MBChB Curriculum and Learning Approach

Spiral and integrated design

Content revisited with increasing complexity; early clinical experiences from the first year.

Competency-based

Clinical competence adhering to the requirements of the HPCSA.

Community-based

Rural immersion and longitudinal placements to connect students with real-world contexts.

Teaching methods

Self-directed learning, team-based learning, clinical skills and simulation laboratories, digital integration.

Cross-cutting themes

The person in action; the patient; communities; health systems; self; communication; research; medical ethics; and clinical skills. 

Timeline of curriculum development

The MBChB curriculum was submitted to the Council on Higher Education in July 2025. At present, over 77 medical specialists and 15 subject-matter experts are contributing to developing the micro curriculum. These specialists are within the public and private health sectors in the North West, South Africa and globally. The curriculum is mapped on the LOOOP online solution. The instructional design of the first 18 months' modules and study guides is in progress. 

Read more about the MBChB curriculum