Europe is a continent that has been home to some of the most influential and respected medical schools in the world. The European Union’s 28 member states have produced many impressive doctors, scientists, and inventors who’ve made significant contributions to medicine and science. Europe offers an exciting combination of high-quality medical education from well-established institutions with a rich cultural heritage. In this blog post, we’ll be looking at 10 reasons why you should consider studying abroad for your medical degree in Europe.
1. Europe is rich in history
Many of the world’s most prestigious universities are located in European cities that have centuries of medical history behind them. These include Paris, which has produced eight Nobel Prize winners and three Field Medalists; London, where five Noble Prize winners received their education; Athens, site of the ancient University of Plato (~400BC); and Padua, the home of the first-ever anatomy lab (~1595).
2. Europe has many world-class medical schools
Europe is home to some of the best medical universities in the world. They are well known for research excellence, academic rigor, internationally competitive programs, clinical expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and a long history of excellence in training doctors. Here are some examples:
In France, the University of Paris is ranked seventh worldwide for medicine by Scimago Institutions Rankings. In total, there are 21 medical colleges ranked among the world’s top 300 universities by Times Higher Education.
In Germany, Ruprecht-Karls-University of Heidelberg is ranked 11th in the world for medicine by Scimago Institutions Rankings. There are 14 medical schools ranked among the world’s top 300 universities by Times Higher Education.
In Italy, the University of Bologna was Europe’s first university (established ~1088), and it now has 17 schools and colleges. In Belgium, Ghent University was ranked the world’s 23rd best medical school for research by Times Higher Education (2014).
In Spain, between them, The University of Barcelona and Autonomous University of Madrid had 17 Nobel Prize winners as students or staff.
3. Europe is home to some of the largest English speaking populations outside of NorthAmerica
In Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Malta, English is a co-official language. In total there are over 200 million native English speakers in Europe. You’ll have an easier time preserving your first language while studying abroad in Europe as you won’t need to spend much time acquiring a new language from scratch.
4. Living costs are relatively cheap
Europe is an affordable place to live. Renting a two-bedroom apartment in Paris, Berlin, Barcelona or Rome will cost you ~400-700 Euros (~$500-900) per month on average. If you want to live in the center of town it will be more expensive but you have more opportunities for networking and part-time jobs. Also, since most universities are located in the city center you’ll be able to save on commuting costs (you can walk or bike most places).
5. Quality of life in Europe is high
Europe is known for its good healthcare systems, clean environment, and natural beauty. Many European countries have an excellent public transportation system making it easy to get around. There are many historic places worth visiting, romantic cities with stunning architecture, natural parks for hiking and skiing among other things. Living in Europe is very fulfilling as you’ll be able to enjoy a high quality of life with access to great healthcare at an affordable price compared to the USA or Canada.
6. One can study medicine in English as well in Europe.
All medical students speak some English, so you can expect to understand your lectures provided that they are not delivered in the local language. If you’re planning on pursuing a clinical rotation abroad, most hospitals will provide language assistance services for you (i.e. interpreting).
7. Many European graduates work within the EU
If you decide to pursue a career in Europe you’ll be able to practice your profession without restrictions. Many European doctors work freely throughout the EU either as primary care physicians or specialists. Also, if there are language barriers they can use their knowledge of English which is very common in the medical system.
8. There are opportunities for electives all over Europe
One advantage of studying medicine in Europe is that many universities also run programs abroad. You can spend some time at a university in another country and improve your language skills while completing your elective rotation.
9. It’s easy to find well-paid work after graduating
Even though the cost of living in Europe is relatively high, it’s still possible to save a good amount of money. It will be enough for you to start your career with a substantial financial cushion.
10. There are many opportunities to study abroad in other parts of the world
Studying medicine in Europe is a good option if you want to earn your degree while experiencing other countries and cultures. You can always transfer to another country or apply for exchange programs outside Europe. Also, after graduating there are many opportunities to work in different parts of the world.
Conclusion
If you’re considering studying medicine in Europe, the 10 reasons we’ve given should help make your decision easier. Whether it’s for a shorter stint of study or as part of an entire medical education program, choosing to learn abroad will provide you with new experiences and opportunities that can’t be found anywhere else on earth! For more information about our programs at European Medical School, contact us today. We would love to tell you all about the amazing life-changing experience waiting for you here.