University of Otago Christchurch School of Medicine

University of Otago Christchurch School of Medicine is one of the four schools of medicine in New Zealand and one of the three schools that constitute the University of Otago's Division of Health Sciences. Located in Christchurch, the school is a major center for medical education, research, and clinical services in the South Island of New Zealand.

History

The University of Otago Christchurch School of Medicine was established in the early 1970s as a clinical campus of the University of Otago's Faculty of Medicine. Its creation was in response to the growing need for medical education facilities in the South Island and to utilize the clinical resources of Christchurch Hospital, the largest tertiary hospital in the region. Over the years, the school has expanded its academic and research facilities, including the establishment of the Health Research Education Facility in 2018, further cementing its role in medical education and research.

Academic Programs

The school offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine and health sciences. The primary undergraduate program is the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB), which is a six-year program that includes two years of health sciences foundational courses followed by four years of clinical training. Postgraduate programs include master's and doctoral degrees in health sciences, with specializations in areas such as surgery, medicine, public health, and biomedical sciences.

Research

Research at the University of Otago Christchurch School of Medicine is renowned both nationally and internationally. The school hosts several research centers and groups, focusing on areas such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious diseases, and mental health. These research activities are supported by state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with health care providers and other research institutions.

Clinical Services

Clinical training at the school is primarily conducted at Christchurch Hospital, but also extends to other hospitals and health services across the Canterbury region and the West Coast. This provides students with a wide range of clinical experiences in both urban and rural settings, preparing them for a diverse range of medical careers.

Facilities

The school's campus includes lecture theaters, research laboratories, and a medical library. The Health Research Education Facility, opened in 2018, offers advanced research laboratories, teaching spaces, and student amenities, supporting the school's commitment to excellence in medical education and research.

Alumni and Contributions

Alumni of the University of Otago Christchurch School of Medicine have made significant contributions to medicine and health care in New Zealand and internationally. Many have become leaders in their fields, contributing to advances in medical research, health policy, and clinical practice.

See Also

• University of Otago
• Medical education in New Zealand
• Christchurch Hospital
• Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery