Overview
New Zealand is experiencing a high demand for healthcare professionals, with roles such as anaesthetists, cardiologists, intensive care specialists, and registered nurses listed on the government’s Green List of in-demand occupations. This demand is driven by an increasing and aging population and advancements in healthcare technology.
Medical Education in New Zealand
Basic Requirements
To study medicine in New Zealand, students can choose from:
- Undergraduate degree: Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS, MBChB)
- Postgraduate degree: Doctor of Medicine and Surgery (MChD), Doctor of Medicine (MD)
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Admission Tests
International students must take either:
- University Clinical Aptitude Test for Australia and New Zealand (UCAT ANZ)
- Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) (for postgraduate study)
Top Medical Universities
- University of Auckland – 107th in QS World University Rankings 2023
- University of Otago – 128th in QS World University Rankings 2023
Course Details and Fees
| University | Course | Length | Fees (NZD per year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Auckland | Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) | 6 years | 79,648 |
| University of Otago | Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) | 6 years | Year 1: 37,723, Years 2-3: 84,364, Years 4-6: 96,415 |
| University of Auckland | Doctor of Medicine | 3-4 years | 48,555 |
| University of Otago | Master of Medical Science | 1 year | 45,291 |
Other universities, such as the University of Waikato and Victoria University of Wellington, offer various healthcare degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
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Licensing and Employment
After graduating, students must register with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) to practice medicine. Given the high demand for healthcare professionals, securing a job is relatively easy. The University of Auckland ranks 68th in QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022, and 95% of University of Otago graduates find employment.
Healthcare Salaries in New Zealand
| Job | Trainee Salaries (NZD) |
| Anaesthetist | 86,000 – 197,000 |
| Ophthalmologist | 58,000 – 195,000 |
| Physician – Medical Specialist | 86,000 – 197,000 |
| Registered Nurse | 61,000 – 74,000 |
| Surgeon | 81,000 – 197,000 |
(Exchange rate: 1 NZD = 0.57 USD at time of writing.)
Conclusion
New Zealand offers world-class medical education and strong employment prospects for international students. With competitive salaries and a high demand for healthcare professionals, pursuing a career in medicine in New Zealand is a promising option for aspiring medical practitioners.
