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Year 1
Medical Interviewing and Documentation
MED 511
This course is designed to cultivate the students’ comfort in their new role as physicians by providing them with the clinical and professional skills necessary to form a successful physician-patient relationship. Through lectures, small group discussions, oral presentations, video demonstrations, and patient interactions, students will be instructed in communication skills and interview techniques, with an emphasis on confidentiality and sensitivity to difficult issues. Students will also be introduced to the medical database and taught how to organize patient data into a complete and accurate medical history.
Anatomy and Embryology
MED 512
This course will teach students the complex anatomical and embryological interactions that are key to understanding the core of medicine. Through lecture and laboratory, students will learn proper anatomical and embryological terminology. They will understand the important normal structural and functional relationships of the human body through dissection, observation of living anatomy, and imaging studies such as CT, MRI, ultrasound, and x-rays. The development of the human fetus will be studied in detail starting from conception. By integrating the embryological processes that create anatomical relationships, students will study the origins of birth defects, other abnormal anatomical findings, and the resulting malformations and disabilities that occur in the human body.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
MED 513/523
This course will provide the fundamental concepts of molecular biology, the human genome, and the principles of metabolic regulation in humans for the purpose of energy production and conversion of small molecules to essential cell building blocks. Course objectives include understanding DNA structure, repair, recombination, and replication, as well as fundamental principles of transcription, translation, and gene regulation. Macromolecule structure and function, and enzyme catalysis will also be discussed. Clinically relevant information such as molecular and genomic therapies, nutritional requirements and support, and chemotherapy is included to integrate scientific knowledge with the practice of medicine.
Cell Biology, Physiology, and Histology
MED 514/524
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the basic organization of the cell and the relationship of intercellular interactions with the extracellular matrix. Using microscopes, prepared slides, diagrammatic photos, and computer modules cellular microstructures will be individually observed and studied. The physiology of the cell and cellular membrane will be discussed in detail including potential gradients, active transport, excitability and action potentials, energy metabolism, and acid-base regulation. As students progress through the course, they will microscopically study normal cells, tissues, and organs to better understand the connection between structure and function. Knowledge of the principles of normal cell biophysics will prepare students for an introduction to the cellular biological basis of disease.
Medical Literature
MED 521
Through small group discussion and literature review, this course is designed to give students the necessary tools for critical appraisal of the validity and applicability of current medical literature.
Problem Based Learning
MED 522
In this course, students will be introduced to the methodology of problem based learning (PBL). Using this methodology, students will be taught how to assume responsibility for their own educational processes both now and as practicing physicians. Through techniques in self-directed learning, problem analysis and solving, and team participation, they will become skilled in acquiring critical knowledge relevant to the problem and in identifying each team member’s responsibility. The overall goal of PBL is to facilitate physicians who are independent learners who expand their knowledge base throughout their careers.
Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience
MED 525/535
Through didactic instruction, laboratories, and neuroimages, students will learn the normal structure and function of the human nervous system including the eye, central nervous system, and peripheral nervous system. An understanding normal neuroanatomy and neurophysiology will be followed by an introduction to neuropathology and the clinical manifestations of neurological disease through lectures and clinical case presentations.
Physical Diagnosis
MED 526/536
In this course, students will be instructed in the comprehensive adult physical examination. During small group exercises, students will be observed practicing exam skills on each other and selected patients. The course will culminate in a timed, graded complete physical exam that all students must pass before they will be allowed to move on to their clinical rotations.
Epidemiology and Biostatistics
MED 531
In this course, students will learn the biostatistics and epidemiologic techniques used to track disease origin and distribution and predict disease spread. They will learn to interpret epidemiologic research in current medical practice and the historical importance of disease distribution and its impact on health issues today.
Evidence Based Medicine
MED 532
This course is designed to give students the tools necessary to practice evidence-based medicine (EBM) by critically appraising the validity and applicability of current medical practice including diagnostic testing, medical therapies, and procedural techniques.
Genetics
MED 533
In this course, students will be introduced to the principles of normal human genetics through an intricate study of chromosomes and human population genetics. They will then learn the pathogenesis of inherited disorders that are the result of chromosomal and other aberrations. Students will be taught disorder diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment in addition to the benefits, risks, and impact of genetic counseling. Through lectures which include real-life examples of genetic disorders, students will begin to understand the tremendous impact these conditions have on patients, their families, and society.
Immunology
MED 534
The course will provide students with an understanding of the phenomena and mechanisms associated with the normal immune response. Students will become familiar with the pathological consequences that result from aberrations in this response, including immunodeficiency and immunological barriers to transplantation. Finally, students will be taught therapies that modulate the immune response, including immunizations.
Year 2
Pathology
MED 611/621/631
This course will demonstrate the fundamental concepts of cell and tissue response to injury. The mechanisms of cellular injury and cell death, the inflammatory process, coagulation, vascular disease, normal and abnormal cell growth, neoplasia, immunology and immunopathology will be discussed as well as their relevant clinicopathology. For each organ system, students will learn the biochemical and structural abnormalities of disease processes. Microscopic slide review, computer modules, and case studies will be used to help students better understand the pathologic basis of disease. These principles will enable the student to better understand therapeutic strategies.
