About Ross University School of Medicine
Effective healthcare systems are most beneficial when they are representative of the diverse global population. Ross University School of Medicine (Ross Med) has been committed to this principle since its establishment in 1978, equipping students with the essential knowledge and skills required for prosperous careers in the field of medicine.
Established in 1978, Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) stands as one of the most experienced and accomplished Caribbean medical institutions, catering predominantly to students hailing from the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For nearly four decades, RUSM has been equipping its students with the essential groundwork required to embark on successful careers in the field of medicine.
Key Milestones in RUSM’s History:
- 1978: Robert Ross laid the foundation of Ross University School of Medicine, offering Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree programs as a prominent provider of medical education.
- 1981: The inauguration of a modern academic building on the main campus facilitated the commencement of classes and laboratory exercises, marking a significant milestone in RUSM’s growth.
- 2013: A landmark achievement, as the school conferred its 10,000th medical degree to a graduate of Ross University, underscoring the institution’s long-standing commitment to medical education.
- 2015: RUSM unveiled its new Student Center, a flagship building on the Dominica campus that caters to the diverse needs of its student body.
- 2015: A testament to its dedication, RUSM surpassed its previous records by securing over 830 graduates’ residency placements during the 2015 MATCH cycle, a remarkable achievement.
- 2018: Responding to the evolving academic landscape, Ross University temporarily relocated its Basic Sciences campus to Knoxville, TN, and St. Kitts, reflecting its adaptability and commitment to delivering quality education.
- 2019: Embracing new horizons, Ross University School of Medicine moved its Basic Sciences campus to Barbados, marking a strategic shift that underscores its commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment.
Throughout its journey, Ross University School of Medicine has remained dedicated to molding competent medical professionals, reflecting its enduring commitment to excellence in medical education and shaping the future of healthcare.
Why Study MBBS in Ross University School of Medicine
Ross Med offers a comprehensive platform for qualified U.S., Canadian, and international students to acquire the essential knowledge and skills necessary for a successful journey through medical school, securing residency positions, and evolving into compassionate and patient-centered physicians.
Key Highlights of Ross Med:
- 98% Residency Attainment Rate: A remarkable 98% residency attainment rate for the first-time eligible 2022-23 graduates on match day underscores the efficacy of Ross Med’s curriculum. Designed to seamlessly integrate basic sciences into clinical care, the curriculum bridges the transition from medical school to residency.
- CAAM-HP Accreditation: The significance of quality in education is paramount. Ross Med’s graduates are eligible for Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates® (ECFMG®) certification, enabling them to apply for both U.S. and Canadian residencies and licensure.
- Personalized Student Supports: At Ross Med, every student is part of a supportive community. Holistic student support and personalized learning pathways are meticulously designed to foster individual success.
- Immersive Island Experience: The initial two years of medical school are conducted on the captivating island of Barbados. The modern campus offers an immersive and contemporary learning environment that blends classroom experiences with hands-on clinical exposures in the local community.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Ross Med’s commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion in the medical profession is evident. The institution provides aspiring physicians from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue a Doctor of Medicine degree.
- Robust Alumni Network: With a proud alumni base exceeding 15,000 individuals, Ross Med offers a supportive network for its students. Alumni serve as valuable mentors, providing guidance and insights during each student’s Ross Med journey.
MD Program in Ross University School of Medicine
Ross University School of Medicine’s educational program is built upon a set of competency areas that serve as objectives for students to demonstrate upon graduation. These objectives are aligned with the curriculum, institutional values, and the core competencies of ACGME (Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education).
Key Competency Areas:
Patient Care:
- Proficiently recognize clinical presentations of common diseases and injuries.
- Attain clinical knowledge across major disciplines.
- Perform technical procedures and interpret diagnostic results.
- Construct differential diagnoses and management strategies for common conditions.
- Identify and initiate immediate therapy for life-threatening conditions.
Medical Knowledge:
- Understand body structure, organ systems, and their functions.
- Describe mechanisms of disease causes and manifestations.
- Recognize disease determinants and socio-behavioral factors.
- Grasp epidemiology and strategies for reducing disease incidence.
- Apply knowledge of pain management and palliative care.
- Address infectious disease risk reduction.
Interpersonal Skills and Communication:
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Exhibit cultural and gender-specific communication proficiency.
- Engage in written and verbal exchanges with colleagues and patients.
- Collaborate within healthcare teams and maintain comprehensive records.
Systems-based Practice:
- Navigate diverse healthcare settings and systems.
- Understand healthcare organization, financing, and delivery.
- Coordinate patient care, considering cost and risk.
- Advocate for quality patient care systems and interprofessional collaboration.
