Investigation and analysis of specialty categories in independent medical universities in Liaoning Province

Using specialty and university as two statistical units, the author analyzes specialty categories, specialty composition, and the number of the disciplines established by seven independent medical universities, and indicates that in those surveyed medical universities, there is a sweeping trend of specialty diversity and generalization of non-medical specialties that most of them however have no relation with medical science and pharmacy. The author also displays negative effects of the generalization of non-medical specialties, especially on the development of medical universities, and comes up with some corresponding strategies to improve specialty setup. Key words: Independent institute; Medical university; Specialty setup; Structural optimization