Medical School Profiles
Introduction
This was the first University of California Medical School in Southern California, enrolling its charter class in 1951. The school is located on the UCLA campus and is closely connected with the University Medical Center. Both the School of Medicine and Medical Center have expanded along with the growth of Los Angeles into a major metropolitan urban center.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Prerequisites are the basic premedical science courses (if possible, including quantitative analysis as part of inorganic chemistry), 1 year of mathematics (including introductory calculus and statistics), and 1 year of English (including composition). Spanish, humanities, and computer skills are highly recommended. Completing courses overlapping those in medical school, such as human anatomy, is not advisable. Taking the spring MCAT is recommended. Applicants are favored who have a broad training and high achievement in their college education. Applicants are initially screened on the basis of their personal essay, letters of recommendation, their GPA, and MCAT scores. Selected applicants will be scheduled to have a personal interview by members of the faculty. About 25 of the students admitted each year are accepted into the Drew/UCLA Joint Medical Program, designed for students with an interest in caring for underserved populations. Transfer and advanced standing: From U.S. medical schools only, into the third-year class.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. Stress is on the holistic approach in medicine. First year: Introductory basic sciences and patient contact and experience in history and physical examination as well as an elective program and a pre-ceptorship program. Second year: Study of the process of disease through advanced basic science courses using an organ-system approach; diagnosis and treatment through courses in clinical surgery, clinical neurology, outpatient psychiatry, radiology, and obstetrics. Third year: Clerkships in clinical sciences and work in wards and outpatient clinics. Fourth year: Consists of electives—advanced elective clinical clerkships with primary patient responsibility, and in-depth elective courses that can be centered on major area of clinical interest or a combination of related or diverse disciplines.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grading in basic sciences, clinical sciences, and electives. Promotion is contingent upon satisfactory completion of required work each year. Completion of Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required.
Facilities
Teaching: The School of Medicine is located in the Center for Health Sciences, which is the largest building in California. The University Hospital (517 beds) is the major clinical training center. Many other hospitals, including Harbor General (800 beds), are affiliated with the medical school. Other: The Brain Research Institute is a 10-story wing, connected to the Neuropsychiatric Institute and also houses the Los Angeles County Cardiovascular Research Laboratory. The Reed Neurological Research Center is an 8-story unit devoted to clinical research in neuromuscular disease. Library: The Biomedical Library is an 8-level facility in the northeast corner of the campus. Housing: Living accommodations are available in the university's residence halls or married students' housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program and offers a 4-week summer prologue to medicine program for accepted students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including medical physics, biomathematics, engineering, and experimental pathology. An MD-MPH program is also offered.
Introduction
This school is located on the main campus of the University at La Jolla, making it accessible to a wide variety of educational opportunities. Its scenic location is unique, affording students special opportunities for both educational and cultural advancement.
Admissions (AMCAS)
It is recommended that students enter medical school after 4 years of undergraduate study; the absolute minimum requirement is attendance for 3 academic years at an approved college of arts and sciences. Students who have attended a foreign school must have completed at least 1 year of undergraduate study at an accredited 4-year college or university in the United States prior to application. Applicants are required to have completed the minimum premedical science courses and 1 year of mathematics (only calculus, statistics, or computer science is considered). The ability to express oneself clearly in both oral and written English is essential. Abroad base of knowledge is advantageous in preparing for the many roles of a physician and may include courses in behavioral sciences, the biology of cells and development, genetics, biochemistry, English, social sciences, or conversational Spanish. Applicants are advised to take the MCAT. Only permanent residents or U.S. citizens will be considered for admission and preference is given to California state residents. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students from either foreign or domestic medical schools are not accepted.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Program places emphasis upon human disease with aim of expanding scientific knowledge and in the context of social applicability. The curriculum is divided into 2 major components: the core curriculum and the elective programs. Both are pursued concurrently, with the core predominating in the early years and the elective in the latter. Elective programs offer students a set of choices suited to their unique background, ability, and career objectives. Preclinical phase: The first year includes social and behavioral sciences, biostatistics, and an introduction to clinical medicine as well as some introductory and advanced basic science courses. The second year includes anatomy as well as advanced electives. Clinical phase: An extended continuum consisting of rotation through the major clinical specialties and electives (which take up about half of the total time of these 2 years).
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading is either Pass or Fail, and a narrative of each student's performance in his/her individual courses is prepared. These narratives are collated yearly and summarized, with a copy of the summary made available to students and their main advisor.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is located on the university campus in La Jolla. The primary teaching hospitals include the Veterans Administration Medical Center, UCSD Medical Center, and Balboa Naval Hospital. Other: Clinical teaching is also done at Mercy Hospital, Sharp Hospital, Children's Health Center, and the Kaiser Per-manente Health Maintenance Organization as well as a wide spectrum of front-line, outpatient clinics, ranging from tiny Indian reservation facilities in east San Diego County, to the Clinica de Campesinos to the south. Library: The Biomedical Library is located on the UCSD medical school campus and houses a large collection of books and journals. Housing: Limited on-campus housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school conducts an active recruitment program and offers a summer preparatory program for disadvantaged students who have been accepted. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs available in a variety of disciplines, including biology, bioengineering, and chemistry. Also available is an MD-MPH program in conjunction with San Diego State University.
Introduction
The University of California—San Francisco School of Medicine can trace its roots back to Toland Medical College, founded in 1864. UCSF became affiliated with the state university system in 1873.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Minimum premedical science courses are required; biology should include vertebrate zoology. Mathematics, upper-division biological sciences, and humanities courses are recommended. Transfer and advanced standing: No students are accepted at any level.
Curriculum
4-year modern. First and second years: Aseries of interdisciplinary block courses is offered. Basic, clinical, social, and behavioral sciences are integrated. Emphasis is placed on student-directed, active learning in small groups. Students have patient contact, learn physical exam skills, and explore issues of ethics and professionalism in the longitudinal Foundations of Patient Care course. Third and fourth years: In the last 2 years, various clinical departments provide 46 weeks of core clerkships, which teach students the basic techniques of clinical medicine. Also, in the third year, students participate in 22 one-half-day longitudinal clinic sessions. An additional 34 weeks of clinical and basic science courses must be elected from a wide range of offerings. There are numerous opportunities for students to engage in research.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The grading system used is Honors/Pass/Not Pass. Honors are not awarded in the first-year courses. The Student Screening Committee on Student Promotions assesses the performance of all students at the end of each quarter and recommends one of the following: promotion to the next quarter; promotion to the next quarter, subject to certain conditions; formal repetition of one or more quarters of work; or consideration of dismissal from the school. A passing total score must be recorded in Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year; Step 2 must be taken only to record a score.
Facilities
Teaching: The first and second year essential core courses are offered at the Medical Sciences Building and the Health Sciences Instruction and Research Building. Core clinical instruction utilizes the UCSF Medical Center, which comprises the Herbert C. Moffitt/Joseph M. Long Hospital, the UCSF/Mount Zion Medical Center, and the UCSF Children's Hospital; Langley Porter Psychiatric Institute; San Francisco General Hospital; and the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, as well as other area hospitals. Other: There are 16 major research centers within the school: AIDS Research Institute, Cancer Research Institute, Cardiovascular Research Institute, Center for Health and Community, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Hooper Foundation, Hormone Research Institute, Institute for Global Health, Institute for Health Policy Studies, Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, and others. Library: The major portions of the library are housed in the Paul and Lydia Kalmanovitz Library; there are nearly 800,000 volumes and nearly 9000 periodicals. Housing: The university operates Turk Boulevard Apartments and Avenue Houses for single students, and Aldea San Miguel for families.
Special Features
Minority admissions: UCSF's multifaceted program seeks to identify, recruit, and prepare disadvantaged students for careers in the health sciences. Included in these efforts are academic support services and counseling opportunities. Other degree programs: Dual-degree programs offering MS, MPH, and PhD degrees are offered for this purpose. MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines.
Introduction
The School of Medicine is one of the 4 components of the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. The others are the schools of Dentistry and Nursing, and their Graduate School. The School of Medicine began in 1883 in Boulder. The first University Hospital was a 30-bed facility contracted in 1885, then relocated in 1911 to Denver, a city that offers many cultural and recreational facilities.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the minimum premedical science courses plus 1 year of college-level mathematics and English literature, and 1 semester of English composition. About 85% of the approximately 125 first-year openings are awarded to residents. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants in good standing from approved U.S. medical schools will be considered, when openings occur, for admission to sophomore classes. Preference is given to Colorado residents. Colorado residents who have completed their basic sciences at nonaccredited medical schools must have successfully passed Step 1 of the USMLE before being considered for openings in the sophomore class.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: Introductory basic sciences and courses in genetics and biometrics, as well as the first of a 3-year longitudinal course in primary care. Second year: Advanced basic sciences and courses in physical examination and preclerkship, pathophysiol-ogy of disease, clinical neurosciences, basic cardiac life support and primary care. Third and fourth years: Clerkship rotations through the major clinical specialties, electives, and free time. Seminars in minor clinical specialties are held throughout the school year. A large number of clinical and basic science opportunities are offered for the elective quarters. This allows students to major in certain specialties or subspecialties or to have experience in programs in community medicine, family medicine, or rural practice. It also provides for additional work in basic sciences or in laboratory research. An elective rural preceptorship is available, and participation in independent research during vacation is strongly encouraged. Among electives offered are courses in alcoholism, drug abuse, community medicine, ethical problems in medicine, geriatrics, health care delivery systems, human sexuality, occupational medicine, and environmental health hazards.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/Pass/Fail. The performance of each student is considered by curriculum and promotion committees, which determine when students have satisfactorily completed appropriate coursework.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in the School of Medicine Building, which also has space for faculty offices and research laboratories. Clinical teaching takes place at the University Hospital (386 beds), at Colorado General Hospital (450 beds), at the VA Hospital (500 beds), and at Denver General Hospital (340 beds). Other: The Sabin Building for Cellular Research, the Webb-Waring Institute for Medical Research, the Clinical Research Wing of the Colorado General Hospital. Library: Denison Memorial Library is located in a building bearing the same name. The collection includes more than 150,000 volumes, and 2000 periodicals are received regularly. Housing: No residence halls available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: A minority-group students program gives special consideration to the applicants, provides advisory and tutoring services, and grants financial aid for eligible students. The school also offers an 8-week summer course, Introduction to Medical Science, for some students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in the basic medical sciences and in biometrics, biophysics, and genetics; there is a combined MD-MBA program.
Introduction
The University of Connecticut has been in existence since 1881. The School of Medicine was activated in 1968 and together with the School of Dental Medicine research facilities and the University Hospital and Ambulatory Unit forms the University of Connecticut Health Center. The campus is located on 162 wooded acres, 7 miles west of Hartford in scenic Farmington. Boston and New York are each about 2 hours away.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the basic premedical sciences. Applicants must demonstrate facility in quantitative and communicative skills. The faculty believes a broad liberal arts education provides the best preparation for those entering the medical profession. Strong preference is given to residents. Transfer and advanced standing: Third-year U.S. medical school transfers only.
Curriculum
4-year modern. It consists of 3 phases: Phase 1: Extends for 2 years. The didactic portion requires 20 hours per week devoted to the basic concepts and facts of medicine. It will involve lectures, laboratories, and seminars. Problem-based learning sessions will lead to an understanding of the material in a clinical context. Areas to be covered include: human system, human development in its environment, mechanism of disease, student practice, introduction to clinical medicine, Elective 1, and practical clinical experiences. Phase 2: Extends over 1 year. It is divided into 3 months of required experiences, 2 months of selectives, and 6 months of electives. A student practice preceptorship extends over the entire 4 years. This curriculum is characterized by early clinical exposure, integrated and interdisciplinary relationships in the basic sciences and between the basic sciences and clinical disciplines, and clinical experiences in ambulatory and hospital settings. This approach is aimed at preparing professionals entering the evolving new health care system. The principal goal is to provide a fund of knowledge that will enable students to pursue postgraduate training needed in their future careers. By attaining basic competency, the graduate will ultimately be able to provide high-quality, cost-effective clinical care.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used, with Honors/Pass/Fail in the third year. Students must pass Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE.
Facilities
Teaching: Students obtain most of their clinical experience in hospitals in the greater Hartford area and at the John Dempsey Hospital at the Health Center. The Health Center is a member of a consortium of hospitals that seeks to strengthen health education programs and improve patient care. Ten health care institutions are affiliated, and 11 are allied with the Health Center. Library: Lyman Maynard Stowe Library is centrally located in the Health Sciences Center. Housing: Provision for both single and married student housing is coordinated by the Office of Student Affairs.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school actively recruits disadvantaged applicants by visits to area institutions and participation in informational programs. The Medical/Dental Preparatory Program is an 8-week summer program that simulates the first year of basic medical sciences. Minority enrollment has averaged 15% or more in recent years. Other degree programs: MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including molecular biology and immunology.
Introduction
This medical school was established by a state charter granted to Yale College in 1810. Subsequently, faculty members, local physicians, and other citizens raised funds that resulted in the New Haven Hospital, which served as a place to train medical students. In 1965 the hospital and the university became affiliated. The School of Medicine is a component of the Yale-New Haven Medical Center that also contains the School of Nursing and Yale-New Haven Hospital.
Admissions
Courses in the basic premedical sciences are required. Students demonstrating proficiency in science by AP scores should substitute advanced courses. Transfer and advanced standing: Students studying at other medical schools, domestic or foreign, are not encouraged to apply. In a few cases, students are accepted into second or third year.
Curriculum
First year: Four-year semimodern. The curriculum emphasizes normal biological form and function, and has been designed to coordinate information from various disciplines. It features a development approach to human behavior as related to health and illness. Anatomy and physiology are taught intensively two-thirds of the academic year. The first year includes a medicine, society, and public health series. Students are introduced to the principles and skills in medical interviewing and physical examination. Second year: The emphasis is on the disease process. A special feature is a series of all-day colloquia investigating diseases in an in-depth format. Basic principles of diagnostic radiology and laboratory medicine are included during the first 14 weeks. There are opportunities to enhance skills in history-taking and physical examination. The remaining 18 weeks feature modules in cardiovascular, clinical neuroscience and psychiatry, endocrine, female reproductive, GI/liver, lung/respiratory, musculoskeletal, renal/urinary tract, general oncology, and hematology. The medicine, society, and public health series continues. Third and fourth years: The clinical experience consists of direct patient care. Rotations include internal medicine and 3 subspecialties of surgery. There are clerkships in obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, pediatrics, clinical neuroscience, and primary care.
Grading and Promotion Policies
It is not the policy of this school to grade its students, and numerical standings are not determined. The performance of the students is carefully evaluated and reported by the faculty. All students must also pass Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE as a threshold requirement for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The school occupies several city blocks about one-half mile southwest of the University Center. Basic sciences are taught at the Jane Ellen Hope Building, Lander Hall, and Brady Memorial Laboratory. Clinical instruction takes place primarily at Yale-New Haven Hospital (900 beds) and the VA Hospital (513 beds) in West Haven. Library: Yale Medical Library is located in Sterling Hall and contains more than 380,000 volumes, receives 2600 journals, and has more than 90,000 other books of the last 2 centuries. The library is one of the country's largest medical libraries. Housing: Edward S. Harkness Memorial Hall provides living accommodations for single men and women and married students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school receives a substantial number of minority group applications even though it does not have a special recruitment program. Other degree programs: Combined degree programs are available for an MD-PhD in a variety of disciplines including anthropology, biology, chemistry, economics, engineering, genetics, biophysics, and psychology. MD-MBA, MD-MPH, and MD-JD programs are also offered.
Introduction
The School of Medicine was established in 1825. In 1844 Congress granted it the use of the Washington Infirmary, establishing one the earliest general teaching hospitals in the country. The School of Medicine and Health Sciences is now one of the components of the George Washington Medical Center, which includes the University Hospital, a Health Sciences Library, Medical Faculty Associates, and the School of Public Health and Health Services.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Courses in English composition and literature are required in addition to the basic premedical science courses. Being a private institution, the school accepts students from almost every state. An early selection program for second-year GW undergraduates and other select schools is available. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students are accepted into the second- and third-year classes.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. A course, Practice of Medicine (POM), in the first and second year introduces students to the clinical setting while also teaching the basic sciences. In the final two years, POM reinforces and reintegrates the basic sciences as students' clinical experience progresses. First year: Introduction to normal human biology and function, by means of the basic medical science courses. Second year: Focus on abnormal human biology with the introduction of pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, psychopathology taught initially in a core curriculum and then progressing to an interdisciplinary, organ-system-organized discussion of the pathology, pharmacology, and the natural history of disease. Third year: 8-week clerkships through the 5 major clinical disciplines and a 6-week primary care clerkship. Fourth year: Includes 37 weeks of course work and must include a 4-week “acting internship” in medicine, pediatrics, or family practice; three 2-week courses in anesthesiology, emergency medicine, and neuroscience; two 2-week courses to be selected from urology, orthopedics, otolaryngology, pediatric surgery, and ophthalmology; a course in medical decision making; and at least one didactic course offering. Students may spend some elective time at other institutions in the U.S. and abroad.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/Pass/Conditional/Fail. Students must pass Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE.
Facilities
Teaching: Walter G. Ross Hall is the basic science building. Clinical instruction takes place at the 371-bed University Hospital, as well as at numerous affiliated hospitals. The new GW Hospital opened in August 2002. The top floor of the new facility boasts an Educational Center for medical student and resident use. The Educational Center contains highly technical patient simulators, expanded standardized patient examination rooms, a computer resource center, and lounge/conference areas. Library: The Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library is expanding, with a capacity for 80,000 volumes. Housing: No university housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Admissions committee members visit selected schools to discuss the school's program with minority students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in the basic sciences as well as an MD-MPH program. There is a 7-year GW BA-MD and an 8-year GW BS-MD program for high school students. In addition, an 8-year BS-MD biophysics program is available through St. Bonaventure University.
Introduction
Founded in 1851, this is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit-sponsored medical school in the United States. It is named according to its location, the Georgetown section of Washington, D.C. The school is a component of Georgetown University Hospital and a Concentrated Care Center containing 12 modern surgical suites. The curriculum of the School of Medicine was approved by the LCME.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the basic premedical sciences as well as 1 year of English and 1 semester of mathematics. Courses considered useful preparation are biochemistry and computer science. A solid background in the humanities is important for future physicians. Some preference is given to District residents and Georgetown University undergraduates. Transfer and advanced standing: Students from foreign or domestic medical schools may apply to transfer to the second or third year. Transfers must take and pass Step 1 of the USMLE and must have taken the MCAT.
Curriculum
Georgetown's 4-year curriculum combines departmentally based basic science courses and laboratory work, prescribed clinical clerkships, multidisciplinary courses and conferences, and electives. Courses in the first 2 years focus on the development of fundamental knowledge concerning the body's normal and altered structure and functions. Small-group teaching and problem-based presentations have replaced a portion of the large class lectures.
In the third year, clinical clerkships stress the skills required to acquire and interpret patient-based data, while the fourth year further develops skills in patient management, including rotations in ambulatory care settings. Twenty-four weeks of electives are available during this final year, 4 of which may be used for vacation.
Faculty-student review of the curriculum is an important continuing endeavor of the School of Medicine.
Grading and Promotion Policies
At Georgetown the grading system consists of Honors, High Pass, Pass, and Fail. Students who receive an F in any course will be considered to be in a position of jeopardy, and their case will be referred to the Committee on Students for Review. A failure could lead to dismissal, repeating a year, or doing additional work in a specific course. Passing Step 1 of the USMLE is required prior to entering the third year.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in the School of Medicine Building, the Preclinical Science Building, and the Basic Science Building. Clinical teaching takes place at University Hospital (535 beds), and a complex in close proximity to institutions providing access to approximately 7000 beds. Other: The District location provides students with opportunities such as federal laboratories, libraries, and museums. The National Library of Medicine and the laboratories of the Department of Agriculture and Bureau of Standards are affiliated with the university. Library: Dahlgren Memorial Library houses about 160,000 volumes and subscribes to 1650 periodicals. Also available for students' use are the Library of Congress, the National Library of Medicine, the National Institutes of Health Library, Agriculture Department Library, and the Public Library of District of Columbia. Housing: none.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Special admissions programs for underrepresented minority students include a prematriculation year of study supplemented with academic enrichment and advising. Other degree programs: A research track for medical students and a combined MD-PhD program are also available; the PhD may be taken in a basic medical science department, the neurosciences, or in philosophy-bioethics. Work on an MPH can begin in the summer before matriculation.
Introduction
This is the oldest and largest African-American medical school in the country. It began in 1868 as the university's medical department, with the goal of training physicians in medically underserved areas. Its students come from all over the world and its alumni make up a significant segment of the nation's minority physicians.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include a minimum of 62 credits (2 years) of undergraduate work, plus minimum premedical science courses and 1 year of English and college mathematics. There are no residence restrictions; 70% of the students are African-American; about 50% are women. Selection is based not only on academic achievements and personal qualities, but also on the likelihood of practice in communities or facilities needing physician services. Transfer and advanced standing: Placement is infrequent, and usually at the end of the second year. Foreign transfers are not accepted.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Program is flexible in order to produce the physician-scientist. First year: Core concept presentation of introductory basic sciences and interdisciplinary courses, plus optional electives. Second year: Continued core concept presentation of advanced basic sciences plus interdisciplinary courses in pathophysiology of organ systems, infectious diseases, and physical diagnosis. Elective courses are offered. Third year: A series of clerkships through the major clinical specialties. Possibility for involvement in community health care is also provided. Fourth year: A 9-month program similar to junior year, except that periods of specialization are increased by allotment of 24 weeks of elective time (4 of which can be used for vacation). A 5-year curriculum is offered to students who demonstrate academic difficulty during the first semester. This curriculum does not require taking additional courses, but it extends the standard one over a 5-year period.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is the Honors/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Students must take Step 1 of the USMLE and obtain a passing total score for promotion to the third year. To graduate, students must record a passing total score on Step 2.
Facilities
Teaching: The college is part of Howard University Center for the Health Sciences. It is housed in a modern building and is the site for teaching basic medical sciences. Clinical teaching is at the 300-bed Howard University Hospital. Several other hospitals in the District area provide additional training facilities. Other: Research is carried out in several buildings, including a Cancer Center. Library: The Health Sciences Library contains more than 265,000 volumes, and 1750 periodicals. National Institutes of Health and National Library of Medicine are available to students. Housing: Professional students are not usually allocated accommodations on campus, but a university-owned apartment complex is nearby.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college is dedicated to training minority applicants and has a strong recruitment program that includes early admission and academic reinforcement for admitted students. Other degree programs: A dual-degree program is available for the MD-PhD in most of the basic sciences; a BS-MD program is also offered. Both degrees may be obtained in a 6-year period. Continuing education is available for graduates.
Introduction
This medical school began in 1956 and occupies the southeast corner of the 2000-acre University of Florida campus. It is a component of the University of Florida Health Sciences Center, which also consists of colleges of Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Health-Related Professionals.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Only the minimum premedical science courses plus biochemistry (with lab) are required. The college gives preference to those who have completed the requirements for a bachelor's degree and who are state residents. Very few of the class are nonresidents; out-of-state applicants should have a 3.9 or better GPA. Selection is based on academic record, MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, and personal attributes. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer is rarely possible.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First year: In addition to the basic sciences, courses in diagnostic imaging, patient care, human behavior, and molecular genetics are presented. Second year: Advanced basic sciences, courses in ophthalmology, radiology, physical diagnosis, and ethics are offered. Third year: Eight clinical clerkships extending over 52 weeks. Fourth year: Surgical and medical clerkships, coursework, and electives in selected categorical areas related to medicine within the medical school or at 2 nonuniversity settings. During the first summer and elective period, students may become involved in research. The option also exists for extending the preclinical basic science program courses over a 3-year period.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is letter/number but some courses use a Pass/Fail system. At the end of each quarter the Committee on Academic Status reviews each student's performance on the basis of grades and comments by faculty and recommends suitable action to the dean. Students who receive Fs in 2 major courses in one semester will be dropped automatically. In order to graduate, the student must pass Step 1 and take Step 2 of the USMLE.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in J. Hillis Miller Health Center, which includes the Shands Teaching Hospital (850 beds). Clinical teaching also takes place at the nearby VA Hospital (450 beds). Other: Research facilities are present in the Health Center, VA Hospital, and Academic Research Building, Genetic Institutes. Library: The Health Center Library has a collection of more than 193,000 books and periodicals. Computer-based retrieval services are available. Housing: Accommodations are available for single students in Beaty Towers and Schucht Village, and for married students in Cory, University, Maguire, and Diamond Memorial Villages. The latter contain 1-, 2-, and some 3-bedroom apartments.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college encourages under-represented applicants from minority groups. A summer workshop for new minority matriculants is sponsored annually. It is an orientation and academic preparation program. Other degree programs: The school offers a Junior Honors Medical Program that allows college juniors to enroll in basic medical science seminars and undergraduate courses. During their senior year they become full-time medical students and receive their baccalaureate at year's end. Several dual-degree programs are also offered, including a funded MD/PhD track for those desiring academic careers.
Introduction
This is the oldest and largest medical school in Florida and was established in 1952. The School of Medicine is located next to Jackson Memorial Hospital in the Civic Center area of Miami. The school has undergone considerable growth and is especially noted for its extensive research. As a result of its growth, this medical school has developed into one of the largest and most comprehensive medical centers nationwide. The school has a large full-time faculty and receives numerous research grants. The school's affiliated hospitals provide upper-class students with excellent clinical training experiences because of their large number of admissions and the broad spectrum of cases seen.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include minimum premedical science courses plus 2 semesters of English. Biochemistry is recommended. The school gives preference to residents. Those nonresidents who have especially attractive academic records and MCAT scores should consider applying. In addition to one's undergraduate scholastic record and aptitude test scores, such considerations as interpersonal skills, motivation, maturity, and leadership ability are considered. Selected individuals are invited to the medical campus for an interview in order to complete the admissions process. Acceptances are sent out on a rolling admission basis until the class of about 182 is filled. Transfer and advanced standing: Not available.
Curriculum
4-year modern. First year: Designed to provide the student with a background of normal structure, function, and behavior. Basic sciences are integrated into study of organ systems. These courses include gross anatomy, cell biophysics, neuroscience, biochemistry, and systemic physiology. The latter is an interdisciplinary course dealing with structure and function of organ systems. The Community Clinical Experience runs throughout the first and second years. It provides a setting in which students acquire clinical skills through direct patient contact from the beginning of the freshman year. Second year: Initial weeks are devoted to general concepts of advanced basic sciences. A major course in mechanisms of disease emphasizes the disease processes that affect various organ systems. The transition to third-year work is prepared for by physical diagnosis. Third year: Consists of clerkship rotations through the major clinical specialties. Fourth year: Consists of electives. Students may select from a number of programs at the school and at other institutions, if approved. Students may choose from clinical (direct patient care and consultative care), academic, and research electives.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in the Rosenstiel Medical Sciences Building. Clinical teaching takes place at Jackson Memorial Hospital (1500 beds) and the VA hospital (900 beds). Other: Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Diabetes Research Institute, Ryder Trauma (Level 1) Center, Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. Library: The Calder Memorial Library houses more than 180,000 volumes and more than 2100 periodicals. Housing: No student housing exists at present.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Applications from women and socioeconomically disadvantaged candidates are encouraged, as are those from older applicants. Other degree programs: MD-PhD program for qualified applicants with extensive prior research experience.
Introduction
This school, established in 1971, is one of the 3 colleges of the University of South Florida Health Sciences Center. Its location on a 1600-acre site of the northeast section of Tampa, which is an expanding metropolitan area of over 3 million people, has enhanced the rapid growth of the institution.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the minimum premedical science courses plus 2 semesters of English and mathematics. It is recommended that the MCAT be taken in the spring of the year of application and that the required sciences be completed at the time of application. Coursework in communication, arts, humanities, and natural sciences is encouraged. Applicants who present a bachelor's degree from a liberal arts college are preferred. A 3-year applicant must present a superior academic record and demonstrated maturity. To be competitive, Florida residents should have a GPA of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale and score at a minimum of 24 on the MCAT. Transfer and advanced standing: Information is available at the Web site.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. The 4-year curriculum is designed to permit the student to learn the fundamental principles of medicine, to acquire skills of critical judgment based on evidence and experience, and to develop an ability to use principles and skills wisely in solving problems in health and disease. It includes the sciences basic to medicine, the major clinical disciplines, and other significant elements such as behavioral science, medical ethics, and human values. The intent is to foster in students the ability to learn through self-directed, independent study throughout their professional lives. Using both ambulatory and hospital settings, students are given increasing responsibility for patient care in preparation to enter graduate medical education residencies.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Students' performance in academic coursework will be evaluated by assignment of grades of Honors (H), Pass with Commendation (PC), Pass (P), Fail (F), or Incomplete (I). Passing grades are H, PC, and P in order of excellence. Deficient grades are F or I. The F or I grade may be given to a student who fails to complete course requirements or who fails to attend or participate in required course activities.
Facilities
The USF Health Sciences Center offers hospital educational opportunities at facilities with more than 3500 patient beds. The primary teaching facilities are H.L. Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, and Tampa General Hospital. The university's 538 College of Medicine faculty members work both on and off campus. Health Sciences Center affiliates for clinical education also include the following: USF Medical Clinic, University Diagnostic Clinic, University Psychiatry Center, All Childrens' Hospital, Bayfront Medical Center, Bay Pines Veterans' Hospital, and the Shriner Hospital for Crippled Children.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Special efforts are made to encourage qualified minority students to apply. Other degree programs: The school has an MD-PhD program for a select few students interested in a research career. Likewise, students interested in public health, preventive medicine, epidemiology, health care systems, or related areas can secure an MD-MPH degree. This degree requires minimal additional time and is awarded by The College of Public Health. Special programs are available for those interested in primary care. An MD-MBA degree is awarded in concert with the College of Business.
Introduction
Emory is a privately controlled university affiliated with the Methodist Church. The Emory University School of Medicine was established in 1915. The forerunner of this school was the Atlanta Medical College, which was established in 1856. This school was merged with Southern Medical College to form the Atlantic College of Physicians and Surgeons, and a subsequent merger took place with the Atlanta School of Medicine in 1905. In 1915 the name was changed to Emory University School of Medicine. It is located on 620 acres in the Druid Hills section of Atlanta.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses, aside from the basic premedical sciences, include 6 semester hours of English and 18 semester hours of humanities and/or social and behavioral sciences. Biochemistry is highly recommended. Applications from well-qualified students are seriously considered regardless of geographic origin. Foreign students on visas must document ability to fund their medical education. Transfer and advanced standing: Properly qualified students from LCME-accredited schools will be considered for the third-year class only.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years utilize a continuum course in medical problem solving to assist students in their approach to patients and their problems. Along with traditional lectures and laboratories, the problem-based learning format allows students to integrate and apply basic science and psychosocial knowledge in solving clinical problems. First year: Interdepartmental course in cellular biology and biochemistry and in neurobiology; physiology, human anatomy, and genetics; introduction to the doctor-patient relationship, patient interviewing, and biostatistics. Second year: Advanced basic sciences and courses in behavioral science and clinical methods. Third year: 12-week clerkship in internal medicine, 12-month interdisciplinary ethics clerkship, 8-week clerkship in other major clinical specialties, and a family medicine clerkship of 4 weeks duration. Fourth year: 4-week clerkships in medicine, neurology, and 6 weeks on a surgical selection, 2 weeks in dermatology and radiology, and 16 weeks of elective work in any area.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades of A through F are used in required courses and grades of Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory are used in electives. At the end of the year, the promotion committees for each class review the records of all students to determine whether they should be unconditionally promoted to the next year's program, whether they need remedial work, whether they must repeat work deemed unsatisfactory, or whether they are to be asked to withdraw. For promotion to the third year, a passing total score must be recorded in Step 1 of the USMLE; Step 2 must be passed prior to graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught primarily on the Emory campus. Clinical instruction takes place primarily at Emory University Hospital (600 beds), Grady Memorial Hospital (1000 beds), the VA Hospital (463 beds), Crawford Long Hospital (583 beds), and at many other ambulatory primary care sites including: Hughs Spalding Children's Hospital and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egelston. Library: The Health Sciences Library has more than 220,000 volumes and 3000 periodicals. Other clinical libraries are located in Emory University, Crawford Long, and Grady hospitals. Housing: Opportunities to rent or own close to the campus are affordable and abundant.
Special Features
MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines. An MD-MPH program is also available. There is a continuing education program for graduates.
Introduction
The University System of Georgia includes all state-operated institutions of higher education. The school is part of this system. The medical school, founded in 1828, is located in Augusta, which is on the south bank of the Savannah River, midway between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Atlantic Coast.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses are required as well as courses in English sufficient to satisfy baccalaureate degree requirements. Biochemistry is recommended. Very strong preference is given to state residents, as well as to candidates with 4 years of undergraduate work. Only up to 5% of nonresidents will be admitted in any given year. Potential nonresident applicants need to have especially strong credentials to be given serious consideration. Selection is made on the basis of an assessment of the applicant's achievements and potential based on credentials and recommendations received, MCAT scores, and interview performance. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants from other MD programs are considered on a space-available basis.
Curriculum
4-year modern. First and second years: During the pre-clinical years, students acquire the building blocks of basic science and the skills required for clinical decision making and patient interaction. The modular content of the curriculum is taught in lectures, labs with integrated clinical conferences, and small-group activities. The year begins with the cellular and Systems Processes Module and a Brain and Behavior Module. Offered concurrently with the basic science modules, the yearlong Essentials and Clinical Medicine course emphasizes family, cultural, and population aspects of health care, communication skills, information retrieval and analysis, health promotion/disease prevention, ethics, history taking with children and adults, and a community project. The Essentials of Clinical Medicine course is a 2-year sequence that emphasizes those skills needed to prepare students for the third year. Second year: Essentials of Clinical Medicine addresses interviewing and physical examination, common medical problems, and interdisciplinary topics such as ethics, nutrition, and the impact of behavior on health while highlighting principles of patient care for each stage of life. Cellular and Systems Disease States is a yearlong module divided into 5 systems-based blocks. In this module, students are exposed to the topics of medical microbiology, pathology, and pharmacology in the context of clinical medicine. Third year: The required core clerkships: in internal medicine, pediatrics, family medicine, ob/gyn, surgery, psychiatry, and neurology. Fourth year: Students must complete 4-week rotations in emergency medicine, critical care, and an acting internship in medicine, family medicine, or pediatrics. The remainder of the fourth year is for elective study, which can include both clinical and research courses.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are used. Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE are required of all students.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught primarily in the Research and Education Building. Clinical teaching takes place at the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics (540 beds) and affiliated hospitals and practice sites in the city and across the state. Library: The library houses more than 164,000 volumes and 1230 periodicals. Access to electronic databases and interlibrary loan is available. Housing: Accommodations are available in 4 residence halls for single students. One- and 2-bedroom apartments are available for married students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college conducts an intensive recruitment program and is committed to increasing minority representation in the student body. Other degree programs: MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including endocrinology.
Introduction
This school, founded in 1982, has the special mission of training physicians whose service will help meet the health care needs of rural and other underserved areas of Georgia. Located in Macon, in the heart of central Georgia, it is within driving distance of both Atlanta and Savannah.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses are required. Biochemistry is highly recommended. Applicants with rural backgrounds are encouraged to apply. To date, only legal residents of Georgia have been accepted. Selection is based on demonstrated academic achievement and evidence of potential. Applicants are sought who share the school's mission of seeking to serve the health care needs of rural and other underserved areas of Georgia. The school requires a supplementary application in addition to the AMCAS application, as well as an evaluation from the prehealth advisory committee. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students from LCME-accredited medical schools are considered for admission into the junior year. Applicants must be legal residents of Georgia.
Curriculum
4-year problem-based. A 4-program educational scheme is used to train physicians for service in rural and/or medically underserved areas of Georgia. Program 1 (Biomedical Problems): During this 74-week program groups of 6 to 7 students work with faculty in a tutorial setting to study the basic medical and behavioral science concepts that underlie medical problems. The array and the sequence of problems are chosen to ensure that students acquire the basic medical and behavioral science knowledge requisite to medical practice. Program 2 (Clinical Skills and Community Office Practice): This occurs throughout the first 2 years during which students learn the skills basic for interaction with patients. Students interview and examine actual and standardized patients and have opportunities to practice their skills in the offices of supervising community physicians. Program 3 (Community Science): This program spans 4 years. Initially, students attend seminars and group discussions on biostatistics, epidemiology, and public health. Each student is assigned to arural community and makes site visits to learn about medical practice and the health care needs of the area. In the fourth year this culminates in a 4-week community-based primary care clerkship during which the student lives in the community and participates in the practice of the supervising physician. Program 4 (Clerkships-Electives): The third year contains rotations in internal medicine, surgery, ambulatory family medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and psychiatry. During year 4, critical care, substance abuse, and surgery rotations, in addition to 20 weeks of electives, are required.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used. Students must pass Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE for promotion to year 3 and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught at the Education Building, and clinical training is offered at the Medical Center of Central Georgia in Macon and the Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah and regional hospitals. A 40-room ambulatory care unit is also utilized. Library: A comprehensive medical library is available for student and faculty use. Housing: Apartments are available on campus and within a 15-minute drive of the school.
Special Features
Minority admissions: There is a program that involves strong recruiting efforts directed toward traditionally black colleges in Georgia. Other degree programs: Combined programs are not currently available.
Introduction
Morehouse School of Medicine is independent of its parent school Morehouse College. Morehouse School of Medicine is the most recent member of the Atlanta University Center, which is an organization of 6 independent institutions making up the largest predominantly African-American private educational structure in the world. It is one of 3 medical schools in the nation founded by historically African-American institutions. It began as a 2-year school in 1978 and was later transformed into a 4-year institution, graduating its first class in 1985.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses plus 1 year of college mathematics and English are required. Courses in biochemistry, embryology, and genetics are recommended. Selection is determined by consideration of multiple factors, including the undergraduate record, the quality of the academic program, MCAT scores, extracurricular activities, and evidence of determination in completing meaningful projects. The applicants will be judged based on recommendations, an interview, their sense of compassion, integrity, and perseverance. A desire to serve in a rural or underserved area is also a meaningful consideration. Transfer and advanced standing: Into second year only, provided space is available. The student must be in good standing at an LCME-accredited medical school.
