Medicine

Program Overview

Trinity College Dublin's M.B./B.Ch./B.A.O. program is a rigorous five-year medical degree that combines biomedical sciences, clinical science, and medical humanities. Students engage in problem-based learning, clinical placements, and research projects, preparing them for a career in medicine.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The M.B. (Bachelor in Medicine) / B.Ch. (Bachelor in Surgery) / B.A.O. (Bachelor in Obstetrics) is an Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8) offered by Trinity College Dublin. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science and practice of healing. Students will study a broad range of subjects, including biomedical sciences, clinical science, and medical humanities. The program is highly challenging and rewarding, and graduates will be well-prepared for a career in medicine.

Outline:

The program is a five-year full-time program. In the first, second, and third years, students will study the biomedical sciences and begin clinical science. Teaching is a combination of problem-based learning, small group teaching, lectures, and practical demonstrations. The majority of teaching in the first and second years takes place in the School of Medicine, Trinity Biomedical Institute at the main University campus, with the remainder in a hospital setting. Third year combines the taught course program and an extensive clinical placements program that advances and integrates clinical skills. On successful completion of third year, students may be permitted to take a year out from the medical course to undertake a moderatorship in science in an approved subject. This is dependent on the availability of places and agreement by the head of the department concerned. An intercalated Master's in Biomedical Sciences is also available to medical students who successfully gain a 1st or 2:1 in their studies. The M.Sc. is a one-year full-time program. During the fourth and fifth years, students will become integrated members of each team to which they are attached and are expected to participate fully in all aspects of that team's activities. Most hospital attachments take place in St. James's Hospital and Tallaght Hospital, Dublin. However, some training also takes place in regional hospitals around Ireland, in hospitals dedicated to particular areas of medicine, and in general practices associated with the School.

Assessment:

The assessment structure is wide and varied and includes in-course assessment of practical and clinical skills, case studies, research projects, formal written and oral examinations, and objective structured clinical examinations. Formative assessment and reflective practice are also used to promote the personal development and teaching and learning of the student.

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members. The School of Medicine has a strong international network, which gives students the opportunity to gain experience overseas as part of the electives program. Students are required to complete clinical electives totaling 12 weeks by the final medical year. These can be undertaken in a hospital, clinic, or research laboratory of the student's choice, either at home or abroad.

Careers:

Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for a career in medicine. They will have the knowledge and skills necessary to practice medicine in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Graduates may also choose to pursue a career in research or teaching.

Other:

The School of Medicine provides an immediate exposure to facilities and opportunities central to one's path to their medical degree. The staff are keen to share their expertise and their eagerness to help in any capacity was a welcome surprise.