Pharmacology
MED 612/622/632
This course will teach students the fundamentals of pharmacology including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, dose-response relationships, drug absorption and elimination, drug distribution, therapeutic efficacy, drug toxicity, and drug interaction. All major classes of therapeutic drugs will be studied in detail. Students will be expected to know the commonly and historically used drugs in each therapeutic class including generic name, side effects, pharmacology, administration route, and clinical applications. In addition, students will study the pharmacology, effect, and treatment of more commonly occurring toxic substances including pesticides, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide.
Physiology
MED 613/623/633
In this course, students will be taught the physiologic processes that normally occur in the human organism. The course will be divided into organ systems including the renal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, endocrine, and sexual/reproductive systems. Students will study how these processes change or remain stable starting from birth through development into adulthood then finally aging and death. During laboratories, students will have the opportunity to demonstrate these processes in real-time by doing projects which enforce their understanding of various organ systems’ physiologies. Understanding normal physiology will give students the foundation to move into the realm of pathophysiology of disease states.
Microbiology
MED 614
This course will convey the biology of medically important microorganisms through lectures and laboratories that introduce students to microbial pathogens and the mechanisms of pathogenesis. Bacteriology, mycology, parasitology and virology will be covered. Clinical application of organism disease prevention, diagnosis, antimicrobial agents, organism resistance, and treatment will be examined.
Psychopathology and Psychopharmacology
MED 615
Through lectures, patient interactions, case presentations, and workshops, students will learn about psychological and mental disorders encountered in both psychiatric and medical/surgical patients. Students will learn psychiatric interviewing techniques and, per DSM-IV diagnostic criteria, how to diagnosis psychiatric disease. They will be taught the pathology underlying psychiatric disease, including neurochemical pathology, and as such, the pharmacologic basis of psychiatric drugs. Students will be instructed in the benefits of different treatment modalities including medication and different types of psychotherapy. Finally, students will study the impact psychiatric patients can have on physicians’ personal feelings, including feelings of countertransference, and the coping mechanisms physicians use to maintain an effective therapeutic relationship with patients.
Medicine, Health, and Society
MED 616
This course will present an overview of the impact that behavioral sciences have on the effectiveness of the physician-patient relationship. Students will become sensitized to this in the larger context of the practice of medicine by examining how factors such as emotional and physical development, death education, stress management techniques, communication skills, cultural backgrounds, social roles, family relationships, sexual identities, and belief systems affect the physician-patient relationship and subsequent health management decisions. In addition to learning about difficult situations that arise out of social contexts, students will learn techniques in analyzing behavior, defining objectives, and negotiating treatment strategies in order to provide patients with effective medical care.
Pathophysiology and Applied Physical Diagnosis
MED 624/634
In this course, students will study the altered physiologic states of disease. It will be divided into organ systems including the renal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems. Other subjects discussed in detail will include the pathophysiology of acid-base disorders, pregnancy, aging, and immunology. For each disease entity presented, students will be taught the physical exam manifestations caused by the diseased state and how the exam findings lead physicians to suspect specific differential diagnoses. This course, which integrates physical exam skills with basic science knowledge, is the foundation in preparing students to enter the world of clinical medicine. Students will experience this by participating in patient care and clinical rounds while taking histories and physical exams, writing progress notes, and giving oral case presentations.
Reproduction
MED 625
This course will cover all topics related to reproductive medicine starting with puberty. Sociologic issues including abortion, contraception, family planning, reproductive medicine, and population dynamics will be discussed. Normal reproductive cycles including gametogenesis, egg transport, fertilization, implantation, placentation, sexual differentiation, the physiology of menstruation and male reproductive endocrinology, pregnancy, labor and delivery, lactation, menopause, and male reproductive system aging will be taught. Reproductive challenges including infertility, gynecological pathology, and abnormal puberty will be addressed.
Ethics
MED 635
During lectures and small-group interactions, students will discuss ethical dilemmas faced in the field of medicine. Through real-life case presentations, students will become exposed to the legal limitations and ramifications that must be considered by both patients and physicians when faced with difficult, yet often every-day decisions. Topics covered will include abortion, withdrawing life-support, informed consent, beneficence versus nonmaleficence, patient autonomy, confidentiality, advance directives, HIV/AIDS, pediatric issues, assisted suicide, sexuality and professional boundaries, stem cell research, research disclosures, and mental health issues. In addition, the legal principles of malpractice, negligence, and damage assessments will be addressed.
Medical Board Review
MED 636
This lecture and laboratory course will review basic science curriculum in conjunction with teaching students the test taking skills necessary to successfully pass board licensing exams in the
Year 3
Family Medicine
MED 711
This rotation will focus on primary-care in the setting of family medicine, emphasizing psychosocial concerns in conjunction with preventive medicine. Providing whole person care in the fields of medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology, students will work in community clinics, hospitals, and homes. Medically managing patients under close supervision of preceptors, students will develop physician-patient relationships from birth and infancy through childhood, adolescence, adulthood, aging, then finally hospice if indicated and death. Students will learn how to provide a safe and protected environment for patients to discuss sensitive concerns.
