Begin Your Journey towards Doctoring with RUMC’s Undergraduate Medicine
World-class medicine, two vibrant nations. Launch your doctoring journey with RUMC’s MB BCh BAO
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Bachelor of Medicine
Bachelor of Surgery
Bachelor of Obstetrics
(MB BCh BAO)
(R3/721/6/0009) (06/28) (MQA/FA4397)
(NFQ/8)
Internationally-Recognised Medical Education Delivered Transnationally
Studying medicine is one of the most rewarding pathways you can embark on.
As an aspiring doctor, your journey with us is beyond an ordinary quest for medical education. We will partner with you on the journey as we have done with more than 2,100 graduates since our establishment in 1996.
Pursuing a medical degree is a noble endeavour, and our institution is dedicated to shaping you into a compassionate, well-rounded medical professional. The unique structure of our medical degree programme provides you with a holistic learning experience complemented by an integrated, systems-based approach to the study of medicine.
At the core of our offerings is the esteemed Undergraduate Medicine degree (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Obstetrics), which has been crafted to and instil a deep understanding of medical science but also to foster critical thinking.
This comprehensive degree in medicine encompasses a wide range of subjects, ensuring that you are well-prepared to tackle the challenges that lie ahead in your medical career.
Intake
Every September
Duration
5 years
(2.5 years in Dublin, Pre-Clinical
2.5 years in Penang, Clinical)
Fees
RM620,000 (Malaysian)
RM740,000 (International)
Why Study Medicine at RUMC?
01
A Collaboration of Two Top-Ranking Universities
RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus (RUMC) is a prestigious partnership between Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and University College Dublin (UCD), two of Ireland’s leading health sciences universities, both of which are ranked among the world’s top higher education institutions. With over four hundred years of joint experience, this powerful collaboration brings Irish medical education excellence to Malaysia, offering students the opportunity to gain an internationally respected medical degree.
02
One World-Class Medicine Transnational Programme
The RCSI & UCD Medicine Transnational Programme is globally recognised for combining the best of Irish and Malaysian medical education. Students begin their journey in Dublin, Ireland where they complete their pre-clinical studies over 2.5 years in either RCSI or UCD. Students return then to Penang for clinical training across RUMC’s exclusive network of university teaching hospitals. This unique blend of two world-class learning environments ensures a strong academic foundation and a peerless clinical experience.
03
Study Both in Ireland and in Malaysia
Experience the best of both worlds with RUMC’s innovative transnational pathway. Study first in Dublin, one of Europe’s most exciting capital cities with a vibrant mix of history and culture, and a lively student atmosphere. The two and a half years in RCSI or UCD’s state-of-the-art universities will fly by and you will return then to finish you medical degree in Penang, Malaysia, an inspiring backdrop for learning and discovery.
04
Recognised Accreditation and Global Recognition
RUMC’s medical degree is fully accredited by both the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and by the Irish Medical Council (IMC), affording graduates the opportunity to practice medicine and pursue postgraduate opportunities in Malaysia or Ireland, the United Kingdom and elsewhere in Europe, as well as in Australasia, North America, South East Asia, and beyond.
05
Affordable Tuition and Scholarships Available
At RUMC, students will gain access to premium Irish medical education at a fraction of the cost of studying abroad entirely. With a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options available to Malaysian nationals, aspiring students can pursue their dreams of international medical education without the need to worry too much about financial barriers.
06
Integrated Clinical Training from Early Years
RCSI, UCD and RUMC all provide hands-on clinical experience from the early stages of the programme. Students engage with patients in real healthcare settings under the supervision of experienced clinicians, building confidence, communication skills, clinical experience and professional competence from day one of their RUMC medical education.
07
Opportunities for Research and Student-Led Innovation Projects
At RCSI, UCD and RUMC, innovation is an intrinsic element of the curriculum. Students are encouraged to undertake research training and have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge clinical research and student-led projects, fostering a culture of curiosity, creativity, and discovery. With guidance from academics from all three universities, students with an interest in research have much scope to develop their research skills, experience and mentor network.
08
Enjoy an Unrivalled Student Experience
Students enjoy a lively and stimulating social events calendar while studying in Dublin with so many student societies and sports clubs in both RCSI and UCD. RUMC offers a vibrant and supportive campus life in the heart of Penang to students returning from studying in Dublin. From engaging student societies to multicultural events and global networking opportunities, our students have a truly memorable and enriching university experience.
