GradCert Primary Care (Orthopaedics & Musculoskeletal Medicine)
Program Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Orthopaedic and Musculoskeletal Medicine is a one-year part-time program designed for healthcare professionals seeking expertise in musculoskeletal conditions. Through distance learning, workshops, and clinical placements, students develop practical skills in diagnosis, management, and injection techniques. The program culminates in a research project, enhancing participants' ability to manage musculoskeletal issues effectively in primary care settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Graduate Certificate in Orthopaedic and Musculoskeletal Medicine is a part-time program delivered over one year. It offers a University Masters level qualification, with options at both Masters and Diploma level. The course is designed for doctors and allied health professionals who wish to develop expertise in musculoskeletal medicine. This includes those working in General Practice, Emergency Medicine, Radiology, Orthopaedic Surgery, Rheumatology, Physiotherapy, and Sports Medicine. The program aims to provide training in the diagnosis and management of a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. It emphasizes a practical approach and is delivered by consultants in Orthopaedic Surgery and Rheumatology. Students will develop applicable clinical skills, including expertise in musculoskeletal examination, first-responder management of pitchside and roadside trauma, and administering musculoskeletal injections using anatomic and ultrasound-guided techniques.
Outline:
The program is structured into four semesters:
- Semesters 1 and 2: Distance and Online Learning
- Students develop expertise in the full range of musculoskeletal medical conditions through distance and online learning.
- Full-day workshops are held every six weeks to provide practical experience in examination techniques, MSK injections using anatomic and ultrasound-guided techniques, and early trauma management.
- Online resources allow students to work at their own pace.
- Students complete a module of medical scholarship, which includes:
- Developing research skills to complete a research project (review literature, plan and enact a project, analyze and interpret findings, disseminate work).
- Reviewing own practice and improving patient care through clinical audit and quality improvement initiatives.
- Critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving.
- Semesters 3 and 4: Clinical Placement
- Students undertake clinical placements (80 hours over 14 weeks) with Consultants in Orthopaedic Surgery and Rheumatology in the out-patient setting.
- This provides broader clinical exposure and hones diagnostic skills.
- Module options include:
- Sports
- Spine
- Joint Replacement: Hip & Knee
- Shoulder & Upper Limb
- Hand
- Foot and Ankle Surgery
- Paediatrics
Teaching:
The program is delivered by consultants in Orthopaedic Surgery and Rheumatology. The teaching methods include:
- Distance and online learning
- Full-day workshops
- Clinical placements
Careers:
The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to competently manage common musculoskeletal problems in a primary care setting. This can lead to various career opportunities, including:
- Developing a special interest in musculoskeletal medicine
- Enhancing knowledge and skills in musculoskeletal medicine
- Developing a specialist interest in musculoskeletal medicine
Other:
The program is designed for medical practitioners, but some modules may be open to other disciplines within primary care.
University College Dublin
Overview:
University College Dublin (UCD) is a leading research-intensive university located in Dublin, Ireland. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. UCD offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCD provides a vibrant and diverse campus experience for its students. The university emphasizes the holistic development of its students, offering a range of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Research Excellence:
UCD is renowned for its strong research output and collaborations with industry partners.Global Partnerships:
The university boasts a vast network of partner institutions worldwide, providing students with opportunities for international study and exchange.Transformational Learning:
UCD focuses on providing a transformative learning experience that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.Other:
UCD is actively involved in promoting sustainability and social responsibility. The university is committed to creating a positive impact on society through its research, teaching, and engagement activities.
Entry Requirements:
This course is targeted towards:
- Doctors working in clinical practice wishing to develop a special interest in musculoskeletal medicine
- Physiotherapists working in clinical practice wishing to enhance their knowledge and skills in musculoskeletal medicine
- Physicians Assistants, Advanced Nurse Practitioners and other relevant Allied Health Practitioners working in clinical practice wishing to develop a specialist interest in musculoskeletal medicine All candidates may be subject to an interview process once all necessary documents are submitted.
Huge and always expanding. Lots of course options and the professors care a lot about what they teach. Huge amount of students and clubs so there is something for everyone.
Finished my Masters in Food Safety here in 2019. Quality of education is pretty good. Facilities are on point. One of the better universities in Ireland. A lot of extra curricular activities organised all round the year. No racism or any other issue as per my experience. Teaching staff is quite knowledgeable. I loved my time there. 10/10