Curriculum
4-year traditional. First and second years: Devoted to the basic medical sciences as well as courses in human behavior and psychopathology, nutrition, community medicine, and biostatistics, along with human values in medicine and introduction to clinical medicine courses. After completing the first 2 years, students are expected to have a solid understanding of the principles, concepts, and fundamental facts of the basic sciences. During the first year, exposure to clinical medicine is provided by means of assigning each student a preceptor. The school's strengths lie in its diversified faculty, small class size, and the fact that courses are taught both by departmental and interdepartmental faculty. Third and fourth years: These 2 years involve rotation through the clinical specialties plus 20 weeks of electives. The curriculum is geared to train students as public health practitioners who are committed to meeting the primary health care needs of underserved inner city and rural patients. To this end the philosophy of viewing the patient as a whole person is emphasized. This is done by means of a variety of teaching experiences that relate medical conditions to emotional, social, cultural, and environmental considerations.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are used. Students must obtain passing total scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The first 2 years are taught at the Basic Medical Sciences Building. Clinical training is available at a number of affiliated hospitals in Atlanta and surrounding areas. Library: The medical library collection meets both student and faculty needs. Housing: Not available on campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school's recruitment officer is actively involved in identifying, informing, and encouraging potential applicants. Other degree programs: The school offers a PhD program in biomedical sciences as well as a Master of Public Health degree program. Interested MD students may apply to either program.
Introduction
The University of Hawaii is located in Honolulu. In 1961 the John A. Burns School of Medicine was founded as a 2-year program and expanded in 1973 to 4 years. The medical school is one of the components of the College of Health Science and Social Welfare, which includes schools of Nursing, Public Health, and Social Work.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Specific work required for entrance consists of the minimum premedical science courses. Courses should be of the type acceptable for majors. One semester of biochemistry as well as molecular and cell biology and one year of mathematics and English are advised; behavioral sciences are recommended. Residents of Hawaii and the Pacific Islands are given preference.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The case-based curriculum, which involves active student participation, is characterized by the following features: the use of problem-based modules to acquire knowledge, small group tutorials to enhance self-directed learning, the basic sciences presented in the context of solving clinical problems, students being taught to think critically and to evaluate new information and research data with group leaders serving as educational facilitators, and content experts who function as information resources. For the learning process, the laboratory exercises, demonstrations, the library and audiovisual and computer centers supplement faculty input. First and second years: These are divided into Units I–V and provide opportunities for electives in the basic sciences, a primary care and a community medicine course. Toward the end of the first year, primary care experience and a project begins. Patient contact begins with Unit I and extends throughout the program. The scientific background for understanding patients' problems are studied most intensively in earlier units, but will also be considered later, since it is relevant to the care of any patient in any clinical situation. Third year: Begins with Unit IV involving 4-week clerkships in surgery, obstetrics-gynecology and women's health, family practice and community medicine, pediatrics, and psychiatry, and 11 weeks in internal medicine. The integration of the basic sciences and clinical medicine is continued during these rotations. Simultaneously, the concept of learning in the context of health care problems in small group tutorials is continued. Fourth year: This is Unit VI. It includes a required 4 weeks in emergency medicine, 3 weeks of seminars dealing with medical ethics, decision analysis, medical economics, and diagnostic imaging. The balance of the time is for electives. The school's emphasis is on training primary care physicians. Moreover, it is hoped that as physicians, they will spend at least part of their career in the underserved areas of Hawaii and the Pacific.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are recorded as satisfactory/unsatisfactory during the first, second, and fourth years, and honors/satisfactory/unsatisfactory in the third year. The student must obtain passing total scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The Biomedical Sciences Building on the University of Hawaii Maanoa campus houses the basic science departments. The clinical departments are based in affiliated community hospitals, where clinical teaching takes place. Library: The principal library resources are the Hawaii Medical Library adjacent to the Queen's Medical Center and Hamilton Library on the University of Hawaii at Maanoa campus. Several hospital libraries are also available. Housing: Students are expected to make their own living arrangements.
Special Features
Minority admissions: A special program provides students from socioeconomically and academically underprivileged areas with the opportunity to study medicine. Other degree programs: Dual MD-MS and MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines.
Introduction
This school was established in 1912 with the goal of enabling men and women to study medicine at night, a common practice at that time. It attracted a staff of excellent teachers and practitioners in 1917 when an older medical school in Chicago closed and its faculty transferred to the Chicago Medical School. In 1930 the school moved to a complex located west of downtown Chicago, and in 1967 the University of Health Sciences was established. The university consists of the Chicago Medical School, the Dr. William M. Schell College of Podiatric Medicine, and the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Only the basic premedical science courses are required plus 1 year of mathematics and English. Completion of a baccalaureate degree is preferred. The school does not impose geographical restrictions. Students are selected on the basis of their potential to study and practice medicine. This is determined by their academic achievement, MCAT scores, appraisals received, and the personal interview (when granted). Qualities assessed are scholastic ability, motivation, educational background, and character. Transfer and advanced standing: Limited to filling spaces in the second or third year classes, vacated by attrition.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. Students may be permitted to finish requirements in 5 years, if they choose. Year 1: 30 weeks of class time in the basic sciences. Year 2: A clinically oriented introduction to medicine begins in the first quarter and increases progressively. Interdepartmental cooperation between clinical and basic science departments is emphasized. Overall, 30 weeks devoted to the advanced basic sciences. Year 3: 50 weeks devoted to clerkships in major specialties. Correlation of clinical instruction with basic sciences in conferences and seminars. Year 4: 36 weeks devoted to electives and selectives in affiliated hospitals and extramural institutions, along with a medical subinternship rotation. With approval, some students may be permitted to complete all requirements in 5½ years. Under this option, students are required to complete the first 2 years within 3 academic years. Clinical clerkships and electives must be completed in 2½ years. The 4-year curriculum consists of 13 terms, with the first 6 devoted to the basic sciences.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are used in required courses and Pass/Fail in electives. There is a monthly review of performance by departments and a quarterly review by an evaluation committee. Students must record passing scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE in order to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic science instruction takes place in the classroom and administration building in North Chicago. Primary clinical teaching occurs in affiliated hospitals: Cook County Hospital, Edward Hines Veterans Affairs Medical Center, North Chicago Veterans Medical Center, Illinois Masonic Center, Lutheran General Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital Medical Center, Norwalk Hospital, Swedish Covenant Hospital, Highland Park Hospital, and Great Lakes Naval Hospital. Library: The library contains 75,000 volumes and subscribes to 1200 periodicals. Housing: None available on campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is actively involved in the recruitment of disadvantaged students and participates in the Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program. Other degree programs: MD-PhD programs are offered in basic science disciplines.
Introduction
Loyola is a private school with a Jesuit Catholic heritage. The Stritch School of Medicine was founded in 1870. It was located in Chicago until 1969 when Loyola opened its medical center campus in Maywood, a suburban community located about 12 miles from downtown Chicago. The medical school is affiliated with a number of hospitals in and around Chicago that offer clinical training sites for medical students.
Admissions (AMCAS)
This school requires satisfactory completion of the basic premedical science courses, all with laboratory. A semester or quarter of biochemistry can be substituted for part of the organic chemistry requirements. About half of the first-year openings are generally filled by Illinois residents. A preliminary screening of the AMCAS Application is done to determine applications considered competitive. Transfer and advanced standing: Space for transfers from domestic schools are based upon attrition.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: The first year familiarizes the students with the science basic to normal structure and function of the body from cell to organ. The Patient-Centered Medicine I course provides students with skills and experiences crucial in the patient-doctor relationship. The second year familiarizes students with the mechanisms of human disease and the therapeutic approach. The Patient-Centered Medicine course expands the clinical skills and reasoning to allow transition to the third year. It is devoted to developing an understanding of the sciences basic to the practice of medicine. During the early clinical experience course, students are provided training in clinical skills and experiences in ambulatory medicine settings. Third and fourth years: Organized into clinical clerkships. The core curriculum includes medicine (12 weeks), surgery (12 weeks), pediatrics (6 weeks), psychiatry (6 weeks), family medicine (6 weeks), neurology (4 weeks), obstetrics and gynecology (6 weeks), and subinternship experiences in medicine or pediatrics including critical care experience (8 weeks). Students also take between 32 and 40 weeks of electives during these 2 years. Through these electives, they anticipate their residency training and prepare for careers in medicine suited to their particular interests and talents.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail. Student performance is regularly reviewed by the Office of Student Affairs in accordance with the provision of the Academic Policy Manual. Students must pass Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE.
Facilities
Teaching: Teaching spaces, including a Clinical Skills Center, are designed to support curriculum that emphasizes problem-based learning and small-group discussion methods. Clinical teaching takes place at the university hospital and ambulatory center, the Hines VA Hospital, and affiliated hospitals. Other: Research facilities are available at the medical center. Library: The Health Sciences Library has 1420 electronic journals, 188,431 serial volumes and 57,727 books. Housing: There is no on-campus housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school sponsors a summer enrichment program for premedical students. The program combines academic and clinical experiences that are designed to prepare students for physician careers in medicine. Other degree program: MD-PhD dual degree program.
Introduction
Northwestern University is a private university established in 1851. The medical school was opened in 1859 and is located on the university's lakefront Chicago campus.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Admission requirements include the MCAT, 90 college credits, plus the basic premedical sciences. For admission no consideration is given to the state of residence, race, creed, color, or sexual orientation. Transfer and advanced standing: A small number of applications are considered only for the third year on the basis of academic excellence and personal needs.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Cover the basic sciences in an organ-based, integrated fashion. Each day consists of 2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of problem-based learning or other small-group sessions. The afternoon course deals with the relationships of the patient, physician, and society. During both years, patient interaction is part of the instruction to prepare the student for their clerkships. Third year: Consists of required clerkships in internal medicine, surgery, primary care, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, psychiatry, and neurology. Fourth year: Students take an acting internship in medicine, pediatrics, or surgery, and 16 weeks of electives. Research experience is encouraged throughout the 4 years.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The first 2 years are Pass/Fail. The clerkships and rotations are graded on an Honors/Pass/Fail basis. A Committee on Promotion reviews student records at the end of each academic year to determine those qualified for promotion. Although not required, all students take the USMLE examinations.
Facilities
Teaching: The first 2 years take place in the Montgomery Ward, Searle, Tarry, and Wiebolt Buildings on the Chicago campus. Clinical facilities are provided by 5 independent area hospitals that comprise the Northwestern-McGraw Medical Center. These are the new Northwestern Memorial Hospital, including the inpatient Feinberg Pavilion, the outpatient Galter Pavilion and the Prentice Women's Hospital, the Evanston Northwestern Health Care Center, the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, and the Veterans Administration Chicago Health Care System-Lakeside Division. Outpatient experience is provided through both the full-time faculty clinics and individual offices of private practice physicians. Library: The Galter Health Sciences Library houses 285,175 volumes, more than 1865 periodicals, 330 on-line journals, and 8 on-line databases. Housing: Single rooms for men and women are available in Abbott Hall and Lakeshore Center. There is limited housing for married students without children. Apartments may be rented by students in 2 buildings belonging to Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Underrepresented minorities are encouraged to apply, and recruitment is conducted on high school and college campuses. The school participates in the summer program of the Chicago Area Health Careers Opportunity Program and the Robert Wood Johnson Medical Minority Enrichment Program. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is available for students interested in a research career in academic medicine. MD-MPH and MD-MS programs (with Kellogg School Business) are also available.
Introduction
Rush University began as 1 college and now consists of 4 colleges. They include Rush Medical College, the College of Nursing, the College of Health Sciences, and the Graduate College. The medical school was originally founded in 1837, remained in existence till 1943, and reopened in 1971. It is located on the west side of Chicago near the Loop.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical courses are required. Consideration is given primarily to state residents, although competitive out-of-state residents are encouraged to apply. Rush Medical College students come from a wide variety of educational and social backgrounds. The Committee on Admissions considers both the academic and nonacademic qualifications of applicants in making its decisions.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. The school seeks to provide students with a strong background in the biomedical sciences and a balanced introduction to the practice of clinical medicine. A major goal is to foster a commitment to competent and compassionate patient care and to a desire for lifelong learning. The school curriculum is unified for all students. The basic science curriculum places increased emphasis on small-group and self-directed learning. First year: Provides students with exposure to the vocabulary and fundamental concepts upon which the clinical sciences are based. The first year is made up of 3 quarters of basic science material organized by disciplines and emphasizing the structure, function, and behavior of the normal person. Students participate in a 2-year longitudinal generalist curriculum. Courses include interviewing and communications, physical diagnosis, and a primary care preceptorship. Second year: Students study the causes and effects of disease and therapeutics and initiate their work with patients in programs that emphasize interviewing, history-taking, and the physical examination. Third and fourth years: Provide students with training in clinical skills, diagnosis, and patient management in a variety of patient care settings. The clinical curriculum includes required core clerkships in family medicine, internal medicine, neurology, pediatrics, psychiatry, obstet-rics/gynecology, and surgery for a total of 60 weeks. A total of 18 weeks of elective study in areas of special interest to each student is also required.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The final evaluation in coursework is recorded as Honors, Pass, or Fail. An additional grade of High Pass is utilized in the clinical years. The Committee on Student Evaluation and Promotion receives evaluations of each clinical period and determines when students are eligible for promotion. A total passing score must be obtained on Step 1 of the USMLE and a score recorded on Step 2.
Facilities
Teaching: Rush Medical College is located on the campus of Rush University at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center on Chicago's near west side. The Academic Facility houses the physical facilities for classroom instruction, laboratory research and private study. Clinical teaching takes place at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Hospital (903 beds) and other affiliated institutions including the John H. Strager, Jr. Hospital of Cook County. Library: The library of Rush University is located in the Academic Facility, has more than 93,000 volumes, and subscribes to more than 2050 journals.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college encourages applications from disadvantaged minority group members who are underrepresented in the medical profession. Other degree programs: MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including immunology, biochemistry, anatomy, medical physics, pharmacology, neuroscience, and physiology.
Introduction
The Southern Illinois University School of Medicine at Springfield is one of 5 campuses in the Southern Illinois University system. Southern Illinois University began as a teachers' college in the late 1800s, and the School of Medicine was opened in 1969. The first year of medical school is spent on the Carbondale campus; the remaining 3 years are spent on the Springfield campus. The Carbondale campus is located in a rustic setting; the Springfield campus is located in the state capital.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The minimum premedical science courses plus English and mathematics are recommended. An interview is a prerequisite to acceptance. Invitations for an interview are extended to those whose record indicates achievement in academics, extracurricular activities, and employment and volunteer experiences. Preference is shown to Southern and Central Illinois residents. Interviews take place either in Springfield or Carbondale. Transfer and advanced standing: School will consider applications from students in good standing at other U.S. LCME-accredited allopathic medical colleges. For requirements contact the Office of Student Affairs.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Academic year begins in August. First year: Designed to develop competence in several disciplines basic to medicine, such as physiology, biochemistry, anatomy, behavioral sciences, humanities, and clinical medicine, the curriculum is organized around organ systems, focuses on the normal organism, and is taught in Carbondale. Second year: Presented in Springfield, instruction is integrated and organized around organ systems, but the focus is on abnormalities associated with disease. The major academic disciplines include gastrointestinal diseases and clinical medicine. Third year: Clinical clerkships are provided in the following major specialties: internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, family practice, psychiatry, and physician-patient relationships. Fourth year: Multiple weeks of elective study that may include advanced clinical clerkships, basic science research, and medical application of ancillary disciplines. Fourth year clerkships in medical humanities and neurology are mandatory.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors/Pass/Fail system is used. Students must pass Step 1 of the USMLE before graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The educational program is conducted at both the medical education facilities in Carbondale and the medical center in Springfield. The split campus allows the School of Medicine to maximize the existing resources of a major university and the long-established clinical facilities in Springfield: Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital. Libraries: One library is located within Carbondale's Morris Library Science Division, consists of more than 100,000 bound volumes, and subscribes to 1000 periodicals. In Springfield, the library is located in the Medical Instruction Facility, contains 113,000 bound volumes and subscribes to 1600 periodicals. Housing: Married housing units are available in Carbondale. In Springfield, only off-campus housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school sponsors a non-degree-granting Medical-Dental Education Preparatory Program (MED-PREP) for disadvantaged students. Other degree programs: The 6-year MD-JD program is open to all in-state and out-of-state applicants. This type of combined program is offered by only a limited number of medical schools.
Introduction
The University of Chicago is located approximately 7 miles from downtown Chicago in the Hyde Park section. The Pritzker School of Medicine, established in 1927, is part of the Division of Biological Sciences of the University of Chicago.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The minimum premedical science courses are required, but 1 semester of biochemistry (with lab) may be substituted for the second semester of organic chemistry. Studies in the social sciences, humanities, English composition, and mathematics are recommended but not required. Transfer and advanced standing: If space is available, students from LCME-accredited institutions may be considered for transfer into second- or third-year openings on the basis of compelling personal reasons.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: Consists of courses in the basic sciences. A 2-quarter clinical medicine course introduces students to patients with diseases illustrating the medical correlates of the subjects taught concurrently. The summer is available for research or other activities. Second year: Consists of advanced courses. Clinical medicine, including physical diagnosis, continues through the second year. Third year: Consists of 5 major clinical clerkships (internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, and obstetrics and gynecology) with 1 month of the pediatrics rotation and 1 month of the surgery rotation offering opportunities to experience subspecialties. Students also attend departmental seminars and conferences. Fourth year: The fourth year is entirely elective and normally consists of consult electives, research, basic science coursework, reading courses, subinternships, ambulatory experiences, and away rotations in other countries.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Courses in the first 2 years and most electives and research are graded on the Pass/Fail basis. Clinical clerkships use internal designators of Honors/High Pass/Pass/Low Pass/Fail. Research is required to graduate with honors. Promotion and continuance of students is in accordance with published guidelines and recommendations made by the Committee on Promotions. Students are not required to pass the USMLE Steps 1 and 2 to progress through the medical school.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in the Biological Sciences Learning Center. Clinical teaching takes place in the university hospitals, including the new Comer Children's Hospital. Students are also taught in 2 other major off-site community-based hospitals. Other: Research laboratories are located throughout the medical center and in other nearby facilities. A new Center for Integrative Research opened in 2005 that allows for shared research spaces between the physical and biological sciences. Library: The Crerar Library houses more than 996,000 volumes and 7000 periodicals, constituting one of the largest science holdings in the United States. Housing: 1100 apartments are available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The medical school actively seeks minority students through city-wide and national recruitment efforts. Other degree programs: The Medical Scientist Training Program is offered for a combined MD/PhD degree. The Medicine in the Social Sciences and Humanities program is a fully-funded program allowing for the completion of an MD-PhD degree where the PhD is in a social science or humanities discipline. Students may also pursue a joint program to earn their MBA, JD, MPP, or MPH.
Introduction
In 1867 the University of Illinois was chartered as a land grant institution. The medical school was founded in 1881 as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago. The College of Medicine has 4 campuses: Chicago, Urbana-Champaign, Peoria, and Rockford. The University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago is located in the west side medical center district.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The minimum premedical science courses are required and mathematics and behavioral science are recommended. Strong preference is given to state residents. The College of Medicine consists of 4 geographic sites, located in Chicago, Peoria, Rockford, and Urbana-Champaign, and 2 educational tracks. Students enrolled on the Chicago Track attend there all 4 years. Students enrolled on the Urbana, Peoria, or Rockford (UPR) Track spend the first year at Urbana-Champaign for basic science study and will remain there (mainly students enrolled in the combined degree Medical Scholars Program [MSP]) or move to Peoria or Rockford for the next 3 years. Transfer and advanced standing: A limited number of students who pass the school's qualifying exam may be admitted to the second year on a space-available basis. Third-year transfers are considered only from among students currently enrolled in the second year of an out-of-state U.S. or Canadian allopathic medical school, with preference given to state residents with compelling reasons to return to Illinois.
College of Medicine at Chicago
This site is located about 2 miles west of downtown Chicago and is the largest of the 4 geographic sites. The College of Medicine at Chicago offers a 4-year program providing a solid foundation in the basic and clinical sciences leading to the MD degree. The curriculum consists of 2 years of basic and preclinical sciences followed by 2 years of clinical work. First year: This covers the introductory basic sciences. Clinical conferences are offered to reinforce basic science principles relevant to the practice of medicine. Second year: In addition to the advanced basic sciences, LPC courses are offered in medical ethics and human sexuality as well as physical diagnosis and problem solving. Third year: Rotation through 6 major clinical specialties. Fourth year: Involves rotations. The balance of the time is devoted to electives.
College of Medicine at Peoria
The college is located a few blocks west of downtown Peoria. This site includes basic science facilities and is affiliated with the Methodist Medical Center of Illinois and St. Francis Medical Center, allowing access to 1100 beds. Only the upper 3 years are taught, including advanced basic sciences and clinical studies. Second year: This serves as an introduction to clinical medicine, using a systemic pathophysiological teaching approach. Third year: The basic required clerkship rotations are taught, with the emphasis on the clinical practice of medicine and the delivery of health care. Fourth year: Consists of at least 36 weeks of instruction.
College of Medicine at Rockford
Located near the northeast side of the city, the college consists of a teaching center and 3 associated hospitals—Rockford Memorial, St. Anthony Medical Center, and Swedish-American Hospital. The program at Rockford includes a unique experience in primary health care delivery at one of 3 Community Health Centers (CHC). This experience continues for 2 half days per week during the M-3 and M-4 years. Second year: This consists of pathology, pharmacology, issues in contemporary medicine, and clinical medicine skills, as well as a systemic-oriented introduction to clinical medicine. Third year: This consists of the required core clerkships in the CHC experience. Fourth year: This consists of a 4-week clerkship in neurology, and additional work in the CHC experience.
College of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign
Located on the university campus, the college has, in addition to its basic science facilities, affiliations for clinical training with almost all the hospitals in the east-central region of Illinois. The college offers a complete 4-year medical education program leading to an MD degree. The first-year basic medical science program at Urbana-Champaign also serves those students who complete the last 3 years of medical school in Peoria or Rockford. First year: All the basic sciences except pharmacology, pathology, and epidemiology are taught and are organized into learning units distributed among 8 clinical problem themes directly relating basic medical science to human disease. First-year students have an option to participate in the Medical Doctor Adviser (MDA) Program, which enables them to meet with practicing physicians for advisement and instruction. Second year: The remaining basic sciences are offered as well as introduction to clinical medicine in the second semester of the sophomore year, which includes direct student contact with hospitalized patients. Third and fourth years: The core clinical clerkships, medical electives, and in-depth individual study experiences comprise the last 2 years.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used for the first year with a 5-item grading system for the clinical portion of the curriculum. Students must record passing total grades on Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE for graduation.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Recruitment is conducted through the Urban Health Program, and a 6-week summer prematriculation program is offered for accepted students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-MS and MD-PhD programs are offered by the College of Medicine at Chicago in the basic sciences and public health and at Urbana-Champaign in over 40 disciplines including the basic sciences. A special decompressed first-year program is available. An opportunity to engage in an Independent Study Program is available at the Chicago, Rockford, and Peoria sites for students interested in this type of curriculum.
Introduction
The Indiana University School of Medicine began in 1907 on the Bloomington campus. In 1908 Indiana University became responsible for all medical education in the state of Indiana, and in 1971 the Indiana Statewide Medical Education System was put into effect. It has teaching centers in all major cities in Indiana. The Indiana University Medical Center includes schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, and Allied Health Sciences, as well as university hospitals, and research laboratories.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Only minimum premedical science courses are required. Preference is given to residents; a number of out-of-state residents are accepted yearly. The application of nonresidents who have significant ties to Indiana may be given greater consideration than to others in this category. The basis for selection is the school's own technical standards judged essential, as well as scholarship, references, personality, and character. Transfer and advanced standing: Only transfers of Indiana residents from American or foreign medical schools are considered.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The major objectives of the curriculum are the concentration of core material in both preclinical and clinical years, early exposure to patients, and extensive elective time. The first year is devoted to core basic science courses and introduction to clinical medicine. Second year to core basic science courses and continuing patient contact through the introduction to medicine courses. Third year (12 months) is devoted to clinical experience in pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, psychiatry, medicine, and surgery. Fourth year (9 months). Experience in a variety of clinical specialties and the remainder is reserved exclusively for electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail. Students must pass Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE to graduate.
Facilities
The Medical Center is located in Indianapolis; the School of Medicine has students on 8 other campuses. Teaching: In Indianapolis, preclinical teaching takes place in the Medical Sciences Building. Clinical facilities are provided by the University Hospital, Robert W. Long Hospital, William H. Coleman Hospital for Women, and James Whitcomb Riley Hospital for Children. Other: Emerson Hall accommodates clinical departments; Fesler Hall houses clinical laboratories and offices. Riley Hospital has connecting wings for pediatric and cancer research. A psychiatric research unit is also located at the center. Combined hospitals of the medical center contain 2000 beds. Neighboring hospitals provide some additional experience. Library: The medical library and nursing library combined house more than 125,000 volumes and subscribe to 2500 periodicals. Housing: Very limited on-campus housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active program to identify, advise, and recruit disadvantaged students. Other degree programs: Students interested in medical science can work to combine an MD degree with either an MS or a PhD in biomedical disciplines. The combined MD-PhD may also be earned in other sciences, and law, social and behavioral sciences, and the humanities on the Bloomington campus.
Introduction
The University of Iowa is located in Iowa City, and includes the College of Medicine, which was founded in 1850. This school has evolved into the state's major health center. It includes a large University Hospital and clinics. The Health Science Center also contains schools of Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Public Health, and is located on a 900-acre campus.
Admissions (AMCAS)
College requires minimum premedical science courses plus 1 advanced biology course and college algebra and trigonometry or higher math. Iowa residents are given strong preference, but some nonresidents are admitted. The school seeks candidates with academic ability, and skills in problem solving. Manual dexterity and interpersonal relations, overall attractive GPA, science courses, and MCAT scores are essential features used to indicate scholarly proficiency. Applicants must submit an advising committee report or 3 letters of reference of which 2 should be academic. Finally, the interview is an integral part of the admission process, which helps finalize the decision. It is granted by invitation only. Transfer and advanced standing: Not available.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: The first 4 semesters cover the basic medical science courses and introduce the student's foundations of clinical practice through a special course each semester. Third year: Comprises summer session and 2 semesters of rotating clinical clerkships in major specialties, in which student participates in patient care. Fourth year: Devoted in part to 3 electives in which students focus on whatever facet of medical education best relates to their professional interests. During the clinical years, required subspecialty clerkships need to be completed in anesthesia, dermatology, neurology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otolaryngology, psychiatry, radiology, and urology, as well as courses in laboratory medicine and electrocardiography. Also required is a subinternship in 1 of a number of medical disciplines, in which the student assumes responsibility for managing patients on inpatient units supervised by a senior resident and a faculty physician. In summary, the first 4 semesters present a core of sciences basic to the study of medicine and introduce the student to the foundation of clinical practice. The balance of the program is devoted to becoming familiar with patient care.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/Pass/Fail in basic and clinical sciences. The Promotions Committee consisting of faculty members and students reviews the accomplishments of students and determines their eligibility for advancement at the close of the academic year.
Facilities
Teaching: Preclinical sciences are taught at the Medical Education and Biomedical Research Facility and the Bowen Science Building. Clinical teaching primarily takes place at the University Hospital (800 beds), and VA Hospital (100 beds). Other: The major research facilities include the Medical Research Center, Eckstein Medical Research Building, and Medical Education and Biomedical Research Facility. Library: The Hardin Library for Health Sciences houses 350,000 volumes. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines. The college also offers a combined MD-MPH, MD-MBA.
Introduction
The University of Kansas opened in 1866. In 1899 a 1-year preparatory course for medical school was initiated. Students who completed the course then transferred to other medical schools. In 1906 clinical training began at Bell Memorial Hospital and graduating with a medical degree became possible. In 1924 the medical school and hospital expanded and moved to its present location. The Medical Center now consists of schools of Medicine, Nursing, Allied Health, and Office of Graduate Studies.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The school requires a bachelor's degree and minimum premedical science courses. One semester of college-level mathematics and 1 year of English are also required. The school is a state-supported institution. Preference is given to residents, but nonresidents are accepted. Transfer and advanced standing: If vacancies exist, candidates for the third-year class are considered from other U.S. medical schools. Applicants must be Kansas residents currently enrolled and in good standing.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum integrates normal human structure and function with alterations caused by disease. Clinical experiences that are provided during all 4 years reinforce the biomedical sciences. They also provide students with an opportunity to learn the essential principles of patient assessment, preventive and behavioral medicine, and medical ethics. Training is provided in community and ambulatory settings including rural sites. Among the teaching methods used are case-based instruction and small-group and computer-assisted learning. A generalist approach is used that emphasizes the evaluation of patients with differentiated problems. First year: Focuses on the introductory basic sciences using an organ system approach. After a presentation of cellular and molecular biology, the other three 4-week segments of the first semester are devoted to the cardiovascular, respiratory, and musculoskeletal systems. The 4 segments of the second semester are devoted to the gastrointestinal and endocrine system as well as neuroscience. An Introduction to Clinical Medicine course extends throughout the year. Second year: Devoted to disease pathogenesis, pathogenic agents, pharmacotherapeutics, and subjects covering the advanced basic sciences. The Introduction to Clinical Medicine extends throughout the year. Third year: Provides for basic experience by means of rotations through major clinical sciences as well as ambulatory medicine and geriatrics. Fourth year: Consists of a subinternship, rural preceptorship, ambulatory specialties, and public health, as well as 16 weeks of electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A passing total score is required on Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and on Step 2 for graduation. There is a 5-level grading system: Superior/High Satisfactory/Satisfactory/Low Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is part of the university's Medical Center. Orr-Major Hall provides classrooms and labs for teaching basic science courses as well as space for individual research and departmental offices. The University Hospital provides facilities used in clinical training. Library: Dykes Medical Library contains more than 110,000 volumes. Housing: There is no on-campus housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: An active recruitment program exists. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is offered in a variety of disciplines.
Introduction
In 1956 the University of Kentucky Medical Center was established. The College of Medicine is one of the programs offered at the University of Kentucky Medical Center campus in Lexington. The College of Medicine is part of the University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center, which also contains schools of Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Allied Health profession, as well as the University Hospital and Ambulatory Care Center.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical science courses, 1 year of English is required. Courses in mathematics and in the psychological and social sciences are recommended. Preference is given to residents, but a small number of nonresidents who have a clear interest in pursuing their medical education in Kentucky are accepted each year. Secondary applications are sent to all Kentucky residents and to nonresidents having attractive GPAs and MCAT scores (3.75 or higher and at least 10 on each sub-test, respectively). Admission decisions are made upon review of academic and nonacademic criteria. The latter include interpersonal skills, leadership abilities, and evidence of service to others. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer is possible for selected students with compelling reasons for transferring and strong Kentucky ties.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Consist of 48 and 36 weeks, respectively, of scheduled class work in the basic sciences. Each week has about 23 hours of scheduled activities. Third year: Clerkship rotations through the major clinical specialties and primary care are required. Fourth year: Selection of specialty and electives. One rotation is required in a surgery and medical active internship, one emergency medicine rotation, one advanced clinical pharmacology and anesthesiology course, one gerontology elective, a dean's colloquium, a selective in primary care or rural medicine, and a selective rotation in a rural setting.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are A, B, C, E (Failure), P (Pass), W (Withdrawal), U (Unsatisfactory), and I (Incomplete). A student who is doing unsatisfactorily in 2 or more classes in one academic year may be dropped. At regular intervals the Student Progress and Promotions Committee for each class reviews the record of each student and makes recommendations relative to promotion, adjustment of academic load, remediation, or dismissal. Students must record passing scores on Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and on Step 2CK and Step 2CS for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The college is part of the university's Medical Center. Basic sciences are taught at the Medical Science Building and the major clinical teaching site is the 473-bed University of Kentucky Hospital. Other: The Kentucky Clinic offers comprehensive outpatient medical services. The Sander-Brown Research Center on Aging is a national gerontology resource facility. The Lucille Parker Markey Cancer Center includes a patient care facility and the Combs Research Building. Library: The Medical Center Library houses more than 160,000 volumes and 2000 periodicals. The newly constructed W.T. Young Library has more than one million volumes in its collection. Housing: University housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college has an active recruitment program and offers a summer prematriculation program for accepted students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in the basic medical sciences. MD-MBA and MD-MPH programs are also offered.
Introduction
The University of Louisville School of Medicine was originally part of the Louisville Medical Institute when it was established in 1833. In 1846 it became part of the University of Louisville, which is part of the state university system. In 1908 the school merged with 4 others and adopted its present name. In the late 1980s the school embarked on a comprehensive building program, which included the construction of the University of Louisville Hospital. The Health Science Center consists of the schools of Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include minimum premedical science courses plus 1 semester of calculus (or 2 semesters of other college mathematics courses) and 2 semesters of English. Preference is given to state residents. Selection is determined by academic achievement and potential as reflected by the applicant's college record, MCAT scores, recommendations of the premedical advisory committee, extracurricular activities, personality, and motivation. The latter qualities are determined by a personal interview granted only to candidates for admission whose academic credentials merit comprehensive review. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants from LCME-accredited schools with documented circumstances necessitating the need to return to Kentucky will be considered on a limited basis.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional with an introduction to clinical medicine. First and second years: Consist of basic science courses; 2 hours of elective time per semester is required. Third year: Devoted to required clerkships. Fourth year: Six required clinical rotations and health policy and management courses, and 10 weeks of electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A grade of Pass or Fail is submitted at the completion of each course. The Committee on Student Promotions approves the scholastic activities of the individual or may recommend one of several courses of action if work is unsatisfactory. A passing total score on Step 1 of the USMLE is needed for promotion to the third year. Taking Step 2 is required.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in the Instructional Building at the Health Science Center near downtown Louisville. Primary clinical facilities are University of Louisville, Kosair-Children's Hospital, and Veterans Administration Medical Center. Other clinical affiliates are the Bingham Child Guidance Clinic, Inc., Audubon Hospital, Frazier Rehabilitation Center, Jewish Hospital, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, Allient Norton Hospital, and Trover Clinic (Madis-onville). Other: The Research Building is devoted entirely to scientific investigation by all departments of the school. A commons building houses the Health Sciences library, auditorium, and cafeteria. Housing: Medical-Dental dormitory located near the Health Sciences Center, and numerous affordable apartment complexes within 10-15 minutes of the medical school.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Aids in recruitment and retention of minorities. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is available in a variety of disciplines including biophysics, immunology, and toxicology.
Introduction
The Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans was founded in 1931. The School of Medicine is located next to Charity Hospital, adjacent to the city's central business district. It is a major component of the Louisiana State University Medical Center, which includes schools of Dentistry, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, and Graduate Studies.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and taking the MCAT are required. Only state residents are accepted into the first-year class. Transfer and advanced standing: Information not available.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Emphasize several basic sciences and their relevancy to clinical medicine. Clinical experiences begin in the first year in courses such as Introduction to Clinical Medicine. In the second year, an integrated approach to the teaching of basic science and preclinical courses is used. Third year: Clerkships begin where students rotate through the various clinical disciplines. Fourth year: Students are given several months for electives in addition to required rotations in Ambulatory Medicine, Acting Internships, etc. Some of these rotations can be completed at institutions associated with the school or at other approved institutions outside the state or country. Computer-assisted instruction is an important component of the curriculum. Although major emphasis is placed on training primary care physicians, there are opportunities for research and the pursuit of more specialized training.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are Honors, High Pass, Pass, Fail, Withdrew Passing, and Withdrew Failing. Periodic reviews are made of student performance by means of exams, staff reports, and other forms of appraisal. Eligibility for promotion rests on completion of all coursework and requirements and approval by the Promotions Committee. A passing score must be recorded for Step 1 of the USMLE prior to entering the third year. Step 2 must be passed prior to graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The Medical Education Building is the site for basic science instruction. The school is located near the center of the New Orleans business district. The two main teaching hospitals are the Medical Center of Louisiana at New Orleans and University Hospital. Ten other hospitals are affiliated with LSU. An auditorium equipped with the most up-to-date audiovisual facilities provides space for medical meetings and faculty/student assemblies and lectures. Library: The library is located in the Resource Center. It services all professional schools in the Medical Center with more than 176,000 volumes and current periodicals in excess of 1500 titles. Housing: University-controlled housing is provided for 300 married and single students. Located 3 blocks from the school, the residence hall provides 1-, 2-, or 3-bedroom apartments for married students and double rooms for single men and women. Recreational facilities are located in the dormitory.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The Office of Minority Affairs coordinates recruitment. The school offers a Minority Summer Prematriculation Program for accepted first-year students to facilitate adjustment to medical school. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines, as is an MD-MPH degree. The school offers an Honors program for exceptional students. It involves independent research on a problem of scientific interest.
*School affected by 2005 hurricane.
Introduction
The Louisiana State University School of Medicine in Shreveport was founded in 1966. The medical school facilities are located next to the Louisiana State University Hospital. The permanent medical facilities were occupied in 1975, 2 years after the first MD degrees were awarded by the school. The medical school is part of the Louisana State University Medical Center. This entity is involved in education, research, patient care services, and community outreach activities. The medical center consists of 6 professional schools. In addition to 2 medical schools, there is a dental school, nursing school, school of allied health professions, and graduate school. Health care services are provided to hospitals and medical clinics in Shreveport and New Orleans as well as through dental, nursing, and allied health clinics in these 2 cities and by means of the numerous affiliated hospitals and clinics throughout Louisana. The system therefore is involved in providing acute and primary health care services to insured as well as for indigent and uninsured.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses, in addition to the minimum premedical sciences, include English (6 semester hours). MCAT scores within 3 years are also required. Since the number of highly qualified state residents exceeds the number of places available, there are no places available for nonresidents. Selection is determined by academic performance, MCAT scores, the letter of recommendation from the premedical advisory committee, and when granted, the personal interview with the faculty. Transfer and advanced standing: Information not available.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. The curriculum is characterized by providing early contact with patients, a firm grounding in the basic sciences, exposure to clinical correlation experiences, and opportunities electives during the first, second, and fourth years, and a program of comprehensive care in each of the 4 years of medical school. First year: Courses include introductory basic sciences plus introductory classes in comprehensive health care, genetics, radiology, psychiatry, and biometry. Second year: Advanced basic sciences with a major course in clinical diagnosis to prepare students for clinical years and neurology, perspectives in medicine II and comprehensive care are also offered. Third and fourth years: Emphasis on supervised experience in patient care, especially in the development of clinical skills. All of the fourth year is electives with opportunities for extramural and intramural work in family practice, other clinical specialties, basic sciences, and research.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A letter system is used for coursework and Pass/Fail for electives.
