About University of the West Indies Faculty of Medicine

The Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS) embarked on its illustrious journey as the primary institution for medical education in the Commonwealth Caribbean back in 1948. This venture took shape with the establishment of the Medical Faculty at the Mona Campus in Kingston, Jamaica. Originally founded as an overseas College affiliated with the University of London, the inception of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Mona marked the genesis of what would eventually evolve into the University of the West Indies (UWI) in 1962. Notably, this was the first faculty to be established within the burgeoning UWI.

Expanding its horizons, the Faculty of Medical Sciences embarked on a transformative trajectory. By 1967, under the Eastern Caribbean Medical Scheme, it embraced clinical training at two pivotal institutions—Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados and the Port of Spain General Hospital in Trinidad and Tobago. A significant milestone arrived in 1989 with the inauguration of the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex at Mount Hope in Trinidad and Tobago. This remarkable complex ushered in UWI’s second full-fledged medical school, housed within a multifaceted Faculty encompassing Schools of Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Veterinary Medicine.

Evolving further, the journey led to the year 2008. The Cave Hill Campus witnessed the elevation and expansion of its 40-year-old clinical program in the School of Clinical Medicine and Research. This program attained full faculty status, with a Phase 1 program spanning three years. With time, postgraduate programs spanning various medical specialties sprouted across all campuses. The Cave Hill Campus, in particular, distinguished itself with robust clinical specialty programs leading to the DM in hospital-based specialties, as well as Diplomas, Masters, and DM in Family Medicine. An initiative in 2008 led to the inception of the Masters in Public Health program, and more recently, the introduction of a PhD program in Public Health.

Presently, the University of the West Indies stands as a truly global institution. It serves as the primary hub of tertiary education for 14 Caribbean (CARICOM) countries, while also welcoming a growing contingent of international students. In a momentous achievement, the Medical Program gained accreditation in 2006 from the Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and Other Health Professions (CAAM-HP).

In this ever-evolving landscape, the Faculty of Medical Sciences remains steadfast in its pivotal role—cultivating and nurturing healthcare professionals for the entire region. This encompassing endeavor spans the spectrum, from undergraduate training to postgraduate education and continuing medical development. With an indomitable spirit, the Faculty continues to shape the destiny of healthcare across the Caribbean and beyond.

Age Requirements:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old by December 30 of the year of entry.

Admissions: a) Applications must be submitted to the Campus registrar, The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus by the end of the second week of January each year. b) Students who previously withdrew from the program may be considered for readmission after a one-year lapse. c) Applicants must meet both the general matriculation requirements of the University and the specific requirements of the Faculty of Medical Sciences for entry to the MBBS program.

General Entry Requirements:

• Entry to the MBBS program is competitive, and meeting the qualifications does not guarantee acceptance.
• Minimum of five (5) CSEC CXC subjects (grades I-III) and/or GCE ‘O’ Levels (grades A-C), including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
• Passes in two two-units of Biology/Zoology, Chemistry, and one other two-unit CAPE or A’ Level subject.
• Applications may be considered based on the following categories:

Transfers from UWI:

• Transfer applicants from UWI’s Faculties of Pure and Applied Sciences may be considered after completing the first year/Phase 1 of the program.
• Qualification for entry is based on performance in Chemistry, Biology, and another subject.

Applicants Holding UWI Science Degrees:

• Holders of UWI first degrees from the Faculties of Pure and Applied Sciences with a minimum of lower second-class honors may be considered.

Applicants Holding Degrees from Other Universities:

• Degrees from recognized universities may be considered.
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or its equivalent is required.

Associate Degrees:

• Triple major associate degree holders from approved Community Colleges with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or greater may be considered.

Equivalent Qualifications:

• Applications may be considered from individuals with equivalent qualifications deemed by the Faculty.

Non-Academic Considerations:

• Applicants must submit a 250-300-word autobiographical summary explaining their career choice.
• Involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, and social projects in the year before application is valued.
• Evidence of involvement and achievements must be certified and documented.
• Rounded individuals with leadership qualities, social awareness, and excellence in various areas are sought.
• Authenticity of submitted information is crucial; falsified submissions may lead to withdrawal of offers or dismissal.
• Sustained involvement in a few activities over time is preferred over recent engagement in multiple areas.

Fees are quoted in Barbados Dollars (BBD)

BBD$2.00 = USD$1.00

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The Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS) at Cave Hill Campus boasts a spectrum of well-appointed facilities that cater to the diverse needs of its students and staff. These resources provide a nurturing environment that fosters holistic learning and research endeavors, allowing individuals to thrive in their medical education journey.

FMS Laboratory & Teaching Complex

A cornerstone of the campus, the FMS Laboratory & Teaching Complex stands as a testament to innovation and progress. Unveiled in a momentous ceremony on October 22, 2009, the three-story edifice is a hub of educational excellence. Within its walls, a 200-person capacity lecture theatre welcomes learners to engage with transformative content. Multimodal and multidisciplinary teaching labs pave the way for hands-on exploration, while state-of-the-art research labs cater to the scientific curiosity of the Faculty’s investigators. The modular research facility is thoughtfully designed to accommodate the diverse needs of basic science discovery efforts. Equipped with core research equipment, this space propels the scientific pursuits of FMS’s esteemed scientific teams.