09
Well-Established Pathways to International Practice
Graduates of RUMC benefit from clear, structured pathways to medical practice in Ireland, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and across Europe, Australasia, North America, South East Asia, and many other regions on graduation. With strong institutional supports and a global alumni network, students can seamlessly transition into international residency programmes and postgraduate medical training almost anywhere in the world.
10
Residency Supports and Excellent Graduate Employability
RUMC graduates are highly sought after worldwide. Our programme ensures that graduates possess the knowledge, skills, self-awareness, professionalism, resilience and leadership abilities needed to excel in a clinical environment. The university also provides intensive career guidance and residency supports, and has been hugely successful to date in ensuring that our graduates have the tools and opportunities needed to enjoy exciting careers in their chosen speciality.
Entry Requirements
Pre-University Examination
A-Levels
Requirements
ABB in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
A-Level subjects must be taken in 2 consecutive years. Any repeated examinations taken outside these 2 years will not be considered.
American High School Diploma with Advanced Placement
Requirements
CGPA 3.50 (out of 4.0) with a score of 4 each in:
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Calculus or AP Physics
Australian Year 12
Requirements
ATAR 93 in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Accepted high school certificates are ACT, HSC, NTCE, QCE, SACE, TCE, VCE and WACE.
Bachelor’s Degree (Arts / Humanities)
Requirements
CGPA 3.5 (out of 4.0) or First Class Honours.
Bachelor’s Degree (Health / Pure Science / Applied Sciences)
Requirements
CGPA 3.2 (out of 4.0) or Upper Second Class Honours (2:1).
Canadian High School Diploma (Year 12)
Requirements
Average of 85% in 3 subjects with individual scores of 85% in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
And score 4 in:
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Calculus or AP Physics
Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE)
Requirements
I, II, II in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Diploma in Health Sciences
Requirements
CGPA 3.5 (out of 4.0) including 3 subjects:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Provided the course is completed over a period of not less than five semesters or two and a half years at the same accredited institution.
Applicants must also present SPM / O-Level with minimum B in: Biology; and/or Chemistry; and/or Physics — and credit in English, Mathematics or Additional Mathematics, and another subject.
Foundation in Science
Requirements
CGPA 3.5 (out of 4.0) including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Provided the course is completed over a period of not less than 1 year at the same accredited institution.
Must have attained a minimum B at the School Level certificate or its equivalent in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Additional Mathematics
- Physics
- Another subject
Indian Pre-University (Year 12)
Requirements
Minimum average 90% with 75% in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
NEET Exam + Eligibility Certificate (NMCI) or LOU is required.
CBSE and CISCE accepted. Other boards case-by-case.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Requirements
Minimum 36 points including:
- HL Biology
- HL Chemistry
- HL Mathematics
International Foundation Group (IFG) Medical Foundation Programme
Requirements
Overall 80% including:
- 80% in Biology-based modules
- 80% in Chemistry-based modules
- 75% in other modules
Plus minimum B (SPM/O-Level) in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics/Additional Mathematics, Physics and Another subject.
Must have attained a minimum B at the School Level certificate or its equivalent in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Additional Mathematics
- Physics
- Another subject
Monash University Foundation Pre-University Programme (MUFY)
Requirements
Average of 90% including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Must have attained a minimum B at the School Level certificate or its equivalent in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Additional Mathematics
- Physics
- Another subject
National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 3
Requirements
Minimum 80 credits including:
- 1 endorsed with Excellence
- 2 endorsed with Merit
Credits must include Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics.
Pre-Medical Course
Requirements
CGPA 3.5 (out of 4.0) including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Provided the course is completed over a period of not less than 1 year at the same accredited institution.
Must have attained a minimum B at the School Level certificate or its equivalent in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Additional Mathematics
- Physics
- Another subject
Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM)
Requirements
ABB in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
University Matriculation
Requirements
CGPA 3.5 (out of 4.0) including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Provided the course is completed over a period of not less than 1 year at the same accredited institution.
Must have attained a minimum B at the School Level certificate or its equivalent in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Additional Mathematics
- Physics
- Another subject
University of New South Wales (UNSW) Foundation
Requirements
Average of 90% including:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Physics
Minimum B in core science subjects required at school level.