Facilities
Teaching: Louisiana State University Hospital (675 beds) is the principal teaching facility. The ten-story medical school adjoining the University Hospital houses lecture halls and laboratories used for most didactic teaching and basic science research. A separate ambulatory care facility is used for a multi-year course in ambulatory and family medicine. Other: Shreveport VA Hospital (450 beds) and E. A. Conway Hospital in nearby Monroe are affiliated with the school. Library: Afully modern library houses more than 90,000 volumes and subscribes to more than 1300 periodicals. A local network of terminals accesses several national databases for study and research. Housing: None.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Recruitment of disadvantaged students is facilitated by visits to Louisiana colleges and communications with other educational institutions. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines.
*School affected by 2005 hurricane.
Introduction
The Tulane University School of Medicine was established in 1834 as the Medical College of Louisiana. In 1845 the school became the Medical Department of the University of Louisiana. The school was closed during the Civil War, reopening with the termination of that conflict but struggling financially for survival until 1884 when a local merchant, Paul Tulane, provided funds for what became Tulane University. A major multidisciplinary medical center was later established incorporating the School of Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, the Tulane University Hospital and Clinic, and other units.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Prerequisite courses are the basic premedical sciences and English. Because Tulane is a private institution, there are no residency requirements and, thus, large numbers of out-of-state students are accepted. Transfer and advanced standing: A few students will be accepted into the second and third year classes if space is available.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum is under continuous evaluation and improvement. It provides the necessary foundation for graduates to be well prepared to enter any field of medicine. An emphasis has been placed upon self-directed learning, integration of basic and clinical sciences, and more active forms of learning. First and second years: Students take the basic sciences courses that form the foundation for clinical application. In the second semester of the first year, and continuing through the second year, students participate in the elective program, which allows each student to supplement the curriculum according to his/her own goals and ambitions. Along with lectures, courses incorporate problem-based learning sessions, small group discussions, laboratories, and clinical correlations. Throughout the first 2 years, the course in Foundations in Medicine provides clinical experience both on campus and in community-based settings. Third year: Consists of 48 weeks devoted to basic core clerkships in the major clinical areas. Students have direct responsibility for the diagnosis and management of clinical problems presented by the patients in the various hospitals affiliated with the medical school. Fourth year: Consists of both required clerkships and electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are Honors/High Pass/Pass/Condition/Fail. Any grade of below Pass constitutes an academic deficiency that must be removed by remedial work and/or examination in order to advance to the succeeding year. Students are required to record a score in Step I of the USMLE.
Facilities
Located in downtown New Orleans, the medical center occupies several full city blocks. While classroom activities are held, for the most part, at 1430 Tulane Avenue, clinical teaching takes place primarily at the Tulane University Hospital and Clinic, Charity Hospital, and the New Orleans Veteran's Administration Hospital. Other hospitals in New Orleans and beyond provide supplementary teaching facilities. Library: The Rudolph Matas Library houses more than 150,000 volumes, and has subscriptions to all major medical periodicals. Housing: An apartment complex for student housing is located adjacent to the Tulane University Hospital and Clinic.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program targeted at the southeastern and southwestern parts of the country. A Summer Reinforcement and Enrichment Program is available for minority undergraduate premedical students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines. MD-MS and MD-MPH programs are also available.
*School affected by 2005 hurricane.
Introduction
Johns Hopkins University was established in 1876 after Johns Hopkins provided 7 million dollars to establish a university, hospital, and teaching center. The School of Medicine opened in 1893. The main School of Medicine campus is located in eastern Baltimore.
Admissions
Bachelor's degree or its equivalent required, minimum premedical science course requirements plus 2 semesters of calculus or statistics and 24 semester hours of social and behavioral sciences and humanities. Courses in biochemistry and advanced biology are recommended. There are no residence requirements and no preference is shown in selection of applicants, and candidates from all sections of the country are invited to apply. Selection is based on demonstrated academic achievement, unusual talents, strong humanistic and leadership qualities, and creative potential. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer applications are considered for the second- or third-year class, and are accepted only into the standard 4-year curriculum. Places are rarely available.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The program includes the integration of basic sciences and clinical experiences and the expanded use of case-based, small group learning sessions. Students have early contact with clinical medicine by working with community-based physicians. The physician and society course spans the 4-year program and covers a wide range of topics. First year: Integrated coverage of introductory basic sciences, neuroscience, and epidemiology. Second year: Devoted to advanced basic sciences, clinical skills, and start of clerkships. Third and fourth years: Required clerkships in major clinical areas and electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Honors, High, Pass, Fail grades are used in required courses and clerkships and for electives. Grades are based on the composite judgment of responsible instructors, and not solely upon results of examinations. At the end of each academic year, the Committee on Student Promotions decides what actions will be taken regarding student status. The USMLE is not used to evaluate students for promotion or graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: Most of the preclinical departments are situated in the W. Barry Wood Basic Science Building. The Johns Hopkins Hospital (1100 beds) occupies 14 acres of land adjacent to buildings that house the preclinical departments. Separate buildings contain specialty clinics such as the new oncology and outpatient center. The school is also affiliated with Bayview Medical Center (665 beds), Good Samaritan Hospital (277 beds), and Sinai Hospital of Baltimore (516 beds), and is associated with other institutions. Other: Research facilities for the preclinical sciences and clinical investigation are located in the Basic Science and Traylor Research Buildings. The Ross Research Building contains 240 modern laboratory suites. Library: The Welch Medical Library is located in a separate building adjacent to the other buildings of the School of Medicine and houses more than 354,000 volumes and 3600 periodicals. Housing: Reed Residence Hall is available for single students. A housing office assists other students in finding off-campus housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active admissions program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in all the basic sciences as well as in biomedical engineering, biophysics, history of medicine, human genetics, molecular biology, epidemiology, cellular and molecular medicine. The school also offers combined MD-MPH and MD-DSc in Public Health programs.
Introduction
The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences is located at the National Naval Medical Center. The university was created by the Department of Defense in 1972 to train career medical officers. The establishment of the school was sponsored by the late congressman F. Edward Hebert, whose initiative secured congressional approval for the creation of the Uniformed Services University. This is a tuition-free school, whose graduates provide medical services to the military.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses plus 1 semester of calculus and 1 year of college English are required. Selection for admission proceeds along 3 screening phases. The first involves review of the AMCAS application; the second phase mandates submission of supplementary material (an essay on choosing a medical service career and premedical recommendations) and its review; the third phase is the interview. Progress through these phases is competitive and selection is made on a rolling admission basis. Transfer and advanced standing: None.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First year: After a 4-week officer orientation program, the introductory basic sciences are taught. In addition, courses are offered in epidemiology and biometrics, human context in health care, military studies and medical history, diagnostic parisitology and medical zoology, medical psychology, and introduction to Clinical Medicine I. Second year: In addition to the advanced basic sciences, courses presented include clinical concepts, preventive medicine, radiographic interpretation, and introduction to Clinical Medicine II. Third year: A 48-week period of rotations through the major clinical specialties including family practice. Fourth year: Consists of medical, surgical, and psychiatric selective blocks, neurology, military preventive medicine, contingency and emergency medicine, subinternships, and elective clerkships. Note that since military medicine is in a sense a specialty, its unique hazards must be understood. This is provided by a course entitled Military Medicine Field Studies, offered during the summer following the freshman year. Students spend 1 week in field training exercise followed by a 4-week operational assignment to expose students to a typical real-world military environment, its medical hazards, and the potential intensity of operational exercises. This will better enable them to understand the nature of the environment, its physical and psychological stresses, and the personnel they will be serving in the future.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are used for courses and clerkships and Pass/Fail for electives. Both steps of the USMLE must be taken and passed.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is located on the grounds of the Naval Hospital. Four buildings contain faculty offices, classrooms, student multidisciplinary and other laboratories and various support units. Thirteen affiliated hospitals provide clinical teaching facilities. Library: The Learning Resources Center possesses about 75,000 volumes and receives about 1500 medical periodicals. Housing: None available on campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Recruitment is sponsored by the Office of Recruitment and Diversity Affairs. For further information, call 800-635-2368, or visit www.usuhs.mil/mao. Other degree programs: PhD and MPH programs are offered.
Introduction
The University of Maryland School of Medicine is located on the Baltimore City Campus, and is the fifth oldest medical school in the United States. The first class graduated in 1810. It was one of the first colleges to build its own hospital for clinical instruction. The school is part of the 11 campuses of the University of Maryland system. The School of Medicine at the Baltimore Campus is the central component of a large academic Health Center that provides for medical education, patient care, biomedical research, and community service.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the minimum premedical science courses, requirements include 1 year of English. Applicants must also have completed a minimum of 90 semester hours at an accredited college or university. Preference is given to Maryland residents. The application process has several stages. All AMCAS applicants now receive a second-stage application. From those in Stage 2, applicants are selected for interviews, which are conducted on campus. Transfer and advanced standing: Information not available. Transfers into the third year limited only by attrition.
Curriculum
First and second years: The basic sciences are integrated and taught as systems, using interdisciplinary teaching with both basic and clinical science faculty. Contact hours have been reduced, with an emphasis on independent study. A half-day course in introduction to clinical practice is dedicated to the instruction of interviewing, physical examination, intimate human behavior, ethics, and the dynamics of ambulatory care. Third year: Clerkships through major medical specialties. A mandatory rotation in family medicine is included. There is emphasis on ambulatory teaching in all other disciplines and a longitudinal half-day experience in a clinical setting in which the student will have continuity of care for patients and families. Fourth year: Devoted to ambulatory care, student subinternships, and electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A letter grade system is used. Step 1 of the USMLE is required, and promotion to the third year is dependent on passing.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is located a short distance from the newly developed Inner Harbor. University Hospital and affiliated hospitals around Baltimore have more than 1400 beds for teaching purposes. Other: The school also is affiliated with the Shock Trauma Center, Cancer Center, Institute of Psychiatric and Human Behavior, and the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Institute. Library: The Health Sciences Library houses more than 240,000 volumes and subscribes to 3100 periodicals. It also provides access to a wide range of data bases. Housing: Dormitory rooms are available on campus in the apartments and town houses are available a short distance from the campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program that involves visits to colleges, seminars, and workshops. A prematriculation summer program is available to all students for those accepted into the first year. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in all the basic sciences and in epidemiology, human genetics, and preventive medicine. An MD-MS degree in biomedical ethics is available. An MPH program is available to students after matriculation.
Introduction
The Boston University was founded in 1839. Boston University opened the School of Medicine when it joined in 1873 with the New England Female Medical College. The School of Medicine became a component of the Boston University Medical Center in 1962.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Students are accepted after high school, or after 2 years of college, in addition to being able to complete the first year of medical school over 2 academic years. For the traditional applicant, 1 year of English (composition or literature) and humanities is required, in addition to the minimum premedical science courses. It is recommended that the student have a knowledge of calculus and quantitative chemistry. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants considered for second- and third-year places. Transfer students must pass Step 1 of the USMLE.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: The first-year curriculum presents a study of man in a biopsychosocial model. Courses are offered in the traditional biologic disciplines that lead to an understanding of normal structure and function of the human body. A first semester course in psychiatry and second semester courses in sociomedical sciences, biostatistics, and epidemiology are given. Second year: The first semester is devoted to an interdisciplinary course, Biology of Disease, a systems-based pathophysiology course in which emphasis on the clinical sciences is closely integrated with the basic sciences. Two courses, Integrated Problems and Introduction to Clinical Medicine, are given throughout the first 2 years of the curriculum. In the second year of Introduction to Clinical Medicine, communication skills are reinforced and techniques of physical examination are introduced. Third year: This clinical year is composed of the traditional clerkships. Fourth year: The fourth year is composed of required 4-week courses on the home medical service (geriatrics), neurology, radiology, ambulatory medicine (primary care), and a subinternship. The remaining 20 weeks of electives are scheduled at each student's discretion.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The grading system used is Honors/Pass/Fail designation and a detailed written narrative. If the student is unable to pass any given course, the Promotion Committee determines the action to be taken. Passing Step 1 of the USMLE is required for graduation. Taking Step 2 is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The 14-story Instructional Building includes space for student activities, administrative offices, two 130-seat auditoriums, teaching laboratories, faculty offices, research laboratories, and a 3-floor library. The principal teaching hospitals are Boston Medical Center and affiliated Veterans Administration hospitals. Other: The school is affiliated with a network of many other facilities. Library: The library contains more than 80,000 volumes and receives approximately 1500 periodicals.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is committed to the recruitment, admission, and retention of a diverse student body. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs in all basic sciences are offered, as are an MD-MPH and MD-MBA programs.
Introduction
The Harvard Medical School was founded in 1782. It has been located on the Longwood Avenue Quadrangle since 1906. In 1987 the Medical Education Center was opened next to the Medical School. It is a diverse academic medical center and has cooperative links to 18 independent medical institutions.
Admissions
Minimum premedical science courses are required in addition to 1 year of calculus and 1 year of expository writing. Recommended courses include 16 hours in these areas: literature, languages, the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Selection is not based on residence. Selection is based on academic excellence as reflected by an applicant's GPA, MCAT scores, and recommendations. Other considerations are the personal essay, life experiences, community service activities, and research work. Transfer and advanced standing: Occasionally students are admitted to third-year class.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Two programs are offered. The New Pathway Program is designed to accommodate the variety of interests, educational backgrounds, and career goals that characterize the student body. Basic science and clinical content are interwoven throughout the 4 years. First and second years: Uses a problem-based approach that emphasizes small-group tutorials and self-directed learning, complemented by laboratories, conferences, and lectures. Students are expected to analyze problems, locate relevant material in library and computer-based resources, and develop habits of life-long learning and independent study. Third and fourth years: Core clinical clerkships; advance science or independent project; patient-doctor III; and electives. The second MD Pathway is the Harvard-MIT-sponsored Health Sciences and Technology Program (HST). The curriculum of this program is designed for the student with a strong interest and background in quantitative science. The curriculum is in a semester format. HST students join students of the New Pathway Program for their clinical rotation. Thirty students are admitted each year. The school and its affiliated hospitals offer an extraordinary variety of courses. In addition, students have excess courses offered in other faculties at Harvard University and at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Courses at these schools can be utilized in formulating an elective program.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/Pass/Fail. Promotion Boards for each of the first 3 years determine those qualified to be promoted. Students must record total passing scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE for promotion and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: Preclinical courses are taught in the buildings that compose Longwood Avenue Quadrangle. Clinical instruction takes place in Beth Israel Hospital (368 beds), Brigham and Women's Hospital (650 beds), Massachusetts General Hospital (1060 beds), and others. Other: Research facilities available in most of the medical school buildings. Library: The Countway Library of Medicine is one of the largest in the country. Housing: Dormitory housing is available for men and women; apartments for married students are nearby.
Special Features
Minority admissions: A full-time administrator coordinates the active minority recruitment program, which is geared to enroll students having academic strength, community commitment, and leadership ability. An 8-week prematriculation summer program is offered for a limited number of disadvantaged students to enhance their academic preparation and provide exposure to research. Other degree programs: The MD-PhD program exists for qualified applicants who wish to integrate medical school and intensive scientific training. A collaborative program exists with the Harvard School of Public Health.
Introduction
Tufts University was established in 1850 as the Tufts Institute of Learning. In 1872 the name was changed to Tufts College, and in 1953 it became Tufts University. This reflects transition from the small liberal arts college to a complex multi-campus university. The School of Medicine was established in 1893. Because of the diverse hospitals affiliated with the school, students are provided with clinical experiences that range from inner-city tertiary-level hospitals to rural-based individual preceptorships.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Minimum premedical science courses are required, as is proficiency in written and spoken English. Courses in calculus, statistics, and computers are desirable. There is no preference for state residents. Transfer and advanced standing: Acceptance into the second or third year is possible as places become available.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The program emphasizes, problem solving and critical, analytical discussion in small groups and case-based learning. First and second years: Focuses on the biology of cells and molecules followed by a segment dealing with the structure and development of tissues and organs, then the functions of the organs and the organism and its environment. The biology of normal cells, tissues, and organs is presented prior to exposure to the pathological manifestations of these components. The curriculum also covers such topics as nutrition, health care economics, family medicine, ethics, socioeconomics, physician-patient relationship, and history of medicine. The Preclinical Elective Program is designed to encourage students to pursue outside interests and talents as well as to foster meaningful faculty-student relationships. Students can explore opportunities in basic science, clinical medicine, or community aspects of medicine. In addition, the faculty is able to work more closely with students and to serve as role models, mentors, and informal advisors. Third year: Consists of rotations through the major clinical specialties and an elective period. Fourth year: Consists of a minimum of eight 4-week rotations. Five of these 8 must be taken at Tufts-affiliated hospitals; of these, 2 must be ward service rotations and 1 must be the clinical specialties rotation. Beyond these requirements, students are free to schedule approved learning experiences as part of their elective rotations at the Tufts-associated hospitals or elsewhere in the United States or abroad.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Low Pass/Fail. Passing Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The major school structure is the Sackler Center. Clinical teaching facilities are provided by the New England Center Hospital (452 beds) and off campus by St. Elizabeth's Hospital (385 beds), Bayside Medical Center (950 beds), VA Hospital (769 beds), Lemuel Shattick Hospital (250 beds), and others. Other: Clinical research is carried out in the Ziskind Research Building of New England Medical Center Hospital. Library: The Health Sciences Library houses 92,000 volumes and subscribes to 1400 periodicals. Housing: A residence hall for men and women is located 1 block from the main building.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Recruitment of minority applicants is directed primarily to the Boston, New England, and New York areas. A preadmission summer program is offered for accepted applicants. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including immunology and molecular biology. A combined MD-MPH program is also offered. A combined MD-MBA degree in health management is also offered in collaboration with adjacent schools.
Introduction
The University of Massachusetts Medical School opened in 1970 and is located in Worcester. The school seeks to train residents of Massachusetts for service in the state, especially underserved areas. The school is affiliated with the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, which encompasses a regional trauma center as well as an air ambulance reception area. The school is located on the banks of Lake Quinsigamond.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English are required. Courses in calculus, psychology, sociology, and statistics are recommended. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants will be accepted, provided there are vacancies in the class.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: The curriculum in the preclinical sciences emphasizes thoughtful coordination across disciplines and interdisciplinary courses. Throughout the first 2 years, students also participate in twice-weekly sessions consisting of The Patient, Physician, and Society (PPS) and the Longitudinal Preceptorship Program (LPP). Both courses are tightly integrated and coordinated with concurrent basic science disciplines. Third and fourth years: The clerkship years comprise the third and fourth years of study. Required clerkships consist of clinical rotations in internal medicine, family practice, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, neurology, and surgery. The medicine clerkship includes 4 weeks in an internist's office. The surgery clerkship consists of a hospital-based, 8-week component and a 4-week ambulatory component. The fourth year consists of a required 4-week clerkship in neurology and a 4-week subinternship in medicine plus a minimum of an additional 24 weeks of electives. With the guidance and counsel of faculty members, students plan a balanced program of study appropriate to their field of interest, combining work in both basic science and clinical medicine. The Senior Scholars Program also exists for selected students who desire intensive study in a field of special interest or research. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, a unique program of at least 3 months combining both basic science and clinical experience in a given discipline is arranged.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/Satisfactory/Marginal/Unsatisfactory/ Incomplete. Students are required to take USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. Promotion from one phase of the curriculum to the next will be determined by the Committee on Promotions, consisting of instructors from each department involved in the curriculum of a given period of study.
Facilities
Teaching: A 10-story Basic and Clinical Sciences Building was completed in 1973. A 400-bed teaching hospital that adjoins the Sciences Building opened in 1976. The Medical Center is the designated regional trauma center for Central Massachusetts as well as the base of operation for New England Life Flight. Other: Among the affiliated hospitals for clinical teaching are the St. Vincent Hospital (600 beds), Worcester City Hospital (250 beds), Worcester Memorial Hospital (379 beds), and Berkshire Medical Center (365 beds). Library: The Medical School Library is housed in the Sciences Building and includes the capacity for more than 100,000 volumes. Housing: The school has no facilities to house students; they have to find places in the community.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Minority students who are legal residents of Massachusetts are invited to apply for admission. A 4-week Summer Enrichment Program (SEP) is available for sophomore and higher level college students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in all the basic medical sciences and in immunology and molecular genetics.
Introduction
The aim of the College of Human Medicine at Michigan State University is to train primary care physicians in order to provide superior health care for everyone. To this end, the school seeks to educate and train competent physicians who are sensitive to the needs of the medically underserved residents of Michigan and who will respectfully and tactfully deal with patients and their families. It is essentially a large university operating in a small college setting. The university's health care educational complex incorporates, in addition, an Allopathic Medical School, a College of Osteopathic Medicine, and a College of Veterinary Medicine.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include the basic premedical science courses, 1 year of English and college algebra plus 8 credits of nonscience courses. Preference is given to applicants from Michigan. Enrollment of nonresidents is limited to no more than 20%. Selection based on GPA, MCAT scores, relevant work experience, and compatibility with the school's primary care mission. Applicants who are highly motivated, have a good ability to communicate, manifest problem-solving skills, and demonstrate maturity are considered with favor. The class makeup is sought to be diverse in terms of background, talents and personalities. An interview is an essential component of the admission process. Transfer and advanced standing: Considered when vacancies exist.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum is divided into 3 blocks integrating the basic biological and behavioral sciences with clinical training and problem-solving skills. Block I: A 1-year discipline-based experience that provides an introduction to the fundamentals of the basic biological and psychological/social sciences, along with mentor group and early clinical skills training that includes patient contact. Block II: A 1-year experience in the second year that is problem-based and learner-centered with the majority of learning occurring in the small group setting. An extended curricular option for both Blocks I and II is offered at no extra cost. Block III: An 84-week experience that includes the traditional clinical clerkships plus core competency and primary care experiences. This period is spent in 1 of the 6 communities affiliated with the university. Students live in their assigned community for the total period of required clinical training. Electives may be taken elsewhere. The community physicians work closely with community-based faculty members of the college to provide a unique and highly relevant learning environment.
Grading and Promotion Policies
All grading in the school is Honors/Pass/Fail. A total passing score on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required for promotion to the third year and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The primary facilities utilized in basic science instruction are Life Sciences Building, Fee Hall, and Giltner Hall. The Clinical Center is an ambulatory care facility where students are trained in clinical sciences during the first 2 years of the curriculum. Students receive their formal clinical training during the last 2 years in community settings in 18 hospitals in 6 Michigan communities. Library: Information not available. Housing: On-campus dormitory rooms and apartments for both single and married students. There is also a large selection of off-campus housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: A major effort is made to include applicants from inadequately represented geographic, economic, and ethnic groups. Other degree programs: Combined MD-MA and MD-PhD programs available in basic and behavioral science departments by individual arrangement.
Introduction
The University of Michigan Medical School is located in the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor along with the University of Michigan hospitals. Its origin can be traced back to the establishment of the university in 1817. The first class graduated in 1851. The beginning of the modern Medical School came in 1869 when it replaced the proprietary school. The quality of the new school was already praised in the famous Flexner Report. The University Hospital, the most modern in the world at that time, was opened up in 1925. The school is located on an 84-acre campus and provides large city facilities with a small city atmosphere.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical science courses plus biochemistry, 6 credits of English and 18 credits of non-science subjects are required. A biochemistry course is also required. Advanced courses in biology and/or chemistry are recommended. Preference is given to residents, but a significant number of nonresidents are admitted. Thirty-five highly qualified high school graduates who have been accepted by the University of Michigan College of Literature, Science and the Arts will be admitted to the 8-year Integrated Premedical-Medical Program. They earn their BA degree after the fourth year. Transfer and advanced standing: None.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: Provides a foundation in the basic biomedical sciences. It consists of 2 units, namely, Introduction to the Patient and Multidisciplinary Conferences, which extends throughout the year. During the fall term, gross anatomy and pathology are covered, and in the winter term, embryology, histology, host defense, microbiology, pharmacology and physiology are presented. Second year: Organized into 12 organ system and disease-based sequences, taught in an integrated multidisciplinary manner. Third year: Consists of four 12-week blocks, that are spent on required major clerkships plus medicine and neurology. Fourth year: Consists of eleven 4-week periods. Students are encouraged to pursue fields of personal interest.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The first year is Pass/Fail only; in the second, third, and fourth years, a modified system comprised of Honors, High Pass, Pass, and Fail. Clinical clerkship grades are usually accompanied by a narrative description of student performance. Students are required to pass Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year, and are required to pass Step 2 for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in Medical Sciences Buildings Unit I and II in the Medical Center. Clinical instruction takes place at the University Hospitals (888 beds) supplemented by the use of St. Joseph Mercy Hospital (522 beds) and the VA Hospital (486 beds). The University Hospital was opened in 1986. Other: Medical Center includes: Simpson Memorial Institute devoted to cancer research and diseases of the blood; 3 Kresge buildings for clinical research; and the Buhl Research Center for Human Genetics. Two new Medical Sciences Research Buildings were opened in 1986 and 1988 and a third in 1994. Library: The A. Alfred Taubman Medical Library houses more than 200,000 volumes and 3000 periodicals; the Learning Resource Center is housed in the library building and includes computers, laser printers, and an extensive audiovisual collection for student use. Housing: Some facilities available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active minority-student recruitment program. Some scholarships for underrepresented minority students are available. Other degree programs: School offers combination MD-PhD programs in a variety of disciplines including human genetics.
Introduction
The Wayne State University School of Medicine was established in 1868. It is associated with the Detroit Medical Center, which contains 6 health care institutions. It is located in the northcentral area of Detroit. The facilities of the School of Medicine are relatively modern, having been completed in the last 25 years.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Applicants should have taken the basic premedical courses plus a biology course and 1 year of English. The school does consider nonresidents for admission but state residents, as defined by university regulations, are given preference. In addition to residency, selection is based on the standard considerations, namely, college record, MCAT scores, recommendations/evaluations, and interview results. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants from U.S. or Canadian schools will be considered for second- and third-year classes.
Curriculum
4-year semi-modern. First year: Begins with an introductory clinical course, which runs through all four years, including Introduction to the Patient, human sexuality, medical interviewing, physical diagnosis, public health and prevention, and evidence-based medicine. Year 1 is organized around the disciplines of structure (anatomy, histology, embryology, and radiology), function (biochemistry, physiology, genetics, and nutrition), and ends with an integrated neuroscience course. Second year: A completely integrated year focusing on pathophysiology, including immunology/microbiology and pharmacology. Third year: Consists of a series of clinical clerkships including medicine, surgery, pediatrics, family medicine, psychiatry, neurology, and obstetrics/gynecology. During the third year all students have a 6-month continuity clerkship. Fourth year: This is an elective year and includes emergency medicine, a subinternship, and an ambulatory block month. The school uses traditional lectures, small group and panel discussions, computer assisted instruction, and multimedia in its teaching program.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/Pass/Fail. In order to qualify for promotion to the next class, a student must demonstrate competency on all subject examinations. All students will be required to pass Step 1 of the USMLE in order to be promoted into the third year.
Facilities
Teaching: The School of Medicine is located in the heart of the 236-acre Detroit Medical Center. Gordon Scott Hall houses the school's basic science departments, as well as administrative and service offices. Clinical teaching takes place at the Harper Hospital (557 beds), Children's Hospital (320 beds), Grace Hospital (957 beds), Hutzel Hospital (360 beds). Other: Clinical teaching also takes place off campus at the Detroit Receiving Hospital (700 beds) and VA Hospital (890 beds). Library: Shiffman Medical Library houses more than 150,000 volumes. Housing: Available in the campus area.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school's Office of Recruitment is actively engaged in furthering minority-student enrollment. Entering students can participate in a summer program designed to facilitate the transition to medical school. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in a variety of basic science disciplines.
Introduction
The Mayo Medical School is part of the Mayo Clinic. Its origin goes back to 1863, when Dr. William Worrall Mayo settled in Rochester. He was joined 20 years later by his two physician sons who set up a private integrated group practice in which they were joined by other respected physicians. This led to the formation of the renowned Mayo Clinic. The faculty of the Medical School is associated with the Clinic and hospitals. The school was founded in 1972.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Only the minimum premedical science courses are required. A course in biochemistry is also required. Forty-two students comprise each class. The initial screening involves a review of the contents of the AMCAS application. Those being considered further will receive a standardized phone interview instead of a supplementary application. Transfer and advanced standing: Not available.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The small class size facilitates a personalized course of instruction characterized by extensive clinical interaction and the integration of basic and clinical sciences throughout all segments of the curriculum. Patient contact begins early in the first year and increases commensurate with student progress. The integration of basic and clinical sciences occurs in a manner that strengthens basic science concepts, stresses the patient orientation appropriate for an undergraduate medical school, and utilizes a variety of active, problem-oriented, faculty-guided and self-learning techniques to aid student comprehension. Integration of the various components of the curriculum is promoted by organization of course material into broad functional units that span several curricular years. The curricular units are: the cell; the organ; the patient, physician, and society; the scientific foundations of medical practice; clinical experiences; and the research trimester. This type of curricular organization enables content integration of the basic and clinical sciences and between basic and clinical science.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors/Pass/Fail system is used. Students are required to take Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE. Promotion will be based on evidence of behavior and maturation, consonant with the student's talents and defined professional goals.
Facilities
Teaching: Located in Rochester, the school makes use of the facilities of the Mayo Clinic in its preclinical program. The Guggenheim Building houses the facilities for education and research in most of the basic sciences; the Plummer Building houses the library and Biomedical Communications; and the Hilton Building houses clinical laboratories of the Department of Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology, and Endocrine Research. Clinical teaching takes place at 2 hospitals: Rochester Methodist Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital, which provide 2000 beds and several clinical research facilities. Other: Facilities for research are located in the Medical Sciences Building, Guggenheim Building, and Rochester Methodist and St. Mary's Hospitals. Library: Information not available. Housing: Students are responsible for finding their own housing in the area.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school actively seeks minority students and welcomes their application for admission. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in several disciplines including immunology and pathology. A combined MD-Oral Maxillofacial Surgery program is also offered to candidates who have completed the DDS degree.
Introduction
In 1947 the University of Minnesota—Duluth became an associate campus of the University of Minnesota. This school provides the first 2 years of medical education, after which students automatically transfer to the parent school in Minneapolis for the completion of their training. The school seeks to provide primary care practitioners for rural communities throughout Minnesota and American Indian communities nationwide.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include the minimum premedical science courses and 1 year of English composition, mathematics through calculus, humanities (one course being upper level), and behavioral science. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Strong preference is given to Minnesota residents. A mechanism has also been established for transfer to the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis on a non-competitive basis for completion of MD requirements.
Curriculum
2-year semimodern. The curriculum exposes the students to basic behavioral and clinical sciences to prepare them for continuing their studies in Minneapolis. First year: Following the applied anatomy course and principles of basic medical science, clinical material is correlated with the basic sciences in integrated courses including nervous system, hematopoiesis and host defenses, histopathology, dermatology, and the musculoskeletal system. Students also participate in the Family Practice Preceptorship Program. Each student is assigned to a family physician within the immediate area and is introduced to medicine as practiced in that setting. Second year: Integrated courses in the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems, as well as integrated clinical medicine are presented. Students spend more time in the clinical setting and receive more intensive instruction in clinical medicine. The preceptorship program in the second year involves the student with physicians who practice in rural areas of Minnesota. This interaction occurs three times per year for a 3-day period each time. Additional courses in the behavioral sciences are offered throughout both years of medical school. Therefore, in the first 2 years of medical school, the students acquire the necessary knowledge of the scientific basis for medical practice while reinforcing this knowledge by active participation in the patient care setting.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are reported as Oustanding, Excellent, and Satisfactory. A No Pass is given if a student fails a course. A student is automatically allowed to transfer to the Medical School in Minneapolis if he or she is in good academic standing and has passed Step 1 of the USMLE.
Facilities
Teaching: A medical science building was constructed on the UMD campus in 1979. In 1997, an addition to this facility was opened and added more office and teaching space. The Medical School—Duluth has established affiliation agreements with St. Luke's Hospital, Miller-Dwan, and St. Mary's Duluth Clinic Health Care System. These facilities provide students with access to an extremely diverse patient population in the clinical setting. Library: In 2000, all contents of the Health Science Library were transferred to the newly constructed UMC Library Building. The health sciences have strengthened considerably due to the acquisition of full-text electronic resources and a full-service library with new study rooms, computers, and connections for laptop computers. Housing: Most students live in houses and apartments in Duluth and surrounding areas. No on-campus housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Applicants from minority groups are underrepresented in the health professions, particularly Native Americans; they are encouraged to apply.
Introduction
The University of Minnesota Medical School was established in 1888 when 3 of the 4 proprietary medical schools in the area joined together; a fourth joined later. By 1911 the first unit of the University Hospital was dedicated. The school has a long tradition of research and clinical achievement and is characterized by strong departments in the basic medical sciences.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include a bachelor's degree, the basic pre-medical science courses, plus biochemistry, 2 semesters ofEnglish, 1 course in calculus, and 1 in psychology. Two other courses from the liberal arts are also required. Courses in genetics and statistics are highly recommended. Preference for admission is given to legal residents of Minnesota. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students are accepted into the third year and usually only from the 2-year University of Minnesota Medical School—Duluth.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First year: Includes coursework in the basic medical sciences, behavioral science, and introductory experiences with patients. Second year: Consists of both department and integrated interdisciplinary courses organized and taught along organ system and topical lines. Third and fourth years: Consist of a total of 76 weeks of academic requirements, 52 weeks of required clerkships, and 24 weeks of electives. Before beginning this phase of the program, the student selects a faculty advisor and develops a plan for these 2 academic years. For most students, this period begins in June following the second year and ends in May of the senior year, with graduation and awarding of the MD degree. The 52 weeks of required clinical courses include: 12 weeks of internal medicine; 6 weeks each of surgery, obstetrics-gynecology, pediatrics, and psychiatry; 4 weeks of neurology, 4 weeks of a surgical subspecialty, and an 8-week outpatient clinical primary care experience. Students may also elect to participate in research, rural medicine, and international medicine experiences as part of their Third Year/Fourth Year curriculum.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading in the two years is on a P-N (Pass-Fail) system, with Honors designation for students in the top 20% of each of the First-year and Second-year classes. Students receive evaluations as Satisfactory, Excellent, and Honors for clinical coursework. Students who receive I or N grades are reviewed by the Student Scholastic Standing Committee. Students must pass Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE as a requirement for graduation and the MD degree. Students must pass the USMLE Step 1 to continue full-time work in the Third Year.
Facilities
Teaching: The University Hospital and most of the major hospitals in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area are affiliated with the medical school and provide clinical training facilities. Other: Facilities for research are located in the Health Sciences Center. Library: A comprehensive medical library that contains many books and subscribes to numerous periodicals is available for student use. Housing: Information is not available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Minority applicants are encouraged to apply. Other degree programs: A 7-year MD-PhD program is available for superior students planning academic medicine careers. The school also offers programs leading to MD-MBA and MD-MPH degrees.
Introduction
The University of Mississippi School of Medicine, located in Jackson, is part of the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The Medical Center also includes Schools of Dentistry, Nursing, Health-Related Professions, Graduate Studies in the Medical Sciences, and the University Hospitals and Clinics. The School of Medicine opened in 1903 and operated as a 2-year institution until 1955 when it expanded to a 4-year program and relocated in Jackson.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical sciences, required courses include 1 year of mathematics, 1 year of English, and 1 of advanced science. High priority is given to state residents. Transfers and advanced standing: Applications are considered from those who are in good standing at their previous school.
Curriculum
4-year traditional. First year: Introductory basic sciences plus psychiatry and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Second year: Advanced basic sciences as well as courses in parasitology, genetics, psychiatry, epidemiology, and biostatistics, all of which are covered in the first 2 quarters. The third quarter is devoted to multidepartmental introduction to clinical medicine, which provides classroom instruction in history taking and physical examination. This is supplemented by weekly tutorial sessions conducted by members of the faculty and is correlated with instruction in clinical laboratory diagnosis. Third year: Rotating clerkships in major clinical specialties as well as in family medicine and radiology. Fourth year: Consists of 9 required calendar-month blocks of clinical subjects. One block must come from 2 of the 3 major clinical specialties. Two courses must be taken in an ambulatory setting and 1 block in neuro-science, medicine, and surgery is required. The goal of the curriculum is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire a knowledge base, clinical skills, and personal qualities desirable for a practitioner.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A numerical grading system is used. Students must achieve not less than 70 in each course and a weighted average of not less than 75 each year. Students must record scores in specific individual exams of Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is part of the University of Mississippi Medical Center, which occupies a 164-acre tract of land in the heart of the capital city. The 722-bed University Hospitals and Clinics serve as the principal clinical teaching facility. It includes ambulatory clinics at the Jackson Medical Mall, the University Medical Pavilion, the University Hospital, the Blair E. Batson Hospital for Children, the Winfred L. Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants, and the Wallace Conerly Hospital for Critical Care. The G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery Veterans Affairs Medical Center of Jackson, with 136 general patient beds and a 120-bed nursing home, is the principal teaching affiliate for Medical Center educational programs. The McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind adjoins the University Hospital, as does the Mississippi Methodist Hospital and Rehabilitation Center. Library: The Rowland Medical Library is a part of the Verner Smith Holmes Learning Resource Center. It contains more than 307,115 items and receives 2368 current periodicals and serial publications.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has a strong commitment to enrolling and retaining minority and/or disadvantaged students. Its efforts are coordinated by its Division of Multicultural Affairs. It offers a 9-week preparatory reinforcement and enrichment program and a preentry summer program for accepted minority students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in the basic sciences and preventive medicine and a postbaccalaureate Professional Portal Track program offers an MS degree.
