QUT’s New 5-Year Medical Program: What you need to know
2 days ago by Chris
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has announced a new five-year undergraduate Doctor of Medicine program, offering an additional pathway for students interested in medicine. The program is still undergoing an accreditation process, but if approval remains on track, it is set to commence in 2028.
What Makes The Program Different?
QUT's Bachelor of Medical Sciences, Doctor of Medicine is a five-year program that allows high school graduates to enter medicine directly, making it the most streamlined undergraduate medicine entry pathway in Queensland.
The program aims to address Queensland's shortage of General Practitioners and other healthcare workers, with a strong emphasis on practical experience and community-based primary care. It aims to produce future doctors with the skills and mindset required to improve health outcomes for people in urban, regional, rural, and remote locations.
Flexible part-time study options will allow students to balance their studies with other responsibilities like work or caring. The first two years of the undergraduate program can be completed part-time over four years. QUT is also working with clinical partners to develop part-time options for the final years of the degree.
Available Entry Pathways
Undergraduate Entry
Students can apply straight from high school for the five-year program. The first intake for the Bachelor of Medical Sciences, Doctor of Medicine program is planned for 2028, with 48 Commonwealth Supported Places becoming available.
Graduate Entry Option
Students with a recognised bachelor's degree and professional registration in a relevant discipline can apply for the lateral-entry Doctor of Medicine graduate program. This is a three-year program, with the first intake also expected to begin in 2028.
Alternative Entry pathways
QUT has confirmed that alternative entry pathways will be available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and for rural and remote students. Full details are not yet available.
International student places will likely become available from 2029.
Financial Support and Commonwealth Places
With support from the Australian Government, the program will be funded through an allocation of QUT Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs). A CSP means the Government pays a significant portion of your fees as a subsidy.
The program has been allocated 240 CSPs over five years.
Admission Requirements and Timeline
Students will need to sit the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) as part of the admission process. More information about entry requirements and the full admissions process will be available in 2027.
QUT will hold an open day in July 2026 for students interested in learning more about the program.
What This Means for Medical School Applicants
For high school students interested in medicine, this program offers an attractive option to enter medical training directly after Year 12. The program includes early clinical experience, flexible study options, and government-supported funding.
However, with only 48 places available per year, competition will be significant. Students will need to prepare thoroughly for the UCAT and ensure they meet all admission requirements once they are announced in 2027.
Next Steps
Keep an eye on QUT's announcements throughout 2026 and 2027 for details on the admissions process. MedEntry will also provide updates as more information becomes available. Begin UCAT preparation early to maximize your chances of success.
