["Other study programs" at university medical schools in Germany]

Traditionally medical and dental study programs in Germany are carried out by the medical schools of the universities. In the context of the specialization of medicine and the academization of the other health professions, additional study programs have been developed. The dynamics of the development and the federal structure of Germany have led to the current situation, which is difficult to understand. Based on a survey published in November 2007 ("Landkarte Hochschulmedizin") and the analysis of the Internet websites of the 36 medical schools (2008/2009), a summary of the currently offered "other study programs" could be created. The result is that 28 medical schools offer a total of 27 undergraduate programs (B.Sc.), 55 graduate programs (M.Sc.), and about 15 MD (PhD) degree programs. These are not only designed for doctors, but also for other health professionals (for example biologists, nurses). Special attention should be paid to courses carried out in cooperation with other departments from the same or other institutions (universities, colleges and polytechnics), as well as to the integration of specialization opportunities in the second part of the medical studies. The study programs and training courses offered are also predicted to expand and to increasingly involve other health professionals.