Introduction
St. Louis University, established by the Jesuits in 1818, was the first university chartered west of the Mississippi. The School of Medicine was opened in 1836. It is one of the university's 6 professional schools, the others being Business, Law, Theology, Nursing, Public Health, and Social Service. During the last half of the nineteenth century political developments forced the separation of the medical school from the university. Reintegration took place in 1963. It was at that time that many distinguished physicians also joined the faculty.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical science courses, requirements include 1 year of English and 12 credits of humanities and behavioral science courses. Recommended courses include calculus and biochemistry. Seventy-five percent of each class are nonresidents. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants from accredited U.S. medical schools are considered for the second- and third-year classes.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum consists of 3 phases. Phase 1: Consists of a Fundamental or a Biomedical Sciences course, a Health Information Resources course to develop computer skills and proficiency in gathering information on various aspects of human disease and patient care, and a Patient, Physician, and Society course that includes such units as ethics, communication skills, and physical diagnosis. Phase 2: Includes an organ and systems approach. Phase 3: Incorporates year III and year IV with an added clerkship in Family Medicine and opportunities to design individualized programs, including electives. Ambulatory care activities have been significantly expanded.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/Pass/Fail. Overall achievement and the promise of students is taken into consideration in deciding promotion. Students must record a passing total score on Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and on Step 2 for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The school consists of a medical sciences building, Doisy Hall, Caroline Building, Anheuser Busch Institute, and Doisy Learning Resources Center. Clinical facilities consist of: Saint Louis University Hospital, Cardinal Glennon Memorial Hospital for Children, Bethesda Cancer Research Center, St. Mary's Health Center, and Wohl Memorial Mental Health Institute. Several other hospitals are affiliated with the school. Other: Laboratory facilities are available at: The University Hospital, School of Medicine, Pediatric Research Institute, and Institute for Molecular Virology. Library: The Medical Center Library has a collection of 112,109 volumes and receives 1421 periodicals. Housing: A medical fraternity offers housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The School of Medicine is committed to diversity in the classroom and in the clinics so that all of our students understand and learn from each other about the practice of medicine in a diversified environment. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in the basic medical sciences and in molecular virology. Combined MD-MPH and MD-MBA programs are available.
Introduction
The University of Missouri has 4 campuses: Columbia, Kansas City, Rolla, and St. Louis. The Columbia campus, the oldest and largest, is the site of the university's Columbia School of Medicine. This institution, established in 1872 as a 2-year medical school, expanded in 1956 into its present 4-year program. The University of Missouri Health Sciences Center includes the School of Medicine, University Hospital, Columbia Regional Hospital, VA Hospital, and other satellite facilities.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical science courses, mathematics and English composition (one year) are required. State residents are given very strong preference, especially those from small cities, towns, and rural areas. Transfer and advanced standing: Limited number admitted into third year. Applicants to the third year must post passing USMLE scores. Missouri residency is required for advanced standing positions.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Preclinical training is in eight 10-week blocks, each block consisting of 8 weeks of instruction followed by a week of evaluation and a week of vacation. A 10-week summer vacation falls between blocks 4 and 5. Each learning block is comprised of 2 components—the Basic Science Problem-based Learning (PBL) component and the Introduction to Patient Care (IPC) component. Using a clinical case format, the PBL component integrates the traditional basic sciences. Students work together to gather and organize information and then to generate and test hypotheses. In the IPC component, students explore a variety of content and skill-building experiences, including the physical exam skills, interviewing, health care/health policy, epidemiology, use of diagnostic tests and psychosocial aspects of medicine. Beginning in their first semester, students work with physician mentors and with standardized patients. Students also are assigned to a weekly clinic for an ambulatory care experience. Third and fourth years: The third year features 7-week required clerkships in child health, family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry/neurology, and surgery. The fourth year has three 8-week required advanced clinical selectives from a medical area, a surgical area, and one other selective. Also required in the fourth year are 6 weeks of advanced biomedical sciences and 16 weeks of general electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The School of Medicine uses a multilevel grading system with Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory in the first year, Honors/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory in the second year, and Honors/Letter of Commendation/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory in the third and fourth years. Students must pass USMLE Step 1 prior to their fourth year and Step 2CK and Step 2C5 to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: The School of Medicine is located on the main, or Columbia, campus of the university and is connected to the University Hospital and Clinics. Basic sciences are taught in the Medical Sciences Building; newly renovated student “labs” are rooms designed for PBL sessions, small-group discussions, and home base study rooms. Clinical teaching takes place at the University Hospital (495 beds), Mid-Missouri Mental Health Center (87 beds), the VA Hospital (480 beds), and other affiliated off-campus hospitals. Other: The Ellis Fischell Cancer Center and Children's Hospital are part of the Health Sciences Center complex. Library: The Medical Library is located in the new Medical Annex and has more than 196,000 volumes. About 2000 periodicals are received regularly.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active program and offers special summer programs for high school minority, rural and/or disadvantaged students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-MS program, as well as MD-PhD in the basic sciences, is offered.
Introduction
In 1971 a combined 6-year undergraduate and graduate program of study was offered at the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine for the first time; thus, rather than being patterned after the traditional program of 4 years of undergraduate study followed by 4 years of medical school, the program at this school is designed to accept high school graduates, who will spend 6 years and receive combined baccalaureate-medical degrees at the completion of their studies. The school is located on a 135-acre campus.
Admissions
Major emphasis of school is the combined 6-year BA-MD program for graduating high school seniors. Only limited number of places will be open for Missouri residents completing the usual premedical college program. For year 1: High school students should have strong science background and take other courses that will prepare them for a medical school education that is community oriented. For year 3: Minimum of a baccalaureate degree is required. Selection is based on an applicant's academic potential as reflected by high school performance and scores on the ACT. Personal qualities sought are maturity, proper motivation, interpersonal skills, reliability, sense of compassion, and interests. Potentially qualified applicants are invited for interviews at the medical school campus. Transfer and advanced standing: Not applicable.
Curriculum
6-year modern. Program operates on a 48-week year and has the objective of preparing physicians committed to comprehensive health care. Years 1 and 2: These years comprise liberal arts and introductory medical courses. Emphasis is on team approach and courses integrate patient interviews and examinations with basic medical sciences, psychology, and sociology. Years 3 through 6: A clinical scholar is assigned for each small group of students and will act as their guide during the balance of study. Clinical sciences are taught in the affiliate hospitals, with a problem-centered approach. Student attains a specific set of clinical competencies as a precondition to attaining degree. Each student is given the opportunity to acquire a broad base of information in the basic, clinical, and behavioral sciences. The program also provides the students with a realistic knowledge of community health problems and resources. Education is provided in a positive learning environment, enhanced by strong student support services. An alternative extended study program is also available. The graduate should be prepared for advanced training, should qualify for medical licensure, and should be stimulated for a career involving lifelong learning.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used, and obtaining a total passing score on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required for promotion and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: A new medical school building has been completed. Clinical facilities include Children's Mercy Hospital, a major acute Psychiatric Center, St. Luke's Hospital, and Truman Medical Center, the primary adult care teaching hospital. Other: Several community hospitals are associated with the school and provide beds for teaching. Library: The Health Sciences Library is located on the second floor of the medical school building. Housing: Students are expected to live in the university residence hall on the main campus for the first year.
Special Features
Minority admissions: A Minority Recruitment Committee works to identify and recruit health science students early in their secondary schooling. Other degree programs: None.
Introduction
The St. Louis Medical College was established as an independent school in 1842 and became the medical division of Washington University in 1891. In 1899 the Missouri Medical College became part of Washington University as well. The Medical Center is located on the eastern edge of Forrest Park in St. Louis and includes the School of Medicine and a number of teaching hospitals.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the basic premedical sciences and differential and integral calculus. Transfer and advanced standing: Third-year class positions are available to well-qualified individuals enrolled in U.S. medical schools who have compelling personal reasons for transfer.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The goal of the curriculum is to provide students having diverse backgrounds and interest with the basic knowledge and skills essential for further professional development. The education is through lectures, small group sessions, problem-based exercises, and self-directed learning. Students must learn the interrelationship between the basic and clinical sciences and how old knowledge is reevaluated and new knowledge acquired. The curriculum includes a core experience based upon a sequence of courses during the first and second year that introduce the panorama of medicine. The major medical disciplines are presented in the third year in a way that allows all students to select the career most suited for them. The fourth year consists of electives. It provides students an opportunity to expand their knowledge in a wide range of specialties. The extent of their exploration into specific areas is determined by their depth of interest.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail grading system is used for the first year. Thereafter, the grades are Honors, High Pass, Pass, and Fail. In the third and fourth years, grades are accompanied by comments characterizing each student's performance. Promotions are made by committees on academic evaluation of students. Taking Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is recommended.
Facilities
Teaching: The Farrell Learning and Teaching Center provides state-of-the-art facilities introducing formal lecture halls and wet and dry labs. Every workstation in the Center is equipped with power and data connections, and for after-hours learning, the building also includes computer rooms and study carrels. Enclosed walkways connect Farrell to the Medical School-affiliated hospitals Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's Hospital, which together provide 1624 hospital beds. Patient-centered outpatient care takes place in the multispecialty Center for Advanced Medicine. Library: The 8-level Library and Biomedical Communication Center houses more than 290,000 volumes including more than 5400 journal titles, and provides on-line links to more than 2600 journals. Housing: Available in the Olin Residence Hall for approximately 250 students; abundant, reasonably priced apartments are within easy walking distance.
Special Features
Recruitment of underrepresented minority students is facilitated by the school's Associate Dean for Diversity Programs. Other degree programs: 5-year MD-MA program offering a year of research training, and 8-year combined MD-PhD program in various basic sciences.
Introduction
Creighton University, a Jesuit institution, has 4 health science schools. The School of Medicine was established in 1892. Clinical instruction is carried out in several institutions.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English are required. A course in biochemistry and/or genetics is recommended. There are no restrictions on residence. Transfer and advanced standing: Possible to the second or third year for qualified applicants when spaces are available. Admission restricted to those who have a Creighton University affiliation.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. A new curriculum has been introduced, divided into 4 components. Component one: The biomedical fundamentals serves as the foundation of the educational program. Component two: Comprised of more complex basic science information presented in a clinically relevant context consisting of a series of organ-based and disease-based courses. Component three: Consists of redesigned, required core clerkships emphasizing basic medical principles, primary care, and preventive medicine. Component four: Provides additional responsibilities for patient care. A 12-week block of critical care medicine and the 24 weeks of electives provide subinternship experience. At least 4 weeks of an implied, in-depth basic science experience is also part of this component. Clinical experience is a prominent part of the curriculum in all components, beginning with the physical diagnosis instruction in the first year and with students assigned to longitudinal clinics throughout the curriculum. The curriculum also integrates ethical and societal issues into all 4 components. Instructional methodology utilizes case-based small-group sessions and computer-assisted instruction in all components.
Grading and Promotion Policies
This school uses a Pass/Fail/Honors Evaluation system. Students are evaluated individually against curriculum standards and are not ranked among their peers. A Fail grade will not be accepted for graduation credit. Promotion to the next higher class depends upon a record of acceptable conduct and satisfactory completion of the entire year's work with a minimum of Pass in each course. All students are required to pass Step 1 of the USMLE before promotion into the clinical years of the curriculum and to take Step 2 of the USMLE in their senior year. Successful completion is not required for promotion but is necessary for licensure to practice.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic medical sciences are taught in the Criss Medical Center. This 3-unit center houses the School of Medicine offices, research facilities, laboratories, lecture halls, extensive television teaching classrooms, and other facilities for Medicine. Saint Joseph Hospital is the principal site for Creighton medical instruction. Creighton students also participate in clinical instruction at Alegent Health Immanuel Medical Center Behavioral Sciences Center, Children's Hospital, Omaha Veterans Medical Center, Bergan Mercy Medical Center, and some clinical services at other area hospitals. Library: The library is part of the Creighton University Bioinformation Center. Over 200,000 volumes of print and non-print material are available. Access is provided to many bibliographic databases such as MEDLINE, Micromedex, etc. Housing: Creighton University has limited space in the apartment-style Towers residence hall for families. The Department of Residence Life, 104 Swanson Hall, posts information on rentals in the area of campus. Arrangements are left to individual students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The Office of Minority Affairs coordinates an active recruitment program.
Introduction
The University of Nebraska College of Medicine was established in 1902 when Omaha Medical College joined the University of Nebraska. The latter was established in 1880. Currently, the University of Nebraska Medical Center includes the colleges of Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy, School of Allied Health Professions, University Hospital, and several other facilities. Omaha is located in the western part of the state and is its largest city.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses, introductory calculus or statistics, 4 courses in social sciences and/or humanities, and courses in writing, biochemistry, and genetics are also required. Few out-of-state residents are accepted. Transfer and advanced standing: No transfers from non-LCME-approved schools or from non-medical professional schools are accepted.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The school seeks to provide its graduates with superior skills in problem solving and clinical reasoning, extensive knowledge of the biomedical and psychosocial sciences, and skills needed for lifelong learning of medicine. First and second years: Students are exposed to the basic medical sciences. During these years students also begin to learn clinical skills and reasoning. In the third and fourth years students apply their knowledge on the hospital wards and clinical offices. Third year: Students take clinical clerkships in Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and Surgery. Fourth year: Students select from a variety of clinical and basic science experience. In order to graduate, students must show that they have acquired the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for residency training. Students get early experience in medical problem solving through preceptorships and clinical case study in groups. At the beginning of medical school, students work in small groups with a faculty member to solve clinical cases. This initial exercise helps develop the library and information retrieval skills they will need in their medical studies. Case study and small group teaching emphasizing problem-based learning are becoming more prominent features of all of the basic science courses. Clinical experience provided to the students is supplemented by the availability of simulated patients to learn history taking and physical examination skills. These innovative changes in medical education provide greater relevance to patient care in medical practice. Consequently, graduates should be more qualified to undertake advanced training regardless of the specialty they plan to enter.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Marginal, and Fail. Students are limited to 5 years of enrollment to complete the medical curriculum. Passage of USMLE Step 1 is required for promotion to the senior year and for graduation. Taking Step 2 of the USMLE is required.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in 2 buildings—Wittson Hall and Durham Research Center. Clinical teaching takes place at University Hospital (434 beds). Nebraska Medical Center serves various affiliated hospitals. Library: The McGoogan Library of Medicine is situated in Wittson Hall and houses more than 234,000 volumes and 2200 periodicals. Housing: Student Services has a listing of private off-campus housing available to students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program for disadvantaged and rural students. It also offers summer enrichment programs for college juniors and seniors, depending on availability of grant funds. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs available in all the basic sciences.
Introduction
The University of Nevada School of Medicine is a community-oriented medical school that was founded in 1969. Supplementing university-based faculty, community physicians serve as teachers. The goal is to train physicians in primary care to be able to provide both rural health care delivery and treatment in an office or hospital setting. This school is one of a small group of community-based institutions.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical science courses, 1 additional semester of biology, and 2 behavioral science courses are required. There is no quota for out-of-state residents, but few are accepted into the second and third years. High priority for admission is given to Nevada residents. A very small number of nonresidents from Alaska, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming or those with residential ties with Nevada are considered for admission. Applicants are evaluated on the basis of the level of their achievement, MCAT scores, extracurricular and health-care related activities, and letters of recommendation. Selected applicants are invited for interviews in either Reno or Las Vegas. Transfer and advanced standing: Possible from U.S. schools only.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: The curriculum emphasizes the biomedical and behavioral sciences basic to medicine. Basic science disciplines are integrated with each other and with clinical problems to promote the learning of problem-solving skills. A clinical correlation course exploring the basics of biomedical ethics, is taught. Early clinical training is provided for students to learn patient interviewing, doctor-patient relationship skills, and the basics of physical examination and diagnosis. Students spend time with a physician to observe medical practice in the office setting and clinic settings. There are also opportunities to participate in basic and clinical science research throughout the curriculum. Third and fourth years: These emphasize a balance of ambulatory and inpatient medical education designed to better prepare students for residency in all specialties. Third- and fourth-year students study clinical medicine in Reno, Las Vegas, and rural Nevada.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letters and numbers are used in addition to a Pass/Fail system. Both steps of the USMLE must be taken.
Facilities
Teaching: Five buildings at the north end of the Reno campus house classrooms, office space, the library, and research labs. Clinical facilities are the Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washoe Medical Center, and the University Medical Center, which provide some 2000 beds. Library: A Life and Health Sciences Library holds a significant number of books and subscribes to a wide variety of journals.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is committed to the recruitment, selection, and retention of individuals who are members of groups traditionally underrepresented. The University of Nevada, Reno does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, creed, national origin, or physical disability.
Introduction
Dartmouth Medical School, located in Hanover, New Hampshire, is the fourth oldest medical school in the United States. Founded in 1797, the school is a component of the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. The school is located in the heart of Hanover approximately 3 miles from the medical center.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and a course in calculus are required. There are no residence restrictions, but special consideration is given to applicants from New Hampshire and Maine. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfers are considered only when places are available; preference is given to students from other U.S. schools with compelling needs to be in Hanover.
Curriculum
4-year. The New Directions curriculum is designed to integrate the study of basic and clinical sciences throughout medical school while supporting close working relationships between students and the faculty. First and second years: The first and second years include a course entitled “On Doctoring,” which pairs students with faculty practitioners in local communities and alternates with biweekly, small group tutorials on campus. The first year also emphasizes basic science courses. Third year: Clerkships in many disciplines are scheduled in eight 6-week blocks of the third year. Fourth year: Students take advanced courses that complete their clerkships in neurology and women's health, a subinternship, and many electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/ High Pass/Pass/Fail. Promotion is by vote of the faculty and no student will be promoted who has not passed all courses. Taking Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required; passing it is not.
Facilities
Teaching: The primary clinical teaching site is Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. The center serves a very large patient population. As a Level 1 Trauma Center, it treats many acute emergency cases. The Medical Center itself is a partnership of four organizations: Dartmouth Medical School, Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital, the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic, and the VT Veterans Affairs Medical Center. It is a major center of transitional “bench to bedside” research. The center boasts a higher-than-average rate of patient participation in clinical trials. At Norris Cotton Cancer Center, fully 17% of patients enter into clinical trials. Other: Children's Hospital at Dartmouth, the Spine Center, Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Neurology. The flow of research is enhanced by two major research sites on the Lebanon campus. The Borwell and Rubin Research Buildings are the focal point of the Medical School's research program. These facilities will be enhanced with the opening of the Advanced Imaging Center, and Transitional Research Building, as well as a new home for the Center. Libraries: The Dana Biomedical Library at the Medical School's Hanover Campus, and the Matthews-Fuller Health Sciences Library at the Medical Center have printed and digital books and journals, databases, indexes, computer programs, and audiovisual materials. Housing: Graduate housing is available. Most students live in off-campus housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school actively encourages applications from qualified minority students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in several disciplines. An MD-MBA program is offered in conjunction with Dartmouth's Amos Tuck School. The medical school's Center for Evaluative Clinical Sciences offers graduate degrees.
Introduction
As part of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, the New Jersey Medical School is located in Newark and the current facilities were established in 1977. The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey also includes a second Medical School in Piscataway, a School of Osteopathic Medicine in Stratford, a Dental School in Newark, a Graduate School for Biomedical Sciences in Newark, as well as a Health-Related, Professional School of Public Health, and School of Nursing.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Minimum premedical science courses plus lab and 1 year of English are required. A course in college mathematics is recommended. Applications from nonresidents are encouraged. Consideration for admission includes scholastic accomplishments, motivation, perseverance, and mechanical skills. Highest priority for acceptance is given to those excelling in such attributes.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First and second years: Consists of basic science courses correlated with problem-based learning and clinical experiences. Part of the second year is devoted to an introduction to the clinical sciences, during which the student receives instruction in history taking, physical diagnosis, and pathophysiology. In addition, courses in preventive medicine and community health, behavioral science, and psychiatry are offered. Third year: Spent in rotations through core clinical departments. This is a closely supervised, hands-on, comprehensive learning experience in which the student acquires the basic knowledge and techniques of clinical medicine. Instruction is carried out mainly in small groups and is individualized. Fourth year: Devoted to advanced required work and elective programs. The required courses are emergency medicine, neurology, surgical subspecialties, physical medicine and rehabilitation, and an acting internship, all of which bring together the ethical, legal, and social factors that are part of total patient care. Sixteen weeks of electives are available.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail system is used. Decisions on promotion are made by executive faculty on recommendation of a Promotions Committee. Decisions are based upon a comprehensive evaluation of accomplishments. Students must pass Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: A campus on a 58-acre site in Newark is the hub of a major medical educational complex, including the Biomedical Science Building, the University Hospital, and a library. Other: Clinical teaching facilities include University Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center in East Orange, Morristown Memorial Hospital, and Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation. Library: Library of Medicine houses 70,000 volumes and 2000 periodicals. Housing: No housing facilities are available on campus, but there are many rooms or apartments in the local area, and a Housing Office provides support.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school conducts an extensive recruitment program. Accepted minority students attend a 7-week summer pre-enrollment enrichment program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD, MD-JD, MD-MBA programs are offered, and a 7-year BA-MD program with 7 undergraduate colleges. A limited number of Academic Excellence scholarships for entering first-year students are offered.
Introduction
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School has 3 campuses. All students receive their basic science education on the Piscataway campus. Students complete their clinical training on either the New Brunswick or the Camden campus. The school originally was known as Rutgers Medical School when it began in 1961 as a 2-year medical school. It became part of the University of Medicine and Dentistry in 1970.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses as well as 1 semester of mathematics and 1 year of English are required. Priority is given to state residents but nonresidents are accepted. Selection is based on academic achievements, MCAT scores, preprofessional evaluations, and a personal interview, which is by invitation only. Applicants must be citizens or hold permanent residence status at the time the application is submitted to be eligible for admission. Transfer and advance standing: Applicants to the third-year class are considered.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First and second year: Basic and clinical sciences are integrated in the first 2 years with emphasis on clinical skills and an opportunity for self-directed learning. Third year: The clinical year consists of rotations through the major specialties and a 2-year patient-centered medicine course, having integrated topics such as professionalism, humanism, multiculturalism, and medical ethics. Fourth year: Consists of electives as well as a subinternship, neurology, emergency medicine, and critical care clerkships as well as outpatient subspecialties.
Grading and Promotion Policies
System used is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Low Pass/Fail. A passing score on the USMLE Step 1 is required for promotion into the third year, and passage of Step 2 is required for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The Medical Science Complex in Piscataway includes the Medical Sciences Tower, Kessler Teaching Laboratories, Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, and a research tower and School of Public Health. Clinical teaching takes place at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and other affiliated hospitals in central New Jersey. In Camden, clinical teaching takes place principally at Cooper University Hospital. Library: The Rutgers University Library of Science and Medicine adjoins the Medical Science Complex in Piscataway, and clinical libraries are available in Camden and New Brunswick. Housing: Students are assisted in finding nearby housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program and offers a 10-week summer enrichment program for incoming minority students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD (RWJMS, Rutgers, Princeton) programs are offered in the basic medical sciences, as well as MD-MBA, MD-MPH, MD-JD, MD-MS in biomedical informatics, and MD-MS in jurisprudence.
Introduction
In 1961 the School of Medicine at the University of New Mexico was established, and by 1966, it had become a 4-year program. The school is located on the north campus of the university and provides an opportunity for both professional and graduate education.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses plus biochemistry are required. Recommended courses include anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Residents of New Mexico are given primary consideration for admission. Secondary consideration is given to residents of Montana and Wyoming. While New Mexico residents will be automatically sent supplementary materials, those who are WICHE or former state residents must apply under the school's early decision program. Selection is based on scholastic achievement, MCAT performance, recommendations from the student's preprofessional advisory committee, as well as a personal interview. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer is occasionally possible.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The current curriculum incorporates problem-based and student-centered learning, early mastery of clinical skills, peer teaching, and computer-assisted instruction. Phase I: In the first year and a half, the curriculum is organized around organ systems, each incorporating 3 perspectives—biologic, behavioral, and population. Hands-on medical skills are gained through weekly clinical skills and laboratory sessions. Students can utilize learning resources appropriate for individual needs, and participate in a 9-week, in-depth experience in a professional setting, in either a rural or urban community. They also work on a research or creative project. Phase II: In the next year and a half, students will continue problem-based tutorial learning in both inpatient and ambulatory settings and reinforcement of basic and clinical science integration of basic science learning resources. Time will be spent with patients with and without prior diagnoses and on various inpatient services (pediatrics, family medicine, general surgery, internal medicine, neuropsychiatry, and obstetrics) in small group tutorials. Phase III: The fourth year will feature more hospital-based clinical experiences with progressive responsibility for patient care. Students will also be able to select clinical experiences that will assist them in making future specialty decisions. One month will be spent in a community preceptorship.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The school uses grades of Outstanding, Good, Satisfactory, Marginal, and Unsatisfactory. Step 1 of the USMLE must be passed for promotion into Phase II, Step 2A must be passed for promotion to Phase III, and Step 2B must be passed for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: First- and second-year courses are taught in the Basic Medical Science Building. Clinical teaching takes place at University of New Mexico Hospital (384 beds) located on campus, and the New Mexico Veterans Admissions (217 beds). Six other hospitals are affiliated with the school. Other: Research facilities are located adjacent to the Basic Medical Science Building. The Cancer Research and Treatment Center, UNM Psychiatry Center, UNM Children's Psychiatric Center, Family Practice Center, and a variety of other institutions are affiliated with the school. Library: Students have use of the Health Sciences Library and Information Center, as well as University Library. Housing: None is available on campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has active minority admissions program that encourages applications from Hispanic, Native American, and African-American residents of New Mexico. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is available.
Introduction
This private medical school has been in existence since 1839. It is a coeducational and nondenominational school. In 1873 Albany Medical College joined with Union College and Albany Law School to form Union University.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Applicants must have completed a minimum of 3 years of college work in an accredited college or university. Required courses include 1 year of the basic premedical sciences plus proficiency in oral and written English. Applicants for first-year admission are also required to take the Medical College Admission Test and submit official scores. Transfer and advanced standing: No opportunities exist.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First year: Basic science instruction is combined with clinical cases to focus on normal function. Second year: Focuses primarily on abnormal function and the disease state. Third year: Clinical clerkships offered emphasize ambulatory care in varied settings: rural, urban, managed care, and private practice. Fourth year: Required experiences are hospital based, preparing students for residency and practice. Additional elective time allows students to round out their education and further explore specific areas of interest. During both the third and fourth years, basic science material is revisited within the context of a student's clinical experience. Several other modules span the entire 4-year experience. Health Care and Society introduces students to the psychosocial, humanistic, ethical, and legal aspects of care. Comprehensive Care Case Study emphasizes primary care, systems of care, comparisons of care in different settings, issues related to the epidemiology of disease, prevention and wellness, geriatrics, AIDS, and substance abuse. This module focuses students' attention on the concept of health care delivered by a team rather than an individual.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Students are graded on a modified Pass/Fail system. Grades assigned are Honors, Excellent, Good, Marginal, and Unsatisfactory. Students must take Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE as candidates and record scores.
Facilities
Teaching: The Albany Medical College is located in the state's capital. The school consists of a 7-floor Medical Education Building and a 5-story Medical Research Building, which together provide teaching facilities, research laboratories, faculty and administrative offices, clinic areas, a bookstore, student lounge, and library. The Albany Medical College and the Albany Medical Center Hospital are physically joined in 1 large complex. The Albany Medical Center Hospital, the nearby Veterans Administration Medical Center, and other affiliated hospitals provide facilities for clinical instruction. Library: The library possesses about 111,300 volumes, 1500 audiovisual programs (including computer programs), and receives 1250 medical periodicals on a regular basis. Housing: A residence hall accommodating 168 single students is located within easy walking distance.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school conducts an active minority recruitment program. A Minority Affairs Office provides academic, social, and cultural support services for enrolled students. Other degree programs: Joint programs with undergraduate schools at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Union College, and Siena College. Selected high school applicants are admitted to these highly competitive special focus, combined-degree programs. A combined MD-PhD program exists.
Introduction
A part of Yeshiva University, Albert Einstein College of Medicine was established in 1955. It is a privately endowed coeducational institution. Affiliated with the school are 2 postgraduate divisions, the Sue Goldberg Graduate Division of Medical Sciences and the Belfer Institute for Advance Biomedical Studies, making the school a major center for medical education, clinical care (through its affiliated hospitals), and biomedical research.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the basic premedical sciences and 1 year each of mathematics and English. Recommended courses are those in the humanities and social science. Transfer and advanced standing: None.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The preclinical curriculum consists largely of interdisciplinary courses designed to enable students to acquire an integrated understanding of the biomedical sciences, become effective in applying knowledge to the solution of clinical problems, and become successful self-directed learners with excellent information retrieval skills. Running parallel with these courses is an extensive Introduction to Clinical Medicine program in which students interact with patients in clinical settings and engage in small-group discussions about illness and health care from psychosocial, cultural, ethical, and health policy perspectives. Case-based small-group conferences emphasizing preparation, collaboration, and participation constitute a major educational strategy throughout the preclinical curriculum. Third year: Clerkship rotations in all major disciplines, including family medicine, geriatrics, and ambulatory care in community-based settings. Fourth year: Includes a subinternship in medicine, pediatrics, or adolescent medicine. There is also a 6-month elective period.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades in preclerkship courses are Pass/Fail in the first year and Honors/Pass/Fail in the second year. Grades in clinical courses are Honors/High Pass/Pass/Low Pass/Fail. There is also a narrative evaluation in each clerkship. A student must pass all preclerkship courses in order to be promoted to the clerkship year. Passing total test scores on Step 1 and 2 of the USMLE examination must be recorded prior to graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The Albert Einstein College of Medicine has extensive research and teaching facilities located in buildings spread over a 17-acre campus in the Westchester Heights section of the Bronx, New York. Clinical teaching is carried out at Jacobi Medical Center, Montefiore Medical Center, and at ambulatory care centers located throughout New York City and lower Westchester County. Library: Gottesman Library houses more than 250,000 volumes and 2400 periodicals. Housing: The college operates 2 apartment complexes that provide apartments for single as well as married students. A modern, fully equipped athletic center with a swimming pool is located on campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college's director of the Office of Minority Student Affairs is in charge of minority student recruitment. A 2-week prematriculation summer preparatory course is offered to students with relatively weak science backgrounds. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is offered for those interested in a teaching and a research career in either the basic biomedical or clinical sciences. Students are expected to prepare a reference report of scholarly substance prior to graduation.
Introduction
Columbia University was established in 1754 and by 1767 it had its own medical instructors. Originally known as King's College, the school's name was changed to Columbia University in the City of New York in 1912. In 1814 the medical faculty of Columbia College merged with the College of Physicians and Surgeons. The Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center was opened in 1928. Seven years later a permanent alliance was established with the university, and the college is now part of the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, incorporating the Medical School, a Dental School, Presbyterian Hospital, and its subdivisions.
Admissions
Requirements include the basic premedical science courses (with mammalian biology preferred) and 1 year of English. The college welcomes applications from candidates in all geographical areas. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students from colleges in the United States or Canada are considered. Relatively few candidates whose previous education was not obtained in this country or in Canada are admitted to an entering class or with advanced standing.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: Basic science courses with frequent correlation clinics through which basic science material may be related to medical problems. An introduction to medical practice course is also offered. Second year: One semester of advanced basic science course with the addition of interdepartmental courses in abnormal human biology and an introduction to the evaluation of patients and their problems. Third year: Consists of a rotation in or clerkships in the clinical discipline. Fourth year: Clinical and basic science electives. An elective in medicine in the tropics is available to fourth-year students who serve for 3 months in hospitals in South America, Africa, or Asia. An elective in the ambulatory care area is required.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/Pass/Fail. Students may be advanced to the next academic year or be allowed to repeat a year only upon the recommendation of the faculty members under whom they studied during the previous year.
Facilities
Teaching: The College of Physicians and Surgeons is in a 17-story building, each floor of which connects with the wards and service of the Presbyterian Hospital. A 10-story ultramodern hospital located adjacent to Presbyterian Hospital was opened in 1989. In addition to the Presbyterian Hospital, 7 other hospitals are affiliated with the college. The William Black Medical Research Building is a 20-story building connected with the college building. The Hammer Health Sciences Center contains multidisciplinary teaching laboratories, classrooms, and research laboratories and the Psychiatric Institute is housed in a new research building. Other facilities include a Clinical Cancer Center and a General Clinical Research Center. Library: The medical library occupies the first 4 floors of the Hammer Health Sciences Center. In addition to its large collection of books and periodicals, the library contains extensive and comfortable areas for study. Housing: Bard Hall is the residence for men and women, and there are a limited number of apartments for married students available at Bard Haven.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has designated its Office of Special Projects to coordinate its minority recruitment program. This office offers a 6-week summer MC AT preparation course. Other degree programs: Hospital residencies for the training of specialists and continuing education courses offer medical training beyond the MD degree. Combined MD-PhD programs are available in a variety of disciplines. An MD-MPH program is also available.
Introduction
Mount Sinai School of Medicine is a privately endowed, nondenominational institution. Developed from the 150-year tradition of patient care, professional education, and research of the Mount Sinai Hospital, it enrolled its first students in 1968, and is now officially affiliated with New York University.
Admissions (AMCAS)
A minimum of 3 years of college and the MCATs are required. Most students have earned the bachelor's degree. Students are required to complete the basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English. Non-science majors who meet all of the admissions criteria are considered on an equal basis. Selection is based on scholastic achievement, integrity, maturity, motivation, and creativity. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students are not accepted.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Student-patient interactions begin in the first month of school with introduction to clinical medicine, and continue throughout. In addition to 3 introductory courses—student well-being, introduction to emergency medicine, and ethics—the first year focuses on an integrated approach to the study of molecules and cells, structure and function, and pathogenesis and host defense mechanisms. A case-based sequence is used to provide clinical relevance for the basic science that is being learned. Case-based integration and intro to clinical medicine continue during the second year, along with a focus on epidemology and biostatistics. These are accompanied by a year-long study of mechanisms of disease and pharmacology. Third year: Clinical rotations include new and innovative clerkships that combine the disciplines of medicine and geriatrics, and pediatrics and obstetrics/gynecology. An integrated seminar series spans the year. Fourth year: Provides the student an increasing degree of patient care responsibility, and allows for extended electives. An emergency medicine rotation and a subinternship in medicine and pediatrics are required. A clinical translational fellowship combines the clinical practice of medicine with the relevant basic science. The year-end post-match integrated selective focuses on mastering the skills that are necessary to ensure a productive and educational internship experience.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Courses are graded Pass/Fail during the first 2 years, Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail in the last 2. Passing Step 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required.
Facilities
The medical campus's 22 buildings include a hospital, research and service laboratories, teaching facilities, the Postgraduate School of Medicine, and the Graduate School of Biological Sciences. The Mount Sinai Hospital, a 1200-bed facility, constitutes the basic resource for clinical education. Additional clinical training sites extend throughout New York City, New Jersey, Westchester County, and Long Island. They include municipal hospitals, a Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, and private community hospitals, as well as private practitioners' offices. Library: The Levy Library occupies one and a half floors of the Annenberg Building. Housing: Housing is provided for single students in an on-campus residence hall. Housing is available for married couples and families in other Mount Sinai-owned buildings in the neighborhood.
Special Features
Minority Admissions: Strongly motivated students from minority backgrounds are encouraged to apply. A pre-entrance summer enrichment program is available for accepted students. Other degree programs: The school also offers a Medical Scientist Training Program for those interested in obtaining an MD/PhD, and a Master of Science Degree in Community Medicine (MD-MSCM).
Introduction
New York Medical College is located in Valhalla, New York, in suburban Westchester County, within the nation's largest metropolitan region. Founded in 1860, the School of Medicine has a long-standing reputation for producing both generalists and specialists. The university's wide range of affiliated hospitals provide extensive resources and educational opportunities.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Applicants must have taken the MCAT exam within the last 3 years and must have completed the basic premedical courses. Each of these must have been completed with lab work. Two semesters of English are also required. Transfer and advanced standing: In rare instance from U.S. or Canadian schools to the third-year class.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: The traditional core of the first-year curriculum—sciences and behavioral science—is supplemented by clinical case correlations and courses in epidemiology and biostatistics. All first-year students take an Introduction to Primary Care course where they have regular patient contact working in the office of a primary care physician. Second year: Focus on pathology/pathophysiology; emphasizes small-group discussion, problem-based learning, and self-study. Clinical skills training, pharmacology, and medical microbiology prepare students for entry into the clerkship experience of the next 2 years. Third year: Students complete clerkships in conventional disciplines. Fourth year: Consists of required clinical rotations taken at affiliated hospitals and electives at medical institutions across the country and around the world. About 20 fourth-year students take international electives each year.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail. Passing Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE is a graduation requirement. In recent years, the pass rate has been 98–100%.
Facilities
Teaching: The preclinical program is taught in the Medical Education building at the Valhalla campus in Westchester County. The clinical program utilizes facilities of 26 hospitals in New York City, the counties of Westchester, Rockland, Dutchess, and Ulster, and in Fairfield County, Connecticut. Library: The library has about 231 seats, 3 small group multipurpose rooms, a 20-person state-of-the-art classroom, 2 computer labs, a total of 21 computers for library use, over 203,000 volumes, and approximately 11,000 electronic journals.
Special Features
Minority admissions: NYMC seeks to admit a diverse class, including diversity of gender, race, ethnicity, cultural and economic background, and life experience. Other degree programs: Students have an opportunity to earn joint degrees, combining the MD with an MPH in the School of Public Health or a PhD in the Graduate School of Basic Medical Sciences.
Introduction
New York University, a nondenominational private institution was established in 1831; the School of Medicine was founded in 1841. The Bellevue Hospital Medical College, established in 1861, merged in 1898 with New York University to form the University and Bellevue Hospital Medical College, which became New York University College of Medicine in 1935. The present name was adopted in 1960. The School of Medicine boasts a host of distinguished alumni including Walter Reed, William Gorgas, Jonas Salk, and Albert Sabin.
Admissions
Requirements include the premedical science courses and 1 year of English. Recommended courses are biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. Transfer and advanced standing: Not available.
