received. The earlier you apply the better.
Start your application to the Flinders University Doctor of Medicine!
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