Must have attained a minimum B at the School Level certificate or its equivalent in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics or Additional Mathematics
- Physics
- Another subject
Unified Examination Certificate (UEC)
Requirements
1 B3, 4 B4’s in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics 1 or Advanced Mathematics 1
- Mathematics 2 or Advanced Mathematics 2
English Language Examination
CEFR (from SPM 2021 onwards)
Requirements
A minimum of grade C1
The English Proficiency Test (EPT) must be less than two years validity at the time of admission. ETP must be taken in one sitting, and any repeated components will not be considered.
1st Language English
Requirements
A minimum of grade B
The English Proficiency Test (EPT) must be less than two years validity at the time of admission. ETP must be taken in one sitting, and any repeated components will not be considered.
IELTS
Requirements
Overall score of 6.5 with each component not less than 6.0
The English Proficiency Test (EPT) must be less than two years validity at the time of admission. ETP must be taken in one sitting, and any repeated components will not be considered.
PTE Academic
Requirements
Overall score of 63 with each component not less than 59
The English Proficiency Test (EPT) must be less than two years validity at the time of admission. ETP must be taken in one sitting, and any repeated components will not be considered.
TOEFL iBT
Requirements
Overall score of 90 with each component not less than 21
The English Proficiency Test (EPT) must be less than two years validity at the time of admission. ETP must be taken in one sitting, and any repeated components will not be considered.
OVERVIEW
An Immersive Experience from the Best of Both Worlds
Envision a medical education that enriches your understanding and skills on a global scale. Our 5-year Medicine programme is delivered transnationally, beginning with comprehensive pre-clinical training in Dublin and completing your medical course with extensive clinical training in Penang.
This unique transnational approach to medical education combines the strengths of two distinct locations, providing a holistic perspective that prepares you to excel in a rapidly evolving global healthcare landscape.
The fusion of pre-clinical training in Dublin’s academic hub and clinical training centres in Penang allows you to graduate with an internationally recognised medical degree and a wealth of experience that shapes you into a well-rounded medical professional.
Over 400 years of excellence in Irish Medical Education
The only private medical school in Penang
Accredited by the Malaysian Medical Council and the Irish Medical Council
Medical Degree is awarded by the National University of Ireland (NUI)
Degree recognised internationally by ECFMG, FAIMER and WDOMS
Guaranteed spot to study Medicine in Ireland
Exclusive access to training hospitals
Programme Brochure
View our programme brochure below.
Fees
The fees reflect fluctuating exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.
*A one – time immunisation fee of 380 EUR (RCSI) and 310 EUR (UCD) will be payable with first-year tuition fee.
* A one – time RCSI NUI fee of 135 EUR will be payable.
* In accordance with the Bank Negera Malaysia, refunds of the Undergraduate Medicine (UG) programme deposit for local students and parents will only be made in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
Our Medical School Fees in Malaysia
The fees reflect fluctuating exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.
*A one – time immunisation fee of 380 EUR (RCSI) and 310 EUR (UCD) will be payable with first-year tuition fee.
* A one – time RCSI NUI fee of 135 EUR will be payable.
* In accordance with the Bank Negera Malaysia, refunds of the Undergraduate Medicine (UG) programme deposit for local students and parents will only be made in Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
| Malaysian Students | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Semester | Location | Fee | |
| Deposit | EUR 6000 | |||
| One | 1 | Dublin, Ireland | EUR 33,000 | MYR 160,000 |
| 2 | ||||
| Two | 1 | EUR 16,500 | MYR 80,000 | |
| 2 | EUR 16,500 | MYR 80,000 | ||
| Three | 1 | EUR 16,500 | MYR 80,000 | |
| Three | 2 | Penang, Malaysia | MYR 43,900 | |
| Four | 1 | MYR 87,800 | ||
| 2 | ||||
| Five | 1 | MYR 87,800 | ||
| 2 | ||||
| Total | MYR 620,000* | |||
| International Students | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Semester | Location | Fee |
| Deposit | EUR 6000 | ||
| One | 1 | Dublin, Ireland | €38,000 |
| 2 | |||
| Two | 1 | €19,000 | |
| 2 | €19,000 | ||
| Three | 1 | €19,000 | |
| Three | 2 | Penang, Malaysia | €12,000 |
| Four | 1 | €24,000 | |
| 2 | |||
| Five | 1 | €24,000 | |
| 2 | |||
| Total | €155,000* | ||
RUMC reserves the right to make changes to the fees without prior notice
Pre-requisites
A ‘PASS’ in SPM / O-Level or equivalent with 5B’s each in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics / Additional Mathematics and another subject at the school level or its equivalent.