Curriculum
4-year traditional. Basic sciences are introduced with interdepartmental correlations. First year: Concerned with the normal pattern of cellular and organ dynamics. An introduction to the physiologic and pathologic basis of human disease is provided that sets the stage for principles of clinical science and psychiatry. Second year: Devoted to general and organ pathology and neurological sciences. Continuation of the introduction to clinical science is correlated closely with studies in special pathology. Advanced basic sciences and principles of physical diagnosis provide the basis for clinical clerkships. Third year: Clinical clerkships in the major areas of medicine. Fourth year: A subinternship in a clinical area of interest for 6 weeks. An elective program of approved research or clinical studies at the school, at another U.S. school, or at a school abroad makes up the balance of the year. In recent years some changes have been introduced into the curriculum. These changes are designed to encourage independent learning by the use of small group seminars, problem-solving exercises, and computer-assisted learning. Critical facts and concepts of scientific principles are acquired in the basic science program. These provide the foundation for clinical training. An honors program and independent research opportunities enhance the basic science program.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used in the basic sciences and a letter or number in required clinical sciences. Advancement from 1 year to the next is made by a Faculty Committee that can approve advancement or require the student to repeat. Taking Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The School of Medicine is located adjacent to the East River, between 30th and 34th Streets in Manhattan. The preclinical program is carried out in the Medical Science Building. Clinical teaching facilities are provided by the University Hospital (622 beds), Bellevue Hospital (3000 beds), and New York Veterans Hospital (1218 beds). Other: The off-campus Goldwater Memorial Hospital (1250 beds) and the Hospital of Joint Disease are also affiliated. Library: The library houses more than 100,000 volumes and 1600 periodicals. In addition, the Institute of Environmental Medicine at Sterling Forest offers another reference library. Housing: Residence halls on campus provide single rooms or shared apartments for all students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program. Other degree programs: The school offers the Medical Scientist Training Program for an MD-PhD in all basic science disciplines. Opportunities are enhanced by the Honors Research Program of Independent Study and Masters Scholars Program in areas such as bioethics, public health, and medical informatics.
Introduction
The School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the State University of Buffalo was a private institution when it was established in 1846; it merged with the SUNY system in 1962. Instrumental in organizing the medical school was Millard Fillmore, the first chancellor, who later became the thirteenth president of the United States. The University of Buffalo has the most comprehensive campus in the SUNY system.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include the basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university is desirable. The choice of a major is optional; however, beyond securing a solid foundation in the sciences by means of the prerequisites, students should seek to develop a background in the social sciences and humanities. Some preference is given to qualified residents of New York State. Competitive out-of-state applicants are encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted from children of alumni regardless of state of residence, but no preferential priority is accorded.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum is designed to teach students in the fundamentals of medicine. It seeks to demonstrate the interrelationships between the basic and clinical sciences, allow early exposure to patient care, and provide ample opportunities to explore both primary care and medical specialties. Integrated organ system-based modules are used to teach the basic sciences. In addition to traditional lectures and laboratories, students participate in small-group problem-based learning. An active learning style is encouraged. The third year offers the traditional clerkships and elective opportunities. Students may take as many as 4 elective experiences away from Buffalo in the fourth year.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors/Pass/Fail system is used. A Promotion Committee reviews the progress of students at the end of each year and is responsible for recommendations based on all aspects of the student's work and departmental appraisals. Successful completion of Step 1 of the USMLE in 3 attempts is required before matriculating to the third year.
Facilities
Teaching: The preclinical years are taught in totally modern facilities completed in 1986, which provide an environment conductive to informal experiences, small group teaching, and student enrichment. A modern computer-assisted learning laboratory, together with study carrels, is located in the school and the Health Science Library. The library is “world class” with a fine collection of textbooks and journals, an excellent reading room, and a history of medicine collection. Clinical teaching is coordinated in 9 hospitals located in Buffalo and the suburbs of Amherst, and at rural sites in the Buffalo area.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is committed to the educational preparation of students from underrepresented population groups in medicine. Other degree programs: The medical school offers early-assurance guarantees to exceptional students at the end of the third semester of college. The school offers an integrated 7-year MD-PhD program limited to a maximum of 4 students per year. The school also offers a combined MD/MBA 5-year program limited to 4 students per year, and an MD/MPH program also limited to 4 students per year.
Introduction
In 1860 the Long Island College Hospital became the Health Science Center at Brooklyn. It subsequently was called the Downstate Medical Center because of its role as a major provider of health care in the downstate New York region. It is located on a 13-acre urban campus in Brooklyn. The medical school is now part of SUNY Health Science Center of Brooklyn, which also includes colleges of Nursing, Health-Related Professions, School of Graduate Studies, and University Hospital.
Admissions (AMCAS)
In addition to the basic premedical sciences, requirements include 1 year of English. One year of college mathematics and a course in biochemistry and in advanced science are recommended. Admissions preference is given to New York State residents. Transfer and advanced standing: Students are considered for admission to the third-year class. Those wishing to transfer must take Step 1 of the USMLE.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: Cover the basic medical sciences and include free half-days throughout the first 2 years for electives, correlation clinics in the second year to show relationships of basic sciences to clinical work, and introduction to patients during second-year Problem-Based Learning (PBL) Track. Second-year curriculum organized into organ system approach. Third year: Clerkship rotation in the major clinical specialties. Fourth year: Individualized selective programs making available a variety of courses and clinical experiences. The primary goal of the curriculum is to prepare competent physicians as general or specialty practitioners, researchers, or medical administrators or academicians. Students are expected to gain an understanding of health and its promotion and of disease prevention. The students will become proficient in basic clinical skills such as history taking, the performance of comprehensive physical and mental health examinations, and interpreting the findings. Competence in the performance of basic procedures is also expected. The curriculum is undergoing a major revision stimulated by the change in the organization and practice of medicine, the explosion of new scientific and clinical information, the desire to integrate basic and clinical sciences throughout the four years of medical training, and the need for an earlier exposure to patient care.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Honors/High Pass/Pass/Conditional/Fail system is used; the USMLE Step 1 is required for promotion to third year.
Facilities
Teaching: The Health Science Education Building houses state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, an auditorium, and 2 floors of study carrels. Clinical teaching takes place at University Hospital (350 beds), Kings County Hospital (1234 beds), and several other affiliated institutions. Other: Facilities for research are located in the Basic Sciences Building. Library: The Medical Research Library, one of the largest medical school libraries in the country, occupies 3 floors of the Health Science Education Building. The Bibliographic Retrieval Service has 150 databases. Housing: Two 11-story residence halls provide housing for both single and married students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program aimed at the Northeast. It offers a summer enrichment program for college sophomores and one for prematriculating students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in some of the basic sciences.
Introduction
The Upstate Medical University can trace its origin to the establishment in 1834 of the General Medical School which joined the newly formed Syracuse University in 1871. Expansion of the facilities took place in the 1930s and in 1950 the College of Medicine was transferred to the then newly organized State University of New York.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the premedical sciences and 1 year of English. Preference will be given to New York State residents. Applications are accepted from U.S. citizens and from permanent residents who have completed at least 3 years of college study (90 semester hours) in the United States or Canada. Achieving excellence in the sciences is essential; however, academic work in the humanities and social sciences is equally important.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: The curriculum integrates the basic and clinical sciences, with basic science courses teaching the clinical implications of the material, and provides clinical experience starting in the first semester. All courses are aligned by organ systems. Third and fourth years: The third and fourth years are considered a single unit. Every student is required to complete 50 weeks of clerkships and 26 weeks of electives. Forty-two weeks of required clerkship and 6 weeks of electives are included in the third year; 8 weeks of required time and 20 weeks of electives are included in the fourth year. Required courses are: medicine, general surgery, ophthalmology, otorhinolaryngology, radiology, anesthesiology, and orthopedic surgery, psychiatry, obstetrics and gynecology, neuroscience, and preventive medicine and neurology.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The grading system used is Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail. Taking Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required.
Facilities
Teaching: Facilities for instruction and research are in Weiskotten Hall. Most of the hospital affiliates are adjacent to the basic science building at Weiskotten Hall. St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center, Community General, and Van Duyn Home and Hospital are in other parts of Syracuse. Other: Affiliates are the State University Hospital, U.S. Veteran's Administration Medical Center, Crouse-Irving Memorial Hospital, Community-General Hospital, Richard H. Hutchings Psychiatric Center, and St. Joseph's Hospital and Health Center. The Clinical Campus at Binghamton, a branch campus, offers clinical educational programs for the third and fourth years. The community orientation of the program fosters close working relationships with practicing physicians and other community professionals. Through emphasis on the “patient caring” function, the curriculum provides experiences in primary care and the ambulatory setting. Library: The library's collection numbers more than 130,000 volumes and about 2200 rare books. The library also has access to 2 large online bibliographic services. Housing: Two modern 10-story residence halls on campus provide dormitory rooms, studios, and one-bedroom apartments for single and married students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is committed to having student enrollment reflect the diverse population of the state. Other degree programs: Research is an important aspect of medical education; four common options are MD-PhD Program, Research Electives, Summer Research, and MSRP.
Introduction
The School of Medicine opened in 1971 and is one of 5 professional schools, in addition to the hospital, that make up the Health Sciences Center at Stony Brook. The school aims to achieve excellence in preparing students for careers in medical practice or research through its curriculum and through activities that are designed to provide students with the skills that are appropriate for success in all fields of medicine. The school is located 60 miles east of Manhattan on Long Island's wooded north shore.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses plus one year of English are required. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfers to the third-year class are considered for students from other LCME-accredited schools only if a place is available.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: Consists of basic science courses and introductory courses related to patient care. Courses include: molecules, genes, and cells; the body; neurosciences; the organs; and pathology plus additional minor courses. Second year: Continues with the systems approach. It focuses on an integrated presentation of courses in pharmacology and microbiology. Third year: Consists of clerkships in medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics-gynecology, and reproductive medicine, psychiatry, and primary care, as well as a 4-week elective. Incorporated in each clerkship is a segment entitled Medicine in Contemporary Society. Fourth year: The student assumes greater patient-care responsibilities and continues to acquire clinical and laboratory skills. This is attained during a 1-month subinternship in either medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, or general surgery. Another requirement is a 1-month didactic course in emergency medicine, laboratory medicine, or therapeutics. Other requirements are the completion of a 1-month primary care clerkship at one of the school's affiliated institutions or elsewhere and also 1 month of neurology experience. All students must successfully complete an exercise with standardized patients designed to evaluate clinical competency. The system's approach to medicine that forms the core of the curriculum has been favorably received by the students. It reduces the amount of lecture time by strengthening the organization of course material, and decreases the burden imposed by competing examinations.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Honors/Pass/Fail system is used. Students take Step 1 of the USMLE in the second year and must pass in order to advance to the clinical year of study. Students have to pass USMLE Step 2 to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: Clinical teaching takes place at the University Hospital (534 beds), Nassau University Medical Center (800 beds), Northport VA Hospital (480 beds), Winthrop University Hospital (591 beds), and other institutions. Library: The Health Sciences Library is located in the Health Science Center. Housing: Residence halls are arranged in quadrangles, each having single and double rooms and 4- or 6-person suites.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Stony Brook University encourages applications from members of groups that have historically been underrepresented in medicine. Other degree programs: The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) is a fully funded MD-PhD program. Students must complete a 1-month deductive course in emergency medicine, laboratory medicine, 1 month of neurology, and 2 weeks of radiology. The remainder of the 4th year is devoted to elective time.
Introduction
The University of Rochester, founded in 1850, is an independently supported, nonsectarian institution. The University of Rochester Medical Center consists of the School of Medicine and Dentistry, School of Nursing, and Strong Memorial Hospital.
Admissions
Required courses include the basic premedical sciences, 1 year of English, and courses in the humanities and/or social sciences. The MCAT is required. Transfer and advanced standing: None. International students, unless they are Rochester graduates, are not considered.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Rochester's Double Helix Curriculum captures the integrated strands of basic science and clinical medicine as they are woven throughout the 4-year curriculum. The focus of our educational program is not merely the transfer of information but the transformation of the learner in a culture providing that ingenious combination of support and challenge that leads to education. Every course is interdisciplinary and, unlike most medical schools, clinical skills training from the beginning leads not to shadowing, but to the start of real clinical work as part of the health care team. Actual clinical cases drive the learning of science. Students return to increasingly advanced basic science in the second, third, and fourth years through an integrated series of problem-based learning exercises. Multidisciplinary PBL cases are used in all courses with usually 3 PBL tutorials per week and an average of 14 lecture hours per week. Clinical exposure begins during the first week of school with an introduction to clinical medicine in the fall semester and the start of the primary care/ambulatory longitudinal clerkship beginning during the first spring semester. This experience includes all the ambulatory components of family medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine, women's health, psychiatry, and ambulatory surgery, and is completed by the end of the second year. Inpatient clerkships are completed by December of the fourth year and focus on acute care experiences in adult medicine, women's and children's health, mind/brain/behavior, and emergency care.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Pass/Fail is the current system. The USMLE is not used in promotion decisions.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught in the Medical Education Wing; clinical teaching takes place in Strong Memorial Hospital (720 beds), at 5 affiliated community hospitals, in an Ambulatory Care Center, and in the offices of many practicing physician-teachers. Other: Research laboratory space for basic science departments is in the Medical Education Wing. Library: The Edward G. Miner Library houses more than 200,000 volumes and subscribes to 3000 periodicals. Housing: 1 to 2 bedroom apartments are available near the Medical Center.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The Center for Advocacy, Community Health, and Education and Diversity coordinates an active recruitment program involving a Summer Research Fellowship Program for upper-level students. Other degree programs: A BA-MD program is offered. Combined degree programs are available for MD-MS and MD-PhD candidates. An MD-MPH combined degree program is available through Community and Preventive Medicine. MPH-MS programs are offered, and an MBA program is available in the Simon School of Business Administration.
Introduction
The Weill Medical College of Cornell University was established in 1898 and is situated on the upper east side of New York City. Although the university is located in Ithaca, New York, the medical school was established in New York City to provide students with clinical experience and laboratory-oriented instruction. An academic medical center was established in 1962 that affiliated Cornell Medical School with New York Hospital. With the relocation, both these components became part of a common campus—the New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. The school name was changed in 1998 to the Joan and Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University.
Admissions (AMCAS)
A solid background in science is important. Required courses include the basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English. Transfer and advanced standing: When vacancies occur, students are considered for admission to the third year. Candidates must furnish evidence of satisfactorily completed work and must present a letter of current good standing from their U.S.-accredited school.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The curriculum integrates the basic sciences, the clinical sciences, and clinical practice by offering interdisciplinary basic science courses, early exposure to clinical concepts, and clinical experiences. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving skills and aims to develop the students' ability and motivation for continued self-study. In keeping with developments in the health care delivery system, it has expanded clinical education in the ambulatory setting by offering office-based preceptorships in years 1 and 2 and a primary care clerkship in year 3. Upon completion of the second year of medical school, students take 3 introductory clinical courses: Clinical Pharmacology, Anesthesia, and the Introductory Clerkship. The third and fourth years have a combined clinical curriculum with required clinical clerkships, a subinternship, Medicine, Patients and Society III, Health Care Systems, and elective courses. This educational continuum ends with 8 weeks of required credits in advanced basic sciences.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Performance is graded by an Honors/Pass/Fail system, in the first 2 years and Honors/High Pass/Pass/Fail in the last 2.
Facilities
Teaching: Most of the instruction for the first 2 years takes place at the Weill Educational Center, a multipurpose teaching complex. It consists of an auditorium and 21 modular teaching laboratories. Designed for maximum flexibility, it accommodates teaching formats and methodology. The medical school campus enbraces one of the most advanced centers in the world for biomedical sciences, including Rockefeller University, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York Presbyterian Medical Center and Hospital for Special Surgery, and other affiliated institutions.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school makes a nationwide effort to enroll qualified members of groups underrepresented in medicine. It conducts a research fellowship program for college premedical students who have completed their junior year and have a major interest in the medical problems of the underserved. Other degree programs: The school offers a fully funded combined MD-PhD program, which is coordinated with the Rockefeller University, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and the Cornell University Graduate School of Medical Sciences. An MD-MBA program is offered in conjunction with the Johnson School of Management of Cornell University.
Introduction
The School of Medicine at East Carolina University, located in the Health Sciences Center in Greenville, was founded in 1977. Educational facilities are located on a 100-acre Health Science Center Campus. The school has a 3-fold mission: training physicians for primary care, recruiting and educating minority students, and community service.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Only the basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English are required. A second year of English and humanities/social science courses are recommended. Strong preference for admission is given to qualified residents of North Carolina. The school seeks qualified students from a variety of backgrounds who have diverse personalities. Thus in the selection process the intellectual, personal, and social characteristics of each applicant are considered. These features are reflected in data such as: college record, MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation/evaluation. This information is supplemented by the impression gained from 2 personal interviews, conducted at the medical school campus by 2 members of the Admissions Committee. Transfer and advanced standing: Considered only if vacant positions exist.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: In addition to the introductory basic sciences of anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology, courses in microbiology, genetics, psychosocial basis of medical practice, medical ethics, and a primary care preceptorship are offered. The 2-year clinical skills course begins early in the first semester. Second year: In addition to the advanced basic sciences of immunology, pathology, and pharmacology, courses are offered in substance abuse, human sexuality, clinical pathophysiology, and social issues in medicine. Primary care preceptorships and the clinical skills course continue throughout the second year. Third year: There are 6 major clinical rotations that last 8 weeks each, and together include at least 10 weeks of ambulatory experience. Fourth year: There are 36 weeks of clinical and basic science selectives. Of these, 2 months must be spent in primary care, and 1 month each in a surgical selective and an internal medicine selective.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are used in evaluating students. Both steps of the USMLE must be taken and students must pass Part I prior to promotion into the third year.
Facilities
Teaching: The Brody Medical Science Building contains lecture halls, classrooms, conference rooms, and well-equipped laboratories as well as an auditorium and library. The primary affiliated clinical teaching institution is the 725-bed Pitt County Memorial Hospital. Other: The Regional Cancer Center, Heart Center, Radiation Therapy Center, Eastern Carolina Family Practice Center, Biotechnology Building, Life Sciences Building, and various other clinical and technological facilities are all located on the medical school campus. Library: The Health Sciences Library has 300,000 volumes and receives more than 1800 periodicals. Housing: Ample private housing is available in the area.
Special Features
Minority admissions: An active recruitment program is coordinated by the Academic Support and Enrichment Center (ASEC). Other degree programs: MD-PhD programs can be arranged on an individual basis.
Introduction
The School of Medicine at Duke University was founded in 1930. The Medical Center, which includes the School of Medicine, the School of Nursing, and a hospital, is located on Duke's west campus. These health care facilities are all part of Duke University, an institution established in 1924 by James Buchanan Duke, industrialist and philanthropist. His original endowment served to transform Trinity College in Durham, North Carolina into Duke University.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the basic premedical science courses, 1 year of calculus, and 1 year of English (consisting primarily of expository English composition). An introductory course in biochemistry is suggested during the senior year. Residence does not influence admissions decision. Transfer and advanced standing: None, except in unusual circumstances.
Curriculum
4-year modern. First year: This year introduces students to the basic sciences, which are the building units of medicine. The subjects are condensed into the essentials necessary for medical practice and serve as the basis for clinical studies, which begin in the following year. Courses are taught in blocks, so that students need to concentrate on no more than 3 major areas at a time. The lecture-based courses are integrated within the same block, so that relevant material is taught together. Second year: During this year students begin seeing patients full-time. An intense 3-week preparatory period enables them to undertake clinical clerkships in internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, and pediatrics. The basic science principles learned become meaningful and are reinforced in the course of working with patients. The clinical exposure permits the student to become familiar with the major patient-care disciplines and thus facilitates making thoughtful decisions concerning the path to pursue during the elective third and fourth years. Third year: This year provides an opportunity for significant personal growth. The opportunity is given to study an area of particular interest in depth. Each student chooses an independent scholarship project and enrolls in the appropriate general study program. All third-year projects last 8½ months. Faculty advisors help the student design a study program that best meets the individual's needs. The program serves to encourage a lifelong commitment to scholarship and enhances one's medical education regardless of their ultimate goal. Fourth year: This very flexible year rounds out the student's education. It offers opportunities for sampling areas of interest, becoming more comfortable with patients, mastering the core competencies that have not yet been achieved, and deciding on one's postgraduate training.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The Honors/Pass/Fail system is used. The USMLE is not required for promotion or graduation. Records of students are reviewed periodically by promotion committees consisting of course directors.
Facilities
Teaching: Preclinical teaching takes place in the Thomas D. Kinney Central Teaching Laboratory. Clinical instruction takes place at Duke Hospital (1008 beds), and at the Durham VA Hospital (489 beds). Library: The Medical Center Library houses more than 200,000 volumes and subscribes to 5000 periodicals. The Trent Collection includes books on the history of medicine, and is considered noteworthy for the Southeast. Housing: Off-campus housing is easily available and affordable.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active minority recruitment program. Other degree programs: Combined-degree programs include the Medical Scientist Training Program for the MD-PhD, the Medical Historian Training Program for the MD-PhD, the MD-JD program for a joint medical and legal degree, and the MD-MPH for a medical degree and a degree of Masters in Public Health.
Introduction
Located on the Chapel Hill campus of the University of North Carolina, the School of Medicine was founded in 1879. It did not become a 4-year school until 1952. Adjacent to the School of Medicine on the university campus are: schools of Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Public Health. Clinical training is provided by several major, on-campus facilities, as well as health education centers located in community settings throughout the state.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical courses plus 1 year of English are required. Recommended are courses in cell and molecular biology and biochemistry. There are a limited number of places available to nonresidents, since preference is given to residents. Selection involves choosing those with the greatest potential, who are sent supplementary applications. These are screened and appropriate candidates are invited for an interview prior to final selection. Qualities sought are maturity, leadership, motivation, integrity, and an academic record of accomplishment. Transfer and advanced standing: A very limited number of places are available for transfer to the third year. Students in good standing at accredited U.S. medical schools are considered.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The goals of the curriculum are to build problem-solving and communicative skills and to develop habits of self-assessment and continual learning that will remain with the physician throughout his/her professional life. First year: Consists of the introductory basic sciences and microbiology-virology, immunology, neurobiology, introduction to medicine, and social and cultural issues in medical practice, as well as a selective seminars program. Second year: Consists of several major courses: mechanisms of disease (includes 11 organ systems courses), pathology, pharmacology, epidemiology, psychiatry, and physical diagnosis, as well as selective seminars. Third year: Rotation through clerkship of major clinical specialties extending over 48-week period. Fourth year: A 4-week acting internship and a 4-week ambulatory care selective are 2 required selectives of the senior year. In addition, there are 24 weeks divided into 6 periods of electives. Opportunities for specialized clinical activities are offered as well as opportunities for in-depth study and investigation in special areas of interest to the student.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/Pass/Fail. The Student Promotions Committee recommends promotion or dismissal to the dean.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is part of the medical center located on campus. Berryhill Basic Medical Sciences Building and preclinical Education Facilities Building provide facilities for the basic sciences. Clinical teaching takes place at the North Carolina Memorial Hospital (607 beds) and AHEC facilities throughout the state. Affiliation for teaching purposes has been established with a number of community hospitals. Other: The Medical Sciences Research Building provides facilities for research. Library: The Health Sciences Library houses more than 202,000 volumes and 4000 periodicals. Housing: Residence halls are available on campus for single as well as some married students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program and sponsors an 8-week Medical Education Development program for college students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in a variety of disciplines including biomedical engineering, genetics, mathematics, neurobiology, and toxicology. MD-MPH programs are also offered.
Introduction
In 1834 the Wake Forest Institute opened, and became a university in 1967. The Bowman Gray School of Medicine originally opened in 1902 as the Wake Forest Medical School. It was renamed the School of Medical Sciences in 1937 and operated as a 2-year medical school until 1941, when it was moved from Wake County to Winston-Salem as a 4-year medical school in association with the North Carolina Baptist Hospitals, Inc., and named Bowman Grey School of Medicine, which now constitutes the Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. In 1997 the medical school was renamed Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical courses are required. English and history are strongly recommended. Completion of 90 semester hours is necessary, but 120 are advised. A total of 108 students enter annually. Admission is without regard to race, creed, sex, religion, age, physical handicap, marital status, or national origin. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer to third-year class is dependent upon vacancies.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The medical student education program is aimed at achieving 9 specific goals, namely, self-directed learning and stimulating the desire for life-long learning, securing a science core biomedical knowledge, as well as gaining proficiency in clinical skills, problem solving, clinical reasoning skills, interviewing and communication skills, information management skills, and professional behavior and attitudes. Students master the basic and clinical medical sciences in an integrated manner throughout the entire program. They utilize small-group, problem-based learning and other educational methods. This approach involves close integration through a computer network. Early community exposure and attention to population healthcare are distinguishing features of the program. Professionalism issues are considered at all phases to provide prospective physicians with a better understanding of their role in society.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading is on a 0 to 3 scale. Students are provided with progress evaluations at the end of each course or rotation. The Promotion Committee meets regularly to evaluate student performance and make evaluations. Students must record total passing scores on Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion and on Step 2 for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: Much of the basic science instruction takes place in the renovated James A. Gray Building and Hanes Research Building. The main teaching hospital is the North Carolina Baptist Hospital (880 beds). Other: Affiliated institutions include Forsyth Memorial Hospital (896 beds), and the Northwest Area Health Education Center. Library: The Coy C. Carpenter Library contains more than 150,000 volumes including approximately 2300 medical and scientific journals. It has on-line access to various computerized bibliographic services. Housing: The school maintains no housing facilities, but apartments, rooms, and houses are available in the surrounding residential area.
Special Features
Minority admissions: A recruitment program is sponsored by the school through its Office of Minority Affairs. It provides a summer enrichment program for accepted students prior to matriculation. Also, there is a tuition-free postbaccalaureate program through Wake Forest University for students who have not achieved admission to medical school. Other degree programs: MD-MBA and MD-PhD are offered.
Introduction
Established in 1884, the University of North Dakota includes 8 colleges. The School of Medicine at the University of North Dakota was opened in 1905. Until 1973, it offered only the first 2 years of medical education with arrangements made with other schools for the last 2 years of clinical training. The school emphasizes the training for providing primary care in a rural setting.
Admissions
The equivalent of 4 academic years or a minimum of 90 semester hours from an approved college is required for admission. Preference is given to applicants who have earned a bachelor's degree. Required coursework includes the basic premedical science courses and courses in college algebra, psychology or sociology, and English composition and literature. Students should be computer literate. The only out-of-state students admitted in recent years are through the minority program INMED (Indians-into-Medicine), through the Professional Exchange Program of WICHE, or through the reciprocity agreement with the state of Minnesota.
Curriculum
4-year modern. This school's curriculum features an early introduction to clinical medicine, a patient-centered learning curriculum, and an emphasis on rural medicine. Blocks I-IV and Blocks V-VIII, each 40 weeks long, are the framework for the first and second years. Using the Patient-Centered Learning (PCL) format, small-group sessions are designed to facilitate the integration of the basic sciences with clinically relevant cases. The cases utilize a multidisciplinary approach to learning the basic sciences. The PCL sessions are supported by laboratory exercises, interactive question and answer sessions, demonstration, and concept-anchoring lectures. Students begin interacting with patients during the first semester of medical school. Skill development in patient communication and physical examination is stressed, as well as understanding ethical, socioeconomic, population, and statistical issues. Students take six 8-week clerkships during the third year (Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Psychiatry, and Pediatrics), or they may complete the majority of the third year in a rural setting through the school's Rural Opportunities in Medical Education (ROME) program. Students take 6 or more electives during the senior year as well as acting internships in medicine and in surgery.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The grading system is Satisfactory-Unsatisfactory. The student must satisfactorily complete all of the course-work in a given year before beginning the required courses for the next year.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is part of the North Dakota Medical Center. Courses in the first 2 years are taught in Grand Forks in the Medical Sciences North building that contains classrooms, laboratories, administrative offices, and the library. Clinical teaching is coordinated through the 4 regional campuses in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, and Minot. Other: Community hospitals throughout the state are affiliated with the school as well as the VA Medical Center in Fargo, the USAF Hospitals in Grand Forks and Minot, and the PHS Hospitals and Clinics that are part of the Indian Health Service. Library: The Health Sciences Library houses more than 50,000 volumes and about 1000 periodicals. Specialized biomedical research is conducted in the Edwin C. James Research Facility and the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center. Housing: A variety of on-campus housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The INMED (Indians-into-Medicine) program admits up to 7 fully qualified American Indian students to medical school each year. The Center for Rural Health serves both the school and rural communities throughout the state. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is offered.
Introduction
Case Western Reserve University originated in 1967, when Western Reserve College and Case Institute of Technology combined to form the largest biomedical research institution in Ohio. The School of Medicine was established in 1943, when a medical department was added to Western Reserve College. In 1952 the school pioneered the introduction of an integrated, multidisciplinary, and problem-based innovative medical curriculum that was adopted by many other institutions, in part or in whole.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and 1 semester of English composition is required. More than half the places are filled by residents. Applicants from minority groups are encouraged. The selection process is influenced by the goal of generating a divergent student population both geographically and in the terms of undergraduate school represented. For this reason, academic qualifications such as grades, MCAT scores, and letters of recommendation are not the sole criteria used in the selection process. Successful applicants are those who have an attractive set of credentials demonstrating both achievement and potential. An interview is granted to candidates being seriously considered for admission. Transfer and advanced standing: Each candidate is considered individually.
Curriculum
4-year modern. First year: Consists of instruction in subject areas of cell biology, differentiated cell, metabolism, biostatistics, cardiovascular-respiratory and renal systems, tissue injury, and mechanisms of infection. Second year: Consists of instruction in the organ systems as well as biometry and legal medicine. Third year: Consists of clerkship rotation through the major clinical specialties. Fourth year: Consists of neuro-sciences, surgical subspecialties, primary care, and 5 months of electives selected by the student.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Evaluation of a student is based on interim examinations, comprehensive examinations at the end of the year, and instructor's observations of performance in laboratory and clinical work. Grading is Pass/Fail in the basic sciences and Honors/Pass/Fail in the required clinical sciences. The Committee on Students determines whether or not it is desirable to refuse further registration to any student. Taking Step 1 of the USMLE is required. A passing total score must be obtained on Step 2 to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is located on the university campus about 5 miles east of the center of Cleveland. The Health Science Center is the site of teaching of the basic sciences. Clinical teaching is done at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Metro Health Medical Center, the Cleveland Veterans Administration Hospital, St. Luke's Hospital, and Mt. Sinai Hospital. Other: The Mather Memorial Building, the East Wing and Sears Administration Tower provide space for research facilities. Library: The collections of the schools of Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing are located in the Health Center Library. The collection totals more than 150,000 volumes and 3000 periodicals. Housing: A graduate residence hall for single men and women is located within a 10-minute walk of the central campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school's active recruitment program is conducted by its Office of Minority Student Affairs. A 6-week summer enrichment program is offered to incoming students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in a variety of disciplines. An affiliated medical school, the Cleveland Clinic of Medicine, opened in 2004.
Introduction
The Medical University of Ohio, which graduated its first class in 1972, is part of a health science center that includes a Graduate School, a College of Allied Health, and a College of Nursing. The Medical Center is located on a 475-acre campus in a residential/commercial area of south Toledo. The school serves as a center for medical education, community service, and research.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English and mathematics are required. Additional courses in biology are recommended. The school requires all applicants to take the MCAT and to have a baccalaureate degree at the time of admission. Beyond the required courses, the choice of a major is optional. Ohio residents are given priority in admissions. Nonresidents with a superior background are considered for acceptance. Transfer and advanced standing: Ohio residents from LCME-accredited schools are considered.
Curriculum
First and second years: Basic sciences are integrated into interdisciplinary blocks of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Human Structure and Development, Neurosciences/Behavioral Science, Immunity and Infection and Organ Systems, and Integrative Pathophysiology span the first 2 years. A case-based format is used, designed to help students develop clinical reasoning skills by applying principles learned in the basic sciences. A course, Physician, Patient, and Society, also spans both preclinical years. Much time is spent in a non-lecture format with emphasis placed on small-group interaction. Third year: Devoted to mandatory clerkships in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and family medicine. Fourth year: Required clerkships in neurology and basic science, as well as 28 weeks of clinical electives are required.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system uses Honors, High Pass, Pass, Fail. The USMLE, Step 1, must be passed to be promoted and a passing total score on Step 2 is required to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught in the Health Education Building and the Block Health Science Building. The clinical clerkships are completed at the campus' University Hospital as well as several other area teaching hospitals. All students complete a minimum of 8 weeks of clerkships in a rural Area Health Education Center. Other: Available for required clerkships are Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, and Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan. Library: The Mulford Library contains a large collection of bound books and journals. Housing: None available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The university has an active recruitment program. The Admissions Office works in cooperation with the Office for Institutional Diversity and the Office of Student Affairs in the recruitment, selection, and retention of qualified students. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program, MD-MSBS program, and MD-MPH program are available.
Introduction
The Northeastern Ohio University College of Medicine was established in 1973, and received full accreditation in 1981. The goal of the school is to train physicians to have knowledge of principles and practices of primary care in a community setting as well as the potential for specialization. Graduates receive a BS degree from the consortium university and an MD degree from the College of Medicine. The principal teaching site is in Rootstown on a 55-acre site in northeastern Ohio, located 35 miles southeast of Cleveland.
Admissions (AMCAS)
A BS-MD program is available to students entering directly from high school. The MD program is available to students who already have apremedical background. For the MD program, the required courses are 1 year of organic chemistry and 1 year of physics at the college level. The number of spaces available for MD degree program candidates varies with the amount of attrition in years 2 and 3 of the BS-MD degree program. Very strong preference is given to Ohio residents. Usually no more than 10% non-Ohio residents are admitted annually, and the admission criteria for these applicants is more stringent. Applicants should demonstrate strong academic preparation as reflected by their GPA and MCAT scores. They should also give indication of personal characteristics and motivation to practice medicine. Transfer and advanced standing: A small number of places are available for applicants entering the sophomore year of the MD (4-year) portion of the program based on attrition from the freshman year.
Curriculum
6-year semitraditional. Students spend the first 2 years at several possible undergraduate institutions completing premedical studies. The first year of medical studies involves the basic sciences and is completed at the Rootstown campus. The second year involves a study of pathophysiologic processes underlying clinical signs and symptoms of disease. Some teaching during the first 2 years takes place at ambulatory care centers of teaching hospitals. The third year consists of the standard clinical clerkships including family medicine and a primary care preceptorship. The latter takes place at hospitals in Akron, Canton, and Youngstown. The fourth year consists of electives and specially designed selectives in the medical humanities as well as a community health clerkship. There is a problem-based learning program that extends across the first 3 years. It is available as a distinct course or within core clerkships.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The system used is Honors/Satisfactory/Conditional-Unsatisfactory/Unsatisfactory. Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE must be taken and a total passing score recorded to be promoted into the clerkship years and to graduate, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The academic base consists of the University of Akron, Kent State University, and Youngstown State University, with the Basic Medical Sciences campus in Rootstown. Clinical facilities are utilized at 18 associated community hospitals in Akron, Canton, and Youngstown. Library: Located at the Basic Medical Sciences Center. Housing: Available for first- and second-year medical students on all 3 campuses.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Qualified minority and disad-vantaged rural students are encouraged to apply. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in the basic sciences and in biomedical engineering.
Introduction
The Ohio State University College of Medicine was established in 1914; it began with the Starling-Ohio Medical College and its predecessors. The college is located on the south edge of the main university campus.
Admissions (AMCAS)
A baccalaureate degree is expected, but 3-year candidates are considered. Application is made through AMCAS. The MCAT test is required. Prerequisite courses include the basic premedical sciences. Recommended courses are biochemistry, physiology, and molecular genetics. Transfer applicants are considered for entrance into the third year, from LCME-accredited, MD-granting institutions in the United States.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Med 1 and Med 2 students have their choice of 2 curricular pathways: Integrated Pathway or Independent Study Pathway. The Integrated Pathway features body systems-oriented content that fuses the basic and clinical sciences. It combines the proven educational methods of student-centered active learning, small-group case-based discussion, and lectures. The Independent Study Pathway allows students to utilize highly structured objectives, resource guides, and web- and computer-based materials to learn on their own. First year: Study of gross anatomy and embryology as part of a 6-member student team for the first 12 weeks of medical school. Critical analysis and problem-solving skills will be developed as students learn about the body systems. Patient-centered medicine and physician development courses take place weekly, combining small group role-playing settings, lectures, and experiences with senior citizens and physicians in the community. Second year: Students continue in their selected pathways, further strengthening clinical interviewing skills, learning how to do a comprehensive physical examination, and building diagnostic abilities. Working with real and standardized patients, students gain an appreciation for the pathophysiology of disease. Third year: Begins with a 2-week Introduction to Clinical Medicine. The next 12 months are spent in a range of experiences, including ambulatory primary care medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, surgery, itnernal medicine, psychiatry, neurology, pediatrics, and surgery. Fourth year: This year features 4 Diffentiation of Care selectives covering the undifferentiated patient, chronic care, a subinternship in internal medicine, and a subinternship in surgical care. There is great flexibility in the fourth year, with 3 months of elective rotations and 3 months of vacation.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The non-grading system used is Pass/Fail. Students must record a passing score on Step 1 of the USMLE in order to move on to required clerkships and a passing score on Step 2 to graduate.
Facilities
The Ohio State University Medical Center includes: James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Ross Heart Hospital, and many other facilities for treating physical and behavioral illnesses. Library: The John A. Prior Health Sciences Library maintains nearly 200,000 volumes and receives more than 3000 electronic journals and 2800 print titles.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college conducts an active minority recruitment program. Other degree programs: Combined Degrees, BS-MD, MD-MBA, MD-PhD, MD-MHA, and MD-JD are offered.
Introduction
The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine was established in 1819. It is part of the university's Medical Center, which also includes colleges of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Health. Graduates choose careers in a broad range of primary care and medical subspecialties. Research opportunities for students are extensive and the school receives NIH research funding.
