Curriculum

The design of the applications-based systems curriculum is based on integrated academic models for the first two years of the curriculum. Each system is studied twice, first with an emphasis on normal form and function in Year 1, followed by an emphasis on the pathophysiology and clinical approach to each system in Year 2.  In parallel with the systems courses are the longitudinal courses of Principles of Clinical Medicine and Osteopathic Principles and Practice. As well, the curriculum highlights interdisciplinary collaboration and guides students to develop an osteopathic approach to medicine. Basic scientific information and methodology is regularly correlated with fundamental clinical application. Students have the potential to participate in the clinical setting during their first year. Students have the potential to participate in the simulated clinical setting during their first year. This clinical exposure expands in the second year, and the students have increased opportunity to interact with standardized patients on campus, as well as be involved in practice management curriculum in RVUCOM campus clinic.