1. General Information:
David Tvildiani Medical University LLC
Ljublana Street №13/ Mikheil Chiaureli street №6, Tbilisi, 0159, Georgia
David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU, until 2011 – AIETI Medical School) was founded and functions from the 1992-1993 academic year. The foundation is related to an idea of importance of international cooperation in education generally, and particularly in medical education. Founding of a new, different and alternative medical school in Georgia (as well as the whole post-Soviet space) gave a unique opportunity to its founders and its academic society to influence medical education system, bring up professionals who will successfully implement all the functions of physicians of future. Academic integrity and ethical principles were both foundational principles as well as objective for the DTMU.
The MD programme is accredited by an agency recognized by the World Federation for Medical Education (Georgian Center for Educational Quality Enchancement), the University is in the World Directory of Medical Schools and our graduates (Georgians and foreign students) are formally allowed to apply for residency programmes in any country (e.g. USA, European countries, etc.). At the same time, the knowledge and skills obtained during the study period gives the graduates an opportunity to pass the preferred residency related exams within the clinical stage of studies. These exams include USMLE for USA, PLAB for the UK, and the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination for practice in India.
Increasing opportunities of learning for the students is one of our key priorities. We provide latest educational resources to ensure individual and group learning of students, including latest educational materials, English language literature, access to scientific resources important for biomedical sciences, opportunities to work in organized manner in small groups at ambulatory and hospital environments to enhance clinical skills and obtain educational practice, so that each student has an opportunity and access to patients for their learning. We also provide access to modern e-learning resources, such as virtual patients for their learning, practicing and self-evaluation; PBL sessions for group-work; classes to develop and assess clinical skills, etc. To provide feedback and identify progress of students their educational activities are monitored and assessed using the latest, valid and precise assessment methods/tools available in medical education.
Organizational structure of the program and interdisciplinary teaching approach (arranged around human body systems) support students` learning process. This facilitates learning of basic, fundamental biomedical sciences in the context of clinical application (for example in cardiovascular system students learn relevant anatomy, histology, physiology, etc. including clinical diagnosis and pharmacology).
Strategies of teaching and learning are student-centered, directed self-learning, promoting; integrated (deep-learning); understandable learning objectives; use of spiral curriculum; structured around educational module.
DTMU operates two campuses in Georgia: one in Tbilisi and the other in the city of Rustavi.
2. Academic Calendar & Organization of Study
An academic year in DTMU is considered a period from the first September of each year till the 31 August (including) of the next year. Each academic year consists of 2 semesters: Fall and Spring semester, including winter and summer holidays. Each semester consists of 20 weeks. There is also two weeks’ period between them for re-examination of oral and quiz exams. Winter holidays usually continue for at least 2 weeks and summer holidays – at least one month. Teaching runs for 6 days a week, usually (sessions) from 9 a.m. till 6 p.m.
Day offs:
31 December, 1 and 2 January – New Year holidays;
7 January – the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ;
The day next to Easter, Monday – All Sole’s Day – (Dates are transitional);
26 May – Independence Day of Georgia;
28 August – Dormition of The Theotokos (Assumption Day);
23 November – St. George’s Day.
3. Language Requirements
* information below is general for all international students enrolling in DTMU Medical Doctor (English) programme.
For successful participation, foreign students must hold an internationally recognized certificate confirming at least a B1 level of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, UNIcert®, EnglishScore). However, applicants from English-speaking countries or those who have received an English-language education may present relevant documentation (such as attestations or certificates) in place of this requirement.
4. Class Structure & Scheduling
The academic program for each discipline or module unit is typically outlined by the head of the subject, unless otherwise specified within the program. The educational program includes various units, such as lectures, seminars, exercises, laboratory work, practical training.
Students are required to complete all program units as described in the course syllabi. Absences from scheduled units may be excused with proper documentation, and students must arrange to make up missed hours. Recovery of missed work may be in the original format or an alternate format designated by the instructor (e.g., seminar work).
Lectures, generally led by professors and associate professors, are designed to support comprehension of the course material and the overall module. They provide a structured presentation to facilitate a deep understanding of the subject.
Seminars expand upon the topics covered in lectures and introduce new scientific insights, aiming to develop and deepen the understanding of the discipline.
Practical training sessions provide focused practice to enhance theoretical knowledge and skill mastery in the subject.
Tutorials offer guidance within the determined content framework and teaching methods. They support academic progress in scientific, research, and professional activities and may substitute other teaching formats or aid in exam preparation.
The professional practice component reinforces knowledge and skills through real-world application and introduces new learning. Details for organizing professional practice are managed by the Dean according to university regulations.
Daily classes consist of four academic hours, with each academic hour lasting 45 minutes.
5. Course Completion & Grading System
At David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU), the Medical Doctor (MD) program follows a rigorous assessment framework to ensure that students are comprehensively evaluated in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills throughout their studies.
Below are the main aspects of the course completion requirements:
Assessment Framework
Most courses involve continuous assessments, including daily activities and scheduled quizzes, throughout the semester. These assessments are crucial for gauging ongoing comprehension and practical skills.