Admissions (AMCAS)
All applicants should have the knowledge obtained in premedical basic science courses and mathematics. In addition, the undergraduate program should provide an understanding of the social, cultural, and behavioral factors that influence our society. Regardless of the area of concentration, the applicant should have acquired effective learning, communication, and problem-solving skills. A knowledge of the basic principles of statistics and computer literacy are recommended. As a state-supported university, priority will be given to Ohio residents. Transfer and advanced standing: Possible only into the third year.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: Focuses on the normal structure, function, and development of the human body, using an integrated systems approach to basic and clinical science topics. It includes an introduction to doctor/patient relationships and physical diagnosis skills. Second year: Continues the integrated systems approach focusing on the disease processes, prevention, and the further development of physical diagnosis skills. Thirdyear: Clerkships include 8-week rotations each in internal medicine, obstetrics-gynecology, pediatrics, and surgery; a 6-week rotation in psychiatry; a 4-week rotation in family medicine; a 2-week rotation in radiology; and 4 weeks of electives. Fourth year: Requirements are an 8-week acting internship in internal medicine, a 4-week clinical neuroscience selective, and 24 weeks of electives which must include a 4-week internal medical elective, a 4-week outpatient elective, and a 4-week Area Health Education Center (AHEC) elective in an underserved rural or urban community in Ohio. Portions of the elective time may be taken at other U.S. medical centers or abroad.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades of Honors, High Pass, Pass, Remediate, or Fail are used. Students must pass USMLE Step 1 before advancement to the third year. Students must pass the USMLE Step 2 before graduating.
Facilities
Teaching: The majority of the school is housed in the Medical Sciences Building. Clinical training takes place at the University Hospital, Children's Hospital Medical Center, VA Medical Center, the Shriners Burns Hospital, and ambulatory care sites. Other: Three associated teaching hospitals are located within a mile of the Medical Center. Library: The Health Sciences Library holds more than 270,000 volumes and 3000 current journals and has over 100 computers for student use. Each year the library conducts many training classes, covering medical literature, databases, creating web sites, and web courses. Housing: A limited number of on-campus apartments are available for single and married students. A variety of proximate off-campus housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school actively recruits minority, disadvantaged, and other nontraditional applicants. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD program of any of the basic sciences and a 5-year MD-MBA program are available.
Introduction
Wright State University, located in Dayton, was founded in 1964; the School of Medicine was founded 10 years later. It is located on the main university campus in the city of Fairborn, a community within the metropolitan area of Dayton. The school's goal is to provide physicians with a strong foundation in primary care and comprehensive training in critical, acute, and chronic care as well as preventive medicine. A very substantial percentage of the school's graduates enter family medicine.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses are required plus 1 year each of English and mathematics. The school seeks students with diverse social, ethnic, and educational backgrounds. Secondary applications and letters of recommendation are requested upon receipt of the AMCAS application. Dedication to human concerns, communication skills, maturity, motivation, letters of recommendation, and academic qualifications are considered when reviewing applications. One-on-one interviews are by invitation only with Ohio residents receiving very strong preference. Women, minorities, and applicants from rural Ohio are particularly encouraged to apply. Transfer and advance standing: Students may transfer from LCME accredited schools at the third year level.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Major courses are designed to prepare students for lifelong learning and service in primary care fields. Biennium I: Students are taught in an interdisciplinary fashion using didactic teaching, large group lectures, small group discussions, computer-based instruction, and case-based/problem-based learning. Throughout the first 2 years, normal structure and functioning, behavioral sciences, health promotion, and disease prevention are integrated into the curriculum. Students are introduced to basic principles and mechanisms of disease in the spring of the first year. Instruction progresses through various organizational levels from molecular to organ systems. From the beginning of the freshman year, students acquire clinical skills through direct patient contact and interaction with clinical faculty preceptors. To provide additional opportunities for clinical exposure and enrichment, clinically based electives are offered as immersion experiences between academic periods in the first 2 years. Students rotate through 6 core clerkships during the third year. Individualized electives, mandatory clerkships, junior internships, and time for board study complete the fourth year.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Information not available.
Facilities
Teaching: Educational programs are conducted in the Medical Sciences, Biological Sciences, and Health Sciences buildings on the main campus. Clinical instruction takes place in the 8 local affiliated teaching hospitals and institutions, in free-standing ambulatory health centers, and in physicians' offices. Library: The Fordham Health Sciences Library contains a large collection of books and journals, audiovisual and computer programs, access to on-line data base searching, quiet study areas, and after-hour study space.
Special Features
Minority Admissions: The school has a stated policy of providing educational opportunities to students from underrepresented minority groups. An Office of Minority Affairs is coordinated by an Assistant Dean for Minority Affairs. A 4-week prematriculation program, minority physician mentoring, big brother/big sister peer tutoring, board preparation courses, and assistance in development of critical thinking and learning are available. Resident and nonresident minority students are strongly encouraged to apply. Other degree programs: After matriculation students may apply for admission to the biomedical sciences PhD program, the MBA program, and the MPH program.
Introduction
Established in 1900 the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine combined with Epworth Medical College in 1910. The College of Medicine is one of 7 colleges belonging to the Health Sciences Center. The other schools are the colleges of Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, Allied Health, and the Graduate College. The College of Medicine offers programs in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. In Oklahoma City it is situated on the 200-acre Oklahoma Health Center.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include 3 semesters of English; 1 semester of general zoology with lab; 1 semester (anyone) of cell biology, histology, embryology, genetics, or comparative anatomy; 3 semesters (any combination) of anthropology, psychology, sociology, philosophy, humanities, or foreign language; 2 semesters of physics; 2 semesters of general chemistry; and 2 semesters of organic chemistry. Strong preference is given to residents. Nonresidents can make up no more than 15% of each class. Acceptance is based on the applicant's GPA, MCAT scores, recommendations, and interview. Emphasis is placed on health care experience, maturity, commitment, and community service. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants from other medical schools may be admitted with advanced standing.
Curriculum
4-year. First and second years: Each of these years is 36 weeks. The program provides an integrated overview of the basic sciences and is accented by clinical correlation demonstrations. Patient contact begins in the first year in a wide variety of settings, including physicians' private offices. Interdepartmental courses in clinical medicine are offered. Third and fourth years: These make up a 23-month continuum; 10 months in the third year are devoted to required clerkships in major clinical specialties; 5 months in the fourth year are devoted to required internships in major clinical specialties. Six months must be utilized for elective coursework.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The letter grading system is used. All courses must be completed with a grade of C or better (D or better in courses of fewer than 30 clock hours). Students are required to take and pass Step 1 of the USMLE prior to beginning third-year clinical rotations. Step 2 must be taken to record a score.
Facilities
Teaching: The college is located on the university's Oklahoma City and Tulsa campuses. Basic sciences are taught in Oklahoma City. Clinical teaching takes place at 5 hospitals and numerous clinics located on campus and at 14 affiliated hospitals. In the beginning of the third year, 25% of the class may transfer to the Tulsa campus. Library: The Health Sciences Library in Oklahoma City contains more than 156,000 books, journals, and audiovisual material. Housing: The Oklahoma campus has 86 units.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The university seeks to identify and recruit underrepresented minorities, and applicants from this group or candidates with a disadvantaged background are encouraged to apply. Other degree programs: The university offers an MD-PhD degree.
Introduction
As part of the Oregon State System of Higher Education, Oregon Health Sciences University is an independent collegiate health center. It was established in 1887 as the University of Oregon Medical School. Reorganization took place in 1974 when the schools of Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing joined together to form the University of Oregon Health Science Center. The university is located on a 101-acre campus in Sam Jackson Park, a short distance from downtown Portland.
Admissions (AMCAS)
A bachelor's degree is required prior to matriculation. The basic premedical science courses, 1 college level course in mathematics, and 1 year each of humanities, social sciences, and English (including 1 semester of composition) are required. Courses in biochemistry and genetics are required. A course in statistics is strongly recommended. Transfer and advanced standing: Availability decided yearly. Preference is given to Oregon residents.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First and second years: Primarily devoted to the sciences basic to medicine, focusing initially on the normal structure and function of the human body and continuing with the study of the pathological basis of disease and its treatment. The course principles of clinical medicine is presented concurrently to develop fundamental knowledge and skills in patient interviewing and physical diagnosis. Socioeconomic, behavioral population health issues are also introduced during this period. Third and fourth years: Consist of clinical clerkships. A 6-week rural primary care experience is required and there are opportunities to pursue elective courses in clinical and basic sciences.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are Honors, Near Honors, Marginal, or Fail. Students must take Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: The Oregon Health and Science University includes more than 20 buildings used for medical education, research, and patient care. The preclinical curriculum is provided in the Basic Sciences and Education buildings, which are designed for teaching in small group settings, as well as containing adequate space for lectures and laboratories. Clinical teaching is provided at the University Hospital and Clinics, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, and Portland Veteran's Administration Medical Center, as well as several affiliated hospitals and clinical teaching sites. In addition to research facilities, teaching space, and patient care facilities, the campus includes a computer center, library, and a fitness and sports center. Library: The library and auditorium afford facilities for lectures and scientific meetings. The library contains about 150,000 volumes of books and periodicals and subscribes to 2500 current periodicals. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The School of Medicine Admissions Committee seeks diversity in its student body and in the physician workforce to enhance the effective delivery of health care. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including medical genetics, medical psychology, and pathology. An MD-MPH program is also available.
Introduction
Drexel University's approach to medical education is consistent with the school's 2 centuries of health care history. In 1848 the founders of Hahnemann University (then named the Homeopathic Medical College of Pennsylvania) thought that there were better ways to treat patients than the harsh medical practices of the time. In 1850 the founders of the Medical College of Pennsylvania established the nation's first medical school for women. In 1993 the Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University consolidated into 1 institution—MCP Hahnemann University. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs in health professions, nursing, public health, medicine, and biomedical graduate studies.
Admissions
In addition to the basic premedical science courses, 1 year of English is required. Transfer and advanced standing: Applications are considered for the second and third years if openings are available.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. Recognizing that different students have different ways of learning, Drexel University offers a choice between 2 innovative academic curricula for their first years of study. Interdisciplinary Foundations of Medicine (IFM) integrates basic science courses and presents them through clinical symptom-based modules. IFM is faculty driven; students learn in lectures, labs, and small groups. The Program for Integrated Learning (PIL), a problem-based curriculum, is student driven, supervised and facilitated by faculty. Students learn in small groups, labs, and resource sessions by focusing on case studies. Both options focus on professional medical education, preparing students to pursue careers in either a generalist or a specialist discipline. Both stress problem solving, lifelong learning skills, and the coordinated teaching of basic science with clinical medicine. In the third year, students take clinical clerkships, covering 6 key medical and surgical subjects. Academic, clinical, and professional skills are emphasized and integrated in both inpatient and ambulatory clinical settings. In the fourth year, the “pathway” program lets students gain career experience in a general professional pathway or a discipline-specific pathway of their choice.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used.
Facilities
Teaching: The Educational and Research Building includes state-of-the-art research labs, modern teaching facilities, including two 175-seat auditoriums, a learning resource center, a clinical learning lab, a computer center, and high-tech audiovisual linkages between various locations. Hospitals providing clinical training include Hahnemann Hospital, MCP Hospital, St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, and Graduate Hospital. Other: Affiliate hospitals include Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, Monmouth Medical Center in Monmouth, and Pinnacle Health Hospital in Harrisburg. Library: The Florence A. Moor Library of Medicine contains more than 37,000 volumes and more than 1050 serial publications are received regularly. Housing: The Office of Student Affairs assists students in finding local housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program. Other degree programs: The school offers a combined MD-MPH program, and an MD-MBA program with Drexel University's Executive MBA program, and an MD-PhD program with the School of Biomedical Sciences. There is a BA-MD program with Villanova University and a BA or BS-MD program with Drexel University.
Introduction
Jefferson Medical College was established in 1824, almost 150 years before Thomas Jefferson University was founded. Located in Philadelphia, Jefferson Medical College is the second largest private medical school in the United States. A Postgraduate College of Graduate Studies is affiliated with the university. The Medical College is located on a 13-acre urban campus in Philadelphia. In recent years there has been a significant expansion in research programs at the school.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses are required. Transfer and advanced standing: A very limited number of applications for transfer into the third year may be considered if compelling reasons exist.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The aim of the curriculum is to acquire basic knowledge and skills and to develop appropriate professional behavior. First year: Focuses on the function of the human organism in its physical and psychosocial context. Clinical coursework emphasizes the importance of the physician-patient relationship, medical interviewing and history taking, human development, behavioral science, and principles, as well as core clinical skills and reasoning. Second year: There is a shift to pathophysiology and disease. Small-group sessions focus on problem-solving, evidence-based medicine and service-based learning. Third year: Made up of a 42-week period that covers the required clerkships, advanced basic science courses, and rehabilitation medicine. Fourth year: Consists of medical and surgical subspecialties and in-and-out patient subinternship in medicine or surgery.
Grading and Promotion Policies
First and second years: Courses in the basic medical sciences are given Honors, Pass, or Fail; 70 is passing. Third and fourth years: Clinical courses for all Phase I and Phase II required courses and all electives will be recorded as High Honors, Above Expected Competence, Expected Competence, Marginal Competence, Incomplete—I, Failure—F. An examination grade will also be recorded for all required Phase I courses. A written evaluation report is made a part of a student's permanent academic record. Students must record passing total scores on Step 1 and 2 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The Jefferson Alumni Hall houses all basic science departments (and recreational facilities). College Building houses administrative and clinical department offices, laboratories, and lecture rooms and connects with the Curtis Building, in which are located additional clinical faculty offices, research laboratories, and classrooms. Bridges connect the College and Curtis buildings with the 4 Jefferson Hospital structures: the Gibbon Building, the Foerderer Pavilion, the Thompson Building, and the Main building. The Gibbon Building is a facility with four 100-bed minihospitals, each with its own diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, teaching rooms, and physicians' offices, and the Bodine Center for Radiation Therapy. The outpatient Surgical Center contains physicians' offices, operating rooms, and surgical facilities for same-day surgery. Other: The college is affiliated with 19 hospitals. Library: The Scott Library Building contains 170,000 volumes and receives 2300 periodicals. Housing: Orlowitz, Barringer, and Martin buildings provide apartment rentals.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college encourages applications from minority and other disadvantaged students. Other degree programs: Selected students can earn BS and MD degrees in 6 or 7 calendar years from Jefferson Medical College in cooperation with Pennsylvania State University. There is a combined MD-PhD program with the College of Graduate Studies, Thomas Jefferson University, a joint 5-year MD-MBA (and MHA) program with Widener University, and an MPH program with Johns Hopkins.
Introduction
Pennsylvania State's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center opened its doors to the first class of medical students in 1967. It became the first medical school in the nation to establish a Department of Humanity, introducing humanistic disciplines into the required medical curriculum. The school was also the first to start an independent Department of Family and Community Medicine. From its beginning, medical education and patient care have been guided by the institution's commitment to be innovative in providing patient care.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Three years of college and the basic premedical science courses plus 1 year of mathematics and 1 semester each of humanities and behavioral science are required. Recommended courses include calculus, statistics, genetics, and sociology. Additional courses in the humanities and social sciences are also encouraged. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer is possible from LCME-accredited institutions.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: The curriculum combines elements of traditional medical teaching and case-based, student-centered learning with strategic lectures, laboratories, and small-group discussions. Second year: More heavily oriented to case-based learning in organ/system approach to human health, pathophysiology, and disease. Third year: Includes a sequence of required core clinical clerkships in internal medicine, general surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, family and community medicine, and primary care. These are supplemented by available selectives, as well as week-long sessions in Advanced Clinical Diagnostic and Therapeutics, Communications and Professionalism, and Improving Healthcare. Fourth year: The school offers a wide variety of both clinical and research electives. All students participate in an individualized research program.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Examinations may be written, oral, or practical. Grades of Honors, High Pass, Pass or Fail are determined by the faculty. The faculty is also responsible for recommendations for promotion and graduation. Students must take Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE and have a score reported in order to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: The principal structure is the 9-story Medical Sciences Building and Hospital, which contains basic teaching facilities, clinical sciences facilities, the teaching hospital, and research laboratories. Other: The Animal Research Farm is used for both teaching and research. The Central Animal Quarters, located in the Medical Sciences Building, is designed for teaching and experimentation. A Biomedical Research Building provides space for faculty and students. Library: The Harrell Library serves the Medical Sciences Building and the teaching hospital. Holdings total more than 100,000 volumes. This includes more than 3200 medical history, humanities, and rare books. About 2000 journal titles are currently received. The library also contains a Library Learning Center and individual student study carrels. Housing: There are 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is strongly committed to and actively involved in the recruitment of minority applicants. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in a number of disciplines. An overseas study program is available to selected applicants.
Introduction
Temple University School of Medicine originated as the College of Temple University in 1901.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Only the basic premedical courses plus 6 credits of humanities are required. Preference is given to Pennsylvania residents, but about 35% of the class are nonresidents. Strong preference is given also to students with 4 years of college. Transfer and advanced standing: In selecting applicants for acceptance, objective considerations such as academic record and MCAT scores are used. In addition, subjective variables such as recommendations, extracurricular activities, and work experience are considered. Those selected for further evaluation are invited for an interview. Transfer is accepted for the third year on a space-available basis to qualified candidates from other LCME-approved schools.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Will be divided into a number of interdisciplinary blocks, each organized according to body or organ systems and taught by faculty from several basic science and clinical academic departments. Third and fourth years: Provide exposure to a variety of clinical experiences, both in-patient and ambulatory, with enhanced emphasis on integration with the basic sciences, evidence-based medicine, and professionalism. The integrated curriculum more closely reflects the way in which students will be expected to identify and address clinical problems in both their educational and professional careers. It will penetrate the somewhat artificial barriers inherent in basic science discipline-based courses and demonstrate the close linkage between the basic sciences and clinical medicine, inculcating into students those fundamental skills that will provide an excellent foundation for their careers in medicine.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Honors/High Pass/Pass/Conditional/Fail. A written evaluation of each student is required for each clinical clerkship and is encouraged for each basic science course. Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE must be taken and passed.
Facilities
Teaching: Medical school activities during the first 2 years are housed in the School of Medicine and Kresge Science Hall. The latter is a teaching structure with student laboratories, demonstration classrooms, and a library. Clinical teaching takes place at Temple University Hospital, Temple University Children's Medical Center, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Croser Chester Medical Center, Reading Hospital, St. Luke's Hospital, and Abington Hospital. The Clinical Simulation Center features simulated operating room and exam suites, and “SimMan” and “SimBaby,” robotic mannequins programmed to “present” myocardial infarctions and dozens of other events. The large learning laboratory teaches medical students and residents clinical skills through a combination of high-tech and traditional methods. Other: There are formal agreements of affiliation with other general and specialty hospitals and letters of agreement with a number of institutions in Philadelphia, other parts of Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. The Fels Research Institute and Thrombosis Research Center are integral parts of the school. Library: A modern library is available to students and faculty. It houses a large number of books and periodicals and a computer center. Housing: No university-related dormitories are available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program and offers an 8-week summer enrichment program for incoming students from minority and disadvantaged backgrounds. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD, MD-MPH, and MD-MBA programs are available.
Introduction
The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine was originally known as the College of Philadelphia. Founded in 1765, it was the first medical school established in the United States. It is a private, nondenominational school, located on the Irwin campus of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. The clinical training facilities such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia are located adjacent to the school.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Suggested courses are the basic premedical science courses. It is recommended that in addition to acquiring a foundation in the basic sciences plus mathematics, the student should have appropriate competence in English and communication. Students are encouraged to prepare themselves broadly in the arts, the humanities, and in the social and behavioral sciences. Some preference is given to Pennsylvania students. Transfer and advanced standing: Information is not available.
Curriculum
4-year. First year: Consists of 40 weeks of basic sciences emphasizing normal form and function and an integrated clinical program. Second year: Begins with 6 months of coordinated teaching of pharmacology, pathophysiology, infectious disease, and continuation of the clinical program. This is followed by clinical clerkships. Third and fourth years: Programs consist of a mixture of required and elective courses chosen from over 100 offered which cover all basic and clinical sciences. New programs using seminars and minicourses help the student learn psychosocial and behavioral aspects of medicine, reinforce the student's knowledge of basic science, and reinforce an attitude favorable to later continuing self-education.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Each department submits a grade of Honors, Pass, or Fail for a student along with a description of the student's characteristics. The additional grade of High Pass is used by clinical departments. At the end of 3 academic years, the student's performance is evaluated and recommendations for postgraduate training are made. Students must obtain total passing scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE in order to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: Students receive clinical instruction and experience in the hospitals of the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center as well as in other hospitals in Philadelphia and its vicinity. The chief source of clinical experience is the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Besides teaching facilities, it houses research institutions and laboratories. Students serve clerkships and preceptorships at the Graduate Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. A program for teaching and training has been established at Philadelphia General Hospital. Teaching privileges at Pennsylvania Hospital are reserved for clerkships in medicine, obstetrics, and surgery and for certain electives. Services at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia are used for pediatric and surgical teaching. Students are assigned to the services of medicine and surgery at Presbyterian-University of Pennsylvania Medical Center. In addition, certain elective courses are offered there. Other: Courses, clerkships, and research facilities are offered at several other closely affiliated hospitals in the vicinity and at the Alfred Newton Richards Medical Research Building. Library: The library, which is housed in the Johnson Pavilion, contains more than 100,000 volumes and receives more than 2000 periodicals and other publications. Housing:On campus, Graduate Towers and High Rise North offers apartments and suites on a 12-month basis.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has short- and long-term recruitment programs to recruit underrepresented minority groups, which are directed by its Office of Minority Affairs. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in the basic medical sciences; MD-JD and MD-MBA programs are also offered to those interested in government administration or business/health care economics.
Introduction
In 1886 a charter was granted for the establishment of the Western Pennsylvania Medical College. In 1892 this school became affiliated with the Western University of Pennsylvania, which later became the University of Pittsburgh. The School of Medicine is located in the Oakland district of Pittsburgh and has extensive research facilities.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Applicants must have completed the basic premedical science courses including 1 year of English composition. Courses in the behavioral sciences, biostatistics, calculus, computer sciences, humanities and social sciences are recommended. Preference is given to residents. Gaining a background in the social and behavioral sciences and humanities is encouraged. In the evaluation process, consideration is given to the applicant's academic record, MCAT performance, pre-professional evaluations, faculty recommendations, extracurricular undergraduate activities, and personal interview. Various personal characteristics such as integrity and motivation are considered. Preference is given to Pennsylvania residents, since the University of Pittsburgh is a state-supported school. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students are considered when vacancies occur.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum emphasizes general principles and self-learning based on actual cases. First and second years: A multidisciplinary approach organized by organ will be used. Its aim is to develop communication and problem-solving skills; learning will be in small groups, rather than in large lectures. The curriculum will mainstream social, cultural, and ethical issues, and introduce the student to clinical medicine. Third year: Covers the major clinical specialties in the form of clerkships as well as ambulatory subspecialties. Fourth year: Consists of 4 to 8 electives and a required subinternship. All fourth-year students rotate through both neurology and diagnostic imaging clerkships. Some also rotate through anesthesia.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Students are graded on the basis of their practical work and oral and written examinations. The system used is Honors/Pass/Fail. Students must record total passing scores on Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: All of the teaching in the basic science areas is conducted in the 12-story Alan Magee Scaife Hall of the Health Professions. The office and research space of the basic science departments and some of the clinical departments are also located there. Clinical teaching is conducted in the Health Center Hospitals as well as in hospitals in other parts of the city. The Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic is a part of the university. The University Health Center at Pittsburgh is composed of 5 hospitals and the university. Library: The Maurice and Laura Falk Library of the Health Professions is the main library. It has approximately 175,000 volumes and receives more than 2000 periodicals; there are 8 other libraries in which students have full privileges. Housing: No on-campus housing is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program and offers an 8-week Summer Research Program for undergraduate college minority students. Other degree programs: Students selected for academic promise will be admitted to joint MD-PhD study programs in a variety of disciplines including biomedical engineering, epidemiology, and pathology. Also offered is a joint MD-MA Ethics degree.
Introduction
Brown University was founded in 1764 in Providence, Rhode Island. Brown's medical education program began in 1963, with a 2-year program. In 1975 a program leading to the MD degree was accredited. The Program in Liberal Medical Education (PLME) combines premedical and medical education in a 7- to 8-year course of study.
Admissions
In 2004 Brown began accepting applications from qualified college graduates through AMCAS. However, the majority of students in each MD entering class enter via the LME program. Other routes of admission include the Early Identification Program for students enrolled at Providence College, Rhode Island College, the University of Rhode Island, Tougaloo College, and the postbaccalaureate premedical programs at Bryn Mawr, Columbia, and Goucher Colleges. Transfer and advanced standing: Students who are enrolled at LCME-accredited U.S. or Canadian medical schools or Rhode Island residents attending WHO-accredited foreign medical schools may apply for advanced standing. Students admitted to Brown Medical School must demonstrate competence in the sciences basic to medicine and must have successfully completed the basic premedical sciences and calculus.
Curriculum
4 years semitraditional. First and second years: During the fall semester of the first year, students take physiology, anatomy, histology, and “Doctoring,” a new, 2-year course training at community sites. During the spring semester of the first year, some of the advanced basic sciences and Doctoring are offered. Pathophysiology provides the structure for the second year, which is organized around organ systems or concepts. Additional advanced basic sciences are also part of the second year. Third year: Students must satisfactorily complete 50 weeks of traditional clinical clerkships and 32 weeks of electives. Fourth year: An advanced clinical clerkship (subinternship) in medicine, pediatrics, or surgery and a longitudinal, ambulatory clerkship are also required.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The evaluation of format is on an Honors/Pass/Fail scale; clinical evaluations are supplemented by narratives. Step 1 and Step 2/2B must be taken prior to graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: Preclinical classroom instruction takes place primarily in the Biomedical Center, which also houses research laboratories and computer and audiovisual resources for students. Clinical training takes place at 7 affiliated teaching hospitals in the Providence area. Other: Laboratories for Molecular Medicine are located in Providence's Jewelry District. Library: Sciences Library on campus houses a collection of 660,000 print volumes and subscribes to more than 13,000 on-line journals and 250 databases. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The objective of the school is the recruitment, retention, and graduation of students from groups underrepresented in medicine. Other degree programs: A combined MD-PhD program is offered in a variety of disciplines. Medical students may also obtain masters degrees in Public Health or Medical Science.
Introduction
The Medical University of South Carolina is the oldest medical school in the South. There are 5 other medical education institutions besides the College of Medicine, namely colleges of Dental Medicine, Graduate Studies, Health Professions, Nursing, and Pharmacy. The institution was founded in 1824 by the Medical Society of South Carolina, a Charleston medical organization, as the Medical College of South Carolina. In 1913 ownership of the school was transferred to the state of South Carolina, committing it to provide financial support as a public institution for health education.
Admissions (AMCAS)
While there are no specific course requirements, adequate performance on the MCAT presupposes exposure to college-level basic premedical science courses. Students are advised to pursue any college studies that they find intellectually challenging and satisfying. Transfer and advanced standing: Due to space limitations in the upper classes, transfers considered only for special situations.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: The curriculum during these years provides basic science concepts and problem-solving strategies, develops skills for taking adequate histories and physicals, and introduces students to the role of a physician in society. Emphasis is placed on small-group instruction, with independent, self-directed learning. Third year: Clinical core consists of 8 weeks of internal medicine, ob/gyn, pediatrics, family medicine and surgery, and 4-weeks each of clerkships. Emphasis is placed on the development of clinical, interpersonal, and professional competence. During the fourth year: Students take a minimum of eight 4-week rotations. The student is expected to take a clinical externship and one month each of ambulatory surgery, psychiatry, internal medicine, and emergency medical/critical care. The remaining three blocks are elective and can be taken at approved sites throughout the state and country.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A merit grading system is used. Passing Step 1 of the USMLE is required for advancement to the third year. Step 2 of the USMLE is required for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The college is in the center of a 45-acre medical complex. Clinical teaching is at the Medical University Hospital (510 beds), VA Hospital (431 beds), Charleston Memorial Hospital (175 beds), Children's Hospital (150 beds), and Psychiatric Institute (47 beds). Library: The MUSC Library is located in the Education/Library Building. The library's on-line system offers access to a collection of more than 230,000 volumes, over 1700 electronic full-text journals, and various other resources and databases. Several Ovid databases, including MEDLINE and Current Contents, offer access to the content of thousands of journals with click-through links to full-text articles.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college has an active recruitment program directed by the College of Medicine Office of Diversity. It also conducts an 8-week Summer Health Careers Program for upper-level minority undergraduates matriculating in South Carolina colleges. Other degree programs: Currently, there are four combined degrees: MD-PhD (MSTP program), MD-MHA, MD-MBA in conjunction with the Citadel, MD-MPH, in conjunction with the University of South Carolina.
Introduction
As the most recent school at the University of South Carolina, the School of Medicine was not established until 1977. Located in the state capital, the school offers a wide range of educational and professional opportunities to its students. This includes small class size and an emphasis on the correlation between basic science and clinical science training. The school works closely with its 7 affiliated hospitals to provide students valuable clinical experience.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses plus 1 year of English (composition and literature) and 1 year of mathematics are required. Courses in integral and differential calculus are recommended and no specific major is preferred. The selection of candidates for admission is based on a review of undergraduate academic performance, MCAT scores, comments provided in faculty evaluation, and, when granted, the assessment of a personal interview at the medical school. Legal residents of South Carolina are given priority, but some nonresidents with superior credentials may gain admission. The preliminary screening is by means of the AMCAS application and a request for supplementary material may follow. This includes letters of recommendation. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer from other accredited U.S. medical schools into the second or third year is possible if space is available.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: These 2 years are devoted to the introductory and advanced basic sciences that are integrated with clinical correlations. An Introduction to Clinical Medicine includes family medicine, clinical medicine, preventive medicine, psychiatry, and behavioral science components in a small-group format. In addition, interdisciplinary material on nutrition, substance abuse, human values, genetics, and geriatrics are presented over the 4-year period. An Introduction to Clinical Medicine course provides the background and skills needed for the last 2 years. This course emphasizes independent and cooperative learning and includes components devoted to case-based education. First- and second-year students may take certain non-credit elective courses that provide supplemental educational experiences in areas of personal interest. Third year: This consists of 8-week clerkships in the major clinical sciences. Fourth year: Consists of rotations in medicine and surgery subspecialties and neurology with the remainder of the year devoted to a selective/elective program. Students can strengthen their clinical skills and pursue individual academic interests during this year.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A letter grading system is used. Students are required to pass Step 1 of the USMLE before being promoted to the third year, and Step 2 before graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The courses during the first 2 years are taught in the Medical Sciences Building, which also houses various departmental offices. Clinical training takes place at the VA Medical Center, Palmetto Richland Memorial Hospital, Hall Psychiatric Institute, Greenville Memorial Hospital, and other affiliated hospitals. Library: The Medical School library is located on the grounds of the VA Center and has a collection of more than 90,000 volumes and subscribes to more than 1200 periodicals. Housing: On-campus housing is available to married students only.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active minority recruitment program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD and MD-MPH programs are offered.
Introduction
The School of Medicine was established as a 2-year basic sciences institution in 1907. In the 1970s it converted to an MD degree-granting program, graduating its first class of MDs in 1977. The mission of the school is to provide the opportunity for South Dakota residents to receive a broad-based medical education with an emphasis on family practice.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The school requires the basic premedical sciences plus one year of mathematics, courses in English composition, genetics, statistics, and behavioral sciences. Microbiology/Immunology and biochemistry are also recommended. Taking the MCAT is required and must be within 3 years of the application year. Although a baccalaureate degree is desirable, students with 64 semester credits may matriculate if accepted. Interviews are granted to South Dakota residents and to selected nonresidents with strong ties to the state such as graduating from a South Dakota high school. Transfer and advanced standing: Candidates for advanced standing/transfer are considered only from students in good standing at an LCME-accredited medical school, only when potential openings are available in the class and only if transfer is requested into either Year Two or Three.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. The program blends a traditional curriculum with problem-based learning, case-based learning, clinical correlations in the basic sciences, and a significant ambulatory component during the third year. First year: The basic medical sciences and Introduction to Clinical Medicine. Second year: The advanced basic medical sciences including Microbiology and Pharmacology, as well as Laboratory Medicine, Introduction to Clinical Medicine, and Advanced Behavioral Sciences. At the end of year two, students have a one-month preceptorship in a primary care clinic. Third year: 48 weeks of required clerkships, plus 3 weeks of Clinical Colloquium. Fourth year: Required courses are Rural Family Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Surgical Specialties. There are 23 weeks remaining for electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading system is A to F with D or F being unsatisfactory and resulting in review by the Student Progress and Conduct Committee. Students must pass USMLE Rep 1, UMLE Step 2, CK, and a school-administered OSCE to graduate and must also take USMLE Step 2-CS to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: Preclinical instruction is based in the Lee Medical Building in Vermillion. In 2004 a 2-phase building project was begun to replace the old building. Clinical teaching takes place at 3 clinical campuses based in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Yankton. Library: The Christian P. Lommen Health Science Library is located in Vermillion and the Karl and Mary Jo Wegner Health Sciences Information Center is located in Sioux Falls. Housing: On-campus housing resources are available on the Vermillion campus.
Special Features
Diversity: The Medical School has several programs for identifying and assisting Native Americans who are interested in a medical career. Other advanced degree programs: There is a PhD program in Basic Biomedical Sciences.
Introduction
James H. Quillen College of Medicine is situated on the main campus of East Tennessee State University and it is one of the most recent fully accredited medical schools in the country. It graduated its first class in 1982. The school provides a community-based program with an emphasis on the education of primary care physicians. Small class size is another characteristic of this school. The College of Medicine is located in a naturally beautiful environment adjacent to 3 small rural communities in East Tennessee: Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical sciences plus 3 communications skills courses are required. Preference is given to residents of Tennessee. Admission is based upon a competitive selection process. Applicants are screened on the basis of academic achievement, MCAT scores, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and work experience. The school may request supplementary information and a personal interview on the VA campus from applicants they are seriously considering. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer to the second or third year is possible but extremely rare.
Curriculum
Two major curricular options are available: a Generalist Track and a Rural Primary Care Track. First- and second-year courses include: the human body, human developmental biology and genetics, psychiatry, biostatistics, epidemiology, cell and tissue biology, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, pathology, immunology, clinical neuroscience, pharmacology, and practicing medicine. The third year of the curriculum is largely devoted to full-time clerkship experiences on the medical services of the affiliated hospitals and in physician's offices. The third year has required clerkships of 8 weeks each in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, psychiatry, and family medicine. The fourth year consists of a choice of 4 four-week selectives, to include an intensive care experience, an inpatient subinternship, a specialty/subspecialty sub-internship, and an ambulatory care subinternship, and a minimum of 16 weeks of electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are predominant, except for clinical electives, where a Pass/Fail system is used.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic science building, in the heart of Johnson City, contains all of the medical school's administration as well as many classrooms, lecture rooms, labs, and offices. Many of the basic science faculty and research labs are also housed within this facility. Other: The school maintains a close relationship with other teaching hospitals, which includes 2 Level I trauma centers and 1 Level II trauma center, and more than 3000 patient beds for clinical teaching. Library: The medical library has a seating capacity of 113 and houses more than 100,000 books and journals. Housing: Available on and near the campus.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school participates in a summer Premedical Enrichment Program and the Tennessee Preprofessional Program for minorities. Other degree programs: An integrated MD-BS program is available to ETSU students. A combined MD-PhD as well as MD-MS program are offered.
Introduction
Established in 1876, Meharry Medical College educates about half of all African-American doctors and dentists in the United States. It was founded as the medical department of Central Tennessee College of Nashville, which later became Walden University. In 1915 a new charter was granted to the school from the state, establishing Meharry as an independent institution. Presently it includes schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Graduate Study and Research, and Allied Health. Its mission is the education of primary care physicians, for service in medically underserved areas.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include 1 year of English in addition to the basic premedical science courses. Preference given to those students who have more than 3 years of premedical training. The selection process is based on consideration of both the cognitive and noncognitive skills of the applicant, related to their potential for success as medical students. Indicators for academic achievement are the performance in the standard premedical science courses and on the MCAT. These along with the GPA and recommendations provide a screening mechanism for extending an interview invitation. At the interview, noncognitive elements are assessed. The school accepts students from throughout the country. Special consideration is given to disadvantaged students. Transfer and advanced standing: None.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: An introduction to cell biology is followed by a progression from the cell through organ systems in the teaching of biochemistry, anatomy, and physiology. Second year: Includes courses in family and community health, genetics, and physical diagnosis. Third and fourth years: The clinical clerkships, beginning in the junior year and extending into the senior year, consist of six 8-week blocks in each of the following: internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, obstetrics-gynecology, family and preventive medicine, and psychiatry. The fourth-year students take three 4-week blocks of surgery, Area Health Education Center, and radiology; two 4-week blocks in internal medicine; and three 4-week blocks of guided electives. The school offers students a 5-year curriculum, in which the first year of the standard curriculum is extended over a 2-year period.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades of A, B, C, and F and a summary of the student's work are issued. Receiving total passing scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required for promotion to the third year and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The School of Medicine is housed primarily in a building that contains basic science departments and teaching laboratories, a teaching hospital with clinical departments, and research facilities. Hubbard Hospital houses the basic and clinical sciences departments including laboratories, classrooms, an amphitheater, teaching laboratories, and other facilities. Library: The library contains more than 50,000 volumes and 1000 journal titles and is located in the Learning Resources Center. Housing: Dorothy Brown Hall houses female students, and the Student-Faculty Apartment Complex contains 1- and 2-bedroom apartments.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The college, which over the years has turned out nearly half of the 7000 African American physicians graduated from American medical schools, is offering through the Kresge Learning Resources Center an opportunity for alumni and other physicians to continue their education. Several 8-week summer programs are available for undergraduates. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs in a variety of disciplines.
