The overall goal of our curriculum at the Chicago Medical School is to provide an educational program that integrates clinical and basic science, engages students in active learning, provides early opportunities for clinical experience in the community, ensures that students will have skills needed for life-long, independent learning, and builds upon our experience and strength as an interprofessional university.
What follows are the highlights of our curriculum. Our four-year curriculum is divided into three sequential phases.
PHASE I
Phase I starts with Scientific and Clinical Foundations of Medicine, followed by
eight system blocks. Within the blocks, each week will be organized around a
diagnostic structure of a patient presentation that illustrates key decision points
in the diagnostic process. Phase I includes four interprofessional courses, time for
self-reflection and professional development, and a patient safety course. Phase I
concludes with a one-week course to help students prepare for clerkships.
PHASE II
Phase II builds on the knowledge and skills of Phase I by providing seven core clerkships and one elective experience for career exploration.
PHASE III
Phase III is residency preparation, including one four-week sub-internship and 31
weeks of intramural and extramural electives. This phase concludes with a one-week
course, Transition to Internship, to teach and assess the skills needed for
students to transition from M4 student to first-year resident.
Phase I starts with Scientific and Clinical Foundations of Medicine, followed by eight system blocks, four of which are completed in the first year. Within the blocks, each week will be organized around a diagnostic structure of a patient presentation that illustrates key decision pivot points in the diagnostic process. The first year also includes four interprofessional courses and dedicated time for self-reflection and professional development.
The M1 year ends in May. Students may choose to participate in research or global health experiences during the summer before returning in August to begin the M2 year.
Phase I continues with the remaining four system blocks and courses in patient safety, clinical reasoning, professional development, and clinical skills
M2 year ends in late March and students have several weeks to independently prepare for the USMLE Step 1 examination.
Phase II builds on the knowledge, skills, and approach of Phase I by providing seven core clerkships and one four-week elective experience. Clerkship start dates vary per student.
Phase III is residency preparation, including one four-week sub-internship and 31 weeks of electives. This phase concludes with a one-week course, Transition to Internship, to teach and assess the skills needed for students to transition from M4 student to first-year resident.