- Uphold professional standards and ethical considerations.
Professionalism:
- Demonstrate compassion, integrity, and respect.
- Uphold professionalism in interactions with patients and colleagues.
- Advocate for patient interests and access to care.
- Exhibit accountability, reliability, and self-regulation.
- Cultivate sensitivity to diverse patient populations.
Practice-based Learning and Improvement:
- Analyze and evaluate patient care, assimilate evidence, and improve based on learning.
- Recognize knowledge and skill limitations and seek improvement.
- Set learning goals and engage in relevant activities.
- Utilize quality improvement methods for practice enhancement.
- Incorporate formative feedback into practice.
Interprofessional Collaboration:
- Collaborate effectively within interprofessional teams.
- Respect and communicate with healthcare professionals and agencies.
- Integrate knowledge of roles for holistic patient care.
Personal and Professional Development:
- Cultivate self-awareness and seek assistance when needed.
- Employ healthy coping mechanisms for stress.
- Balance personal and professional responsibilities.
- Adapt to change and exhibit leadership skills.
- Manage ambiguity and uncertainty in healthcare.
Ross University School of Medicine’s curriculum centers on these competency areas, fostering a comprehensive education that molds students into proficient and compassionate physicians capable of contributing to diverse healthcare environments.
Admission Process to Study MBBS in Ross University School of Medicine
Step 1: Admissions Requirements
- Review the detailed admissions requirements for guidance on starting and completing your medical school application.
- It is recommended to take the Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®) before applying to medical school. However, MCAT scores can also be added after submitting the application.
Step 2: Complete the Application
- Utilize the online application provided by Ross University School of Medicine or choose to apply through established application services.
- Options include the American Medical College Application Service® (AMCAS®), the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine® Application Service (AACOMAS), or the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service (TMDSAS).
- Upload your common application, following the specified instructions.
Step 3: Supplemental Documents
- Forward any required supplemental documents to the admissions team.
- Note that while unofficial documents can initiate the medical school application process, official documents must be received before the commencement of classes.
Documents Required for Ross University School of Medicine Admission
To fulfill medical school admission requirements, a complete application package should comprise the following components:
- A duly filled RUSM application form.
- Official transcripts from every college or professional school attended.
- Personal Statement with a word limit of 750 or less. AMCAS, AACOMAS, or TMDSAS personal statements can be utilized.
- A minimum of two official letters of recommendation, treated confidentially and retained by RUSM. These should consist of at least one academic reference from a pre-medical professor familiar with the applicant’s academic capability or a reference from a college pre-health advisory committee. The second letter can be either another academic reference or a reference from a healthcare-experienced physician. An alternative is a character reference from an employer or volunteer activity. All letters must be on proper letterhead, contain contact details, and sent directly from the recommender to RUSM’s Admissions Office.
- Submission of Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores.
- For individuals with coursework completed outside the United States and Canada, a foreign transcript evaluation is required.
Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) considers a comprehensive set of factors in its admission requirements, emphasizing qualities beyond GPA and MCAT scores. The selection process aims to identify well-rounded individuals equipped to handle the multifaceted challenges of the medical profession and prioritize patient care.
- Medical school course prerequisites should have been met within the last 10 years and encompass subjects such as Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, General Biology or Zoology, Physics, Mathematics, and English.
- Specific medical school prerequisites are evaluated individually, with substitutions and exceptions at the discretion of the Admissions Dean and Faculty Admissions Committee.
- GPA requirements for medical school encompass cumulative GPA and GPA in pre-medical coursework. RUSM’s evaluation approach extends beyond GPA alone.
- A bachelor’s degree or higher is necessary for consideration, with the undergraduate institution and curriculum competitiveness taken into account.
- Graduate work performance, if applicable, is also considered in the evaluation process.
- MCAT scores are mandatory, with RUSM requiring all applicants to take the Medical College Admissions Test. While the average MCAT score for students entering medical school at RUSM is 495, acceptances occur both above and below this threshold based on a candidate’s GPA and other relevant factors.
- Applications to RUSM can be made before taking the MCAT; however, scores must be submitted before the interview stage.
- For individuals who took the previous version of the MCAT, scores are accepted for up to five years after the test date.
The Barbados campus of Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) has been thoughtfully designed to offer a contemporary learning environment that equips today’s aspiring medical professionals with the skills and knowledge to meet the intricate demands of their future patients. Central to the facility’s offerings are the cutting-edge clinical learning laboratories, which provide a hands-on, immersive experience for students.
