Duke–NUS Medical School

Duke-NUS Medical School Logo

Duke–NUS Medical School is a prestigious medical school located in Singapore, established in 2005 as a strategic collaboration between Duke University in the United States and the National University of Singapore (NUS). This partnership aims to leverage Duke University's global expertise in medical education and research with NUS's comprehensive research and academic capabilities in Singapore and Asia. The school represents a significant milestone in the evolution of medical education and research in the region, aiming to address the growing need for more medical professionals and to advance medical research within Asia.

History

The inception of Duke–NUS Medical School marked a significant development in the landscape of medical education in Singapore. It was established with the vision of following the footsteps of its American counterpart, Duke University School of Medicine, by adopting a similar curriculum and educational model. This model emphasizes a research-intensive approach combined with innovative teaching methodologies to train the next generation of medical leaders. The establishment of the school was also in line with Singapore's aspirations to become a leading hub for medical education and research in Asia.

Curriculum

The curriculum at Duke–NUS Medical School is modeled after the Duke University School of Medicine curriculum and is designed to be completed in four years. The program is divided into pre-clinical and clinical years. The first year focuses on foundational medical sciences, followed by a second year dedicated to clinical clerkships. The third year is unique, as it requires students to undertake a full year of research, which distinguishes Duke–NUS from other medical schools. The fourth and final year allows students to pursue advanced clinical clerkships and electives, both locally and internationally.

Research

Research is a cornerstone of Duke–NUS Medical School's mission. The school is committed to advancing medical science and improving patient care through innovative research. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects from their early years, with the third year of the curriculum dedicated entirely to research. The school has several research centers and institutes focusing on areas such as cancer, neuroscience, infectious diseases, and health services and systems research.

Admissions

Admission to Duke–NUS Medical School is highly competitive, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds. Candidates are evaluated based on their academic achievements, research experience, and commitment to the field of medicine. The admissions process includes a review of the applicant's academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates.

Facilities

Duke–NUS Medical School is located next to the Singapore General Hospital, the largest and oldest hospital in Singapore, providing students with access to a wide range of clinical experiences and research opportunities. The school's facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, and libraries, designed to support the learning and research needs of its students and faculty.

Affiliations

The school has strong affiliations with the SingHealth Duke-NUS Academic Medical Centre, integrating research, education, and clinical care to improve patient outcomes. This partnership provides students with opportunities for clinical training and research in a real-world healthcare setting.

Conclusion

Duke–NUS Medical School has established itself as a leading institution for medical education and research in Asia. Through its innovative curriculum, research opportunities, and strategic partnerships, the school is at the forefront of addressing the healthcare challenges of the 21st century. It continues to attract and train top talent who are poised to become the next generation of leaders in medicine.