UQ’s MD Program assumes that entrants will have a fundamental understanding of human anatomy, physiology and biochemistry. If your undergraduate study did not include these areas, or if it has been some time since you completed your study, we highly recommend that you invest time gaining confidence in these areas prior to starting the MD Program. This will enable you to hit the ground running.

The MD Program uses a systems-based approach for the first three semesters. In semester 1, you will cover:

  • Infection and Immunity
  • The Cardiovascular System
  • The Respiratory System, and
  • The Renal System

Some students new to biomedical science find combined human anatomy and physiology text books to be a good way of integrating these areas. Some examples are “Human Anatomy and Physiology” by Marieb et al, or “Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology” by Martini et al.

Some of your courses will require the purchase of books and equipment; these will be listed in each course’s Electronic Course Profile. Other than these prescribed items, it is recommended that you wait until you have commenced your studies before purchasing other learning materials. The reason being, each students’ backgrounds and preferred learning styles will be different. Also, a large selection of textbooks is available in electronic format free of charge from the UQ library, and many of your course readings will come from these resources.

Many students and their families enquire about the purchase of stethoscopes; a stethoscope buying guide is available here