Weifang Medical University (WMU), a state-owned medical university located in Weifang, Shandong province, China, was founded in 1951. Over its 75-year history, it has grown into a comprehensive medical institution, playing a pivotal role in China’s healthcare education.
A significant milestone was reached in 2023 when it was officially renamed Shandong Second Medical University. The university is a key participant in China’s “Excellent Doctor Education and Training Program” and is recognized as a distinctive Applied Talents Education institution in Shandong Province.
History & Evolution
The university’s history reflects its growth from a regional college to a national institution:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1951 | Founded as a medical university |
| 1958 | Expanded and renamed Changwei Medical College |
| 1986 | Became one of the third batch of universities authorized to confer Master’s degrees |
| 1987 | Renamed Weifang Medical University |
| 2012 | Listed among 36 institutions for the National Ph.D. Talent Cultivation Project; authorized to award doctoral degrees |
| 2013 | Began educating Ph.D. candidates |
| 2023 | Officially renamed Shandong Second Medical University |
| 2024 | Successfully granted full doctoral degree authorization |
| 2026 | Ranked #25 among Chinese medical universities |
Why Choose Weifang Medical University?
| Reason | Details |
|---|---|
| Prestigious Ranking | #25 among Chinese medical universities (2026) |
| Full Doctoral Authorization | Granting doctoral degrees since 2024 |
| Affordable Education | MBBS tuition ~¥24,000-25,000/year |
| Comprehensive Programs | 24 bachelor’s programs across 7 disciplines |
| Strong Clinical Network | 17 affiliated hospitals, 146+ teaching bases |
| 75-Year Legacy | Founded in 1951; rich history in medical education |
| English-Taught MBBS | 6-year program in English |
| Beautiful Location | Weifang – the “International Kite Capital” in Shandong |
| Excellent Faculty | 2 academicians, 596 master’s supervisors |
| 2026 Expansion | New seats and innovative programs |
Weifang Medical University 2026 Highlights at a Glance
| Aspect | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Established | 1951 |
| Type | State-owned Medical University |
| Location | Weifang, Shandong, China |
| Current Name | Shandong Second Medical University (since 2023) |
| Soft Science Medical Rank 2026 | #25 in China |
| Soft Science Main Rank 2026 | #210 in China |
| Schools | 16 |
| Bachelor’s Programs | 24 |
| Master’s Programs | 6 first-level, 52 second-level |
| Doctoral Authorization | Full (since 2024) |
| Total Students | ~18,000 |
| International Students | 500+ |
| Affiliated Hospitals | 17 |
| MBBS Tuition (International) | ¥24,000 – ¥25,000/year |
| Hostel Fee | ¥5,000/year |
| Application Deadline (2026) | June – July 2026 |
| Official Website | www.sdsmu.edu.cn |
Weifang Medical University Rankings & Reputation 2026
Weifang Medical University has achieved significant recognition in 2026:
| Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|
| Soft Science (ARWU) China Medical University Ranking | #25 (2026) |
| Soft Science (ARWU) China University Main Ranking | #210 (2026) |
| UniversityGuru Ranking | #93 in China |
Key Achievement: The university ranked #25 among China’s medical universities in the 2026 Soft Science rankings, securing a spot in the top 30 medical schools in China.
Weifang Medical University Academic Structure
Schools & Programs
The university comprises 16 schools or departments and offers a wide range of programs across seven subject categories:
| Level | Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Programs | 24 programs |
| Master’s Programs | 6 first-level programs, 52 second-level programs |
| Doctoral Programs | Full doctoral degree authorization (2024) |
| Provincial Brand Special Programs | 9 |
Key Disciplines & Programs
Clinical Medicine (1+3):
- Clinical Medicine (general)
- Anesthesiology
- Imaging Medicine
- Ophthalmology
Medical Technology:
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Medical Imaging Technology
- Medical Laboratory Technology
“Medical +”:
- Medical + Engineering: Biomedical Engineering, Intelligent Medical Engineering
- Medical + Data: Big Data, AI in healthcare
- Medical + Biology: Biotechnology, Biopharmaceuticals
- Medical + Management: Public Health Management (established 1985)
Research & Clinical Network
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Academicians (Chinese Academy of Engineering) | 2 |
| “Taishan Scholar” Experts | 5 |
| Master’s Supervisors | 596 |
| Key Provincial Disciplines | 8 |
| Affiliated Hospitals | 17 |
| Practical Teaching Bases | 146+ |
Weifang Medical University Student Body & Campus
Student Population
| Student Type | Count |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~18,000 |
| Undergraduates | ~16,000 |
| Postgraduates | ~1,300 |
| International Students | 500+ |
Campus & Facilities
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Campus Area | 1.2 million+ sq.m. |
| Construction Area | 630,000+ sq.m. |
| Library Collection | 2.2 million+ volumes |
| Teaching & Research Equipment | ¥200 million+ RMB |
Weifang Medical University Fee Structure 2026
MBBS Program Fees
The MBBS (Clinical Medicine) program is a 6-year program taught in English (5 years of study + 1 year internship).
| Fee Type | Amount (RMB) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | ¥24,000 – ¥25,000/year |
| Registration Fee | ¥7,000 (one-time) |
| Hostel Fee (Double Room) | ¥5,000/year |
| Medical Insurance & Visa | ~¥1,750/year |
Total Annual Cost Estimate: ~¥30,000 – ¥32,000 RMB
Additional Notes
- Tuition varies by program; Chinese-taught programs may have different fee structures
- Living expenses in Weifang are relatively low
Weifang Medical University Admission Process 2026
International Students (English-Taught MBBS)
Application Period: Typically opens in early 2026, with deadlines around June-July
Eligibility Requirements:
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 – 28 years |
| Health | Good mental and physical health |
| Academic Qualification | High school graduate (Science stream: Biology, Chemistry, Physics) |
| Language | English proficiency for English-instructed programs |
| Financial Capacity | Must be able to cover study and living expenses |
Application Process
- Apply Online: Submit through the university’s international student application system
- Document Upload: Provide transcripts, language certificates, passport, and other required documents
- Review & Evaluation: Comprehensive evaluation by the International Education College
- Admission Notification: Successful applicants receive admission letter and JW202 form
- Visa Application: Apply for a student (X1) visa at the Chinese Embassy
- Registration: Classes start in September 2026
Note: Specific application details for 2026 have been published. Please verify deadlines on the official university website.
Weifang Medical University 2026 Key Developments
1. Top 30 National Ranking
In April 2026, Weifang Medical University (now Shandong Second Medical University) achieved its highest-ever ranking, placing #25 among China’s medical universities and #210 in the main national ranking.
2. Comprehensive Reform & Expansion
For the 2026 academic year, the university:
- Added new undergraduate seats as part of the “Quality Undergraduate Expansion” initiative
- Maintained 30 regular undergraduate majors
- Launched three new parallel admission programs with small class sizes
3. AI in Education
In January 2026, the university was recognized by the Shandong Provincial Department of Education for its innovative use of artificial intelligence in educational reform.
4. Community Engagement
Throughout 2026, the university conducted multiple “University-Community Joint Free Clinic and Medicine Donation” events in partnership with local governments, providing free healthcare services to rural communities.
5. Academic Forums
In July 2026, the university hosted the “Medical Basic Frontier Forum”, bringing together researchers to discuss innovations in medical research.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information as of July 2026. Admission policies, fees, rankings, and other details are subject to change. Readers are strongly advised to verify all information through official university channels before making any admission decisions.