FMS Administrative Offices, Victor Cooke Building

Nestled within the Victor Cooke Building, the FMS Administrative Offices provide a nexus of coordination and administration. Once known as the Main Administration Building of Cave Hill Campus, this storied structure was infused with new life during the 50th Anniversary celebrations of the campus in 2013. The offices house key figures such as the Dean, faculty members, and administrative staff. This hub ensures that the operational backbone of the Faculty remains strong and efficiently managed.

Lecture Halls

FMS’s commitment to immersive learning experiences is reflected in its lecture halls. Alongside the sprawling 200-person capacity theater in the FMS building, the Cave Hill Campus hosts three dedicated lecture halls—LR6, LR10, and LR11. These venues stand as testaments to the collaborative atmosphere cultivated by the Faculty. Equipped with audiovisual resources, these lecture halls serve as dynamic spaces where knowledge is imparted, questions are explored, and intellectual growth is nurtured.

Laboratory Space

The FMS laboratory space, strategically situated within the expansive FMS building, is a hub of experiential learning. Designed to cater to various disciplines, this facility houses dedicated areas for Anatomy, Histology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Physiology, and Pharmacology labs. These hands-on environments allow students to engage with the intricacies of their chosen fields, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Library and Connectivity

The Cave Hill Campus Library extends its welcoming embrace to FMS students, offering a wealth of resources to enrich their academic journey. A dedicated computer lab provides students with internet access, fostering a realm of digital exploration. Campus-wide Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity both inside and outside classrooms, enhancing the accessibility of knowledge and collaboration.

Errol Walrond Building, Clinical Skills Complex

A recent addition to the FMS landscape is the Errol Walrond Building, housing the Clinical Skills Complex. A once Ministry of Health property, this space was acquired by the University to bolster clinical teaching programs. Following a comprehensive refurbishment, the building became a bastion of learning in 2012. Named in honor of the venerable Sir Errol R. Walrond, a distinguished figure in the University’s history, this complex serves as a thriving hub of activity. It houses seminar rooms, medical laboratories, a well-stocked medical library, and an inviting student lounge laden with amenities. The Clinical Skills Complex not only nurtures learning but also emphasizes security, with electronic surveillance and 24-hour manned security ensuring a safe environment.

Within this dynamic tapestry of facilities, the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Cave Hill Campus weaves a narrative of transformative education. Each corner of this campus offers a unique opportunity for growth, collaboration, and exploration, fostering a generation of medical professionals equipped to make a meaningful impact on the world.

The Cave Hill Campus offers three distinct Halls of Residence to accommodate its students:

Frank Worrell Hall:

• Consisting of 180 single study rooms in suites of six, distributed across ten three-storey blocks within three clusters.
• Each cluster shares common facilities, including a sub warden’s apartment and a laundry unit.
• The central hub of communal life is the Junior Common Room (JCR), fostering a family-like atmosphere.
• Nestled on a knoll, the hall provides panoramic views of the campus and the distant Caribbean Sea.
• Architecturally inspired by Barbadian style, featuring natural ventilation and modest overhangs.
• Study rooms are equipped with essentials, including a bed, built-in desk, wardrobe, and face basins.
• Communal spaces on each floor enhance the community experience.

Philip Sherlock Hall

• The pioneering hall on campus, accommodating approximately 90 students.
• Conveniently situated near the Cafeteria, the Guild of Students, and the Student Clinic.
• Known as Sherlockites, the residents celebrate a tight-knit family culture.
• Hall floors are named as Olympus, Sparta, Melange, Utopia, and Synergy.

Keith Hunte Hall

• Located on University Drive and Highway 1, providing easy access to amenities and the main city.
• The hall’s design accommodates three blocks, with one block currently completed, housing 64 single rooms in suites of 4.
• Each floor is arranged in 4 clusters, accommodating 4 students each, with shared facilities like a spacious kitchen, living and dining area, and bathrooms.
• Residents, known as Hunters, have cultivated a unique Hall culture.
• Floor names include The Kingdom of Zion, The Zulu Kingdom, The Roman Empire, and The Mongolian Kingdom.

Advantages/Features of Accommodation

• Convenient proximity to key locations, including Bridgetown, beaches, and the Kensington Oval.
• Round-the-clock campus security for a safe environment.
• Complimentary internet connectivity.
• On-site laundry facilities operated by tokens.
• Access to the campus cafeteria and shuttle services.
• Parking facilities available.
• During vacations, students seeking to stay in residence must obtain permission from the Halls Administrator and pay in advance.

Halls Administration Office

• Located within Frank Worrell Hall, the office operates on weekdays from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm.
• Token purchases and mail collection available between specific hours.

These Halls of Residence at Cave Hill Campus offer students a diverse range of living options, each with its unique advantages and community spirit.

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.