UOD – 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) – Established on October 31, 1992, alongside the founding of the University of Duhok ,The College of Medicine has grown into a leading center for medical education, research, and professional development in the Kurdistan Region.

The College offers medical education leading to qualification as physicians, with a strong focus on developing the knowledge, clinical competencies, and professional values required to serve patients and communities. Over more than three decades, the College has contributed significantly to the region’s healthcare system through the education of generations of medical professionals.

A New Generation of Physicians

To date, the College of Medicine has graduated 1,625 physicians, including 764 female and 861 male graduates. During the 2025–2026 academic year, the College has 1,082 students enrolled across six academic grades, including 496 females and 586 males. This academic year, 117 students—62 females and 55 males—are completing their medical education and preparing to enter professional life.

College graduates contribute to the healthcare sector through their work in hospitals and other health institutions, while many continue their professional development through specialization, board certification, and postgraduate studies at national and international universities.

Advancing the Quality of Medical Education

The College has continuously developed its academic and educational systems to meet evolving healthcare needs. The Department of Medical Education was established in 2016, alongside continuous curriculum development, modernization of learning resources, and the expansion of scientific partnerships with national and international institutions.

Since 2008, the College has integrated quality assurance and accreditation systems into its academic development. Since 2018, it has implemented a system-based Integrated Curriculum, designed to help students achieve essential learning outcomes and develop as competent practitioners, professionals, scholars, and scientists.

These efforts have contributed to the College receiving full accreditation from the National Council for Accreditation of Medical Colleges (NCAMC) on September 10, 2023, with accreditation extended until September 10, 2029. The recognition of NCAMC by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) in February 2024 further strengthens the international context of medical education and accreditation in Iraq.

Student Voices: From Medical Students to Future Doctors

For the graduating students, their years at the College have been a journey of scientific learning, personal growth, teamwork, and preparation for a profession centered on service to humanity.

Rayan Abdulazeez reflected on his experience at the College, noting that his medical education helped him build a stronger personality and gain scientific knowledge. As he looks forward to beginning his professional career in hospitals, he shared a message for future students: “You have a long way with ups and downs, but your work is humanitarian, so do your best.”

Maziyar Adil described medicine as a long but rewarding journey, emphasizing its ability to make people’s lives easier. Looking forward to entering professional life and becoming a successful doctor, he expressed his appreciation for the experience and knowledge gained throughout his studies.

For Mohammed Sabah, one of the most valuable aspects of studying medicine was being part of a team and learning the importance of working together. Looking ahead to a career in hospitals and possible higher studies, he encouraged future students to try their best and study well to serve people.

Celebrate the Class of 2026

We invite graduates, families, alumni, students, and the wider University community to explore the College of Medicine Graduation Photo Gallery and celebrate the achievements and memories of the Class of 2026.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE GRADUATION PHOTO GALLERY

University Press Office, 2026
By: Dildar Haji Musa, Fatima Mahmood Ali
Photography by: Ali Habib Habib, Mohammed A. Tahar, Harman Jangeer Ahmed, Mehvan M.Salih