This is a blended learning programme delivered online and via block-release leading to a Diploma in Military Special Operations Forces Medical Care.

The programme comprises 60 ECTS credits completed at a Specialist Military Training Centre and at UCC in collaboration with the International Special Operations Training Centre (ISTC).

Applicants must:

1. have successfully completed school-leaving (post-primary) examinations to a minimum of a Grade O6 in five subjects or equivalent;
OR
2. be over 23 years of age and must have relevant experience in their home nation.

All applicants must have a certain minimum Medical Classification Code, i.e. be medically fit to undergo the course and have:

1. successfully completed the ISTC Fitness Test;
2. successfully completed the ISTC manual handling instruction training;
AND
3. be recommended by their Commanding Officer in their home institution;
AND
4. are subject to Garda Vetting. Students will be prohibited from engaging in a relevant work placement unless the vetting process has been cleared. Click here to view UCC's Student Garda Vetting Policy.

It is anticipated that entry to the programme will be competitive and will be decided in conjunction with the Director of ISTC Training, following consultation with the Programme Director. No previous formal medical education will be required.

Commitment requirements:
1. There is no specific 'time in service requirement' for personnel to be eligible for this programme; however, students are required to give a service undertaking of one (1) year following completion of the course.

2. There is no 'field service requirement', however following completion of the programme, students are required to be available for deployment.

In order to be admitted to the First University Examination in Military Special Operations Forces Medical Care, a student must have satisfactorily attended, subsequent to entry to the College of Medicine and Health, prescribed modules amounting to 60 credits as follows:

MD1100 Basic Medical Science Including Pharmacology (5 credits)
MD1101 Trauma Fundamentals (5 credits)
MD1102 Tactical Combat Casualty Care (5 credits)
MD1103 Clinical Medicine (10 credits)
MD1104 Rescue Techniques and Prolonged Field Care (5 credits)
MD1105 Capstone Exercise (20 credits)
MD1106 Independent Study in Special Operations Military Medicine (10 credits)

Module Semester Information may be found here. Module Descriptions may be found here.

Examinations
Full details of regulations governing Examinations for each programme will be contained in the Marks and Standards 2018 Book, and for each module in the Book of Modules, 2017/2018.

One Year Rule
Students must pass/progress within three academic years of first registration for the programme. Students are permitted to repeat any academic year once only.

Programme Learning Outcomes for Diploma in Military Special Operations Forces Medical Care (NFQ Level 7, Special Purpose Award)
On successful completion of this programme, students should be able to:

• Perform the role of a qualified NATO Special Operations Combat Medic;
• Utilise enhanced knowledge and skills within their role in their respective National SOF unit;
• Function as a fully operational/cross discipline member of an SOF unit;
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the role a qualified NATO Special Operations Combat Medic;
• Understand his/her professional role and responsibilities and have a commitment to continuing professional development.