New Zealand training programme for specialist dermatologists

Definition of specialty

Dermatology is the study and treatment of diseases of the skin.

General information

Dermatologists are specialist doctors vocationally registered by the Medical Council of New Zealand. Training in New Zealand consists of the following steps:

1. Medical school – a 6-year course to qualify as a doctor, based at Auckland University or Otago University .
2. House officer at a public hospital – 1-3 years to gain experience as a junior doctor in various departments.
3. Medical registrar at a public hospital – 1-3 years training and experience in internal medicine.
4. Written and clinical Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) part 1 examinations in internal medicine.
5. Advanced training in dermatology at a New Zealand public hospital – 2 years training and experience.
6. Advanced training in dermatology in an approved overseas centre – 2 years in general and subspecialist units in the United Kingdom, United States or Australia.
7. Award of Fellowship – FRACP
8. Postfellowship training in dermatological surgery is optional.

Current trainees

RACP Dermatology.

Prospective trainees

For detailed information about training in dermatology in New Zealand, contact the Royal Australasian College of Physicians or check out the College web site.

Requirements for Vocational Registration in Dermatology in New Zealand for local and overseas trained physicians can be obtained from the Medical Council of New Zealand.

Supervising Committee

Advanced Training Committee in Dermatology
Royal Australasian College of Physicians
PO Box10-601, Wellington 6011
New Zealand
Phone +64 4 472-6713. Fax +64 4 472-6718

Basic Training

Advanced training in dermatology is undertaken after basic training in Internal Medicine has been completed. Basic training lasts three years and must be accredited by the Royal Australasian College of Physicians. To enter advanced training in dermatology, a pass of the Fellowship examination is required.

Advanced training in dermatology

The website of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians includes the Dermatology curriculum (PDF download).

Special Society

New Zealand Dermatological Society

Please Note: Advice relating to training requirements should be sought from the Specialist Advisory Committee through the College Office.