20 years of medical studies in English in Croatia is celebrated

20 years of medical studies in English in Croatia is celebrated in Zagreb at Hotel Esplanade (Photo: KL Photo)

This fall marks the 20-year anniversary since the University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine embarked on a remarkable journey by introducing Croatia’s first medical studies in English program. 

This visionary decision has not only expanded the horizons of medical education in Croatia but has also welcomed students from all around the world to experience world-class medical training in the heart of Zagreb. 

‘As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of this momentous milestone, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the achievements, growth, and lasting impact of this program’, says dr.sc. Marko Mance, dr.med, a student of the first generation of English Medical Students.

dr.sc. Marko Mance, dr.med (Photo: KL Photo)

A Visionary Beginning

In autumn 2003, the University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine, then driven by the Dean of the medical school, Prof. Boris Labar and his college Prof. Davor Ježek, took a pioneering step by launching the Medical Studies in English program. 

This innovative decision was motivated by the desire to create a more inclusive and diverse learning environment while promoting the university on the global stage. The program aimed to attract international students and foster cross-cultural exchange, allowing aspiring physicians to study in a multicultural setting. 

The current dean of the English Medical studies prof. Davor Ježek (left), and the former dean of the medical school and co founder of English medical studies Prof. Boris Labar (right) (Photo: KL Photo)

The first generation of students who began their studies in 2003 and graduated in 2009 consisted of only 10 graduates. Today over 70 students are accepted on an annual basis, and in the last 20 years, over 400 students have become medical doctors in Zagreb.

Global Appeal

Over the past two decades, the program has witnessed remarkable growth in its popularity among international students. What began as a modest initiative with a handful of students has now grown into a thriving international community within the Faculty of Medicine. 

The Gala Night was held on Saturday in Zagreb (Photo: KL Photo)

Students from various corners of the globe, including Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa, have flocked to Zagreb to pursue their dream of becoming medical professionals. At least half of the students had some Croatian heritage, children of the Croatian diaspora, while many did not.

dr. Nikolas Nožica (left), who came from California, USA to study in Zagreb and now a cardiologist in Bern, Switzerland, dr.sc. Marko Mance, dr.med. (center) who came from Toronto, Canada and is now a plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon in Zagreb, and dr. Brian Melamed (right), who came to study in Zagreb from Chicago, USA and who is a resident of radiology (Photo: KL Photo)

Quality Education

The success of the Medical Studies in English program can be attributed to the commitment of the faculty and staff at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine, maintaining the same rigorous standards as the Croatian-language medical program. 

The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various medical fields, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and clinical training. Students also have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, research opportunities, and clinical rotations in local hospitals as well as clinical rotations abroad.

The milestone being celebrated at Hotel Esplanade (Photo: KL Photo)

Multicultural Experience

One of the most cherished aspects of the program is the rich multicultural experience it offers to both local and international students. The University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine has fostered a diverse and inclusive environment where students from different backgrounds come together to learn, share experiences, and build lifelong friendships. 

This multiculturalism enriches the educational experience and prepares future doctors to work effectively in a globalized healthcare system.

dr.sc. Marko Mance, dr.med (Photo: KL Photo)

Global Opportunities

Graduates of the Medical Studies in English program at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine have gone on to make a significant impact on the global healthcare stage. Many have pursued postgraduate studies in prestigious institutions worldwide, while others have returned to their home countries to address healthcare challenges in their communities. 

Since Croatia shares a common problem with the majority of European nations of doctor shortages, it is important to recognize that up to 10% of graduates remain to live and work across Croatia, from Dubrovnik, Split, Rijeka, Pula, Bjelovar, Varažin, Zagreb, as well as rural and islands, MSE students are treating patients every day Croatia.

The program has enhanced the global reputation of the university (Photo: KL Photo)

Looking Ahead

As the 20th anniversary of the Medical Studies in English program at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine is celebrated, it is evident that this initiative has exceeded all expectations. 

It has not only contributed to the internationalization of Croatian higher education but has also enhanced the global reputation of the university. The program’s continuous growth and the success of its graduates are a testament to its enduring impact on medical education.

In the years to come, the University of Zagreb Faculty of Medicine’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of medical education in Croatia and beyond. As this milestone is celebrated, they are looking forward to another 20 years of providing aspiring physicians with the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence needed to excel in the ever-evolving field of medicine.