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About University of Galway
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Accessibility & LanguageSurgery (MCh)
MCh (Surgery)
College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, School of Medicine- Title of Award
- Master in Surgery
- Course Code
- MCH-SUR
- Average Intake
- 35
- Delivery
- Online
- NFQ
- level 9
- Award Type
- Major
- Next Intake
- September 2026
- Duration
- 1 year, full-time I 2 years, part-time
- ECTS Weighting
- 90
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
Who is this course for?
The MCh is for medical graduates intending to apply to surgical training schemes, and surgical professionals seeking to broaden their research capability and academic development. The MCh offers a flexible, high-quality learning experience designed to fit around your professional commitments. With online delivery to support your preferred learning style.
Our curriculum focuses around two key learning domains: The surgeon as a scholar, and the surgeon as an advocate for patient safety. Our programme team is composed of Faculty Members of the Discipline of Surgery, members of the Surgical Team in our University Hospital, and invited clinical specialists. The MCh provides a high-quality accessible learning experience that supports professional growth and excellence in modern surgical practice.
What will I study?
The MCh programme consists of six innovative modules and a research thesis. The taught modules (60 ECTS) are: Informatics, Research Methods, Biostatistics, Translational Research, Patient Safety and Human Factors, and Surgical Education. The Research Thesis (30 ECTS) is an independent scholarly project focused on the learner’s chosen area of surgical specialisation. The MCh is offered as a full-time (12 months) or part-time (24 months) programme.
Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
- Credits
- You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
- Module
- An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.
Year 1 (90 Credits)
RequiredMD551: Informatics II : Research Methods
MD551: Informatics II : Research Methods
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
The focus of this module is to introduce learners to the key concepts and operationalisation of research methods. Including philosophical principles, ethical issues, and fundamentals of research study design.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the philosophical principles and ethical issues of health research
- Explain the role of research methods in answering a research question
- Differentiate between different types of research design
- Recognize validity concepts and understand the principle of reliability
- Know how to conceptualise a research project
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD551: "Informatics II : Research Methods" and is valid from 2024 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMD565: Research Thesis
MD565: Research Thesis
15 months long | Credits: 30
This module is designed to provide the learner with skills and techniques to review and publish a scientific literature review on their chosen surgical topic. The programme director will meet with each candidate to discuss the topic of your Thesis.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Produce a comprehensive research proposal
- Write a scientific literature review
- Prepare a manuscript for publication
Assessments
- Research (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD565: "Research Thesis" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMD550: Informatics I : Retrieval & Appraisal of Scientific Literature
MD550: Informatics I : Retrieval & Appraisal of Scientific Literature
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
This module serves as an introduction to scientific research and the use of evidence based medicine in clinical settings. Learners are introduced to the key components of research and the steps needed to formulate a research question and how to use electronic databases.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Perform competent electronic database and internet searches.
- Critically appraise a research paper
- Use EndNote to store and organise references
- Construct a literature review and research proposal
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD550: "Informatics I : Retrieval & Appraisal of Scientific Literature" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMD1550: Translational Research
MD1550: Translational Research
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
This module focuses on the role of laboratory-based analysis of biological specimens in genetic and pathological assessment of disease, and how this analysis impacts decisions of clinicians regarding therapeutic strategies. Learners will be introduced to key components of the Translational paradigm, from the molecular basis of disease detection, to development of personalised therapies that make an impact at a population level.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe each stage of the Translational Paradigm, from target discovery through to changing standard of care at a population level.
- Define the key components of a clinically-relevant Biobank, highlighting the ethical and infrastructural requirements
- Recognise the characteristics of a robust biomarker of disease
- Describe the clinical applications of nucleic acid and cellular therapies in a variety of disease settings
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD1550: "Translational Research" and is valid from 2022 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMD6107: Surgical Education
MD6107: Surgical Education
Trimester 3 | Credits: 10
This module is designed to provide the learner with a working knowledge of the technical and non-technical skills required to be a competent surgeon and the training and teaching methods currently in use to achieve competence as well as the newer assessment modalities.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Know the classification of non-technical skills in surgeons and their uses in everyday practice
- Know the different types of learning styles and the teaching methods best employed to appeal to them
- Be aware of the technological advances in surgical education and assessment
- Identify the different simulation modalities in use in the surgical education and assessment
- Know the legal requirements for valid consent and the areas where medical negligence can occur
- Understand the roel of leadership and decision making in surgery
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD6107: "Surgical Education" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMD6108: Patient Safety & Human Factors
MD6108: Patient Safety & Human Factors
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
This module is designed to provide the learner with a foundation in human factors as they related to surgery with the purpose of positively influencing future patient safety and quality of care as the learner progresses in their surgical career.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Explore the concepts of human factor and human error and why they are relevant to surgery.
- Have an appreciation of the concept of situation awareness, and the factors which can influence it.
- Recognise different of types of decision making, and outlined the situations to which each type is applicable
- Recognise the critical role of communication in any team working environment and understand how to communicate more effectively.
- Identify the difficulties associated with making decisions in a team environment.
- Develop effective leadership skills for a surgical environment.
- Recognise stress and fatigue how they affect performance.
- Understand how equipment design and ergonomics can contribute to errors in the operating theatre.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD6108: "Patient Safety & Human Factors" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredMD552: Biostatistics I : Critical Appraisal of Published Statistics
MD552: Biostatistics I : Critical Appraisal of Published Statistics
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
This module is designed to provide the learner with a clear and stimulating introduction to many of the essential features of medical statistics. The focus of this module will be on the interpretation, evaluation and presentation of published statistical data. The module will feature practical interactive learning of statistical skills using computer software.
