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Curriculum | Goals | 1st Year | 2nd Year | 3rd & 4th Years | Clinical Neurosciences

First Year Curriculum

In the first year, the curriculum uses a multidisciplinary systems-based approach to teach the normal structure and function of the body. In addition to instruction in the basic sciences, the curriculum includes one day of clinical experience each week. The disciplines (i.e., Gross Anatomy, Biochemistry, etc.) have been integrated and organized into blocks based on organ systems. Each block incorporates various teaching modalities, including lectures, case-based learning, laboratories and conferences. The organ system blocks are listed below.

Block 1. Genes to Cells

This is the introductory block of the first year. Basic aspects of cell and molecular biology that apply to all tissues and organ systems are covered together with genetics. The block covers protein and gene structure, transcription of mRNA and its translation into proteins, cell structure, signaling and mechanisms of inheritance.

Block 2. Musculoskeletal System

In this block the students learn about the structure, function and interrelationship of muscle, nerve, bone and the normal structure and function of joints. In the histology laboratories they learn about the structure of muscle and nervous tissue. In the gross anatomy labs the students examine and dissect the extremities.

Block 3. Blood & Lymphoid/Head & Neck

The students study the basic elements of blood and blood cell development, along with the mechanisms that are involved in blood clotting and gas exchange at both the structural and biochemical levels. Structure and function of the immune system is discussed with an emphasis on the cellular aspects of immunology. The histology laboratories are concerned with identification of blood cells, hematopoiesis and the immune system. This block also focuses on the gross anatomy of the head and neck.

Block 4. Cardiovascular System

This block presents an integrated case-based view of the anatomy, histology, physiology, and cell biology of the cardiovascular system. It emphasizes electrophysiology of the heart, histology and cell biology of cardiac muscle, hemodynamics of the circulation, structure/function of smooth muscle, microcirculation, and the overall regulation and control of the cardiovascular system. Discussions also include the genetic basis of cardiovascular diseases and the emerging tool of gene therapy.

Block 5. Respiratory System

This block covers the normal structure and function of the airways and lungs. It also includes the role of other structures that help regulate breathing and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide at both the periphery and in the lungs.

Block 6. Gastrointestinal System & Intermediary Metabolism

This block has three distinct components. The GI tract segment presents the gross anatomy, histology, physiology and some radiological aspects of the GI tract. The abdomen is presented at the gross anatomy level. In the intermediary metabolism segment, the synthesis and degradation of small biomolecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids and nucleotides are discussed. The utilization of these small molecules in the generation of energy for cells is particularly emphasized, as are the energy contributions and requirements of various organs in the body.

Block 7. Urinary System

By means of lectures, histology laboratories and case-based learning, this block covers the physiology, histology and cell biology of the Urinary System, with an emphasis on how certain aspects of the body's extracellular fluid are maintained constant, namely, the concentrations of major electrolytes, the pH, and the osmolarity and volume.

Block 8. Endocrine & Reproductive Systems

The histology, cell biology, physiology and biochemistry of the endocrine and reproductive organs is introduced, using a combination of lectures and small group case-based learning sessions. Both basic science and clinical faculty contribute, to give students fundamental information with a clinical perspective. Laboratory sessions are used to introduce students to the histology of the endocrine and reproductive system organs.

Block 9. Neuroscience

This block focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the central nervous system, including organizational principles, major systems and brain-behavior relationships. Both cellular and systems level organization are presented. Discussions on the neurological basis of disease are used to reinforce principles of neuroscience and to introduce clinical material.

Essentials of Clinical Medicine 1

The primary goal of the first year is to acquire basic competency in communicating with patients. Within this context, the student will: a) develop fundamental medical interviewing and limited physical assessment skills (vital signs and breast exam); and b) demonstrate the ability to incorporate knowledge of behavioral science and ethics in the communication process.

The student will begin to develop a professional identity through exposure to and feedback from small group preceptors and clinical mentors. Also, the student will begin to develop skills in retrieval, organization and use of information in support of the course goals.

Curriculum | Goals | 1st Year | 2nd Year | 3rd & 4th Years | Clinical Neurosciences