IMC and IR in a modular course?

[hobbit1983]

Hello,

My apologies if this has been asked before (have tried searching);

I'm currently studying on a relatively new degree course that incorporates a degree with a modular fATPL (with a well-known UK FTO). Part of the 2nd year is hours building toward a CPL, and an IR is part of the 3rd year.

However, I've been told that part of the hours building will be an IMC rating....which to me sounds a little redundant given the IR less than a year later (esp. bearing in mind the cost of IMC groundschool etc) and I'm under the impression that an IR does not require an IMC.

I'd prefer to get some informed opinions before questioning my training organisation.

Is an IMC a good/necessary/expensive/redundant way to hour-build? Would you recommend it?

Thanks in advance,

Hobbit1983