Introduction
Established in 1851, the University of Tennessee at Memphis has a complete health science center that includes the colleges of Medicine, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences. The school originated from the Medical Department of the University of Nashville, which in 1909 consolidated with the Medical Department of the University of Tennessee to form the University of Tennessee Department of Medicine. Further mergers took place with other institutions resulting in the formation of the present College of Medicine.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses as well as courses in English composition and literature (6 credits) are required. Preference is given to state residents; very few nonresidents are accepted. A minimum of 3 years of college and taking the MCAT are required, but securing the degree is generally expected. The major selected is optional, but there should be some balance between the science and nonscience coursework. Applicants are considered from a region consisting of Tennessee and its contiguous states. Nonresidents are accepted in limited numbers (usually 10%) and most have especially attractive records. Selection is based on academic record, MCAT scores, preprofessional recommendations, and personal interviews. The latter when granted allow for in-depth evaluation of the candidate. Transfer and advanced standing: Students are accepted only into the third year of the curriculum. They must be residents of Tennessee at the time they enter medical school or be children of alumni, must pass the USMLE Step 1, and must have completed the biomedical science portion of the curriculum.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: Courses are offered in prevention, community and culture, doctoring (recognizing signs and symptoms), interprofessional health practice, molecular basis of disease, physiology, gross anatomy, microbiology, pathology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, neuro-sciences. Third year: Consists of clerkships in family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, neurology, and surgery. Fourth year: Ambulatory medicine, required clerkships in medicine and surgical specialties, other specialty clerkships, patient/safety quality improvement, clerkship in optional electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An A to F grading policy is used. Students must achieve a 2.0 GPA for promotion, and must record total passing scores on Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year, and on Step 2 for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The college is part of the University of Tennessee Memphis Health Science Center. Students may spend 10 of the 20 clinical months at the units in Knoxville and Chattanooga. No more than 2 months may be spent at other institutions. Library: The C.P.J. Mooney Memorial Library holds more than 172,000 bound volumes. Housing: Two on-campus dormitories are available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school maintains a long-term program for recruiting disadvantaged students. It also sponsors 3 summer enrichment programs for undergraduate college as well as high school students. Scholarships for African-American students are available. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in the basic medical sciences.
Introduction
Vanderbilt University was established in the late 1800s. The School of Medicine has been part of Vanderbilt University since it opened. This private university is located 1 ½ miles from the business center of Nashville; it consists of 10 schools. The School of Medicine is part of the Vanderbilt University Medical Center whose affiliated hospitals provide students with an opportunity for comprehensive, diversified clinical training.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and 6 semester hours of English are required. Advanced Placement (CLEP) and pass/fail credits are not considered for required courses. A bachelor's degree is required/acceptable. The present student body comes from a wide variety of states. Transfer and advanced standing: Only for the third year. Selection is a 2-step process. The first involves screening AMCAS applications with a focus on a candidate's educational background and potential for a medical career. Favorable individuals receive supplemental applications and an invitation for an interview, preferably on campus. Regional interviews, however, are possible.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First year: The introductory basic medical sciences plus microbiology, ecology of healthcare, a clinical preceptorship, and electives. Second year: Advanced basic sciences with additional courses in laboratory diagnosis, preventive medicine, epidemiology, psychiatry, and electives. Exposure to patients takes place during an interdepartmental course, introduction to clinical science, wherein history taking, physical examination, and laboratory study of patients are taught. Third year: Clerkships in the major clinical areas, including neurology. Fourth year: Selectives in medical and surgical areas and ambulatory emergency medicine plus electives. The curriculum is divided into required courses and elective courses. The former constitute the core of the academic program, while the latter are an integral part of each students' educational experience. This arrangement provides considerable flexibility for individual programming. The format for electives includes a lecture or seminar series, specialty clinics, clinical rotations, or research opportunities. Students are also encouraged to participate in summer research or community service work.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A pass/fail system is used in the first year. The second year is Honors/Pass/Fail and the third and fourth years are Honors/High Pass/ Pass/Fail. Promotion is considered by a committee composed of the faculty at the end of each academic year.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught at the Medical Center and clinical teaching takes place primarily at the Vanderbilt University Hospital, the Nashville VA Medical Center, The Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, and the Psychiatric Hospital. Library: The Medical Center Library contains more than 201,000 volumes.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school conducts an active recruitment program matriculating increasing numbers of minority applicants. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in the basic sciences and biomedical engineering. A number of dual degrees are available including, MD-MBA, MD-JD, MD-MPH, and MD-Divinity.
Introduction
Baylor College of Medicine was chartered by the state of Texas and organized in 1900 as an independent, nonsectarian institution in Dallas. In 1903 it became affiliated with Baylor University and in 1943 the school relocated to Houston and became the medical school for the newly formed Texas Medical Center. The college separated from Baylor University in 1969.
Admissions
To be considered for admission, an applicant must have satisfactorily completed, by the time of enrollment in medical school, not less than 90 semester hours (or an equivalent number of quarter hours) at a fully accredited college in the United States. The following courses must have been completed satisfactorily: the basic premedical science courses and 1 year of English. Transfer and advanced standing: Admission into the first clinical year from fully accredited medical colleges in the U.S. is on a competitive basis, and the number admitted depends upon the availability of adequate faculty and facilities. No specific number of spaces is set aside.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First year: Basic medical sciences, and patient, physicians, and society and integrated problem solving. Second year: Finish basic sciences in December; begin clinical rotations in January. Third year: Required rotations through clinical science disciplines; patient care in both hospital and ambulatory settings; electives; clerkships in the major and some minor specialities, as well as primary care. Fourth year: Required rotations through clinical science disciplines; patient care in both hospital and ambulatory settings; electives; clerkships in the major and some minor specialties, as well as primary care and management of disease.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades for the basic science courses and basic science electives are recorded as Honors, Pass, Marginal Pass, and Fail; required clinical clerkships and clinical electives are recorded as Honors, High Pass, Pass, Marginal Pass, and Fail. Students may not begin clinical clerkships until they have completed all the basic science courses. Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught at the DeBakey Biomedical Research Building, which also contains auditoriums with a seating capacity of about 735. Five more buildings, the Jesse H. Jones Building for Clinical Research, the M.D. Anderson Basic Science and Research Building, the Jewish Institute for Medical Research, the Roy and Lillie Cullen Building, and the Ben Taub Research Center, provide additional space for the basic science departments. Clinical teaching and research take place in 8 general and specialized hospitals in the area. Library: The Jesse H. Jones Library includes an audiovisual resource center from which medical educational broadcasts are received. The library contains more than 180,000 volumes and receives a wide variety of periodicals. Housing: A student dormitory, belonging to the Texas Medical Center, offers accommodations for single and married students without children and is located across the street from the college. Women students can seek housing in the Nurses' Dormitory of Texas Women's University.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program for minority students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree HSTP is offered in a variety of disciplines: audiology and bioacoustics, biochemistry, biotechnology, cell biology, cell and molecular biology, developmental biology, microbiology and immunology, molecular genetics, neurosciences, physiology, cardiovascular sciences, and molecular biophysics, pharmacology, virology and epidemiology. A combined MD-PhD degree in biomedical engineering is also offered with Rice University.
Introduction
Established in 1973 and enrolling its first class in 1977, the College of Medicine has evolved into The Texas A&M University System Health Science Center College of Medicine. The college is the result of the affiliation between Texas A&M University and several clinical facilities. The college is located on the university campus at College Station. The clinical campus is located in Temple, Texas.
Admissions
The college considers individuals who have completed their undergraduate coursework at an accredited college or university. By state mandate, enrollment of individuals who are residents of states other than Texas may not exceed 10%. Most entering students have completed a baccalaureate degree before enrolling. The basic premedical sciences plus 2 courses in English and 1 in calculus are required. Students are required to take the MCAT. In the selection process, academic ability and potential is determined from the applicant's scholastic record and MCAT scores. Considerable weight is given to characteristics such as motivation, maturity, and interpersonal skills. Experiences that reveal leadership, determination, and a sense of service are of special significance. Some realistic familiarity with medicine is very desirable. Applicants with suitable credentials may be invited for a campus interview. Transferred and advanced standing: Dependent on the availability. Applicants must apply through the Texas Medical and Dental Schools Application Service by contacting http//dpwebldp.utexas.edu/mdac.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: These are spent studying the basic medical sciences. Each course includes clinical correlation experiences and small group conferences; therefore, students begin acquiring clinical skills in their first year. During the second year, students spend half a day each week for 36 weeks learning fundamental clinical skills under the supervision of practicing physician faculty members. The ethical and social aspects of medical practice receive special emphasis in the curriculum. Third and fourth years: These are devoted to clinical training in several different patient settings. Small clerkship groups allow for intimate clinical training experiences.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades are used for the first 3 years and Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory for the fourth.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught at the Joe Reynolds Medical Building located on the university campus. Clinical training is obtained at the Scott and White Hospital and Clinic (486 beds), and Olin E. Teague Veterans Center (200 beds). Other: Darnall Army Community Hospital (264 beds) and Driscoll Children's Hospital (188 beds). Library: The Medical Library has 104,000 books and subscribes to 1700 journals. The clinical campus library contains 15,000 books and receives 1600 journals. Housing: Medical students will find housing options in the Bryan/ College Station Community. On the Temple campus, 62 one and two-bedroom apartments are subsidized by the college for medical students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Recruitment is coordinated by the School Relations Office (Admissions), and a summer research program is offered for minority high school students. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are available.
Introduction
The School of Medicine was opened in 1972 as a multi-campus regional institution with Lubbock as the administrative center and Armadillo, El Paso, and Odessa as regional centers. The School of Medicine is one of 5 schools in the Health Sciences Center, the other 4 being schools of Nursing, Pharmacy, Allied Health, and Graduate School of Bio-Medical Sciences. The major objective of the School of Medicine is to provide quality medical education and develop programs to meet health care needs for about 100 counties of West Texas.
Admissions
The basic premedical science courses plus 1 year of upper-level biology and English are required. Residents of Texas are given priority. Out-of-state applications are considered only if the candidate has an overall grade point average of 3.60 or higher and a composite MCAT score of 29 or higher. Transfer and advanced standing: Applicants who have passed the USMLE Step 1 or the Basic Science part of the ECFMG will be considered for third-year placement when vacancies occur.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: Consists of two foundation blocks: one in anatomy and embryology, and the second on cells and tissues. Included are elements of biochemistry, physiology, pathology, and genetics. The balance of time covers structural and functional aspects of the organ systems of the body, and an introduction to host defense. Early clinical experience involves integration and development of fundamental skills of patient assessment. Second year: Covers topics in neuro-sciences and neurologic/psychiatric disease, infectious disease, forensics, musculoskeletal, heme/lymph, oncology, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal gastrointenstinal, and endocrine systems, nutrition, reproduction, women's health, skin, eyes, and the aging patient. Third year: Each student rotates through the traditional clerkships. Fourth year: Student completes a clerkship in neurology, a month of selective experiences chosen from obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, and psychiatry, and a subinternship in internal medicine, surgery, or pediatrics, as well as four months of electives. Each student executes an approved and personalized program, designed to enhance academic growth.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The grading system is Honors/Pass/Fail. Students are required to take USMLE Step 1 at the end of the 2nd year. Passage is required for promotion to the 4th year.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught at the Health Sciences Center in Lubbock. The clinical sciences are taught in Lubbock and at the regional centers in Amarillo and El Paso. Library: The Library contains more than 100,000 volumes and receives more than 1,600 periodicals regularly, with facilities on all teaching campuses. Housing: This is available through the University Housing Office.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The institution seeks to recruit a diverse medical class, thus race and ethnicity will be among the factors considered in the admission process. A summer premedical program is offered to some qualified applicants. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD and MD-MBA programs are offered.
Introduction
The University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston was established in 1891. It is a state-owned medical center and the Medical Branch has nearly 100 campus- and community-based clinics.
Admissions
The MCAT and a minimum of 90 semester hours of college work, including 1 year of English, the basic premedical science courses, and 1 semester of calculus are required. The most significant selection factors are intellect, achievement, character, interpersonal skills, and motivation. In evaluating candidates, consideration is given to the academic record, MCAT scores, preprofessional committee evaluations, and the personal interview. Only American citizens or applicants with permanent visas are considered. Preference is given to residents of Texas.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: The Integrated Medical Curriculum (IMC), in which 197 students are enrolled, utilizes a fully integrated basic science core followed by a multidisciplinary approach organized by organ systems. This tract emphasizes self-directed active learning, stimulated by actual clinical cases. Various educational methods are utilized including small-group, problem-based learning, formal lectures, laboratories, demonstrations, and computer-assisted education. Early community-based clinical experiences are provided. The social, cultural, and ethical issues of the medical profession and the introduction of the student to clinical medicine are addressed across the curriculum in the Practice of Medicine course in Years I and II. The final weeks of the second year are devoted to the great syndromes, which are integrated case studies of complex multi-organ problems. Third year: All students have to complete the standard clinical rotations plus 1 in family medicine. Fourth year: Required clerkships are neurology, senior surgery, emergency medicine and advanced cardiac life support, radiology, dermatology, and an acting internship selective. The remaining 20 weeks are electives and are taken at approved U.S. or international sites. Students apply to the ILT and are selected at random.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The grading systems for the required core courses are Honors, High Pass, Pass, and Fail. For elective courses the system is Pass/Satisfactory/Fail.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught at the Clinical Sciences Buildings. John Sealy Hospital (the principal clinical service and teaching facility), 6 other hospitals, and 2 outpatient clinics make up the Medical Branch Hospitals Complex. Other: Many other institutions including the Shriners Burn Institute and the Marine Biomedical Institute are available for teaching and research. Library: The Moody Medical Library houses about 250,000 books and subscribes to biomedical journals. Housing: Limited dormitory rooms are available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program, a postbaccalaureate program, and a summer medical school familiarization program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in the basic sciences and medical humanities.
Introduction
The University of Texas, which opened in 1883, consists of numerous schools, distributed among 15 campuses in Texas. The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston was established in 1972.
Admissions
Prerequisites are the basic premedical sciences as well as calculus and English. The MCAT is also required. The school requires 90 undergraduate credit hours.
Curriculum
4-year traditional. The first 2 years are largely focused on basic sciences and the second 2 years are primarily focused on the clinical sciences. First year: This year and the second are divided into semesters. The student becomes familiar with the introductory medical sciences. Second year: Problem-based learning is introduced to help the student understand basic science mechanisms in the context of clinical presentations. The student progresses from a study of the fundamentals of molecular and cellular biology and normal morphology of the human body to the techniques of interviewing, history taking, and performance of physical and mental-status issues. Third year: Clerkships in the major clinical disciplines begin for a 12-month sequence. Fourth year: There are additional required clerkships and 5 elective periods. After consultation with faculty advisors, each student develops an educational sequence for the year that relates to his or her career goals and postgraduate plans. Seniors may take electives as part of an approved program.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading system used is 5-cohort: Honors/High Pass/Pass/Marginal/Performance/Fail. During medical school, the students are required to take 2 of the 3 examinations necessary for medical licensure: USMLE Step 1 is taken after completion of the basic science courses. USMLE Step 2 is taken during the fourth year.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic sciences are taught at the Medical School Building. Clinical teaching takes place at Memorial Hermann Hospital, Lyndon Baines Johnson County Hospital, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, UT Harris County Psychiatric Center, as well as at other hospitals and outpatient clinics throughout the Houston area. Library: The Houston Academy of Medicine/Texas Medical Center Library contains 76,500 square feet of space and holds more than 362,220 volumes, including books and journal volumes. The Learning Resource Center is housed in a state-of-the-art facility, which includes seating for more than 200 in 150 individualized study carrels and 5 group study rooms. There are 6 conference rooms. Housing: The UT Student Housing complex is located in El Paseo, approximately 1 mile south of the Texas Medical Center. There is a complimentary shuttle that runs between the buildings in the Health Science Center and housing.
Special Features
Minority admissions: To enhance student adversity, there is an active recruitment program. Other degree programs: MD-PhD program through the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; MD-MPH program through the School of Public Health; MD-OMFS (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery) program.
Introduction
The University of Texas Medical School is part of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, which is located within the South Texas Medical Center. The Health Science Center consists of the Medical School, Dental School, and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. The school is located in the northwest section of the city in an area preserved to provide a rural-type setting.
Admissions
Aside from the basic premedical science courses, 1 additional year of biology, 1 year of English, and 1 semester of calculus are required. A few nonresidents are admitted. Applicants must take the MCAT and have at least 3 years of college. Securing a broad humanities background is desirable. While strong preference is given to Texas residents, up to 10% of the entering class may come from out of state. Applicants for admission are ranked and selected on the basis of their GPA, individual components of their MCAT scores, and undergraduate school evaluation. Receiving thoughtful consideration are personal characteristics such as motivation, maturity, responsibility, and integrity. Coupled with these is the record of the candidate's achievements in extracurricular activities. Transfer and advanced standing: Not possible at the present time.
Curriculum
4-year, semimodern. First year: Covers the introductory basic medical sciences with the first 2 months devoted to patient care. For the next 2½ years, one-half day per week is allotted to clinical integration activities. Second year: The key course is pathology with other subjects such as pharmacology, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and surgery, using an organ system approach. In addition, a course in the behavioral sciences/psychiatry is offered. Third year: Devoted exclusively to 8 clerkship rotations of 6 weeks each in the major clinical specialties, as well as family medicine and medical and surgical subspecialties. Fourth year: Consists of a 2-month didactic period with the balance being devoted to electives. Some time is allotted for interviews for postgraduate training and/or vacation.
Grading and Promotion Policies
All final grades are reported as letter grades. Any student encountering academic difficulty shall be provided an opportunity to make up deficiencies and improve performance.
Facilities
The basic sciences are taught in the Medical School Building. Clinical teaching takes place at the University Hospital, the Brady/Green Community Health Center, the VA Hospital, and 3 other affiliated institutions. The latter includes the Santa Rosa Medical Center, Wilford Hall USAF Hospital, Brook Army Hospital, the Aerospace Medical Division of USAF, and the Baptist Memorial Hospital System. The Regional Academic Health Center, located in the Rio Grande Valley in Huntingen, Texas, is a second clinical educational campus. It is a training site for 24 third- and fourth-year students. Research laboratories are located in the Medical School Building. Library: The library is also located in the Medical School Building. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school is very interested in the recruitment, retention, and graduation of qualified minority applicants. Other degree programs: None.
Introduction
Southwestern Medical School, founded in 1943, is a part of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas. Located just north of downtown Dallas, the 150-acre campus includes modern classrooms and laboratories and an extensive medical library, as well as a variety of athletic facilities. An important focus of the educational effort of UT Southwestern is training primary care physicians and preparing doctors who will practice in underserved areas of Texas, as well as those interested in careers in academic medicine and research.
Admissions
In addition to the basic premedical science courses, an extra year of biology (or zoology), 1 semester of calculus, and 1 year of English are required. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students are accommodated only the third year and must be currently in good standing at other LCME-accredited schools.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: Medical biochemistry, biology of cell and tissues, human anatomy and embryology, human behavior and psychopathology, medical genetics, physiology, and medical ethics to clinical medicine I, endocrinology, and human reproduction. Second year: Clinical medicine, principles and practice, immunology and medical microbiology, anatomic and clinical pathology, and medical pharmacology are integrated and covered by body systems. Third and fourth years: Divided into blocks and allocated to internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, neurology, family practice, and psychiatry. All instruction pertaining to these departments is given within its own block of time. About half of the fourth year is open to electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Traditional letter grading system within which D and F are failing grades. Each student's performance is computed on the basis of a system of quantitative and qualitative weighting. A student incurring a failing grade may be asked by the Promotions Committee to withdraw from school, to repeat the year's work, or to remove the deficiency by some other means. Satisfactory performance on Step 1 and Step 2 of the USMLE are required prior to graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The 70-acre main campus serves as the focus of a large medical complex that includes Parkland Memorial Hospital, Children's Medical Center, University Hospitals at St. Paul, Zale Zipshy, City of Dallas Health Department, and Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences. Other: James W. Aston Ambulatory Care Center and Fred F. Florence Bioinformation Center. The 30-acre north campus has been developed providing abundant research space. It is directly connected to the south campus. Affiliated teaching facilities include Baylor University Medical Center, John Peter Smith Hospital (Fort Worth), Charlton Methodist Hospital, Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, Timberlawn Psychiatric Hospital, University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, and Veterans' Administration Medical Center. Library: The library has a collection of 175,000 volumes and receives 2400 serials annually. Housing: A student apartment complex is available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active minority student recruitment program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in a variety of disciplines including molecular biophysics, cell regulation, genetics and development, molecular microbiology, neuroscience, biochemistry and molecular biology and immunology. Coordinated MD-MBA and MD-MPH programs are also available.
Introduction
The University of Utah School of Medicine is part of the University of Utah Health Sciences Center along with the University of Utah Hospital, the College of Pharmacy, the College of Nursing and Health, and the Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library. The School of Medicine was originally founded as a 2-year school in 1905, and expanded to a 4-year program in 1943.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include the basic premedical science courses. Inorganic chemistry should include work in qualitative and quantitative analysis and 1 of the biology courses should be cell biology or biochemistry, plus 1 semester of social sciences and humanities. Nonresident applicants are required to apply through the Early Decision Program. Competition for the very limited number of places available for non-WTCHE residents is very intense. The MCAT must be taken. Completing 4 years of college and receiving the baccalaureate degree is required. Transfer and advanced standing: This is only possible when the transferring student's spouse is a member of the medical school faculty or holds a postgraduate residency training program.
Curriculum
4-year semi traditional. First and second years: These 2 years focus on establishing a strong foundation in the basic sciences. Courses are offered dealing with healthcare financing and delivery, community and public health, research methadology and medical literature analysis, biostatistics, and epidemiology. There is in-depth coverage of patient evaluation skills. Problem-based learning sessions are utilized in many courses and standardized patients are employed to enhance clinical skills training. Web-based learning tools have been developed for many courses. Third year: Consists of clerkships in the standard major clinical areas of training. Fourth year: Consists of a subinternship and a neurology clerkship, as well as public health and medical ethics courses and electives in areas of the individual student's personal interest.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Evaluation using an Honors/Pass/Fail system plus faculty narratives is utilized. Students must take and record a passing score on the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 for matriculation into the third year and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: All preclinical instruction can be received within the Medical Center. Most of the clinical training is obtained in the University Hospital and the VA Hospital. Other: Five hospitals in Salt Lake City and 2 in Ogden are affiliated. Library: The library contains more than 100,000 volumes and 1750 current medical journal subscriptions. Housing: Board and room are available in residence halls for single students; there are also apartments for married students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program and is prepared to provide financial and academic support for Native American, Mexican-American, and African-American students from economically disadvantaged communities who are likely to complete the medical curriculum successfully. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in the basic medical sciences as well as biophysics, and an MD-MPH also is available.
Introduction
Established in 1822, the University of Vermont College of Medicine has a long-standing approach to medical education that reinforces the centrality of the doctor-patient relationship, and the caring values of medicine. The college offers students early access to broad clinical experience, a firm grounding in the basic sciences, access to research facilities, and an emphasis on community service.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Applicants must have completed at least 3 years of undergraduate study, but a baccalaureate degree is strongly encouraged. An applicant's undergraduate studies must include the basic premedical science courses. A course in biochemistry or molecular genetics is also recommended. Students are encouraged to secure a broad and balanced educational background. College work must demonstrate intellectual drive, independent thinking, curiosity, and self-discipline. Applicants should seek out opportunities to develop oral and written communication skills. Successful applicants often have demonstrated service to the community. Highly qualified students are accepted from Vermont, and a number of Maine applicants are offered seats through the Maine Access Program. Approximately 60% of the student body come from other states.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Level one: Extending over 18 months, this segment seeks to have students develop a fundamental understanding of health and illness. Level two: Clinical clerkships progressively improve the skills of students through daily care of patients. The clerkships provide structured experience and didactic instruction within different medical specialties, in both ambulatory and hospital environments. Interdisciplinary sessions contribute to development of technical skills and competency in physician-patient decision-making. Level three: During the 15 months, the student applies prior competencies to the supervised management of patients and to the teaching of peers, patients, and more junior students.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Students are regularly evaluated, and are required to satisfactorily pass each course and clerkship, and to fulfill the requirements of the Advanced Integration year. Comprehensive examinations are required to be taken at appropriate intervals. Students must take and pass the USMLE Step I and Step II, prior to January 1 of the year of graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: There is a 3-building medical college complex; a 562-bed teaching hospital (Fletcher Allen Health Care), and 9 affiliated hospitals. Other: Research facilities are located within the medical school complex and off campus. Library: Medical students use the Dana Medical Library to study in and to conduct research. Housing: On-campus choices include UVM's married student housing, about 4 miles from campus, and nearby apartments and residence halls. Group houses or shared apartments in walking or biking distance from school are popular off-campus choices.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The College of Medicine is committed to increasing cultural diversity in the academic community. Other degree programs: The MD-PhD program is designed to train future physician-scientists through a curriculum that integrates clinical care with basic research.
Introduction
The Eastern Virginia Medical School's purpose was to provide the Hampton Roads community with health care and offer students a quality medical education; consequently, major focus has been on the training of potential primary care physicians. This goal is achieved by the school's affiliations with more than 35 community-based health care facilities in the area. The school's mission has been enhanced by a series of innovative programs established through the Center for Generalist Medicine.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Applicants must have a minimum of 100 semester hours from an accredited American or Canadian college or university, which must include the basic premedical science courses. Applicants are expected to have grades of C or better in all required courses. Credits earned in advanced placement programs or CLEP are acceptable. No application will be considered complete without scores of the MCAT taken within 2 years prior to application. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students for second and third years are considered. Applicant must be currently enrolled in an LCME-approved medical school. Applicants are considered to fill any places vacated by attrition.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. Years 1 and 2: The basic sciences are presented as a basis for the practice of medicine. Small-group, problem-based sessions with basic and clinical scientists as facilitators are utilized. Students receive introductory education in clinical and interpersonal skills and attend preceptorships with a physician in private practice. Years 3 and 4: Students rotate through clinical clerkships in family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery, and through selectives designed to meet special interests and career goals. A significant portion of the clinical clerkships are devoted to ambulatory care, but as expected, the major portion is associated with inpatient care. In addition to the standard required clerkships, there are rotations in surgical subspecialties, geriatrics, and substance abuse. For students planning generalist careers, opportunities are available for taking electives in rural health care and an honors tract. Electives may occupy up to 6 months and provide a significant opportunity for subspecialty and/or research experience.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Students are promoted on the basis of their ability to complete required objectives satisfactorily, with achievement being designated as Honors, High Pass, Pass, Fail, or Incomplete.
Facilities
Teaching: The school's primary teaching and research facilities are housed in buildings that are part of the 33-acre Eastern Virginia Medical Center. Clinical experience is provided through affiliation with 29 medical health care facilities located within Hampton Roads. Other: Research facilities are located in Lewis Hall, Hofheimer Hall, and South Campus. Library: The library has a large collection of books and receives a wide range of serial periodicals. Housing: Limited college-owned housing is available for students.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Educationally disadvantaged students are encouraged to apply and scholarships are available. Special programs: No combined programs are currently available.
Introduction
Thomas Jefferson established the University of Virginia in 1819. As one of the 8 original schools, the School of Medicine was established in 1900 with a full 4-year instructional plan. The School of Medicine and the University of Virginia Hospital are both located on the same campus in Charlottesville. Its location is within driving distance of Richmond and Washington, D.C. The university ranks high in published surveys.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses are required. Preference is given to residents. A minimum 3 years of college is required, as is taking the MCAT. Choice of a major is optional but gaining a broad educational background is encouraged. Selection is determined by evaluation of academic performance, extracurricular volunteer and work experience, letters of recommendation, and interview performance. Interviews are granted by invitation only and take place only on campus. Transfer and advanced standing: State residents receive preference for transfer into the third year if any vacancies exist.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The curriculum is divided into 4 major components. Basic sciences: (18 months) Provides a basic knowledge, both psychological and physical, of the structure of the normal and diseased human. Clinical clerkships: (11 months) Provides a learning experience by direct contact with patients. Electives: (8 months) Offers clinical rotations, graduate courses, or research activities.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail grading system is used except in the third year. Students who have satisfactorily completed all the work of the session are eligible for promotion. Those who have incurred deficiencies that can be reasonably removed by the opening of the next session may be provisionally promoted. Students with serious deficiencies may be required to repeat the session's work. Students who are not considered competent to continue training in medicine may be required to withdraw. Students must record a passing total score on USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 to graduate.
Facilities
Teaching: Students join faculty members in conducting basic and clinical research to help solve some of today's medical problems. They are aided by special facilities, including the central electron microscope facility, lymphocyte culture center, and protein and nucleic acid sequencing center. Many of these facilities are located in Harvey E. Jordan Hall, which also houses classrooms and laboratories for the 5 basic sciences. Other: Other facilities include several vivarium sites and research buildings in the Medical Center complex, adjacent to historic Central Grounds, and the University of Virginia Hospitals, licensed for 900 beds, including the main hospital, Blue Ridge Hospital, and Children's Rehabilitation Center. Students also receive clinical training at other hospitals in Virginia. Library: The Claude Moore Health Sciences Library contains 140,000 volumes and receives approximately 3000 publications. Housing: Limited housing is available for married students who may or may not have children.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has an active recruitment program. It also offers a Summer Enrichment Program for senior college students and graduates and applicants who have been accepted for admission. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD degree programs are offered in the basic sciences and jointly with other departments of the Graduate School or School of Engineering.
Introduction
This school originated when Hampden-Sydney College created a medical department in Richmond in 1837, which in 1854 became the Medical College of Virginia. In 1893 the College of Physicians and Surgeons was established, which consolidated with Medical College of Virginia in 1913.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Requirements include the basic premedical science courses, 1 year of mathematics, and 1 year of English. Preference is given to those with baccalaureate degrees; residents preferred. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students are considered only into the third year when vacancies occur. Residents are given preference.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: The basic sciences are covered in the first 2 years. The body is divided into organ systems to permit integration of the basic science disciplines with one another and with the clinical aspects. Behavioral science, preventive medicine, pathogenesis, foundations of medicine, and ethics are also taught during this interval. Third year: This year is devoted to rotation through the major clinical specialties. Also included are courses in community practice and in neurology. Fourth year: Consists of 4 weeks devoted to clinical rotation in emergency room, and 4 weeks in an acting internship. A 3-week update course in clinical science is offered at the end of the year. The balance of the year consists of 4-week rotations in various electives. The purpose of allotting two-thirds of the senior year of electives is to allow those students who have definite goals to pursue them flexibly. This option also permits those who have not yet defined their goals adequate choices to explore possible career pathways. Students are encouraged to seek assistance from individual faculty members, should they wish to design courses of special interest.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades of Honors/High Pass/Pass Marginal/Fail are determined by the faculty. Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE must be taken to record a score.
Facilities
Teaching: Classrooms and laboratories for the basic medical sciences are in Sanger Hall, Medical Sciences Building, and the Egyptian Building. Clinical teaching is done at the Medical Center, which consists of the West, Main, and North Hospitals, at the A. D. Williams Memorial Clinic and at the VA Hospital and for 24 selected students at the Inova Fairfax Hospital in northern Virginia. Other: Students in their third year spend a month in 1 of 5 community hospitals. Library: The comprehensive collections of the Tompkins-McCaw Library support study and research needs. Housing: Cabaniss Hall, a 432-bed dormitory, and 4 residence halls provide for student housing needs.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The Director of the Student Outreach Program and the director of the college's Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP) are actively involved in recruitment of minority students. The college also offers a Pre-Admissions Study Skills Workshop and a Summer Institute. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in a variety of disciplines including biometry, biophysics, and genetics. The school also offers coordinated MD-MPH and MD-MHA degree programs.
Introduction
As the only medical school that directly provides educational service to Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho (WWAMI), the University of Washington School of Medicine was established in 1945. In 1971 the School of Medicine instituted a program to provide a decentralized medical education and a variety of educational opportunities. Through the WWAMI program, basic science education and clinical training is offered in sites throughout the 5 states.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses and proficiency in mathematics and English are required. Preference is given to legal residents of the states of Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho (WWAMI Program). In addition, basic knowledge of biochemistry/molecular biology concepts is recommended. Applicants who are being seriously considered will be asked to file supplementary information, which includes appropriate recommendations, as well as meeting other technical requirements, namely, confirmation of likelihood of graduation and authorization for a background check. Selection for admission is determined on the basis of prior undergraduate work and on the MCAT, which the applicant must take. This is supplemented by such information as the candidate's motivation, maturity, work experience, evidence of public service, and research experience. Transfer and advanced standing: None.
Curriculum
4-year modern. First year: The introductory basic sciences are taught in relation to their clinical relevance. Courses in epidemiology, psychology, and molecular and cellular biology are offered as well as an introduction to clinical medicine course. Second year: The advanced basic sciences are taught within a systems context. In addition, courses are offered in genetics, hematology, and health care systems. Third and fourth years: Students select from a variety of elective clerkships after completing the prescribed clerkships. Additional requirements during these years are: neurology, surgical subspecialties,rehabilitation medicine, emergency medicine, and an elective clinical clerkship. There is also an Independent Investigative Inquiry requirement. The WWAMI program provides for decentralized medical education; therefore, students at this school may receive a portion of their training at sites away from the University of Washington campus. This arrangement is a component of the agreement to participate in the WWAMI program.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A system of Pass/Fail is used the first year, Honors, Pass, Fail in the second year, and Honors, High Pass, Pass, and Fail during the clinical years.
Facilities
Teaching: Clinical teaching programs are conducted in the Health Sciences Building and in the University Hospital. Other: Other affiliated hospitals in the city and throughout the Pacific Northwest provide opportunities for clinical training. Library: A comprehensive medical library is available for students and staff. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Minority admissions: No students are admitted to the medical school on a preferential basis, but the school is interested in considering as many qualified applicants as it can from minority groups regardless of residence. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are available in the basic sciences.
Introduction
Marshall University was founded in 1837, but the School of Medicine was not established until 1978. The Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine was established under the Veteran's Administration Medical School Assistance and Health Training Act. The school offers a community-based program with emphasis on the education of primary care physicians.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical science courses, English composition and rhetoric, and social or behavioral sciences are required. Preference is given to state residents. Some positions may be available to well-qualified nonresidents from states contiguous to West Virginia or to nonresidents who have strong ties to West Virginia. Other nonresidents are not considered. Regardless of their state of residency, applicants are considered only if they are U.S. citizens or have permanent visas. Evaluation of candidates for admission involves a review of a candidate's academic records and test scores, although this by itself is not decisive. An insight into the applicant's character is sought by review of letters of recommendation and an assessment at an interview. Features of interest to the Admission Committee are motivation, integrity, sensitivity, and judgment. Transfer and advanced standing: The School of Medicine considers for transfer admissions those applicants who are currently in good standing at an allopathic medical school. Positions are limited by attrition and are rarely available. The residency policy for regular admissions also applies to transfer admissions with one exception—only U.S. citizens are considered.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First year: The basic medical sciences courses of anatomy, physiology, medical cell and molecular biology, neurosciences, and biochemistry are supplemented by medical ethics and a clinical interdepartmental course entitled introduction to patient care, which covers physical diagnosis and behavioral medicine. Second year: Includes pharmacology, pathology, microbiology, genetics, psychopathology, biostatistics, epidemiology, community medicine, physical diagnosis, immunology, and introduction to clinical medicine. Third year: 8-week rotations in 6 clinical specialties. Fourth year: Consists of 4-week blocks in medicine, emergency medicine, surgery, and 22 weeks of electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A letter grading system—A, B, C, D, and F—is used. The Academic Standards Committee administers promotions. Students must record passing total scores on Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and graduation, respectively.
Facilities
Teaching: The school is affiliated with the Cabell Huntington Hospital (363 beds), St. Mary's Hospital (440 beds), VA Medical Center, and hospitals and clinics in other communities. A new comprehensive cancer center and a new classroom facility are under construction at this time. Library: The medical library collection is available to students as well as faculty and is constantly expanding its holdings. Housing: Housing is available in university dormitories and in furnished family dwelling units.
Special Features
Minority admissions: No special recruitment program is available. Other degree programs: MD-MS and MD-PhD programs are available.
Introduction
The West Virginia School of Medicine first opened in 1902, but did not begin to provide a 4-year program until 1960 when the University Hospital opened. The school became known as the West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Charleston Division, in 1972 when the Charleston Area Medical Center joined the university. In 1974 the Wheeling Division of the Health Sciences Center was established. It is currently known as the Robert C. Byrd Sciences Center of West Virginia University. Beside the School of Medicine, the Center contains schools of Dentistry, Nursing, and Pharmacy.
Admissions
Requirements include the basic premedical science courses and 1 year each of English and of behavioral or social sciences. Courses in biochemistry and molecular biology are very desirable. Computer literacy is required. Minimum of 90 hours of college work is required at a grade of C or higher from an accredited U.S. or Canadian school. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer applications for admission to the third-year class are accepted.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: Introductory and advanced basic sciences. Student is introduced to community medicine and clinical medicine, including the foundations for histories and physicals. The first-year basic science courses are integrated, and have common test methods and problem-based learning clinical applications. Third year: The traditional clerkships, including neurology and family medicine. Fourth year: This year is partially structured and partially elective. Five months are devoted to a required rotation, 2 months involve rural primary care, 1 month in critical care/anesthesia, 1 month in surgery or a surgical subspecialty, and 1 month in internal medicine, family medicine, or a pediatric subinternship. The balance of the program is elective. Each student, in consultation with an advisor, develops the program best suited to attain his or her goals. The Office of Student Services has a list of approved electives. Third- and fourth-year experiences are primarily based in Ruby Memorial Hospital or Eastern Charleston Division, with some approved rotations at other institutions. During the third and fourth years, students spend a minimum total of 3 months in rural clinic locations.
Grading and Promotion Policies
All courses are graded on an Honors/Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory plus narrative grading system. Taking and passing Steps 1 and 2 of the USMLE is required.
Facilities
Teaching: The Health Sciences Building opened for instructional purposes in 1957. Ruby Memorial Hospital opened in 1988; adjoining is the new Physician Office Center. Also on the Health Sciences Campus are the Chestnut Ridge Psychiatric Hospital, Mountainview Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, an outpatient center, and a cancer center. Library: The Health Sciences Center Library has more than 265,000 bound volumes and 60,000 monograph titles, and receives 2227 journals. The Library and Health Sciences Center provide free internet access to National Library of Medicine data bases for affiliated students, faculty, and staff. Special services are offered to support medical students on rural rotations. Housing: A new addition will be completed in early 2007.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school has a minority recruitment program and offers a 1-month summer enrichment program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in the basic medical sciences and other disciplines.
Introduction
The Medical College of Wisconsin, originally part of Marquette University, was founded in the 1890s. It is the educational division of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center, which also contains 6 other health care institutions. The college relocated its educational facilities in 1978, from downtown Milwaukee to the Medical Center campus in the west suburban section of the city.
