Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences

Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (SBUMS) traces its origins back to 1961 when the Schools of Medicine and Dentistry were established. In 1986, following a merger between the Ministry of Health and Melli University (the Iranian National University), SBUMS emerged as an independent institution. Situated in the heart of the Iranian capital, Tehran, it stands as one of three medical universities in the city and ranks as the second largest medical university in Iran, boasting a student body of 12,500 engaged in the study of medicine and allied sciences, supported by a faculty of 1,410 academic teaching staff. Positioned in northern Tehran with a scenic backdrop of the Alborz Mountains, SBUMS operates under government funding and encompasses five research institutes and 76 research centers, seven of which collaborate with the World Health Organization (WHO) as WHO collaborating centers. These centers focus on various areas such as endocrine and metabolism diseases, tuberculosis education, dental public health, eye health and prevention of blindness, tobacco control, nutrition, and educational development. Since the 1988 merger, SBUMS has played a pivotal role in providing, maintaining, and enhancing healthcare services for more than 5,250,000 residents of Tehran and neighboring cities in Eastern and Southern Tehran Province, thus contributing significantly to student training. Tehran itself, with its population of 14 million, offers a vibrant blend of museums, parks, restaurants, and hospitable locals. The city's division into northern and southern areas presents a contrast, with the former being more prosperous and cosmopolitan, while the latter offers a more affordable lifestyle. Situated at an altitude of almost a mile above sea level, Tehran enjoys a cooler climate compared to other Middle Eastern cities, with dry air prevailing and summer temperatures averaging around 36 degrees.