Does UJ Offer Medicine and Surgery?

No, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) does not offer a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree​.

Instead, UJ focuses on complementary medicine and other health sciences programs. The Department of Complementary Medicine at UJ offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fields such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and phototherapy.

On the other hand, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree with Physiology major. This program can be a pathway for students aiming to pursue medical studies, as it provides a strong foundation in the biological and physiological sciences, which are critical for medical school.

Physiology Degree at UJ

Program Overview: The BSc in Physiology at UJ focuses on understanding the functions of the human body, from the cellular level to the entire organism. The curriculum includes subjects such as human anatomy, biochemistry, molecular biology, and various physiological systems.

Benefits for Medical School: Completing a degree in Physiology can provide students with:

  1. Academic Credits: Some medical schools may accept credits from undergraduate courses in physiology, reducing the coursework load in the medical program.
  2. Strong Foundation: A solid understanding of physiological principles and biological processes can enhance a student’s performance in medical school.
  3. Research Experience: Many physiology programs include opportunities for laboratory research, which is valuable for medical school applications and future medical research.


Pathway to Medical School

Credit Transfer: While UJ itself does not offer an MBChB degree, students can use their BSc in Physiology as a stepping stone to apply to medical schools like the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) or the University of Cape Town (UCT). These institutions may recognize relevant coursework and credits, potentially allowing for an accelerated or more manageable medical school experience.

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Preparation for Admission: Graduates from UJ’s physiology program can be well-prepared for the rigorous admission processes of medical schools, which often include standardized tests, interviews, and evaluations of academic performance.