The entrance to the University of Traditional Medicine in Mandalay.

THE University of Traditional Medicine in Mandalay plans to introduce a two-year “bridge” course that will allow holders of diplomas from the Institute of Traditional Medicine to earn a bachelor’s degree at the university, said Prof Dr Aung Myint, the pro-rector of the university.

“We has already drafted the curriculum for the new course and sent it to officials in Nay Pyi Taw for permission,” he said.

“Once we get permission we will offer it as a regular course. I think we’ll be able to start offering it in the 2008-2009 academic year,” he said, adding that there were currently about 1200 diploma holders from the institute.

Dr Aung Myint said the university had previously offered a one-time bridge course for government staff but the new course would be offered regularly and would be open to everyone.

“The idea to offer a regular bridge course leading to a bachelor of Myanmar traditional medicine (BMTM) degree was suggested at a seminar on the development of Myanmar traditional medicine in July,” he said, adding that there are also plans to start a master’s program at the university as well.

The University of Traditional Medicine in Mandalay was established in 2001 and offers five-year bachelor’s programs. The annual intake of students is about 200.