Sydney University Offers Part-Time Medical Degree

Why this is here: The new program aims to address equity of access, potentially opening medical education to people who would otherwise be unable to pursue it due to financial or caring commitments.

The University of Sydney in Australia will begin offering a part-time Doctor of Medicine program in 2027. The four-year degree will initially be available to third-year students, with plans for expansion. Professor Jane Bleasel of Sydney Medical School led the restructuring of the third-year program with Westmead Clinical School and the School of Rural Health in Dubbo.

The change responds to student feedback regarding the intense demands of balancing medical studies with personal responsibilities. Peter Robertson, a second-year medical student and father, had to repeat a year due to these pressures. Mahalia King, a fourth-year student with chronic autoimmune conditions, advocated for the change, noting the existing culture often equates exhaustion with dedication.

Seniru Mudannayake of the Australian Medical Students’ Association supports the move but emphasizes maintaining high standards for both clinical placements and teaching. The university acknowledges that ensuring quality with a flexible program remains a key consideration.