European University of the Canary Islands to Launch Medicine and Dentistry Degrees in Tenerife
The European University of the Canary Islands will launch new Medicine and Dentistry degrees at its La Orotava campus in 2026 to address local healthcare shortages and provide students with advanced, community-focused clinical training.
Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, the Canary Islands will see a major expansion in higher education. The European University of the Canary Islands is set to introduce Medicine and Dentistry degrees at its La Orotava campus. This move aims to tackle the local shortage of healthcare professionals and encourage talented students to stay and work in the islands. The addition of Dentistry is especially significant, as it is a program that has never been available on Tenerife before.
This expansion goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Through a public-private partnership, the university has teamed up with organizations like Hospiten and various professional associations. These partnerships will allow students to gain hands-on experience with the islands' specific healthcare needs from the very beginning of their studies. Led by vice-deans Emilia Condés and Ana Suárez, the curriculum will emphasize high-tech clinical simulation, artificial intelligence, and extended reality, ensuring students develop both technical skills and a strong ethical foundation.
The healthcare sector has reacted positively to the news. The Tenerife College of Physicians has offered its support, noting the importance of training more doctors to meet high demand. Meanwhile, Hospiten management highlighted that students will benefit from learning under current healthcare professionals using the latest technology.
The project also has a strong focus on social responsibility. The university plans to partner with local charities to provide dental care to vulnerable groups, allowing students to gain practical experience while serving the community.
Ultimately, this initiative addresses a nationwide challenge: the need for a new generation of healthcare workers. By offering this training locally, the university hopes to stop students from moving to the mainland for their studies, helping them build the professional and social connections they need to launch their careers right here in the Canary Islands.