University of Tasmania, Australia

Year 4 and 5 medical students attend the Rural Clinical School (RCS). Our modern building sits between Burnie’s public and private hospitals and enjoys a fantastic view of Bass Strait. Our teaching facilities are modern and well equipped. Our academic and administrative staff are experienced and dedicated to ensuring that all students have an enjoyable, productive and safe time at the RCS.  All students are encouraged to acquaint themselves with UTAS Health and Safety Advice before commencing study at the RCS.

The teaching program features clinical rotations interspersed with Group Learning Weeks (PDF 254.4 KB) (GLW’s). RCS students spend about 75% of their time in the clinical setting of theNorth West Regional Hospital (NWRH), the North West Private Hospital (NWPH), Mersey Community Hospital (MCH), GP practices and community health agencies. This 'hands on' approach to medical education is popular with students and is well supported by a strong tutorial program.

 

Students thinking about studying with the RCS can expect to have lots of contact with patients and feel part of the health professional team. They will present cases to clinicians, be involved in case discussions and, under supervision, implement procedural skills often first taught and practiced in the Simulated Learning Environments (SLE's).

Students will be part of a group of around 60 medical students and usually study both Year 4 and 5 at the RCS. Final year students work closely with Interns.

Students live in excellent purpose built accommodation, and enjoy the new RCS building and its teaching and learning facilities.

 

Students at the RCS are actively encouraged to engage with local communities in the North West. Students are represented on RCS committees and have a strong social program of RCS based activities and student led activities. Key community representatives are invited to attend the Welcome BBQ along with students, at the beginning of the year. Students are also included in RCS social activities such as ‘ride to work/school’ mornings, hiking trips around the region, fundraising ventures and attending research and informational seminars.

Students are also well supported at the RCS. Our generous Student Support Program (PDF 129.6KB) provides financial assistance for day to day living expenses, travel and relocation costs. We also have a strong mentor program at the RCS where students can access academic and personal support and assistance.

Read more about what students themselves say about the RCS.