MNU Launches Three New Health Degrees to Tackle Critical Workforce Shortages

The Maldives National University (MNU) has introduced three new undergraduate degree programmes designed to fill critical gaps in the nation's healthcare workforce. The university is now accepting applications for the BSc in Paramedics, BSc (Hons) in Speech Language Pathology, and a Bachelor in Occupational Therapy. Launched during a ceremony attended by senior university leadership, including Vice Chancellor Dr. Aishath Shehenaz and the Dean of the Faculty of Health and Sciences Dr. Aishath Shanoora, the initiatives aim to reduce the country's reliance on foreign specialists in allied health fields. Vice Chancellor Dr. Shehenaz described the new curriculum as a strategic investment in the future of the Maldivian health sector. She emphasized that strengthening these specific professional pipelines is a significant achievement for the university and a vital step toward a more resilient domestic healthcare system. The Paramedics programme is a three-year course spanning six semesters, focusing specifically on emergency pre-hospital care. Meanwhile, the Speech Language Pathology and Occupational Therapy programmes are four-year degrees. The former trains specialists in communication disorders, while the latter focuses on helping patients regain the essential skills required for daily living and independence. Prospective students must hold a minimum of two A-Level passes to be eligible. Those applying for Speech Language Pathology and Occupational Therapy must have completed two science-stream subjects. Additionally, candidates for the Paramedics programme will undergo specific physical and mental assessments to ensure they can meet the demands of emergency response work. MNU confirmed that all three programmes are full-time and have received official accreditation from the Allied Health Council. Interested applicants can now apply through the university's online admissions portal.