Requirements by the Malaysian Medical Council
Applicants must fulfil the entry requirements set by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC).
Age of Applicant
To be eligible for the Undergraduate Medicine programme at RUMC, applicants must 18 years of age when applying for the programme.
Applying to Malaysia’s Public Sector?
A ‘PASS’ in Bahasa Melayu at SPM is required for the Housemanship application.
Important Information for International Applicants:
1. Indian Applicants:
Indian nationals intending to practice in India at any stage in their medical career are required to sit the NEET examination in India and obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the National Medical Commission of India, before commencing medical studies.
Indian nationals intending to practice in India at any stage in their medical career are required to sit the NEET examination in India and obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the National Medical Commission of India, before commencing medical studies.
This information is accurate at the time of publication. Please check the most up-to-date rules and regulations for eligibility to practice in India post-graduation with the National Medical Commission.
2. Irish & European Union (EU) Applicants:
Applicants from Ireland and the European Union (EU) are advised to check on their eligibility status with the Admissions department.
3. International Applicants from the United States of America (USA) and Canada can apply to RUMC’s 5 year Undergraduate Medicine programme via RUMC’s partner, Atlantic Bridge.
For more information or clarification, please get in touch with our education counsellors.
Programme Delivery
Our unique Medicine programmes offer you the best opportunities to gain an international medical degree whilst having unrivalled access to Malaysian clinical practice. We offer a modern systems-based approach to studying medicine, where all main areas of medical study will be covered to ensure you have the highest quality of medical education.
Throughout the 5-year medicine programme, you will learn the fundamentals of basic and health sciences that focus on systems and skills.
Progression Pathway
Career Progression
Besides medical council registration, you will also receive strong support from our Alumni Relations and senior academic members to mentor and guide you towards your career pathway.
The RUMC MB BCh BAO medical degree is accredited by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and Irish Medical Council (IMC). Our internationally-recognised degree provides you with diverse medical career opportunities that come with options to practise overseas such as in the US, UK, Ireland and more.
Embarking on a medical degree is just the beginning of a rewarding career path in healthcare. After a minimum of five years of rigorous study, graduates enter a period of provisional registration, commonly known as housemanship or internship, which typically lasts 1-2 years. This phase is crucial for hands-on clinical experience under supervision. Following this, full medical practice registration can be achieved, allowing you to become a Senior House Officer or Medical Officer for 2-3 years, solidifying clinical skills.
The journey doesn't end there; options widen, leading to specialisation as a Registrar in fields like Medicine or Surgery, and then on to becoming a General Physician or General Surgeon. Alternatively, you can opt for a career in Family Medicine, progressing from Registrar to Specialist, or delve into other specialties such as Pathology, Psychiatry, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, and more. Beyond clinical roles, this degree opens doors to careers in academia, research, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare management, providing a versatile foundation for a future in medicine.
Required Documentation
A. Photograph
B. Certified copy of Birth Certificate, NRID/MyKad (Malaysian) and Passport Details Page (International)
C. Confidential Statement
D. Final or Forecasted Results from Current Pre-University Institution (i.e. A-Level, IB, AUSMAT, STPM etc)
E. IELTS/TOEFL/GCE O-Level (1119 English)
F. IGCSE / SPM Results
G. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
H. University Transcript (for mature students)
Scholarship
| SCHOLARSHIP TIER | TOTAL SCHOLARSHIP (RM) |
|---|---|
| Tier 1 – High Distinction | 40,000 |
| Tier 2 – Merit Scholar | 30,000 |
| Tier 3 – Performance Scholar | 20,000 |
Scholarship Tier
Total Scholarship
(RM)
(RM)
Tier 1 – High Distinction
40,000
Tier 2 – Merit Scholar
30,000
Tier 3 – Performance Scholar
20,000
Scholarship applications can be submitted through an application to RUMC. To begin the application process, please complete the form here.
North American Applicants
Students from North America (United States and Canada) who are keen on applying to the RUMC Undergraduate Medicine programme are welcome to get in touch with our partner, Atlantic Bridge.
