Didactic Phase Curriculum
The 3-semester didactic curriculum consists of 67 credit hours of instruction delivered through classroom, laboratory, simulation, and small-group learning experiences. Students participate in a structured Monday through Friday schedule that includes a minimum of 20 hours per week of direct faculty-led instruction in the classroom and laboratory setting, with substantial additional independent study and preparation expected outside scheduled class time. The curriculum is intentionally sequenced to support the progressive development of medical knowledge and clinical reasoning, advancing students from foundational biomedical sciences and normal history and physical examination skills to the recognition, diagnosis, and management of disease processes. Instruction includes clinical medicine, preventive medicine, public health, and specialty medicine content integrated throughout the curriculum. In addition, students receive education in evidence-based best practices, clinical practice guidelines, patient communication skills, patient education strategies, professionalism, and cultural competency to support the delivery of patient-centered care across diverse populations. The curriculum also incorporates ample time for problem-based learning activities, case discussions, and application-focused exercises designed to strengthen critical thinking, clinical decision-making, and the integration of knowledge into practice.