Medicine and Surgery: A Good Course to Study
When it comes to highly respected and rewarding professions, Medicine and Surgery often top the list. For centuries, doctors have been seen as lifesavers, combining science, skill, and compassion to treat illnesses and improve human life.
Studying Medicine and Surgery is not just about gaining a degree—it’s about embarking on a journey that requires dedication, intelligence, and resilience. But is it truly a good course to study? Let’s find out.
What is Medicine and Surgery?
Medicine and Surgery is the field of study that trains students to become medical doctors (physicians). It covers the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases as well as performing surgical procedures to save or improve lives.
In most universities in Nigeria and abroad, the degree is referred to as MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery).
Why Medicine and Surgery is a Good Course to Study
1. High Demand for Doctors
Doctors are needed everywhere—hospitals, rural clinics, international health organizations, research institutions, and even the military. The demand is constant and global.
2. Job Security and Prestige
Being a medical doctor comes with one of the highest levels of job security. No matter the state of the economy, healthcare is always essential. It’s also a profession that commands respect and trust in society.
3. Wide Career Opportunities
Graduates are not restricted to hospitals alone. Doctors can work in:
- Private practice
- Public health institutions
- Research and academia
- International organizations like WHO, UNICEF, and NGOs
- Government agencies and policy-making bodies
4. Specialization Options
After graduation, doctors can specialize in areas such as:
- Cardiology (heart health)
- Neurology (brain and nervous system)
- Paediatrics (children’s health)
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology (women’s health)
- Surgery (general, orthopaedic, plastic, etc.)
- Psychiatry (mental health)
This makes the profession dynamic, with endless learning opportunities.
5. A Life-Changing Career
Medicine is more than a career—it’s a calling. Doctors have the privilege of saving lives, restoring health, and giving hope to patients and families. Few professions offer this level of fulfilment.
Skills You Will Gain in Medicine and Surgery
Studying Medicine equips you with both scientific and practical skills, such as:
- Clinical diagnosis and patient care
- Surgical procedures and techniques
- Laboratory and diagnostic analysis
- Research and evidence-based medical practice
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Communication and counselling skills
Challenges of Studying Medicine and Surgery
While Medicine is rewarding, it’s also very challenging:
- Long duration of study (6–7 years in Nigeria)
- Intense academic workload (heavy textbooks, labs, clinical rotations)
- High emotional and physical stress, especially during residency
- Cost of training, which can be expensive in some universities
- Long working hours in practice
Despite these challenges, the rewards often outweigh the struggles for those who are passionate about healthcare.
Admission Requirements for Medicine and Surgery in Nigeria
To study Medicine and Surgery in Nigerian universities, you generally need:
- O’Level Requirements: At least 5 credits in English, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- JAMB UTME Subjects: English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- A high UTME score (often 250 and above in top universities).
- Success in the Post-UTME/screening.
Salary Expectations for Medical Doctors
- In Nigeria: Entry-level doctors earn between ₦200,000 to ₦400,000 monthly, depending on the hospital (public or private).
- Internationally: Doctors are among the highest-paid professionals.
- USA: $150,000 – $300,000/year
- UK: £40,000 – £100,000/year
- Canada: CAD 100,000 – CAD 250,000/year
Conclusion
Medicine and Surgery is undoubtedly a good course to study—but only if you have
