1) What is the length and structure of the entire curriculum?

The four-year MSIH curriculum is structured on a traditional American M.D. medical school curriculum. The first two years emphasize the study of the basic medical sciences and body systems, while years three and four are devoted to clinical clerkships and electives. The program is unique in that the study of International Health and Medicine (IHM) is integrated into the first two years with distinct IHM courses and through the insertion of relevant topics within the conventional medical courses. The clinical teaching in the third and fourth years emphasizes hands-on IHM experiences in structured clinical settings in different communities and countries.

- For More information, visit MSIH Curriculum


2) What are the academic credentials of the faculty teaching courses at MSIH?

The MSIH faculty is composed of professors and medical doctors from Ben-Gurion University and Soroka University Medical Center. Columbia University faculty also serve as guest and visiting lecturers to MSIH students. International health modules and courses are taught from medical doctors who've worked direclty in the field. Students also interact with medical doctors who are working directly in international health operations.

- For More information, visit MSIH Curriculum


3) Does Columbia University or Ben-Gurion University grant the medical degree?

The medical degree is granted by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.

- For More information, visit Ben-Gurion University

1) How long has the MSIH been in existence?

The MSIH was planned since 1996, established in 1997, and the first class graduated in 2002.

2) Are interviews required, where are they held?

The MSIH Admissions Committee invites applicants it is seriously considering for acceptance for a series of personal interviews.  Applicants are interviewed in person at the Columbia University Medical Center in New York. The Admissions Committee may, at its discretion and subject to BGU and campus schedules, arrange interviews in Israel at
Ben-Gurion University for applicants who are traveling to Israel or reside abroad.

- For more information, visit Prospective Students .


3) How do students perform on USMLE I and II? In recent years, what are the 1st time and total pass rates for students from this school?

In 2008, more than 90 percent of the MSIH students pass the USMLE Step I and Step II tests and enter the residency placement match. All of MSIH's students who entered the match were selected by one of their residency choices.

In 2006, 92 percent of U.S./Canadian students passed the USMLE-Step 1 and 93 percent passed the USMLE-Step 2 Test. Of non-U.S./Canadian students 61 percent passed the USMLE-Step 1 and 71 percent passed the USMLE-Step 2.

- For more information, visit USMLE & the Match.


4) Are there web addresses, brochures, videotapes, CD-ROMs, DVDs or other materials advisors can give to interested students?

Hard copies of MSIH information materials can be requested at bgcu-md@columbia.edu.

Electronic copies are available of the following material:

- 2008 Chart Your Course-Informational Brochure

- 2008-2009 MSIH Informational Brochure


5) Are there graduates or representatives of MSIH available for presentations to students?

Yes, given their availability to take time out of their classrooms or clinical commitments. Please contact the MSIH-Columbia University office at at bgcu-md@columbia.edu or 212-305-9587.