The programme consists of five modules as follows:
Module 1: Case Based Discussions
A consultant surgeon leads case-based discussions on surgical topics relevant to clinical practice. These sessions cover clinical surgery and the basic sciences, including anatomy, physiology and pathology. This module builds on the Case Based Discussions module from the Basic Surgical Principles and Practice (BSPP) programme, with a focus on greater variety, depth and complexity of cases, and the introduction of ethical concerns.
- 10 x 1-hour monthly sessions (10 CPD credits)
Module 2: Virtual Ward Rounds
This module uses a virtual ward round format. You will be assigned to a group at the start of the year and will work together throughout the course. Groups review clinical cases, including vital signs, medications and investigations. The group discusses differential diagnoses and presents the case to the consultant, as on a ward round. The consultant provides feedback. Simulated virtual ward rounds are a key part of clinical skills training and are important learning outcomes in the Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum (capabilities in practice). Sessions include pre-course work and online classes.
- 10 x 1.5-hour sessions per year (15 CPD credits)
Module 3: Personal and Professional Well-being
This module includes four half-day online sessions (9:30am–1:30pm) focused on emotional well-being, peer support skills and emotional intelligence in personal and professional settings.
- 1 in person day and 9 hours online (15 CPD credits)
Module 4: Clinical and Professional Communication Skills
Effective communication is a core clinical skill essential for safe surgical practice and is a key component of assessment in the MRCS Part B examination. This module is designed to develop the communication competencies required for modern surgical practice, in alignment with IMC standards of professional behaviour and patient centred care.
The module focuses on strengthening student’s ability to carry out clear, structured, and empathetic interactions with patients, including the translation of complex medical information into accessible language. It also addresses the challenges of managing emotional situations, such as delivering bad news and responding to patient distress.
In addition, the module focuses on communication between teams, recognising its key role in patient safety. This includes structured handover, effective escalation to a senior, and clear communication in an emergency.
- 2 x full-days (in-person) per year (12 CPD credits)
Module 5: Critical Thinking and Professional Development
Critical thinking is developed through a journal club held four times a year, focusing on important and new literature in surgery. You will learn to critically assess articles and apply evidence-based medicine in your practice.
Professional development includes one in-person day, split between a CV clinic and a mock interview panel. You will take part in a workshop on writing and editing your CV, scheduled in April or May to allow time for updates before applying for posts. You will also have the opportunity to attend a mock interview, where you will apply for a position and be interviewed by consultants who will provide feedback and highlight areas for improvement.
- 4 x 1-hour sessions and 1 x full day session (in-person) per year (10 CPD credits)
You will also have access to an RCSI online course on Professional Behaviours and Patient Safety. Completion of this module provides a certificate worth 10 CPD credits. This module is not compulsory but is highly encouraged.
