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International Medical Commencement Programme

Level 6 Special Purpose Award

Why the International Medical Commencement Programme at RCSI Dublin?

The International Medical Commencement Programme (IMCP) is RCSI’s one-year pathway programme for students who are not eligible for direct entry to university health sciences programmes in Ireland. The IMCP is delivered in partnership with Munster Technological University (MTU) and OnCampus Ireland (OCI).

On successful completion of the IMCP, you are guaranteed a place of study in your chosen discipline of medicine or allied health sciences, including pharmacy, nursing, podiatry, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy, in RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, MTU or the University of Galway.

Over the past 15 years, the IMCP has continuously evolved while retaining its commitment to developing the required English language proficiency, addressing knowledge gaps in basic sciences and empowering students to fulfil their academic potential in a stimulating, supportive and nurturing environment.

The programme is delivered at MTU’s Kerry Campus, offering you all the benefits of a modern university within a welcoming and close-knit on campus learning community. By studying in Tralee, Co. Kerry, away from the distractions of a major urban hub, you will value the warmth of the local community, the easier transition to independent living and the beautiful natural surroundings.

Designed for future healthcare leaders

The IMCP helps ambitious students build a strong foundation for studying in Ireland. Through biomedical science, academic skills training and English language support, you will develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in healthcare degree programmes.

Three RCSI students in blue scrubs gathered around a laptop, with one pointing at the screen.

An RCSI-informed learning experience

Developed by RCSI and MTU, the IMCP combines expertise from two leaders in health sciences education. You will learn in a supportive, structured environment that builds confidence, strengthens academic skills and prepares you for continued study.

RCSI students in blue scrubs seated in a classroom during a teaching session.

A clear path to a career in healthcare

The IMCP provides a clear route into healthcare. Complete the programme and progress directly to your chosen degree in medicine, pharmacy, nursing, or an allied health profession, with the opportunity to make a real difference in patients’ lives.

Four RCSI graduates in academic gowns and mortarboards holding red diploma scrolls.

Accreditation

The International Medical Commencement Programme is a special purpose award positioned at Level 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). It is accredited by the National University of Ireland (NUI) and by RCSI.

Programmes onto which you can progress on graduation from the IMCP include the following:

RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin campus

Munster Technological University (MTU)

  • Nursing – BSc General Nursing (Hons)

University of Galway (UoG)

The International Medical Commencement Programme (IMCP) is a special purpose award positioned at Level 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). It is accredited by the National University of Ireland (NUI) and by RCSI.

FAQs

The International Medical Commencement Programme (IMCP) is a one-year pathway programme for international students who are not eligible for direct entry to healthcare degree programmes in Ireland.

Delivered in partnership by RCSI, Munster Technological University (MTU) and OnCampus Ireland (OCI), it helps students develop their scientific knowledge, academic skills and English language proficiency. Students who successfully complete the programme and meet the progression requirements are guaranteed a place on their chosen degree pathway in medicine, pharmacy, nursing or allied health sciences at RCSI, MTU or the University of Galway.

IMCP is designed for international students who want to study medicine, pharmacy, nursing or allied health sciences in Ireland but do not meet the requirements for direct entry. The programme provides the academic, scientific and English language preparation needed for successful progression to university-level study.

Students who successfully complete IMCP and meet the progression requirements can progress to selected healthcare degree programmes.

At RCSI, this includes the MB, BCh, BAO (Hons) degree in Medicine and the MPharm Pharmacy programme. Progression pathways are also available in nursing and allied health sciences at MTU and the University of Galway (UoG).

Yes. Students accepted onto IMCP receive a reserved place on their chosen progression pathway. Those who successfully complete the programme and meet the required academic, English language, attendance and conduct standards are guaranteed progression. No additional entrance examinations or interviews are required.

Admission is based on academic achievement, English language proficiency, references, relevant extracurricular or voluntary experience and performance in an online interview.

Applicants must have completed at least 12 years of schooling and meet the requirements for their chosen progression pathway. In most cases, an IELTS score of at least 5.5 overall with no band below 5.0 is required.

As places are limited, admission to the programme is competitive.

Students study core scientific subjects including Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Human Physiology, with modules tailored to their progression pathway.

The programme also includes Learning at University, Intercultural Communication and Health and Well-being, alongside English language support through IELTS Preparation, English for Medical Studies and English for Academic Purposes.

Applicants require an IELTS score of at least 5.5 overall with no band below 5.0 to enter IMCP.

During the programme, students receive dedicated English language support and IELTS preparation. To progress to an RCSI degree, students must meet the English language requirements for their chosen programme, which are higher than the IMCP entry requirement.

IMCP combines science education, academic skills development and English language support to prepare students for healthcare degrees. Small-group teaching, continuous assessment, academic mentoring and pastoral support help students build the confidence and skills needed to succeed at university.

The programme is taught at the MTU Kerry Campus in Tralee, County Kerry. Students study in a supportive university environment with access to academic and student services before progressing to their chosen healthcare degree at RCSI, MTU or the UoG.

Applications are made through the RCSI website. Admission is based on academic achievement, English language proficiency, references, extracurricular or voluntary experience and performance in an online interview. Places are limited and applications are assessed competitively by the IMCP Admissions Committee.