Becoming a Doctor in Norway: A Comprehensive Guide for Ukrainian Graduates

As a Ukrainian graduate, the path to becoming a medical doctor in Norway can seem daunting, but with clear guidance and understanding of the various steps involved, you can make your dream a reality. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and processes you need to follow.

Medical School Requirements

To become a medical doctor in Norway, the first step is to attend a recognized medical school. Norway has four main medical schools, all of which are accredited by the Norwegian Health Authorities:

Oslo University Hospital Bergen University Hospital NTNU University Hospital Trondheim University Hospital of North Norway

It's important to note that while applications to these schools are open to prospective students from Ukraine and other countries, you may need to meet additional educational requirements based on the specific laws and practices of your home country. For instance, some schools may require additional coursework in specialized subjects such as psychiatry, where the understanding of patient rights and legal constraints varies between countries. This includes regulations on compulsory treatment and patient restraint, which are crucial for a medical doctor to understand.

Steps to Becoming a Doctor

Once you have completed a medically approved course of study, you will have the right to practice as a doctor in Norway, but this is not the end of your journey. After graduating, you will still need to complete an internship period known as the turnus to gain the necessary clinical experience and licensure. The turnus system is designed to ensure that new doctors have substantial hands-on experience before they are fully licensed.

Turnus Requirements

The turnus typically consists of three main components:

One year of medical experience in internal medicine One year of medical experience in surgery Half a year of experience as a general practitioner

These experiences are structured under the supervision of experienced specialists in their respective fields. The goal is to provide you with a well-rounded understanding of different medical specialties and the practical skills needed to practice as a doctor.

During your turnus, you are encouraged to seek advice from experienced physicians whenever necessary. However, in practice, this may not always be what you envision, as the system can sometimes be less than ideal in ensuring smooth advice-giving.

Obtaining Full Authorization

After completing the turnus, you will be granted full authorization to practice as a doctor in Norway. This is the final step in the licensure process, marking your full acceptance as a medical practitioner in the country.

Continuing Education

Finally, if you wish to become a specialist in a particular field, you will need to continue your education. This can involve additional coursework, residency training, and board certification specific to your chosen specialization.

In summary, becoming a doctor in Norway requires both academic and practical training. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the process effectively and achieve your goal.