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What is the Medical School Curriculum?

By Tara Kuther, Ph.D., About.com

Question: What is the Medical School Curriculum?
Answer: Courses are taken mainly during the first and second year of medical school.

The first year of medical school consists of courses on the human body: how it is developed and how it functions.

Courses include:

  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Histology
  • Biochemistry
  • Embryology
  • Neuroanatomy

The second year consists of courses on disease and treatment.

Courses include:

  • Pathology
  • Pharmacology
  • Microbiology
  • Immunology

Additionally, students are trained in interacting with patients by taking their medical histories and physical examination during the second year of medical school.

Classrooms and teaching methods vary from school to school. Some medical schools emphasize teaching one subject at a time, smaller classrooms, and discussing case studies during lecture. Currently, most medical schools follow the traditional teaching methods.

Students start their rotations during their third year and continue during the fourth year. Students experience the different medical specializations offered. However, rotations that require more responsibility are experienced during the fourth year. Additionally, electives are offered during the fourth year.

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