Welcome to Undergraduate Medicine

The School of Medicine in TCD has developed the undergraduate degree in Medicine in accordance with the Medical Council and the World Federation of Medical Education guidelines. The course is 5 years and is designed primarily for school leavers who are required to sit for the HPAT examination prior to entry as directed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). There are a small number of places available to 'mature students' (Mature Students Office)

The new approach to Medical Education endeavours to blur the distinction between pre-clinical and clinical teaching. However, a large amount of teaching during the first two years takes place on the main campus of the University and the remainder takes place in hospital settings.

Students are introduced to clinical medicine in their first term through the Family Case Study. Teaching in the first year is a combination of Problem Based Learning (PBL), small group teaching, didactic lectures and practical demonstrations. Self directed learning and use of e-learning are encouraged throughout the course. Student selected modules including 'perception' and 'philosophy' are available in the first year.

The relevance of subjects such as biochemistry to clinical medicine is stressed. The molecular basis of medicine is unravelled and a strong emphasis on the psychological aspects of medicine and medical ethics is maintained throughout the 5 year programme.

A research mentality is encouraged and there is a possibility of obtaining a Masters degree after the third year. There is a strong emphasis on developing clinical skills throughout the programme. Clinical teaching takes place in general and specialist hospitals and the vital role of primary care and public health are emphasised. As medicine is an extremely varied career the undergraduate programme is designed to produce a well rounded individual with empathy and curiosity and prepare the student for any of the possibilities in their future medical career.