On the Road Again!  Royal College of Surgeons University in Ireland of Medicine and Health Sciences

In a word, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland University of Medicine and Health (RCSI) is IMPRESSIVE. Located in Dublin, this specialized health sciences university is the national provider of surgical training. The undergraduate programs are in the schools of medicine, pharmacy and biomolecular sciences and physiotherapy. Here are some highlights:

  • The university is very international. One quarter of the students are American.
  • Students undertake clinical skills early in Europe’s most advanced Clinical Skills Simulation Facility. This includes a fully equipped mock operating theater, in patient and out patient rooms.
  • The university has made major investments in facilities.  One new building opening in 2024 will be a $22 million investment. This is surpassed by a facility with a planned opening in 2025 which will be a $95 million investment.
  • Undergraduate medicine is a five year track or a six year track including a foundation year. This is quite different (and a huge financial savings) from the typical US four years of undergraduate work and four years of medical school.
  • One of the main concerns with a medical degree completed abroad is how a student qualifies to practice medicine in the US.  RCSI is very intentional in helping students qualify to practice medicine in the US. At RCSI, there is a program director for US medical license exams. During their course of study, students take a diagnostic test and then mock exams. Clinical electives are done back in the US between the penultimate and the last year. RCSI has collaborative agreements with Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic to name a few. Students get references that are needed for a residence match. The class of 2023 matched 90%. The top three residency destinations are Ireland, the UK, and the US.
  • A unique major is Advanced Therapeutic Technologies which is for students who like science and want to work in technology in the pharmaceutical industry.
  • There are many undergraduate research opportunities including summer research opportunities and opportunities to publish research.
  • Since studying medicine and other health sciences is intense, the university focuses not only on academic and career support but also support of the whole individual. The state of the art gym and sports center is intentionally designed as a place to relax and get away from studies. Books are quite literally left outside the gym. With 35 sports clubs and 50 societies, students enjoy activities beyond studying.
  • RCSI has an interesting history. It was established in 1784 when surgeons used to be barbers! (A two for one – haircut and surgery!) RCSI received a charter to educate surgeons. The school became successful due to the need based on injuries incurred during the Napoleonic Wars. One of my favorite facts is evident in RCSI’s beautiful historical building. RCSI made a point to include many portraits of female doctors. RCSI is 50% male and 50% female and wanted the female students to see representation on the walls.