To study medicine and surgery, you must know the suitable WAEC subjects to choose. This article is written to help you know which subjects of science are compulsory for WAEC. We are assisting secondary school students who are preparing for their WAEC exams and have aspirations of entering the field of medicine and surgery.
What is Medicine and Surgery?
Medicine and surgery are disciplines focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases to enhance the health and well-being of individuals. This profession demands a deep knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics. There are other opportunities relating to these fields, such as dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, and biomedical science.
Related Fields of Study
Dentistry: Concentrates on oral and dental health.
Pharmacy: involves the preparation and administration of medications.
Nursing: provides direct patient care and supports doctors.
Biomedical Science: Focuses on research to advance medical knowledge and treatments.
Compulsory WAEC Subjects for Medicine and Surgery
To study medicine and surgery, certain core subjects are essential in the WAEC exam. These include:
1. English Language
2. Mathematics
3. Physics
4. Chemistry
5. Biology
Importance of These Subjects
These core WAEC subjects are crucial because they lay the groundwork for more advanced medical studies. For instance, biology provides a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology, while chemistry and physics help in understanding the chemical and physical processes that are integral to human health.
Also Read: Can I Get My WAEC Result Certificate Online?
9 WAEC Subjects for Medicine and Surgery
To enhance your chances of securing a place in a medical school, it is advisable to include the following nine subjects in your WAEC exams:
1. English Language
2. Mathematics
3. Physics
4. Chemistry
5. Biology
6. A Nigerian Language
7. Agricultural Science or Health Science
8. Civic Education
9. Geography
Also Read: JAMB Subject Combination for Medicine and Surgery
Physical Requirements to study Medicine and Surgery
In addition to academic excellence, certain physical attributes are needed to study medicine and surgery. These include:
Good Eyesight: Critical for performing precise tasks, especially in surgery.
Physical endurance: necessary for coping with the long hours of study and work, particularly during surgical procedures.
Steady Hands: Important for conducting delicate surgical operations.
Additional Considerations
While physical attributes are important, they are not always a prerequisite. However, students should be prepared to meet the physical demands that come with the profession.
Mental Requirements to study Medicine and Surgery
The mental resilience needed for a career in medicine and surgery cannot be overstated. Aspiring medical professionals need:
Strong Analytical Abilities: To solve complex medical problems.
Emotional Resilience: To handle stress and make critical decisions under pressure.
Attention to Detail: Essential in diagnosing and treating patients accurately.
Passion for Continuous Learning: Medicine is a field that requires ongoing education and adaptability to new advancements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on WAEC subjects for medicine and surgery
Is physics compulsory for medicine and surgery?
Yes, physics is a compulsory subject as it provides essential knowledge of the physical principles relevant to the human body and medical equipment.
Is Further Mathematics Compulsory for Medicine and Surgery?
Further mathematics is not mandatory but is advantageous, particularly for students with a strong aptitude in mathematics.
What WAEC Grades Are Needed to Study Medicine and Surgery?
To be eligible for medicine and surgery, you should aim for at least a credit (C6) in compulsory subjects such as English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Is Computer Science Compulsory for Medicine and Surgery?
Computer science is not a compulsory subject, but having basic computer skills is good when looking at the increasing advancement in modern healthcare.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right WAEC subjects is important as it is the first step toward a successful career in medicine and surgery. It’s not just about excelling academically but also about developing the mental and physical attributes necessary for this demanding field. As you prepare, keep in mind that dedication, passion, and perseverance are key. As one educator put it, “The difference between success and failure often lies in belief and persistence.”
By focusing on the essential WAEC subjects for medicine and surgery and understanding the physical and mental requirements, you can set yourself up for success in this challenging yet fulfilling profession.