FAQs
Curious about what to expect before heading to Dublin? Our Frequently Asked Questions section has all the information you need—from visa applications to accommodation, travel tips, and more—to help you prepare for this exciting chapter.
Information is correct at time of printing / publication. RUMC reserves the right to amend the information without prior notice.
Undergraduate Programme Course
Undergraduate Medicine Programme FAQs
1. What is a medical degree?
A medical degree is an academic qualification that equips students with the knowledge and clinical training required to become licensed doctors. It typically covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology, along with hands-on experience in hospitals. Upon completion, graduates proceed to internships or housemanships before obtaining full medical registration and practising independently.
2. What is the Undergraduate Medicine programme at RUMC?
The Undergraduate Medicine programme at RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus (RUMC) is a five-year medical degree leading to the MB BCh BAO qualification, awarded by the National University of Ireland (NUI). The programme is transnational in structure, with students completing the first 2.5 years of pre-clinical training in Dublin, Ireland, and the remaining 2.5 years of clinical training in Penang, Malaysia. This unique setup provides students with a global perspective and a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience.
3. What career opportunities are available with an MB BCh BAO degree from RUMC?
Graduates of the RUMC medical degree have a wide range of career opportunities both in Malaysia and internationally. After completing housemanship or internship, they may work as Medical Officers or Senior House Officers before progressing to become General Physicians, General Surgeons, or Family Medicine Specialists. Other specialisations include Psychiatry, Pathology, and Obstetrics & Gynaecology. In addition to clinical practice, the degree opens doors to careers in academia, medical research, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare management. The degree’s recognition by global institutions such as ECFMG, FAIMER, and WDOMS allows graduates to apply for licensure in many countries around the world.
4. What are the entry requirements for the Bachelor of Medicine, Surgery, and Obstetrics at RUMC?
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Possess a PASS in SPM or O-Level (or equivalent) with 5Bs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics or Additional Mathematics, and one other subject
- Fulfil the entry requirements set by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC)
- Malaysian students must pass Bahasa Melayu at the SPM level (for public sector housemanship eligibility)
- Provide English proficiency through a CEFR C1 grade in SPM or an IELTS score of at least 6.0
- Submit all required documents, including certified ID copies, academic transcripts, a CV, a reference letter (Confidential Statement), and a valid passport page (for international applicants)
Applicants from the USA and Canada may apply through RUMC’s partner, Atlantic Bridge. Those from the EU or Ireland are encouraged to check eligibility with the Admissions team directly.
5. What subjects and skills does the curriculum cover?
The RUMC curriculum follows a modern, systems-based approach and is divided into two phases. During the pre-clinical years in Dublin, students study anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, genetics, microbiology, pharmacology, public health, psychology, sociology, and tropical medicine. These subjects build a strong foundation in the basic sciences and introduce students to evidence-based medicine and early clinical exposure. In the clinical years based in Penang, students rotate through key medical fields such as internal medicine, surgery, orthopaedics, paediatrics, psychiatry, family medicine, obstetrics and gynaecology, and emergency medicine. They develop practical skills in patient communication, physical examinations, and clinical decision-making. All students also complete MPU subjects as required by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education.
6. Are there opportunities for internships and industry placements?
Yes, there are structured internship opportunities following graduation. All RUMC graduates must complete a one to two-year housemanship or internship period, typically in hospitals, where they gain supervised clinical experience. Graduates are eligible to apply for internships in Malaysia, Australia, and Ireland. While industry placements during the five-year study are not part of the formal curriculum, the clinical training provided in hospitals and healthcare centres serves as practical, hands-on industry exposure.
7. What are the fee costs for this programme?
The total tuition fee for Malaysian students is RM620,000, while international students pay €155,000. Additional one-time charges include an immunisation fee of €380 for RCSI or €310 for UCD, and an RCSI NUI administrative fee of €135. Payment is typically made in instalments over the 50-week academic cycle.
Note: Fees are accurate as of writing.
8. What are the financial aid options for this programme?
RUMC offers two main scholarships: a full 100% tuition fee scholarship and a 20% tuition fee scholarship. Both are automatically considered for applicants who meet the entry requirements, hold an offer letter, and are not receiving other financial aid. Malaysian students may also explore funding options such as PTPTN loans and EPF withdrawals to assist with tuition.