Learning Outcomes
- Explore and interpret statistical data in published research papers
- Develop skills to critically appraise a research paper
- Select appropriate statistical tests for required research
- Input data and perform analysis
- Write an appropriate statistical methods section
Assessments
- Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module MD552: "Biostatistics I : Critical Appraisal of Published Statistics" and is valid from 2023 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
- Highly experienced multidisciplinary team in a research-led environment.
- Conduct and disseminate research with creativity, initiative, and competence.
- Innovative curriculum with mix of research and practical skills via interactive workshops.
- Flexible programme delivery tailored to the clinical and training demands of the learner.
Masters in Surgery (MCh) graduates have progressed their surgical career in specialist training schemes as well as pursuing Fellowship positions in International Hospitals.
The MCh equips you with advanced knowledge, critical thinking skills, and research experience that are essential for leadership and innovation in modern surgical practice.
Your studies will empower you to improve patient outcomes and drive innovation in the field of surgery. The MCh will help you to build valuable professional connections and collaborations.
The MCh also provides a solid base for further study and research, and graduates have gone on to further research at MD and PhD level.
Our extensive alumni network actively supports current students by facilitating clinical visits and observership opportunities.
- Professor Michael Kerin
- Professor Aoife Lowery
- Associate Professor Roisin Dwyer
- Professor Stewart Walsh
- Professor Ray McLaughlin
- Professor Derek O’Keefe
- Mr Dave Veerasingam
- Mr Alan Hussey
- Ms Emmeline Nugent
- Dr Nicola Miller
- Dr Micheál Newell
How will I learn?
The MCh team have a commitment to top quality teaching in a research-led environment with a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the future of Surgery. Innovative pedagogies and learning technologies are key components of all modules. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, practical workshops and seminars led by expert faculty.
How Will I Be Assessed?
Modules are assessed using continuous assessment to ensure that learners demonstrate the necessary depth of knowledge, clinical insight, and research capability expected at postgraduate level. Regular feedback and review are key features of individual modules.
Course queries:
micheal.newell@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Director(s):
Professor Michael Kerin
Established Professor of Surgery;
Head of Discipline
E: michael.kerin@universityofgalway.ie
T: 091 544203
Dr Micheál Newell
Discipline of Surgery
E: micheal.newell@universityofgalway.ie
T: 091 494313
Q: International Applicants and Student Visa?
A: Please note this programme is ineligible for student study visa or ILEP requirements, but international students may undertake this programme remotely.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered by the academic programme director, for applicants who can demonstrate relevant postgraduate-level study or professional experience aligned with the learning outcomes of the MCh programme.
Please refer to Recognition of Prior Learning webpage for further details:
https://www.universityofgalway.ie/rpl/learners/
Graduates of the MCh will be able to:
- Conduct and disseminate research with creativity, initiative, and competence. Guided by the principles of EBM.
- Apply enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills to their object of study.
- Perform research techniques such as electronic searching for publications, research design, statistical analysis, and scientific writing.
- Demonstrate cognitive and technical skills in the design and execution of a specialised research project in surgery.
- Differentiate common laboratory analytical processes in Translational Research.
- Investigate and synthesise the role of therapeutic strategies and medical devices in clinical decisions.
- Analyse technical and non-technical skills required to be a competent surgeon.
- Explore and evaluate simulation and technological approaches to surgical education and patient safety.
- Investigate and synthesise the role of therapeutic strategies and medical devices in clinical decisions.
Accreditations & Awards
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Entry Requirements and Fees
Minimum Entry Requirements
Candidates must hold a primary degree in Medicine and be conferred with the degrees of Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, and Bachelor of Obstetrics. Candidates should be registered with the Irish Medical Council.
International Academic entry requirements (Band II or higher) standardised per country are available here.
English Language Entry Requirements
For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required
Or
A degree completed through the medium of English from a *majority English-speaking country.
*A majority English-speaking country is one where English is a national language and English is the medium of instruction. Please refer to English Language Requirements on the Global Galway Webpage.
More information on English language test equivalency are available here.
Supporting Documents
You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course under College of Medicine Nursing and Health Science section.
You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.
Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.
You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.
Closing Dates
For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.
Notes
- You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
- Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.
Fees for Academic Year 2026/27
| Course Type | Year | EU Tuition | Student Contribution | Non-EU Tuition | Levy | Total Fee | Total EU Fee | Total Non-EU Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Masters Part Time | 1 | €4,350 | €8,650 | €140 | €4,490 | €8,790 | ||
| Masters Full Time | 1 | €8,650 | €17,300 | €140 | €8,790 | €17,440 |
For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.
Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here.
Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships
This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if:
- You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
- You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.
An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.
Global Scholarships
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.
Application Process
Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.
Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.
Further Information
Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.
Please note: This programme is ineligible for student study visa or ILEP requirements, but international students may undertake this programme remotely.
Why University of Galway?
World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
Contact the School of Medicine
Clinical Science Institute, Costello Road, Shantalla, Galway, H91 V4AY
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Meet Our Alumni
Course Introduction
Elevate your Surgical Career
The MCh is ideal for surgical professionals seeking to broaden their research capability, strengthen their academic foundation, and progress in their surgical careers. With online mode of study, the MCh provides exceptional flexibility and accessibility, allowing participants to engage in a high-quality learning experience that complements their professional commitments.
