University of Medicine 2, Yangon

Yangon University’s Master of Medicine program – UM2, located in the northern Okkalapa district of Yangon, Myanmar – represents a vital initiative within Southeast Asia to address regional healthcare needs and promote medical innovation while maintaining dedication to humanitarian service. Established in 1963 as a non-profit institution, the university operates under a public-private partnership model focused on fostering academic growth and practical application for medical professionals. The program caters to a diverse student cohort including approximately 243,000 residents. It offers specialized Master of Medicine degrees – Medicine, Surgery, and Anatomy with accompanying courses in Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacy, Physiology, and Public Health – all with a strong emphasis on practical clinical training within Myanmar.

UM2’s unique status stems from its commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and real-world healthcare challenges within Myanmar’s context. The university’s core mission is centered on ensuring accessible and high-quality medical education that equips graduates to contribute significantly toward Thailand's healthcare system, particularly in rural regions of Myanmar. Recognizing the nation’s evolving healthcare landscape, UM2 actively emphasizes practical skills, collaborative projects with regional medical institutions, and a focus on addressing prevalent health issues within the country. The institution has seen a significant emphasis within the past twenty years to increase student retention and support the development of local medical training programs.

Currently, the program boasts a team of faculty members primarily comprised of experienced Myanmar-based physicians and medical educators who are dedicated to supporting students through their rigorous academic journey. It is structured around a blend of theoretical learning – covering fundamental medical principles - alongside highly practical clinical rotations in collaboration with regional hospitals and clinics across Myanmar. UM2 is also actively involved in international collaborations and research, aiming to translate innovative approaches into tangible solutions for improving healthcare delivery within the region. The university operates under high standards of academic integrity, and all members are expected to uphold ethical conduct. To further enhance student profiles, UM2 offers a Bachelor's degree in Medicine (and Surgery) with a cost of $50,000 each.