General Surgery
MED 712
During this rotation, students will be introduced to the diagnosis and management of patients with surgical conditions. Students will become familiar with focused physical exam techniques and other diagnostic modalities used to identify appropriate surgical candidates. In addition, students will learn to determine differential diagnoses and possible surgical interventions as indicated by the patient’s condition. Students will participate in daily rounds, pre-op appointments, follow-up appointments, and the operating room. With the exception of the aforementioned clinic appointments and minor surgery clinics, the majority of time will be spent in the inpatient setting. At the end of this rotation, students will be well-versed in surgical knots, washing and gowning for surgery, sterile technique, writing focused surgical histories and progress notes, surgery related fluid resuscitation, and caring for patients post-op.
Internal Medicine
MED 713
Through daily rounds, morning report, grand rounds, and clinic, students will develop their adult medicine history-taking and physical exam skills. Students will learn the importance of these skills in disease diagnosis and how they differ when caring for patients as outpatients versus inpatients. By actively participating in patient care, students will understand the necessity of continuous management of chronic medical conditions and will also learn to recognize when medical conditions deteriorate to the point patients need aggressive management in the hospital.
Psychiatry
MED 714
Through a variety of patient exposures, students will participate in crisis intervention, consultation, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders. Students will be expected to perform and become comfortable with taking complete psychiatric histories. By the end of this rotation, students will be familiar with psychiatric hospitalizations, psychopharmacology, and various psychotherapeutic modalities.
Obstetrics/Gynecology
MED 715
In this rotation, students will learn how to provide complete medical care for women from adolescence through old age. In addition to diagnosing and managing a variety of gynecologic conditions and diseases, students will closely participate in the management and delivery of both low-risk and high-risk obstetric patients. Students will provide care in inpatient and outpatient settings and in the operating room. Additional topics covered in detail will include STDs, domestic abuse, counseling services, infertility, and menopause.
Pediatrics
MED 716
In both inpatient and outpatient settings, students will be exposed to medical care of children. Students will become knowledgeable in pediatric nutritional requirements, immunization schedules, physical and psychosocial developmental milestones, general hospitalization criteria for sick children, how to take pediatric histories, negotiation of treatment plans with parents/guardians and patients, and how to perform well-child exams. In addition to treating common childhood illnesses, students will provide patient care for children with congenital defects and evolving acute medical conditions.
Electives
MED 717
During their elective periods, students will be able to explore their choice subspecialties or spend their time cementing their interest in one the core disciplines.
Year 4
Neurology
MED 811
This course will expose students to general clinical neurology in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. Students will be introduced to various neuroimaging modalities. By the end of the rotation, students will be able to perform a thorough neurological exam and understand how different neuropathologies localize to abnormal exam findings.
Surgical Elective
MED 812
In this rotation, students will have the opportunity to further their surgical education and experience in the surgical area of their choice.
Ambulatory Medicine
MED 813
Ambulatory medicine students will have the opportunity to work in community based clinics and other centers where they will be exposed to primary-care health issues they might not otherwise experience during their medical education. Students will rotate through a variety of locations which offer care in dermatology, pain management, home health nursing, acupuncture, holistic medicine, palliative medicine, rehabilitation medicine, geriatrics, allergies, rheumatology, PT/OT/speech therapy, nutrition/dietetics, addiction medicine, radiological testing, STDs, and tropical medicine. In addition, students will be required to attend a specified number of Alcoholics Anonymous meetings.
Emergency Medicine
MED 814
Emergency medicine students will experience patient care from the moment patients come through hospital doors. They will be exposed to a wide variety of emergencies in the medical, surgical, and gynecological fields. Students will review CPR and learn how to emergently triage patients and order appropriate diagnostic tests. By the end of this course, students will be competent in IV placement, wound washing, suturing, EKG reading, and the simultaneous management of multiple patients.
Intensive Care Medicine
MED 815
During this rotation, students will work in either a Cardiac Care Unit, a medical Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a surgical ICU, or a pediatric ICU. Curriculum will cover a specific selection of ICU topics from current medicine journals and texts including ventilator management, ventilator associated pneumonia, treatment of shock and sepsis, central line placement, central line infections, end-of-life care, nosocomial infections in the ICU, cardiac arrest, ICU induced gastrointestinal bleeding and prophylaxis, and insulin therapy. By the end of the rotation, students will have improved their skills in caring for the critically ill patient.
Subinternship
MED 816
During this rotation, students will work directly under the supervision of a senior resident or attending physician in one of three fields: general surgery, internal medicine, or pediatrics. Patient care will be predominantly inpatient, with the possibility of some outpatient follow up care. Students will function in the position of intern resident to become better acquainted with the duties and roles of physicians after medical school.
Electives
MED 817
During their elective periods, students will be able to explore their choice subspecialties or spend their time cementing their interest in one the core disciplines.