Study Medicine at the American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, Antigua, and Barbuda

Introduction

American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine was founded in 2004 and has, since its inception, shown unprecedented growth in terms of dispensing top grade medical education and research. The AUA was founded to address a global physician shortage and to provide medical education to students from underrepresented communities and developing countries. AUA is recognized, accredited, and approved by several medical organizations from all over the world. Thus, it has helped secure promising careers for students after graduation. The AUA’s MD program is approved by the UK’s General Medical Council (GMC), and it is recognized and accredited by the U.S. Department of Education. Students who are passionate about medicine and want to serve their communities must consider AUA as an advantageous option.

AUA pays special attention to serving global healthcare needs, and this can be achieved only by creating an all-inclusive learning environment. AUA’s novel curriculum pushes for diversity and inclusivity of underrepresented minorities from all over the world (read: Anti-Discrimination Clause).

Life at AUA

AUA organizes several student organizations committed to building a rich student support community and philanthropy. Students can partake in the activities of the following associations: Student Government Association (SGA), AUA Ambassadors, American Medical Student Association (AMSA), AUA Asthma League, Emergency Medicine Interest Group (EMIG), Emergency Response Team (ERT), and many more, including many community outreach programs.

To maintain a healthy work-life balance, it is essential to maintain body fitness. AUA takes care of these needs and students may use many sports and recreation facilities depending on their interests.

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island nation that is a part of the English Commonwealth. It is a democratic republic with English as its official language. The main event is The Carnival, which is held at the beginning of August, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The other main attraction is the Antigua Sailing Week, which attracts international participants.

Antigua is very well connected. There are frequent flights to Antigua from the USA and Canada. Citizens from other countries must contact the New Student Coordinator (NSC) for further details. Car rentals are necessary to navigate around the island. Visitors and students can unwind on beautiful beaches and take part in adventure sports. There are historical tours curated throughout the island all through the year.

Courses offered

AUA boasts of learner-centric high-quality education, the medium of instruction is English.

The courses offered are as follows:

• Global Health MD: This is a four-year program that is conducted in collaboration with Florida International University (FIU) and it consists of two main components, Basic Sciences, and Clinical Sciences. During the first two years, students have to undertake a Basic Sciences course. The Basic Sciences course covers a variety of Global Health topics and imparts training in research methodology. Also, the students will receive American Heart Association instructor training. From the fifth semester onwards, students will be a part of the AUA’s extensive residency program in the form of the Clinical Sciences Program. This is a holistic program (of 84 weeks) in which students will learn how to diagnose patients and analyze lab data. The lab rotations, spanning 44 weeks, include Internal Medicine (twelve weeks); Surgery (eight weeks); Family Medicine (six weeks); OB/GYN (six weeks); Pediatrics (six weeks); and Psychiatry (six weeks). All the rotations will be held under the guidance of experienced and professional clinicians.

• BHHS Degree: The Bachelor of Science in Human Health Sciences degree is for students who are enrolled in the Global Health MD Program at AUA. This is an eight-week course that is intended for students who do not have a B.S./B.A. degree on enrolling in the AUA College of Medicine. This degree provides a strong foundation for further graduate studies and will help students to integrate themselves in the health and medicine industry in the future.

The AUA’s base combination of semester fees is approximately $227,905 without the inclusion of additional charges, such as that of clinical rotations, housing, insurance, and transportation.

Students may avail Federal Financial Aid, Veterans’ Benefits, and for students applying from Canada, there is a Canadian Loan Program. For further details, applicants are urged to contact the Admissions Committee.

Admission Process

The admission process is fairly simple and starts with the submission of an application form that is available on the college’s website. The applicants must submit their Curriculum Vitae along with two letters of recommendation. The AUA admissions committee may also be in need of a TOEFL or IELTS test score depending on the educational background of the applicant.

Internships

AUA is a GemX global partner. As a member, it contributes to an exchange program for medicines and health professionals. This magnanimous opportunity helps students form networks with hospitals and services all around the world.

Residency Placements

AUA graduates are in high demand and have landed hundreds of residencies in prestigious hospitals all throughout the U.S and Canada. To learn more, applicants may contact alumni through AUA’s alumni reach program.

Housing

AUA’s on-campus housing bestows fully furnished student apartments with all the comforts and amenities required for our hardworking students. There are various categories of houses with complimentary housekeeping services. Housing Deposit Damage (HDD) of $1000 must be deposited by all students who are assigned to university-approved housing.