Anatomy & Radiology Imaging Lab
Within Ross Med’s campus, students gain exposure to advanced medical imaging technology, utilizing tools like touchscreen monitors and digital anatomy tables. These innovations facilitate the comprehensive review of anatomical and radiological images, encompassing both normal and abnormal pathological and diagnostic representations. This dynamic classroom setting allows students to analyze medical images, including MRIs, X-rays, and CT scans, fostering the ability to make accurate diagnoses and determine appropriate treatment plans for patients.
Simulation Labs
Ross Med’s facilities closely replicate a typical hospital environment, each outfitted with state-of-the-art medical technologies and Human Patient Simulators. These simulators enable students to engage in intricate, lifelike patient scenarios, fostering the development of their clinical reasoning, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. This simulated hands-on experience helps bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical patient care.
Exam Rooms
Designed to mimic real outpatient settings, the exam rooms at Ross Med provide students with the opportunity to practice within an environment closely resembling contemporary medical exam rooms. These rooms are fully equipped to simulate medical scenarios involving standardized patients. Through these simulations, students refine their skills in history-taking, examination techniques, and communication, ensuring they are well-prepared for their clinical interactions in the future.
Beyond the academic sphere, the student experience at RUSM in Barbados is enriched by the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. From the picturesque white sand beaches to the charming colonial-style buildings in Bridgetown, Barbados offers a blend of stunning landscapes and historical sites, creating a unique backdrop for students’ educational journey.
Shopping
The residential area of Ross University School of Medicine Barbados features a conveniently located grocery store at The Villages of Coverley. Here, students can find a diverse range of familiar brands from their home countries, along with locally-sourced fresh produce and specialty items. The store caters to various dietary preferences, offering gluten-free, allergen-friendly, and organic options. Additionally, students can explore the nearby local shopping options for their everyday needs.
Campus Dining Services
The campus offers dining options to suit diverse tastes. The Coffee Bean and Island Caterer’s Cafeteria, situated at the LESC, provide convenient dining choices. If you’re a fan of Starbucks Coffee, you’ll find it within walking distance. Moreover, Sky Mall boasts a food court with a variety of culinary delights, including pizza and Caribbean cuisine, enhancing the dining experience for students.
Modern Amenities
Ross Med’s campus boasts more than just educational facilities. On-site, you’ll discover restaurants and salons, providing added convenience to students. Beyond the campus, students have easy access to local tourist destinations, places of worship, a range of chain stores, and restaurants. Transportation options ensure accessibility to both the campus and the surrounding areas.
Transportation
The Barbados campus offers a dedicated bus system, providing transportation services to and from various designated locations on the island. Additionally, a dedicated parking garage on campus ensures that students and staff have convenient parking options, further enhancing accessibility.
As a student at Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM), you have the flexibility to choose your accommodation based on your preferences and needs. Here are the housing options and features available to you:
On-Campus Family-Friendly Residences:
- The Villages of Coverley: RUSM offers student housing within The Villages of Coverley, where you have the choice to live on campus or off campus.
- Family Housing: If you’re living with a partner, child, or dependent, you have the option of specially discounted 3-bedroom family units. These units are designed to accommodate up to 2 adults and a total of 5 people, subject to specific criteria.
Roommate Assignments:
- Students are assigned roommates based on eligibility, compatibility, and availability.
- Same-gender roommates are assigned, and living arrangements depend on the occupancy of 3- or 4-bedroom units.
Housing Rates:
- RUSM Housing offers tiered pricing based on the type of room and amenities:
- Tier 1: Bedroom and private bath in 3BR unit = $5,082
- Tier 2: Bedroom and private bath in 4BR unit = $4,872
- Tier 3: Bedroom and shared bath in 3BR unit = $4,452
- Tier 4: Bedroom and shared bath in 4BR unit = $4,242
- Family Pricing: 3BR unit with private bath = $7,875, inclusive of utility credit.
Perks of On-Campus Housing:
- Complimentary daily shuttle to and from campus for students.
- Affordable rent with no deposit required.
- Complimentary $125/month credit for electricity, water, and internet.
- Fully furnished housing, including appliances and dishes.
- 24/7 onsite security for your safety.
- Access to student group meeting space, student lounge, and on-site campus offices.
- On-site RUSM events and intramural sports.
- Convenient location with amenities within The Villages of Coverley.
Living Off Campus:
- While most students choose on-campus housing, you also have the option to explore alternative off-campus housing.
- It’s important to note that certain perks are exclusively available to students residing within RUSM Housing, such as the shuttle service, rent benefits, utilities credit, and more.
As you embark on your medical education journey at RUSM, the choice of accommodation is tailored to meet your individual preferences, offering convenience, security, and a supportive community.
1.Is Barbados good for MBBS?
Yes, it is good for MBBS because it has low and affordable MBBS with a good environment and it has some universities approved by the NMC and WHO.