Admissions (AMCAS)
Required courses include the basic premedical science courses plus a 1-year course in English and in algebra (if not taken in high school). Applicants are evaluated on the basis of their college record and MCAT scores, as well as subjective elements such as their recommendations and interview and a personal statement. The latter is given considerable weight. A significant number of nonresidents are accepted. Transfer: May be considered based on space availability.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: Basic medical sciences, in addition to a new course that provides first- and second-year students with integrated early generalist experiences, the foundation skills and attitudes of professional development, and knowledge in the following disciplines: human behavior, bioethics and care of the terminally ill, information management, physical diagnosis, and health care systems. Third and fourth years: This time is devoted to rotating clerkships in major and some minor specialties. Six months of electives, including study at another school, are offered during senior year. This school offers a five-year program and an Extended Curriculum Option for students needing more time to complete the requirement for the MD degree. In the five-year program, the standard first-year coursework is expanded over a 2-year interval. In the Extended Curriculum Option the choice is given to expand the first or the second year. The third clinical clerkship year and fourth elective course year must be completed over the usual time. Full tuition and fees are charged during the first four years of the program and reduced tuition and fees are charged in the fifth year. The Extended Curriculum Option was designed for students who wish to expand either of the first 2 years for nonacademic reasons. This may include a commitment to an ongoing research project or to help meet the demands of family life. Special permission needs to be granted in order to participate in either of these programs.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A 5.0 grading system (Honors/High Pass/Pass/Low Pass/Fail) is used. Students must take Step 1 of the USMLE and record a passing total score for promotion to the fourth year. Step 2 must be taken and a score reported.
Facilities
Teaching: Clinical instruction takes place at 4 major hospitals: Froedtert Hospital, VA Hospital, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, and Milwaukee Psychiatric Hospital. Library: A comprehensive medical library is available for student and staff use. Housing: On-campus housing is not offered.
Special Features
Minority admissions: The school encourages students belonging to underrepresented groups to apply. The Admissions Committee, in addition to considering the applicant's credentials, evaluates motivation and cultural and educational background. The Office of Academic Affairs/Diversity offers various programs to assist such students. Other degree programs: The school has combined MD-PhD programs in the basic medical sciences, including biophysics. MS programs in biostatistics and epidemiology, as well as an MA in bioethics are also offered.
Introduction
In 1907 the University of Wisconsin Medical School was established as a 2-year program and did not become a 4-year program until 1924. At present, the University of Wisconsin Center for Health Sciences incorporates the Medical School, University Hospital, Clinics, Psychiatric Research Institute, schools of Pharmacy, Nursing, and Allied Health Sciences, and the State Hygiene Laboratory.
Admissions (AMCAS)
The basic premedical sciences are required as well as 1 year of mathematics. An advanced biology course is required. English, biochemistry, quantitative analysis, and calculus are recommended. Few nonresidents are accepted. The minimum amount of college work prior to matriculation is 3 years; however, earning a baccalaureate is highly desirable. The MCAT is also required. Factors considered in the selection process are intellectual ability and such personal characteristics as motivation, communication skills, and breadth of interests. Transfer and advanced standing: Very few transfers accepted into third-year class.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum emphasizes the acquisition of core doctoring skills. Students spend time in doctors' offices from the first week of school and continue to build their skills over the next 4 years by means of a core curriculum component, which is interdisciplinary. First year: A cohesive series of courses designed to build a firm base in the biomedical concepts of normal human growth and development. Second year: Context courses emphasize organ systems and the common diseases and abnormalities that occur. Throughout the first 2 years, a mixture of lectures, small-group, standardized patient, and clinical experiences are utilized. Third year: Clerkships expose students to a wide variety of clinical settings. Fourth year: Consists of an acting internship in medicine, 4 weeks in surgery and a preceptorship, and 18 weeks of electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Examinations are given at the end of each semester during the first and second years and at the end of the third and fourth years. Grades, recorded by letter or number, are given by a committee of faculty members. Students must record a passing total score on Step 1 of the USMLE for promotion to the third year and on Step 2 for graduation.
Facilities
Teaching: The school's major teaching facility is the University of Wisconsin Hospitals, consisting of 6 hospitals under one administration. There are also Bardeen Laboratories for teaching and research and the McArdle Laboratory for cancer research. Other: The Medical Science Building provides research laboratories, and the Service Memorial Institute houses research laboratories, teaching laboratories, and lecture rooms. The State Hygiene Laboratory is concerned with the diagnosis, control, and eradication of communicable diseases, and the Genetics Building accommodates classrooms and laboratories. Library: The William S. Middleton Medical Library holds about 150,000 volumes and receives about 2000 serial publications. Housing: Students live in either rooms or apartments with other students. Married students are eligible for housing in the University Eagle Heights Apartments.
Special Features
Minority admissions: Recruitment is coordinated by the Office of Student Services. Accepted students can enter a summer program. Other degree programs: Combined MD-PhD and MD-MS degrees are offered in the basic sciences.
Introduction
Dalhousie University is a nondenominational, privately endowed, coeducational university that was founded in 1818. It is located in a residential area of Halifax on the Atlantic coast of Canada. The Faculty of Medicine was established in 1868 and is responsible for providing physicians for the 3 maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
Admissions
Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine admits 82 students annually. Admission preference for 74 seats is given to Canadian citizens (landed immigrants) whose place of residence is in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, or Prince Edward Island. The remaining 8 seats are reserved for applicants from other parts of Canada and the world. The minimum requirements for entry are a bachelor's degree and the Medical College Admission Test. There are no prerequisite courses required. Broad study of the life, physical, and social sciences, and humanities is desirable. Transfer and advanced standing: Students are accepted only under special circumstances.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. Students follow an innovative Case-Oriented, Problem-Stimulated learning approach to their curriculum (or COPS, as it is known). During the first 2 years, student learning is organized predominately in small groups. The final 2 years involve clinical clerkships, with the majority of learning organized on hospital wards. The goal of the curriculum is to provide the medical education foundation essential to permit a graduate to undertake training in any specialty branch. Emphasis is placed on small group teaching and on independent learning. The development of clinical skills is a critical component of the education process.
Grading and Promotion Policies
All grading is at the level of Pass or Fail for all 4 years. Several types of evaluations are held throughout the 4 years of study, including learning exams, which help the student to self-evaluate areas already covered. Formal exams are held at the end of each unit/clerkship and students must pass all examinations in each year to be promoted to the next. Students are also evaluated on their performance in all small group sessions, including clinical.
Facilities
Teaching: Dalhousie has a wide variety of hospitals and other clinical settings for patient-oriented teaching. The school is affiliated with 4 major teaching hospitals in the Maritime provinces: The Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Center, the IWK Health Center, the Nova Scotia Hospital, and the Atlantic Health Sciences Corporation. Other: The Sir Charles Tupper Medical Building also houses research facilities in basic and clinical sciences. Library: The W. K. Kellogg Health Science Library has a collection of approximately 158,000 volumes, and yearly receives 2400 current serials. The collection also includes over 2900 audiovisual programs. Housing: University housing is available for students on and off campus as single rooms or shared apartments.
Special Features
The faculty of medicine offers a combined MD-PhD program as well as a BSC (medicine) program and a medical Undergraduate Student Advisor Program.
Introduction
In 1823, 4 staff members of the recently opened Montreal General Hospital founded the Montreal Medical Institution where they gave lectures for medical students. The Faculty of Medicine was established in 1829. World-renowned physician William Osler taught from 1874 to 1884. McGill is located in the heart of Montreal.
Admissions
There are no geographical restrictions for entrance into the MD, CM, MD-PhD, and MD-MBA programs. The MD, CM program includes approximately 22 U.S. and international students each year. Applicants must have a bachelor's degree or be in the final year of study leading to the degree, must take the MCAT, and complete the basic medical sciences. Transfer and advanced standing: There are no places available for students who wish to transfer to McGill.
Curriculum
4-year modern. The curriculum recognizes the importance of a sold database and multidisciplinary approach to medical education with integration of the clinical and basic sciences. It permits a variety of teaching and evaluation methods, emphasizing small-group teaching. The curriculum is composed of 4 components. First component: The Bases of Medicine component extends for 18 months. It introduces the fundamental pillars of medicine, such as anatomy and physiology. The students have extensive opportunities for “hands-on” laboratory sessions and have patient contact sessions. Second component: The Introduction to Clinical Medicine component has 2 phases. Its initial phase extends for 6 months during which the student learns the techniques of physical examination and develops clinical reasoning strategies. Included are bedside teaching in the university hospitals, visits to community centers, exposure to family physicians in private offices, and the use of standardized patients for the teaching of specific skills. Third component: The Practice of Medicine component begins in the middle of the third year. It provides exposure to the core medical discipline, which includes internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and family medicine. This component provides extensive clinical contact, under supervision by faculty members. The last 2 components provide several opportunities for elective rotations, each lasting 4 weeks. Fourth component: The Back to Basics component takes up the balance of the fourth year. It is designed to reinforce the importance of the basic sciences in clinical practice.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The evaluation system is multifaceted and includes small-group assessments of written examinations, oral clinical examinations, assessment of written case reports, and others. The grading system is Pass/Fail.
Facilities
Teaching: There are 5 university teaching hospitals, 3 specialty teaching hospitals, and 13 special research centers and units. All patients are available for the teaching of medical students. Research opportunities, available at the undergraduate and graduate levels, are provided in all of the basic medical sciences and in many fields of clinical medicine. The language of instruction is English. Library: The Medical Library contains approximately 200,000 volumes and an excellent journal collection. The Osler Library has a large collection in medical history and biography. Housing: Housing for approximately 1000 students is available.
Special Features
Other degree programs: An MD-MBA program provides management skills that are unique to health care. A combined MD-PhD program is offered for those interested in a career in academic medicine.
Introduction
The School of Medicine at McMaster University admitted its first student in 1969. It offers both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education programs. The McMaster University Health Sciences Center provides extensive hospital and ambulatory facilities for the clinical training of its students.
Admissions
Completion of at least 3 years of university degree credit work and an overall B average are required, but no prerequisite courses. Priority is given to Ontario, out-of-province, and then out-of-country applicants in determining those to be interviewed. Applicants need not take the MCAT. Nonbiology majors are given the same consideration as students with a more scientific orientation. Selection is determined by an Admissions Committee consisting of faculty, students, and community members. Their criteria involve an assessment of academic achievement in college and of personal qualities based on letters of recommendation, an autobiographical sketch, a personal interview, and the outcome of a personal tutorial. Beyond demonstrating adequate intellectual capability, the sensitivity to the varied personal needs of patients is necessary. In addition, candidates should be comfortable with the contents of the school's educational program. Those who appear to have these assets and skills are invited for an interview. Applicants who are not Canadian citizens or landed immigrants in Canada are invited for an interview only when they are considered clearly more suitable in all criteria than Canadian candidates. Transfer or advanced standing: Not available.
Curriculum
3-year (130 weeks) semimodern. Small-group tutorials, self-directed problem-based learning. The curriculum is divided into 6 units as follows: Unit 1 (16 weeks): Introduction. Units 2, 3, 4 (39 weeks): Comprehensive analysis of human structure, function, and behavior organized around the organ systems of the body. Unit 5 (12 weeks): Life cycle dealing with health care problems along the conception to death continuum. Unit 6 (48 weeks): The clerkships. There is also a 6-week period of revision at the end of the programs. Electives: The program includes 26 weeks of electives designed to encourage in-depth study in portions of the medical program. The program also includes horizontal electives that run concurrently with the 3-year program. The entire program works on a full-year schedule.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The Health Sciences Centre provides classroom area for basic sciences instruction and contains a 371-bed teaching hospital. The major hospitals in Hamilton also provide clinical teaching for the McMaster program. Other: The Health Sciences Centre also houses research facilities. Library: The Health Science Library provides a large number of periodicals, clinical science references, and audiovisual materials for student use. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
No combined programs are currently available.
Introduction
Memorial University of Newfoundland was established in St. John's, Newfoundland in 1925; it was granted full university status in 1949. The campus extends over 220 acres and the university offers a broad range of programs.
The Faculty of Medicine awarded its first degrees in 1973. It is located in the Health Sciences Centre, on the northwest corner of the main university campus along with the schools of Nursing and Pharmacy, and St. John's General Hospital.
Admissions
A bachelor's degree is required. In exceptional circumstances, an applicant may be considered who does not hold a bachelor's degree; such an applicant must have completed at least 20 one-semester courses and have had work-related or other experience acceptable to the admissions committee. The course of study must include 2 courses in English. All applicants must take the MCAT prior to the application deadline. Preference is given to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador; however, a number of places are available for residents of other parts of Canada as well as non-Canadians. Transfer and advanced standing: Normally, the medical school does not acccept transfer students from other medical schools. In rare circumstances, a transfer may be considered if there is space available.
Curriculum
4-year traditional. The curriculum, the physical structure, and the administrative organization of the school were planned to allow for maximum cooperation among the various basic science and clinical disciplines. The MD degree is granted upon completion of the fourth year, at which time Medical Council of Canada Examinations may be taken. First year: During the first year of the medical program, students take introductory courses in cell structure and functions, biochemistry, physiology, molecular genetics, pharmacology, microbiology, anatomy, behavioral science, ethics, interviewing skills, and community medicine. These opportunities are provided in a wide range of medical settings, family practice, and general hospital, rural hospital, and public health programs. Second half of the first year and second year: At this time teaching has a systems approach; material from anatomy, physiology, pathology, and clinical medicine is presented in an integrated manner. Third year: Structured clinical clerkship that includes 8 weeks of electives. Fourth year: Clinical clerkships, electives, and selectives. Rotations for Rural Medicine take place in the first, third, and fourth years.
Grading and Promotion Policies
A Pass/Fail system is used. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The medical school complex includes the Health Sciences Centre with its medical sciences teaching facilities and the General Hospital (531 beds). Affiliated hospitals in St. John's and other areas of Newfoundland participate in the school's clinical teaching programs. Library: A biomedical library and research facilities are also part of the medical complex. Housing: Accommodations on campus are limited. Residences for single and married students are provided on the campus, and the university maintains a list of approved off-campus accommodations. A health service is open to all students.
Special Features
Although no formal medical/graduate (MD, PhD) program exists, arrangements may be made for medical students to pursue, either concurrently or sequentially, both clinical and research training programs.
Introduction
One of the integral components of this university is the Faculty of Medicine, established in 1954. The city of Kingston, in which the campus is located, is on Lake Ontario at the origin of the St. Lawrence River. The goal of the school is to provide a broad medical education and to train medical students for specialized postgraduate education.
Admissions
Candidates must be Canadian citizens, Canadian landed immigrants prior to the closing date for receipt of applications, or the children of Queen's University alumni who reside outside Canada. Each year, 100 students are admitted. Selection is based on a superior academic record and the personal characteristics considered desirable in a future medical practitioner. These are determined at an interview. Invitations are extended for an interview on the basis of the applicant's GPA and MCAT scores. Consideration is given to mitigating circumstances to those whose academic level may lie beneath the cut-off point for an interview. The MCAT and completing 2 semesters of biological and physical sciences and humanities or social studies are required.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum emphasizes a great degree of self-education and the promotion of the art and the science of medicine in order to prepare the student for a changing healthcare system. A system-based approach integrating biomedicine and clinical sciences is used in order to emphasize relevance and avoid undue repetition. There is a decreased emphasis on lectures and an increase in independent study time and electives. Students are introduced in their first year to doctor-patient communication and physical examination procedures. Clinical skills are taught throughout the curriculum. There is an 8-week Critical Enquiry elective at the end of the second year, which provides an opportunity for students to investigate a medical question in depth. Learning formats include lectures, tutorials, seminars, symposia, and problem-based learning. Intensive clinical exposure and training is provided to ensure securing diagnostic and treatment experience. Responsibility for patient care is delegated on a graduated basis.
Facilities
Teaching: Botterell Hall is the major facility, housing the library, some student facilities, and major classrooms; the departments of anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology, pharmacology and toxicology, and physiology; a national cancer institute research group of the department of pathology; and animal facilities. The department of pathology has its major facility in the Richardson Laboratory, which is connected to Kingston General Hospital. Etherington Hall, devoted to clinical teaching and research, is also connected to KGH and contains a major auditorium. Other: Other major facilities include Abramsky Hall, major research space in the Hotel Dieu Hospital, and in the LaSalle Building. Library: The Health Sciences Library contains about 100,000 volumes and more than 1400 serials, and offers interlibrary loan service. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
There are no combined degree programs at this time.
Introduction
Admitting its first class in 1966, this French-speaking institution is part of the developing Health Sciences Centre, which includes a modern teaching hospital and a department of nursing.
Admissions
Admission is based primarily on ability and premedical achievement as demonstrated by scholastic records. A minimum of 2 years of college under the present Quebec educational system is required. The basic premedical science courses plus math through calculus is also required. A learning skills test is included in selection for admission. Seventy-four places are reserved for applicants from the province of Quebec. Fifteen additional places are reserved for applicants from New Brunswick. There is also one place available for an applicant from Prince Edward Island and one place from Nova Scotia. Two places are available for qualified foreign applicants with a student visa. Applicants must be fluent in both written and spoken French. The school is a French-teaching institution. Transfer and advanced standing: Information not available.
Curriculum
The form of teaching is a problem-based learning program. Formal lecturing has been reduced to a minimum. Audiovisual facilities, seminars, small group discussions, panels, field work, and case studies are used extensively. Most learning sessions integrate many disciplines representing various departments. Students work in the hospital from the beginning of their first year.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grading is on a 4-point basis, A = 4. Evaluations are made by examination results and reports of professors on student progress. A grade of C, based on these exams and evaluation reports, must be obtained for promotion at fourth year's end. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
As required by modern medical teaching, the Faculté de Médecine is integrated into a developing Health Sciences Centre to serve all members of the health team. This centre includes a modern 700-bed teaching hospital. Twelve hospitals, many health centers, and CLSC are affiliated with the Faculté de Médecine. Library: An on-campus biomedical library containing a large number of bound volumes and periodicals is available for use by students and faculty. Housing: On campus housing is available.
Special Features
Combined degree programs are available at the MD-MS and MD-PhD levels to students with outstanding academic records.
Introduction
Named after the first Bishop of Quebec, this private institution was established in 1852, after being granted a royal charter by Queen Victoria. Teaching instruction is in French.
Admissions
The basic premedical science courses plus mathematics through calculus are required. Applicants should have a good command of the French language as it is the language of instruction. Priority is given to residents of Quebec, but outstanding French-speaking students from other provinces and countries are considered. The MCAT is not required, but if taken, its results are considered. Applicants from Quebec College and other Canadian universities are required to submit a standardized curriculum vitae and participate in a session known as the Assessment by Stimulation, which extends over 3 hours. Gifted French-speaking students from other provinces and the United States are evaluated on the basis of scholastic achievement, their CVs, and letters of recommendation. Transfer and advanced standing: Applications for transfer are not accepted.
Curriculum
4-year nontraditional. First and second years: One trimester of basic sciences, followed by 3 trimesters with an organ system-integrated approach plus courses in ethics, epidemiology, and the psychosocial aspects of medicine. Most teaching is done through small group discussion. Third and fourth years: Eleven weeks of primary clerkship followed by 18 months of clerkship rotation through the major clinical specialties including family medicine and social and preventive medicine. During this period, 3 months are devoted to electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Letter grades in basic sciences, required clinical sciences, and electives. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: Clinical instruction takes place at 1 academic health center, 1 affiliated hospital, and 1 institute. Research facilities in most fields are available. Library: A comprehensive medical library is at the disposal of students and faculty. Housing: Accommodations are available for many students.
Special Features
An MD-PhD program is available.
Introduction
The university, established in 1908, is located in Edmonton, the capital of the province of Alberta. The Faculty of Medicine was founded in 1913 with a 3-year program. It subsequently became a 4-year MD degree program whose first class was graduated in 1925. In addition to the Medical School, the university has professional programs in dentistry, law, and library science.
Admissions
Requirements include the basic premedical sciences and courses in biochemistry, statistics, and English. Preference is given to Alberta residents. About 15% of all first-year places are available to out-of-province students. Three places beyond the total class size are allocated to Aboriginal applicants. Selection is determined by an assessment of scholastic achievement, performance on the MCAT, and evidence of personal suitability for a career in medicine. This information is secured from college transcripts, letters of recommendation, and an interview. Transfer and advanced standing: School accepts transfer students only under exceptional circumstances and only from LCME-accredited Canadian institutions.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The first 2 years consist of instruction from September to May, while the last 2 years are a combined 86-week program with a 4-week vacation break. Year I: One academic year of instruction covering most of the basic sciences and an introduction to clinical skills. Year II: A 1-year program of interdepartmental teaching in a clinical setting relating clinical and basic medical sciences to human diseases. Year III: Consists of rotating clerkships in affiliated hospitals with 10 weeks devoted to electives in a wide range of fields, also an elective in either geriatrics or rural family medicine. Students are encouraged to organize individual programs with career and special interests in mind.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Evaluations of student work are made at the conclusion of each phase of the program on the basis of performance on final, course, and interdisciplinary examinations. A Pass/Fail grading system is used. Each student must attain a GPA of at least 5.0 to progress to the next level of study. Taking both or any steps of the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The Faculty of Medicine is located on the campus of the University of Alberta. The Basic Sciences Building houses facilities for the teaching of basic science, and the 843-bed W. C. MacKenzie Health Sciences Centre provides for most of the clinical instruction. There are also several other hospitals affiliated with the school. Other: Facilities for research in experimental medicine are available at the Surgical-Medical Research Institute. The Cancer Research Institute is housed at the McEachern Cancer Research Laboratory. Library: A comprehensive medical library contains a large number of bound volumes and periodicals. Housing: There are residence halls available for single students and a 299-unit apartment building for married students.
Special Features
Combined MD-PhD programs are available in a variety of disciplines including immunology and pathology. An MD-MS program is also offered.
Introduction
The University of British Columbia was initiated in 1950 and is one component of the university, which has a variety of faculties and schools. The Health Sciences Center is located on the university campus, which contains an instructional resources center, and acute care as well as psychiatric hospitals. The medical school is an integral part of a large provincial university.
Admissions
Required courses include the basic premedical sciences, 1 year of English composition and literature, and 1 year of general biochemistry. Residents of British Columbia are given priority. Applicants must have 90 university credits minimum and take the MCAT. A personal interview is advisable. The selection of candidates for admission to UBC's medical school is governed by guidelines established by the school's Senate and is the responsibility of the Faculty of Medicine Admissions Selection Committee.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The program is built on principles of student self-directed learning, integration of bio-medical and social sciences, early clinical contact, information management, professional development, and social responsibility.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Grades are letter or percentage. Promotion is determined by the Faculty Committee at the end of each session. The committee also decides whether unsatisfactory work can be corrected by a special examination or by repeating the course, or if the failing student must withdraw from studies completely. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
The BC provincial government has funded the building of new facilities at UBC, to accommodate the new program and foster the study of life sciences across the province. State-of-the-art technology will be used in the delivery of education from one site to another. In addition, technology-enabled learning will make expertise from around the globe available to UBC medical students. Library: On-campus library facilities exist at the Woodward Biomedical Library and a branch library is maintained at Vancouver Hospital. Housing: For detailed information regarding housing, contact the Island Medical Program, the Northern Medical Program, and the Vancouver Fraser Medical Program directly. Other: The Island Medical Program at Uvic, the Northern Medical Program at Uvic, and the UBC-based Vancouver Fraser Medical Program.
Special Features
The UBC Faculty of Medicine's Associate Dean of Equity oversees the selection process to ensure that all applicants are given careful consideration without regard to age, gender, sexual orientation, race, ancestry, color, place of origin, family status, physical or mental disability, political belief, religion, or marital or economic status. Other degree programs: MD-PhD program offered. Distributed program with geographic sites in Prince George, Vancouver, and Victoria.
Introduction
The University of Calgary began in 1945 when the Calgary Normal School became a branch of the University of Alberta's Education Faculty. It moved to its current campus in northwest Calgary in 1960 and gained full autonomy as a degree-granting institution in 1966. The Faculty of Medicine was initiated in 1970 and established its facilities in the Calgary Health Science Centre in 1972.
Admissions
Priority is given to residents of Alberta, and non-Canadian citizens are not considered. Applicants need not have a strict premedical background if their academic record is superior. The basic premedical science courses and biochemistry, cell biology, physiology, English, calculus, psychology, sociology, or anthropology are recommended. The MCAT must be taken. Final applicants will be required to attend an interview at Calgary. Transfer and advanced standing: Because the 3-year MD program is regarded as a continuum of coursework, transfers cannot be considered.
Curriculum
3-year (11 months) each. After graduation, the student usually takes at least 2 years of postgraduate work. The initial program provides a basic education, while the graduate work furnishes opportunity for specialization. The main emphasis is on problem solving, with patient contact and responsibility throughout the entire program. First and second years: A short introductory course prepares the student for the 9 body systems courses. In January of the second year, the Human Development block commences, covering topics from infancy to aging. An independent study program of 16 hours per week is time set aside secure from encroachment by scheduled curricular activities. Four hours a week are allotted for electives. Third year: Consists of clinical clerkships where the concepts taught in the first 2 years are applied. Elective programs are available. The core of the curriculum is based on clinical presentation of patients. These are categorized by their degree of complexity, body system, and human developmental relationship. Initially, students are exposed to methods of solving clinical problems, fundamentals of structure and function, and the provision of health care and basic clinical skills, all part of a Principles for Medicine Course. This is followed by interdisciplinary body systems courses, which make up the bulk of the curriculum. The balance of the time is available for electives and independent study of tutorials.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Evaluation is made on a multidisciplinary basis and will test the student's factual knowledge and his/her ability to solve problems. Grading is on a Pass/Fail basis.
Facilities
Teaching: The Calgary Health Sciences Centre provides a model of health care services, teaching and research areas, an audiovisual center, and space for labs, lecture halls, and study areas. Clinical teaching takes place at Foothills Hospital, Peter Longhead Hospital, and Alberta Children's Hospital. Library: The Health Sciences Library contains about 130,000 volumes and subscribes to about 2000 periodicals. An interlibrary loan service also exists. Housing: Both single and married student housing is available.
Special Features
A combined degree program is offered.
Introduction
The Manitoba Medical College was founded in 1883 and from its outset was affiliated with the University of Manitoba. Its name was changed to the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Manitoba. Its teaching facilities lie adjacent to the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg, and is some distance from the main university campus.
Admissions
Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree. Coursework should include the basic premedical sciences plus biochemistry and English. Undergraduates and graduates of the universities in Manitoba are given preference. The MCAT is required. Only Canadian citizens or landed immigrants are eligible. Selection is made on the basis of a composite score derived from several factors. These include GPA, MCAT score, and personal assessment. The latter is determined by an autobiographical essay, questionnaires returned with references named by the applicant, and the interview with a panel of 3 interviewers.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. First and second years: There are, on average, 30 hours of formal instruction per week for 39 weeks, in each of these years. The first 2 years cover the basic and clinical sciences, clinical and communication skills, and professional attitudes and behavior pertinent to the practice of medicine. It is composed of 6 instructional blocks that address the core concepts of health and medicine, human growth and development, and organ system-based blocks. Third and fourth years: Devoted to preclerkship (9 weeks), clerkships (8 clerkships of 7 weeks each), electives (13 weeks), and basic sciences review.
Grading and Promotion Policies
The Pass/Fail system is used. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The medical buildings are adjacent to the Health Sciences Centre, which contains the teaching hospitals General Centre (750 beds) and Children's Hospital (220 beds). Other hospitals are also utilized in the clinical training program and include the Deer Lodge Veterans Hospital (500 beds), St. Boniface General Hospital (570 beds), Seven Oaks Hospital (336 beds), Misericordia Hospital (409 beds), Grace Hospital (300 beds), and Victoria Hospital (254 beds). Library: A comprehensive medical library serves student and faculty needs. Housing: Not available.
Special Features
Combined MD-PhD programs are offered in immunology, pharmacology, and physiology.
Introduction
The Faculty of Medicine was established in 1843. In 1891 the school merged with the Faculty of Medicine of the Montreal branch of Laval University. In 1920 the latter institution was granted independent status and the school became known by its present name. Instruction in the medical school is in French.
Admissions
A thorough knowledge of the French language is required. All candidates accepted must be either Canadian citizens or landed immigrants. To be eligible, all applicants must have successfully completed college or university courses in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Students having just graduated from the provincial colleges of general and professional education, as well as those with a bachelor's degree nonrelated to biological health sciences, are accepted in a premedical year devoted to basic biological and behavioral sciences. Selection of candidates is competitive and based on a global score derived from scholastic records and interviews. About a quarter of applicants are invited for interviews that take place on the site of the medical school.
Curriculum
4-year. Consists of 2 preclinical and 2 clinical years. First and second years: Formal lecturing is reduced to a minimum and replaced by active methods, especially problem-based learning and small-group discussions. Introduction to clinical medicine takes place in a continuous and progressive fashion and 2 elective courses are mandatory throughout these 2 preclinical years. Third and fourth years: Consists of a clerkship of 80 weeks duration with 4 one-month elective stages including one in a regional community setting.
Facilities
Teaching: Clinical instruction is carried out at 14 affiliated teaching hospitals and research centers. Library: A comprehensive medical library containing numerous bound volumes and periodicals is at the disposal of students and faculty. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Residency training in the teaching hospitals is under the direction of the Faculty of Medicine. Various courses and symposia are organized by the continuing medical education division.
Introduction
This school began as a 2-year medical science program in 1926; a 4-year curriculum was introduced in 1953. In 1988 a 6-year curriculum was initiated, which includes a 2-year premedical program. The school prepares its students for careers in family medicine, specialty practice, and research.
Admissions
Successful completion of the 3 full-time years of a university program and of the basic premedical science courses and 1 year of humanities is required. Taking the MCAT is no longer obligatory. Only Canadian citizens or landed immigrants are considered for admission except in the case of children of alumni. Transfer and advanced standing: Not possible. Criteria for selection are: academic excellence, evaluation of the detailed autobiographical essay submitted, and results of the interview with representatives of the admissions committee.
Curriculum
4-year semitraditional. First and second years: Stage 1 includes 70 weeks of study of essential biomedical principles and consists of 13 multidisciplinary blocks. The students learn clinical skills in an integrated fashion with the study of body systems. Stage 2, also 2 years, is devoted to clinical clerkships, and 16 weeks are available for elective study. During their undergraduate medical training, the students acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes they need to recognize, understand, and apply effective and efficient strategies for the prevention and management of the most common and most severe health problems. The program integrates the basic and clinical sciences throughout the 4 years. It also emphasizes health promotion and disease prevention; it is responsive to individual needs and abilities and to the changes occurring in society and the health care system. Emphasis is placed on self-learning; principles and facts are learned in a multidisciplinary way in the context of clinical problems. Whole-class lectures and seminars are used to discuss basic concepts, explore new developments, and provide overviews of the biomedical sciences fundamental to the practice of medicine. Training occurs in ambulatory, primary, secondary, and tertiary settings, and the students function as members of the medical team in collaboration with other health professionals. The training fosters trust and compassion, communication skills, ethical professional conduct, and patient advocacy.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors/Pass/Fail system is used. Taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: The university's Health Science Building houses the facilities for basic science instruction. Clinical instruction takes place at Ottawa General Hospital (450 beds) and Ottawa Civic Hospital (900 beds). Other: Other facilities include Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (300 beds), Royal Ottawa Hospital (150 beds), and several smaller institutions. Library: The Health Sciences Library has 40,000 volumes and subscribes to about 2000 journals. Housing: Information is not available.
Special Features
A combined BSc-MD program is available.
Introduction
The University of Saskatchewan began teaching medical students in a 2-year medical sciences program in 1926. The present college was introduced in 1953 with a 4-year curriculum leading to the MD degree. In 1968 the curriculum changed to 4 years with a 1-year premedical university requirement. The curriculum reverted to a 4-year program in 1988 with a minimum 2-year premedical requirement.
Admissions
Requirements include 2 full premedical years and the basic premedical science courses, biochemistry, English, and 2 electives in the social sciences or humanities. Priority is given to residents of Saskatchewan; however, 6 positions may be offered to out-of-province students. All applicants must be Canadian citizens or landed immigrants and have lived in Canada for at least 3 years. Applicants are required to take the MCAT. Transfer and advanced standing: Not applicable at this college. For detailed information, contact the Admissions Secretary at the above address.
Curriculum
4-year. The curriculum is aimed at educating doctors for entrance into any phase of the medical profession. First year: Largely devoted to basic sciences and introductory clinical sciences. Second year: Includes bridging sciences—pathology, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, and nutrition—and systems, clinical sciences, and concurrent courses. Third year: Continuation of systems, clinical sciences, and concurrent courses. Fourth year: Rotation clerkship through internal medicine, surgery, obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, family medicine, anesthesia, neurology, geriatric medicine, and electives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
Percentage grades are assigned for most courses; Pass/Fail for the others.
Facilities
Teaching: Basic sciences are taught in the Medical Building. Clinical instruction takes place at the University Hospital, connected with the Medical Building. Other: Other affiliated hospitals are St. Paul's, Saskatoon City Hospital, Regina General Hospital, and Pasqua Hospital. Library: The Medical Building also houses the school library. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
MSC-MD, PhD-MD combined program is available.
Introduction
The Faculty of Medicine is the largest in all of Canada. It belongs to a university that can trace its origin back to Kings College, which was founded in 1843. The school is affiliated with 10 teaching hospitals. It was a site of several major medical breakthroughs that have had a profound impact on society. This includes the discovery of insulin, which facilitated the management of diabetes, and the development of the cardiac pacemaker, which permits an artificial regulation of the heart rate.
Admissions
Requirements include completion of 3 years at a Canadian university or, for applicants registered in anon-Canadian university, a recognized bachelor's degree. All applicants must have the following prerequisites: 2 full courses in the life sciences and 1 full course in humanities, social science, or language. Preference is given to residents of Ontario. Applicants must take the MCAT and have a personal interview. No preference for admission is given to science majors. Transfer and advanced standing: Transfer students from other medical schools are not considered because of enrollment limitations.
Curriculum
4-year semimodern. The curriculum is focused on student-centered learning. The preclerkship phase consists of 6 multidisciplinary courses, each of which is built upon a series of patient-based cases. Selected lectures, seminars, and laboratory exercises will complement small-group, problem-based learning sessions. The remainder of the 4 years is dedicated to the clinical clerkship, which will include a basic or junior component and specialty or senior component. During the clerkship phase, education occurs on the wards, in the laboratories, and in ambulatory care units of affiliated teaching hospitals. The curriculum is based on 4 guidelines: patient-centered learning, integrated and multidisciplinary content, student-motivated learning, and structured problem-based education. Students are placed in hospital and community settings from the beginning of their training. The emphasis on patient contact enables students to apply basic medical knowledge as they acquire it. Early involvement in various health-care settings exposes them to the roles and responsibilities of the health-care team and other health professionals. Each course provides students with relevant basic science, clinical medicine, and community health prospectives.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors, Pass, Fail grading system is in effect. Honors, Pass, Fail standing in a course is based on a summation of evaluations within the course using the weightings given within the curriculum directory for individual course evaluative components. All evaluation must be passed for promotion to the next year of study. No grades can be considered final until approved by the Board of Examiners.
Facilities
Teaching: The basic courses for the first 2 years are given at the Medical Sciences Building. The university is associated with 11 hospitals, the largest being Toronto Hospital with over 1400 beds. Other: Research facilities are housed in the Medical Sciences Building. Library: The medical library contains a large volume of books and subscribes to many periodicals. Housing: Some university housing is available. For students unable to find accommodations on campus, the school maintains a list of local housing.
Special Features
A combined MD-PhD program is offered by the Faculty of Medicine and the School of Graduate Studies.
Introduction
The Faculty of Medicine was initiated in 1882 and became affiliated with the university in 1912. The Medical School underwent various stages of growth and became closely associated with the Dental School, which was established in 1965. The university is a private school.
Admissions
Applicants are considered only from Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Requirements include MCAT scores. To be eligible to apply students must have completed or be currently enrolled in a program leading to an undergraduate degree at a recognized university and expect to have completed a minimum of 15 full or equivalent courses by the end of the academic year (September-April) in which application is being made. Selection is based on academic achievement, MCAT scores, and a personal interview. The latter are granted by invitation. The basic premedical courses are required.
Curriculum
4-year modern. Years 1 and 2: Provide the student with a solid grounding in the basic and clinical sciences. These 2 years are each divided into a series of blocks: Introduction to Medicine, The Thorax, The Abdomen, Head and Neck, Back and Limbs, and Systems. Within each block, various subject areas are presented that integrate the basic and clinical sciences. The weekly timetable is structured around a presenting case that is introduced at the beginning of each week. The case provides the stimulus for instruction, and is designed to highlight a number of objectives of the MD program. Throughout the week, the student is exposed to a variety of teaching methods including small group tutorials, problem-based learning, lectures and large group discussions, self-instructional materials, and laboratories. Time is also provided in the curriculum for students to explore career opportunities. Students participate in early patient contact that emphasizes a patient-centered approach to medicine, beginning in Year 1. Part of being a good physician is understanding the community in which patients live, and the first 2 years of the program provide a variety of opportunities for student involvement in the community. At the end of the first year, all medical students participate in Rural Week to gain clinical experience and exposure to rural medicine in a southwestern Ontario community hospital. Years 3 and 4: Include a 52-week integrated clerkship, clinical electives, and advanced basic science electives. During the third year clerkship, the student becomes an active member of clinical care teams in the following medical disciplines: family medicine, medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery. All students in the third year are required to complete a community clinical clerkship for a minimum of 4 weeks outside of London. Beginning in Year 4, clinical electives are arranged entirely by the student in any area of medicine, at Western or in other centers. After completion of the clinical electives, students return to Western in February for the Transition Period, which includes: advanced basic sciences, advanced communication skills, general review, ecosystem health, and health care systems.
Grading and Promotion Policies
An Honors/Pass/Fail grading system is used, and taking the USMLE is optional.
Facilities
Teaching: Clinical teaching facilities exist at London Health Science Center, Joseph Health Center, and several other affiliated institutions. Library: A comprehensive medical library is available for student and staff use. Housing: Information not available.
Special Features
Three positions in the class will be set aside each year for applicants to the MD-PhD program. If these positions are not filled they would revert to the general pool of slots in the first-year class. The MD-PhD program is an option available to outstanding individuals, both academically and in research potential.
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