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5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
National University of Ireland Galway NUIGThe University of Galway offers the Bachelor of Medicine (MB), Bachelor of Surgery (BCh), and Bachelor of Obstetrics (BAO) through its School of Medicine. This highly respected undergraduate degree equips students with a solid foundation in medical science, clinical practice, and patient care, preparing them to become competent, compassionate doctors. The course is structured to balance academic knowledge with practical experience, giving students a deep understanding of health, disease, and healthcare systems.
Curriculum Structure:
The Medicine program at Galway blends theoretical learning with real-world application, progressing from classroom to clinic over the course of the degree. Students begin with the core medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pathology, before gradually transitioning into more clinical and patient-focused training.
• Years 1–2: Focus on biomedical sciences and an introduction to clinical skills.
• Years 3–5: Emphasise clinical rotations in hospitals and community settings, covering medicine, surgery, psychiatry, paediatrics, obstetrics, gynaecology, and more.
• A Capstone Elective or clinical research project in the final year allows students to explore an area of interest in depth.
Accreditation:
This medical degree is fully accredited by the Medical Council of Ireland, meeting international standards for medical education and allowing graduates to pursue licensure and practice both in Ireland and in many other countries, depending on local requirements.
Campus Location:
The University of Galway is located in Galway city, on Ireland’s west coast. The School of Medicine is part of a vibrant and research-active university, with strong partnerships with hospitals and clinical training sites across the region. Students benefit from modern teaching facilities, simulation labs, and access to patients from early in the program.
At Galway, learning medicine goes beyond textbooks. The program is designed to be hands-on and immersive:
• Clinical Placements: Starting early in the course, students engage in placements at University Hospital Galway and other affiliated sites. This offers real exposure to patient care and the inner workings of hospitals.
• Research Opportunities: Medical students have access to a thriving research culture, with chances to participate in projects in areas such as cancer, public health, regenerative medicine, and global health.
• Student Societies: The Medical Society (MedSoc) organises talks, workshops, charity events, and conferences, helping students stay engaged with both the community and the medical profession.
• International Electives: In their later years, students can take part in elective placements abroad, gaining valuable global health perspectives in both developed and developing healthcare systems.
Immediate Post-Graduation Steps (Internship Year)
Internship (PGY1 – Postgraduate Year 1)
All graduates must complete a 1-year supervised internship at an accredited hospital in Ireland.
This is required for full registration with the Medical Board of Ireland (AHPRA).
It is also the stepping stone for specialty training programs.
International students can apply for internships via the Ireland Medical Council (AMC) and state health departments, but competition is strong as domestic applicants are prioritized.
Residency and Further Clinical Training
Residency (PGY2 and PGY3)
After the internship, graduates work as resident medical officers (RMOs).
This phase allows doctors to rotate through various specialties to gain broad experience.
It also serves as preparation for entry into postgraduate specialty training programs.
Postgraduate Specialty Training
Specialist Training Programs
Entry into specialist training is through one of Ireland’s recognized medical colleges.
Examples of specialty pathways include:
General Practice (RACGP)
Surgery (RACS)
Internal Medicine (RACP)
Emergency Medicine (ACEM)
Psychiatry (RANZCP)
Training duration varies between 3 to 7 years depending on the specialty.
Admission is competitive, typically requiring clinical experience, references, exams, and interviews.
IELTS - Overall 6.5, with no individual band below 6.5TOEFL - Minimum 88 overall, including at least Listening 20, Speaking 20, Writing 24, Reading 19IB - Minimum 36 points, excluding bonus points, with HL Chemistry (6) and another science (Biology or Physics) or HL Maths, plus a laboratory science at SL if Maths is taken HLA Level - Straight A* A* A* at A‑Level (including Chemistry, and either Biology, Physics, or Mathematics) and the HPAT‑Ireland admissions testOfficial exam transcripts: IB Diploma, A-Levels, CBSE – full results are essential.HPAT‑Ireland score: Mandatory for EU applicants; most strong candidates score well above the minimum (~140+). Personal statement (approx. 600 words): Why medicine? Career goals? Fit for Galway. Occupational health clearance: Immunisations, fitness-to-practise forms. Garda/Police vetting: Required by Irish law for those working with patients. Proof of funding: If you have a sponsor or are self-funding. PhysicianSurgeonFamily Medicine DoctorEmergency Medicine PhysicianMedical ResearcherClinical Trials CoordinatorEpidemiologistPublic Health AdministratorMedical EducatorHospital AdministratorMedical Science LiaisonHealthcare ConsultantTelehealth PhysicianHealth AdvocateForensic PathologistOccupational Health PhysicianSports PhysicianMedical WriterHealth Informatics Specialist
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