The Rural Medical Immersion Programme (RMIP) is a one-year academic programme available to University of Otago fifth-year medical students.
RMIP aims to cover the clinical knowledge and skills of the ALM5 curriculum through experiential learning, while promoting students' understanding of rural health and healthcare delivery. Students are based in small groups in a rural area for their academic year and follow patients through their healthcare journey across general practice and rural hospital settings, under the guidance and mentorship of experienced general practitioners, rural hospital generalists, visiting specialists and other members of the healthcare team.
RMIP is popular with students for its 'hands-on' approach to learning, prioritising time with patients, small group and self-directed learning, and continuous relationships with local teaching and health professional staff. RMIP's growth since it began in 2007 has been on the basis of this popularity, its proven academic record and its effectiveness in attracting programme graduates to careers in rural generalist practice.
“I am so glad that I made the decision to be part of this wonderful programme. I learned so much – not just in terms of clinical skills and knowledge, but also about myself! Above all, I now have a better understanding of the barriers and inequities that our rural communities face and I would love to return to the community that welcomed me with such open hearts.”
– Marlborough student, 2025
RMIP 2027
In 2027, up to 35 students will spend their year living and learning in small groups in one of nine rural communities across the South and lower North Islands. Applications will open on 30 June 2026.
RMIP information sessions
RMIP representatives (teachers and students) will visit the main schools mid-year to talk about the programme and answer questions.
| Campus and room | Day and time |
|---|---|
|
Dunedin Colquhoun Lecture Theatre | Tuesday 7 July 2026 1:45–2:30pm |
|
Christchurch Rm 506, CSOM | Thursday 9 July 2026
4:15–5:00pm |
|
Wellington Nordmeyer Lecture Theatre | Thursday 16 July 2026 12:15–1:00pm |
Key RMIP contacts
Dr Janine Lander
Director RMIP
Email janine.lander@otago.ac.nz
Dr Emma Boddington
Director RMIP – Student Support
Email emma.boddington@otago.ac.nz
Kristie Saumure
RMIP Administrator
Tel +64 3 479 9252
Email rmip.administrator@otago.ac.nz
Faculty of Medicine
PO Box 56
Dunedin 9054
New Zealand