Medical education in Georgia (country)

Medical education in Georgia refers to the training and education provided to students in the field of medicine within the country of Georgia. This encompasses a range of programs, including undergraduate medical education, postgraduate medical education, and continuing medical education. Georgia has become an attractive destination for students from around the world seeking affordable, yet quality medical education.

Undergraduate Medical Education

Undergraduate medical education in Georgia typically lasts for six years, leading to the award of a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. The curriculum is divided into pre-clinical and clinical phases. The pre-clinical phase covers basic sciences and foundational medical knowledge, while the clinical phase provides hands-on experience in hospitals and clinics.

Admission

Admission to medical schools in Georgia requires completion of secondary education and passing a university entrance examination. Some universities also require a separate entrance test or an interview. The medium of instruction is either Georgian or English, catering to international students.

Postgraduate Medical Education

Postgraduate medical education in Georgia includes residency programs, fellowship programs, and doctoral studies. Residency programs, leading to specialization in a particular field of medicine, can range from three to six years, depending on the specialty.

Continuing Medical Education

Continuing medical education (CME) is a requirement for medical professionals in Georgia to maintain their licensure and stay updated with the latest developments in their field. CME activities include seminars, workshops, conferences, and online courses.

Medical Schools in Georgia

Georgia is home to several reputable medical schools, including:

• Tbilisi State Medical University
• Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
• David Tvildiani Medical University
• Tbilisi State University Faculty of Medicine

These institutions attract a significant number of international students due to their affordable tuition fees, English-taught programs, and recognized degrees.

Accreditation and Recognition

Medical degrees from Georgian medical schools are recognized by various international medical councils, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) in the United States. Graduates are eligible to sit for international licensing exams such as the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination).

Challenges and Opportunities

While medical education in Georgia offers many opportunities, there are challenges as well, including the need for further improvement in clinical training and research opportunities. However, the country is continuously working on enhancing its medical education standards and infrastructure to provide quality education to both local and international students.