Presentation Information
[SY-80-03]Path to Becoming a Medical Doctor in Japan
Hirokazu Fujita1, *Yusuke Matsuzaka2,3 (1.Kochi Medical School, Kochi University(Japan), 2.Nagasaki Medical Center of Psychiatry(Japan), 3.Department of Neuropsychiatry, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences(Japan))
Keywords:
medical education,curriculum in Japan,Model Core Curriculum for Medical Education
After graduating from high school, students in Japan who wish to become doctors must gain admission to one of the country’s 82 medical schools. Entrance exams are highly competitive, making admission particularly challenging. Once admitted, students follow a six-year curriculum established by each university.Despite some differences among institutions, all medical schools in Japan adhere to standards set by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). In addition, Japan’s Model Core Curriculum for Medical Educationoutlines essential learning objectives. About 70% of each school’s curriculum is based on this core, while the remaining 30% reflects the university’s unique educational focus.During the six-year program, students must pass a nationwide standardized exam before beginning clinical clerkships. This exam assesses whether students have acquired the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to safely participate in clinical training. Only those who pass are allowed to begin clerkships, in accordance with the Medical Practitioners' Act.After completing clerkships and fulfilling all academic requirements, students graduate and are eligible to sit for the National Medical Licensing Examination. Upon passing, they receive their medical license and are required to complete a two-year clinical residency. During this period, they gain broad practical experience across multiple medical fields.After completing the residency, doctors may choose to enter specialized training in a medical field of their choice. For those pursuing psychiatry, specialized training as a psychiatrist begins at this stage.This structured pathway ensures that all doctors in Japan are well-trained in accordance with both national regulations and international standards.