
PhD by Prior Publication
Course at a Glance
- PhDDegree level
- 1 yearDuration
- St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, IrelandLocation
- Health Sciences (Research)Field of study
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2Campus
- €16,640Fees
- Ask our teamScholarship
About this programme
RCSI offers those with a record of publications in biomedical, clinical and health services research the opportunity to complete a PhD by prior published works. The route allows scholars with sufficient research experience at doctoral level, demonstrated through already published material, to gain academic recognition for their work over a minimum registration period of one year.
Read more
The published research is presented in the form of a coherent thesis and assessed in a viva voce examination. It is a Level 10 NFQ major award accredited by RCSI and the National University of Ireland.
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
- Empire Overseas Education verified programmeChecked with the university before it was listed.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
Admissions checklist
Specific entry criteria for this programme are confirmed case by case. Our Empire Overseas Education admissions team will review your academic record, English scores and budget — free of charge — and tell you exactly where you stand.
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- Tuition€16,640 EUR / year≈ $18,087 / year
- Application feeNo application fee for this programme
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
How much does PhD by Prior Publication cost?
EUR 16,640 / year.
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
How long is it?
1 year, as listed by the university.
What are the entry requirements?
Hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent; have been actively engaged in medical or health sciences research for at least five years within the last 10 years at an organisation with a recognised research function; and have published a minimum of five original data-based research papers in Q1 journals in their relevant fields, carried out after the primary degree was awarded, all published within the 10 years prior to application, as senior author, first or last, on all five. Narrative reviews and case reports are not accepted. Applicants must also hold a stated RCSI affiliation, for example research-active RCSI staff at any campus, an honorary appointee, staff at a StAR MD partner hospital, an RCSI surgical trainee or trainer, an alumnus, Member or Fellow, staff at an institution with an RCSI Memorandum of Understanding, or an industry collaborator who has co-authored publications with RCSI staff.
Ready to apply?
Get expert guidance and take the first step towards your global education.
Free counselling · No application fee to enquire · Reply within 24h