Medical Practitioner Courses
Medical Practitioners are registered doctors who diagnose and treat diseases, infections, injuries, and mental health problems. They usually work in private practice, medical centres and community health clinics and are commonly known as General Practitioners or GPs.
As a Medical Practitioner you could be listening to a patient explain their symptoms, examining a patient’s medical records, examining a patient and diagnosing an illness, prescribing medication, providing advice on diet and general health care, ordering laboratory tests, asking a Registered Nurse to perform a blood test, referring a patient to a specialist, or coordinating with admin staff to schedule some days off for a much-needed vacation.
This is a very demanding occupation and to succeed you will need to be highly organised, have excellent interpersonal skills, and a natural sense of empathy and compassion.
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Popular Medical Practitioner Courses
There are 2 courses available for people who want to become a Medical Practitioner.
On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Anaesthetist
General Practitioner
Medical Practitioner
Surgeon
Become a practicing medical doctor with the Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine. Graduates of this dual qualification are eligible for provisional registration with the Medical Board of Australia and are ready to start their hospital internship.
Your learning is divided into three distinct areas: medical science, social issues and healthcare, clinical placement. You’ll also have the opportunity to pursue your preferred disciplines: general practice, paediatrics, emergency care, psychiatry, surgery, or medicine.
Enquire now for admissions criteria, application procedures, and universities in your area that offer the Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine.
Average duration: 7 years.
On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Anaesthetist
General Practitioner
Medical Practitioner
Surgeon
Become a practicing medical doctor with the Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine. Graduates of this dual qualification are eligible for provisional registration with the Medical Board of Australia and are ready to start their hospital internship.
Your learning is divided into three distinct areas: medical science, social issues and healthcare, clinical placement. You’ll also have the opportunity to pursue your preferred disciplines: general practice, paediatrics, emergency care, psychiatry, surgery, or medicine.
Enquire now for admissions criteria, application procedures, and universities in your area that offer the Bachelor of Medical Studies / Doctor of Medicine.
Average duration: 7 years.
On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Anaesthetist
General Practitioner
Medical Practitioner
Medical Researcher
Obstetrician
Surgeon
Career Medical Officer (CMO)
Gastroenterologist
Neurologist
Oncologist
Gynaecologist
The Doctor of Medicine aims to produce graduates dedicated to patient, community, and societal wellbeing, shaping responsible, skilled, and compassionate doctors. This course prepares graduates for successful internships and further training, marking the initial step towards a medical career. It utilises team-based learning, small group practicals, clinical skills sessions, extensive clinical placements, and online resources. Students develop essential skills, knowledge, and attributes for internship success. Graduates emerge competent, caring, and with a solid understanding of medical science..
Average duration: 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Medical Practitioners earn?
Salaries for Medical Practitioners working in Australia start at $2,165 per week ($112,580 annually). Increase your earning capacity by obtaining post-graduate qualifications and becoming a specialist practitioner (eg, Surgeon, Allergist, Gynecologist, Oncologist, ENT Specialist).
What are the job opportunities for Medical Practitioners?
There are currently 42,000 General Medical Practitioners working in Australia. This does NOT include specialist doctors. This is a growing occupation and there is a significant shortage of qualified doctors in regional and remote areas of Australia.
How do I become a Medical Practitioner?
Becoming a registered Medical Practitioner generally takes 10 years of study including an internship. The steps are as follows:
- Obtaining a suitable Bachelor’s degree (eg, health science, pharmacy, nursing, human movement, science).
- Passing the Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT).
- Completing a Doctor of Medicine (MD).
- Working as an intern at a hospital for at least one year.
- Obtaining general medical registration through the Medical Board of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
Job Pathways
Here are some potential career pathways within medicine. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.