At the end of each semester or module stage, final exams assess students’ cumulative knowledge. To be eligible for these exams, students must maintain a minimum ongoing assessment grade of “E” across all components of the course.
Credit System
Students generally earn 60 credits per academic year, capped at a maximum of 75 credits, with each credit corresponding to 30 hours of work (mostly 15 contact hours and 15 independent study hours).
A “credit” must be obtained to complete most courses, which often involves passing a final assessment and achieving satisfactory performance in ongoing evaluations. Credits are necessary for both academic progression and course completion.
Examination and Retakes
Each student has two attempts to pass the final exam (an initial examination and a re-examination, if needed). Final examination dates are predetermined by the study department, with exceptions allowed only under exceptional circumstances authorized by the Dean.
Program Stages
The MD program is divided into three main stages:
Stage I: Focuses on theoretical (basic) medical education with an emphasis on understanding human health issues. Assessments include both ongoing and final evaluations to ensure competency before progressing.
Stage II: Centers on clinical medicine, where practical assessments occur in clinical settings, ensuring students are evaluated on real-world medical scenarios and patient interactions.
Stage III: Involves clinical clerkship, with minimal theoretical sessions. Students are assessed based on their performance in practical clinical situations and their ability to meet patient needs.
Qualifying Examinations
Key medical disciplines such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Neurology require qualifying exams to ensure readiness for professional practice. These exams, assessed by a commission of faculty and experts, are mandatory for progression within the program.
Grading and Scoring
DTMU uses a 100-point grading scale, broken down into both positive and negative assessments:
Positive Grades: Range from “A” (91% and above) to “E” (51-60%), with “E” being the minimum passing grade.
Negative Grades: Include “FX” (41-50%) for students who may retake the assessment and “F” (40% or below), requiring the student to repeat the course.
A student’s final course grade includes scores from various components, with the final exam contributing approximately 40% to the total score.
This structured assessment system at DTMU is designed to align with the rigorous standards of medical education, ensuring that students not only acquire but also demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary for clinical practice.
6. Transcript of Records
Upon completion of the course at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU), exchange student will receive an official transcript. This document includes detailed information on the courses completed, final results, and corresponding ECTS credits.
The transcript is provided in English to facilitate international academic and professional recognition. Students will receive the document in both hard copy and digital formats, and a copy will also be sent to the student’s home university within one month of program completion.
This comprehensive transcript serves as an official record of academic achievements at DTMU and is an essential document for further studies or professional applications.
7. Confirmation of Study Period
A confirmation of study period is issued at the beginning and end of each student’s academic program at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU). The confirmed study period reflects the program’s start date and the official end date.
Erasmus+ and exchange students can obtain this confirmation from the Coordinator’s Office in the Dean’s Office. Students may bring a form from their home institution or use the official form provided by DTMU.
8. Available Courses for Erasmus+ & Exchange Students
Erasmus+ and exchange students at DTMU can enroll in the accredited Medical Doctor (English) program.
About programme:
Upon successful completion of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU), graduates are awarded the degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD).
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) has a total duration of six years. The Basic-Medical and Clinical Sciences course (first five semesters) and the Clinical Medicine course (next five semesters), followed by a Clinical Clerkship during the final year.
The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) is structured to total 360 ECTS credits. This includes:
150 ECTS credits for the Basic-Medical and Clinical Sciences course (first five semesters).
150 ECTS credits for the Clinical Medicine course (next five semesters).
60 ECTS credits for the Clinical Clerkship during the final year.
Please find the link to the MD program (English) below:
9. Orientation Week and Pre-Arrival Guidance
Orientation Week for New Students at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU)
Orientation Day and Orientation Week are designed for the exchange students starting their studies at DTMU.
Before the official start of the semester (classes), the Faculty Dean, key university personnel and the Students’ and Young Scientists’ Scientific Association (SYSSA) will meet with new students to provide essential information about DTMU and the MD program.
During Orientation Week, students will have a meeting with the coordinators in the Dean’s Office, where they will receive all necessary information to prepare for the upcoming semester. This includes:
- Access to the Learning Management System (LMS)
- Class schedules
- E-library and other learning resources
The coordinators will ensure that students are well-prepared for the start of their studies by providing general information, important regulations, and key details regarding their academic journey at DTMU.
DTMU offers various student associations that welcome mobility transfer students to join and participate in organized workshops, training sessions, and other activities. These self-governing bodies, such as the Students’ and Young Scientists’ Scientific Association (SYSSA) and interest groups like the Surgical Interest Group (SIGA), Gynecology Interest Group (GIGA), Student Interest Group in Neurology (SIGN), and the Rehabilitation, Orthopedic Surgery, and Sports Medicine Interest Group (ROSSMIG), provide valuable opportunities for engagement and collaboration.
Further details will be shared via email prior to the orientation, including a schedule of events. Please make sure to check your email for updates!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the Dean’s Office:
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Nino Tabagari
Faculty of Medicine Coordinator, Nana Gugushvili
10. Contact information
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine
Email: dean@aieti.edu.ge
Faculty Coordinator
Email: ngugushvili@dtmu.edu.ge