Medical education in Russia begins in the third year of study and includes topics in biochemistry, pathology, and medical subjects specific to the student's orientation. The principal function of medical education in Russia is to introduce a two-year continuing primary specialization, with one year spent at the university and the other spent after graduation. Students gain clinical experience from their third to fifth years as nurses, feldshers, and medical assistants. In their sixth year, students specialize in areas like internal medicine, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, or pediatric surgery. After six years and passing a state exam, students complete a one-year internship and can practice in their specialty under supervision.