In Ireland, becoming a doctor requires a significant time and financial investment, but can also be a satisfying and rewarding career.
In this post, you will learn how to become a doctor in Ireland. To become a doctor in Ireland, you must complete the following 5 steps:
How to become a doctor in Ireland?
Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree
You must complete your secondary education to apply to medical schools in Ireland. Most medical schools, however, prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as biology, chemistry or physics. A bachelor’s degree can be obtained at a university in Ireland or another country.
Step 2: Take the HPAT Test
The Health Professions Admission Test (HPAT) is a pre-medical school entrance test in Ireland. It tests your verbal, mathematical and logical abilities and your suitability for a career in the health profession. The exam is conducted only once a year, in February or March.
Step 3: Apply to Medical Schools
Each medical school in Ireland has its own admissions requirements, so research the programs you’re interested in to find out what you need to do to apply. An application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores are usually required, including your HPAT score.
Step 4: Complete a Medical Degree
In Ireland, medical school usually lasts five or six years. During this period, you will study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and pathology, among other things. Clinical rotations in various medical specialities will also be completed, providing you with a hands-on learning experience in a hospital or clinic setting.
Step 5: Pass Licencing Exams
After graduating from medical school, you must pass the Medical Council Examinations to practise medicine in Ireland. This includes a written exam (Part 1 examination) and a clinical skills assessment (Part 2 examination). To get your license, you must pass both exams.
The process of becoming a doctor can take up to a decade, but for those who are dedicated and passionate about helping others, the rewards of a medical career can be well worth the investment.