The „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest is a landmark institution in the field of medical education in Romania, with an impressive tradition spanning over 160 years. This university has been the birthplace of generations of doctors, pharmacists, dentists, and healthcare professionals who have made significant contributions to the development of healthcare systems both in Romania and worldwide. Located in the heart of Bucharest, the university benefits from modern infrastructure and international collaborations, making it a unique place for training future professionals in the medical field. Its commitment to academic excellence and scientific research places it among the most prestigious institutions in Eastern Europe, and its graduates are recognized for their thorough education and active involvement in medical practice.

History and Evolution

Founded in 1857 by the French physician Carol Davila, the university is the first institution for higher medical education in Romania. Its creation was influenced by the French model of education, and under Carol Davila’s leadership, it quickly became a center of medical training and research. Over the years, the university has undergone significant transformations, growing from a small medical school to a comprehensive institution that offers programs in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and nursing.

Today, the „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy is one of the most prestigious medical universities in Romania, with a strong tradition of training healthcare professionals of international caliber. It includes several faculties – Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Nursing – further strengthening its role as a leader in medical education and healthcare research in Eastern Europe.

Academic program structure

The university offers an integrated six-year degree program that combines theoretical education with practical training. The curriculum covers foundational subjects such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, and pharmacology, alongside clinical subjects in areas like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, neurology, and dentistry.

In the preclinical years, students work in laboratories equipped with modern technology, while during the clinical years, they gain hands-on experience in affiliated university hospitals in Bucharest, where they are mentored by experienced physicians and specialists.

The university adopts modern teaching methods, including clinical simulations, e-learning platforms, and academic exchange programs with international universities, which allow students to gain exposure to the latest research and practices in healthcare worldwide.

Facilities and infrastructure

The „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy boasts modern infrastructure and a wide range of specialized facilities:

• Advanced Research Laboratories: Equipped with cutting-edge technology to study areas such as genetics, microbiology, and molecular biology.
• Medical Simulation Centers: These centers allow students to practice medical procedures in a controlled environment, using mannequins and simulators.
• Partner Hospitals: Students gain practical experience in renowned hospitals like the Bucharest University Emergency Hospital, Fundeni Clinical Institute, and Coltea Clinical Hospital, which offer diverse clinical cases for training.
• Central Library: The university's library is one of the largest medical libraries in Romania, offering access to thousands of volumes, specialized journals, and international medical databases.

Career prospects and international recognition

The degree awarded by the „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy is recognized worldwide, providing graduates with career opportunities not only in Romania but also in many countries across Europe and beyond. Many of the university's alumni hold prestigious positions in hospitals, research centers, and universities globally.

The university is a member of the European Association of Universities, and its international collaborations offer students opportunities for academic exchange, research involvement, and clinical practice abroad. In addition, the university provides residency programs in various specialties such as general surgery, cardiology, pediatrics, and neurosurgery.