Tufts University School of Medicine

Tufts University School of Medicine Academics

4-year modern. The program emphasizes, problem solving and critical, analytical discussion in small groups and case-based learning. First and second years: Focuses on the biology of cells and molecules followed by a segment dealing with the structure and development of tissues and organs, then the functions of the organs and the organism and its environment.The biology of normal cells, tissues, and organs is presented prior to exposure to the pathological manifestations of these components. The curriculum also covers such topics as nutrition, health care economics, family medicine, ethics, socioeconomics, physician-patient relationship, and history of medicine. The Preclinical Elective Program is designed to encourage students to pursue outside interests and talents as well as to foster meaningful faculty-student relationships. Students can explore opportunities in basic science,clinicalmedicine,orcommunityaspectsofmedicine. In addition, the faculty is able to work more closely with students and to serve as role models, mentors, and informal advisors. Third year: Consists of rotations through the major clinical specialties and an elective period. Fourth year: Consists of a minimum of eight 4week rotations. Five of these 8 must be taken at Tufts-affiliated hospitals; of these, 2 must be ward service rotations and 1 must be the clinical specialties rotation. Beyond these requirements, students are free to schedule approved learning experiences as part of their electiverotationsattheTufts-associatedhospitalsorelsewhere in the United States or abroad.