Program Overview

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Introduction to the Medicine Program

The University of Limerick offers a six-year undergraduate program in Medicine, leading to the award of a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS) degree. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors required to become an outstanding medical doctor.

Program Structure

The program is divided into three stages, each with a distinct focus:

• Stage 1: Foundation in biomedical science and introduction to patient care
• Stage 2: Integration of science, anatomy, and clinical practice, with an emphasis on problem-based learning
• Stage 3: Combination of knowledge pursuit with daily patient care, including clinical placements in various specialties

Curriculum Details

The curriculum is structured around three core domains:

1. Domain 1: Knowledge of Health and Illness - Covers the scientific basis of medicine, including anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology.
2. Domain 2: Clinical and Anatomical Skills - Develops students' clinical skills, including history taking, examination, and procedural skills.
3. Domain 3: Professional Competencies - Focuses on the development of professional behaviors, including communication, teamwork, and ethical practice.

Years 1 and 2

In the first two years, students study modules such as:

• General Chemistry
• Biological Science
• Biomedical Statistics
• Medical Physics
• Introduction to Anatomy
• Foundations in Professional and Clinical Values

Years 3 and 4

These years are structured around problem-based learning, with students working in small groups to explore clinical cases. The curriculum covers topics such as:

• Life Structure: Musculoskeletal system, Rheumatology, Orthopaedics, Trauma, Plastic Surgery, Skin, and Dermatology
• Life Cycle: Reproduction and Development, Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sexual Health, Ageing, Death
• Life Maintenance: Alimentary System, Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Renal Medicine, Urology, Nutrition
• Life Protection: Immunology, Infection, Haematology, Oncology, Preventative Medicine, Genito-Urinary Medicine
• Life Support: Cardiology, Cardiovascular Surgery, Respiratory Medicine, ENT
• Life Control: Nervous system, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Vision, Ophthalmology, Psychiatry, Psychology

Years 5 and 6

In the final two years, students undertake clinical training in various specialties, including:

• General Practice/Primary Care
• Medicine
• Surgery
• Obstetrics and Gynaecology
• Paediatrics
• Psychiatry

Clinical Placements

Students are placed in clinical settings, including affiliated teaching hospitals and General Practice/Primary Care networks. These placements provide hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must:

• Meet the minimum entry requirements, including a H4 grade in a Leaving Certificate or equivalent higher-level science subject
• Achieve a minimum of 480 points in the Leaving Certificate or equivalent
• Complete the Health Professions Admission Test (HPAT) in the year of admission
• Satisfy the Garda/Police vetting and Occupational Health requirements

Fees and Funding

Student course fees are comprised of three components: Student Contribution, Student Levy, and Tuition Fees. The current student contribution is set at 2,500, and the student levy is 104. Tuition fees vary depending on residency, citizenship, and course requirements.

Scholarships and Funding

Several scholarships are available to students, including the All Ireland Scholarships, Bursary for my Future Scholarship, and Cooperative Education Award.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Medicine program can pursue careers in:

• Medical practice in various disciplines
• Medical research
• Medical education
• Medical administration
• Medical journalism

By completing this program, students will be well-equipped to pursue a rewarding career in medicine, with a strong foundation in the scientific and clinical aspects of the field.