There are five instructional blocks in the first year, focusing primarily on an integrated approach to human biological systems. Also in year 1, students will begin their three-year Longitudinal Ambulatory Care Experience where they participate in the care of patients under the supervision of a physician-mentor.

Block 1: Foundations of Medicine I

Surveys principles of genetics, and molecular, cellular and developmental biology in relation to human disease processes. 

Block 2: Cardiovascular, Renal, & Respiratory Medicine I

Surveys the organization and integrative operation of the cardiovascular, renal, respiratory and autonomic nervous systems and their responses to stress and disease.

Block 3: Gastrointestinal, Endocrine, & Reproductive Health I

Surveys gastrointestinal physiology, medical biochemistry and molecular endocrinology (with an emphasis on metabolic disorders and human nutrition).

Block 4: Musculoskeletal Medicine

Covers the structures and functions of the peripheral nervous and musculoskeletal systems with a strong clinical emphasis. 

Block 5: Clinical Neurosciences I

Covers the structures and functions of the central nervous system including the visual and auditory systems. Gross anatomy lectures and laboratories focus on the head and neck. 

Clinical Medicine: Year-Long Introduction

Blocks 2-5 are comprised of five modules: the foundational module, the longitudinal ambulatory care experience (LACE) module, the doctoring module, the clinical skills module, and the case-based learning module. Year 1 also features longitudinal curriculum threads, including health systems sciences, clinical reasoning, health equity, social justice and anti-racism, interprofessional team education, and palliative care.  The first block in year 1 features a sixth module focusing on biostatistics and epidemiology as foundational knowledge for all the sciences.

Ultrasound Education

The MS1 ultrasound curriculum is part of our gross anatomy program and is taught by second-year medical students in our Ultrasound Student Instructor Cadre (USSIC).

The curriculum follows along with the organ systems covered in lecture. Students are introduced on how to obtain and interpret various images, possible pathologies, and how to integrate ultrasound into a physical exam.