Japan is a peaceful island nation situated in Eastern Asia. Even though it encompasses a relatively small region lined with narrow coasts, it is home to more than 127 million people. Its dense population is the result of many factors. For one, during the second half of the 20th century, Japan experienced rapid economic growth and became a leading industrial force in the modern world.
However, its appeal does not come from its industry alone. Its cuisine and art have now spread to almost every nation, while its cultural heritage is envied by many. Because of this, many people opt to begin or even continue their careers in Japan. This article takes a look at how people can become medical doctors in Japan.
What is the Language of Instruction in Teaching Medicine in Japan?
In Japan, medicine is typically taught in Japanese. Most universities and medical schools in Japan impart their knowledge and offer their courses in Japanese, and students are expected to have a high level of proficiency in the Japanese language to succeed in their studies. In Japan, the practice of medicine is deeply rooted in the culture and history of the country. It is, however, not uncommon to come across institutions that offer courses in English for international students.
What is the Average Salary for Doctors in Japan?
For those aspiring doctors who want to pursue a medical career in Japan, expect an annual salary of 21,9150,00 JPY or about 147,88s3 USD. This, however, may depend on the level of experience, new doctors tend to earn less compared to experienced doctors.
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How to Become a Doctor in Japan
Step 1. Get a medical degree
Thus, the first step to becoming a medical doctor in Japan is to study at one of many renowned Japanese universities. Regardless of the Japanese university you apply to, a medical degree will take six years to obtain. In the first two years, students acquaint themselves with the field of medicine, acquiring general medical notions. This is followed by a two-year study of applied medicine and a further two-year medical clerkship at the university hospital. The last two years serve to broaden students’ understanding of medicine and their future medical fields.
Although the application process and medical curriculum are similar to other countries, all future medical students in Japan must be proficient speakers of Japanese. This requires not only knowing conversational Japanese but mastering medical and scientific terms in the language as well. Since this is fairly difficult for non-native speakers, those lacking language proficiency are advised to complete their undergraduate degrees outside of Japan. This way, they remain eligible for a post-graduate medical program in Japan later on.
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Step 2. Apply and pass the national medical examination
To apply, both foreign and domestic candidates must meet certain requirements. For one, a potential candidate must have completed a medical program before applying for the exam. In other words, foreign medical practitioners who are licensed in the country they graduated from are also considered eligible to take the exam and may apply freely.
However, on its own, a medical degree will be insufficient when applying for the examination. Another requirement is language proficiency. Thus, each participant must have at least an N1 level proficiency in Japanese, as everything below will not qualify them for the examination.
Step 3. Complete a residency program upon graduation
After they have completed their medical examination, the next step to becoming a medical doctor in Japan is to complete a two-year residency program. This can be done at either a university hospital or one that is affiliated with it.
Before applying to a residency program, medical graduates need to select their preferred area of interest. This will be the first step to their medical specializations. Nevertheless, it is important to note that medical residency in Japan is quite competitive. Thus, applicants will be judged on their medical ability as well as their academic careers. Another crucial factor in securing the residency of choice is also letters of recommendation written by former professors and colleagues.
Step 4. Obtain a medical license
To do so, all eligible candidates must pass the National Medical Practitioners Examination. This is crucial for everyone who wants to become a doctor in Japan. The examination will require both language proficiency and adequate medical knowledge and training. Thus, it does not differ greatly from other medical licensing exams around the world.
Upon passing the examination, an individual immediately becomes a licensed medical doctor in Japan. Nevertheless, before seeking employment or opening a solo practice, each practitioner will need to complete a two-year residency program at a university-affiliated hospital in Japan.
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Step 5. Begin your medical career in Japan
On the one hand, there is the possibility of opening a private practice, as these are quite scarce in Japan, especially in the realm of psychiatry.
Another option is to seek employment in a Japanese hospital. However, this route will not be particularly easy. Namely, securing a hospital position in Japan will require academic excellence as well as solid connections and recommendations. Thus, native candidates with stellar recommendations and a developed network of connections will have the upper hand.
Nevertheless, there is also a third option when seeking medical employment in Japan. Namely, from time to time, hospitals in larger Japanese cities wish to employ English-speaking practitioners – a position ideal for foreign medical doctors. Thus, anyone wishing to practice medicine in Japan should keep an eye out for these types of job openings.
Step 6. Apply for a work visa
This applies to practitioners coming from outside Japan. Upon arrival, medical doctors will need to apply for a work visa before seeking employment. In the majority of cases, medical professionals will fall under the standard work visa, making the application process fairly straightforward.
All practitioners will need to complete a visa application form and submit their passport, a recent photograph, and a written letter from their employer with salary specifications. In addition to this, all applicants will need to provide a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) as well.
In conclusion, becoming a medical doctor in Japan requires a rigorous process that involves obtaining a medical degree, passing the national medical examination, completing a residency program, and which culminates with the acquisition of a medical license. These steps provide a clear roadmap for individuals interested in pursuing a medical career in Japan and are committed to being renowned physicians in their specialty of choice. If you are considering pursuing your medical studies in Japan, check the procedures and requirements necessary for enrolling in a Japanese university.
We hope that you found this article on how to become a doctor in Japan informative and helpful. Additionally, if you are thinking of exploring educational opportunities in Japan, then these open courses would be a good start. You can also explore the various top universities and scholarship opportunities on the Study in Japan page!
