Creighton Medical School Curriculum: A Comprehensive Guide to Academic Excellence
Creighton University School of Medicine is renowned for its rigorous and innovative curriculum that has consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the nation. The program emphasizes clinical excellence, research, and a commitment to serving underserved communities through its Jesuit values of compassion, justice, and excellence.
Foundational Sciences Phase
The first two years of the curriculum focus on the foundational sciences that provide the basis for understanding human biology and disease. Courses include:
- Anatomy
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Pathology
- Physiology
Students engage in problem-based learning (PBL) sessions, where they work in small groups to analyze real-world clinical cases and develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Clinical Science and Skills Phase
The third and fourth years of the curriculum shift towards clinical science and skills, with students rotating through various clinical departments. Clerkships include:
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
- Emergency Medicine
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Neurology
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
- Surgery
During these rotations, students gain hands-on experience in patient care, diagnostic reasoning, and therapeutic interventions. They also participate in seminars and workshops that enhance their clinical knowledge and skills.
Research and Scholarly Activity
Research is an integral part of the Creighton University School of Medicine curriculum. Students are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, including:
- Research electives
- Independent research projects
- Scholarly publications
- Poster presentations
The school supports student research through a variety of resources, including the Center for Clinical Research and the Center for Biostatistics.
Community Service and Service Learning
Creighton University School of Medicine emphasizes the importance of service to underserved communities. Students are required to participate in service learning opportunities throughout the curriculum, such as:
- Volunteering in community clinics
- Providing health education to underserved populations
- Engaging in public health initiatives
These experiences foster a sense of social responsibility and prepare students to address the health needs of diverse communities.
Innovative Pedagogies
Creighton University School of Medicine employs innovative teaching methods to enhance student learning, including:
- Problem-based learning (PBL)
- Small group discussions
- Interactive simulations
- Virtual reality (VR)
- Augmented reality (AR)
These technologies provide students with immersive and engaging learning experiences that complement traditional classroom instruction.
Assessment and Evaluation
Student progress is assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Written examinations
- Oral presentations
- Objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs)
- Clinical skills assessments
- Portfolio review
These assessments provide regular feedback and allow students to track their progress and identify areas for improvement.
Outcomes and Recognition
The Creighton University School of Medicine has consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. Graduates of the program have achieved high pass rates on the USMLE and have secured residencies at prestigious institutions across the country.
The school has also received numerous awards and recognitions, including:
- Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Spencer Foreman Award for Outstanding Community Engagement
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical Translational Science Award (CTSA)
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center
These awards highlight Creighton University School of Medicine’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and community service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average class size at Creighton University School of Medicine?
The average class size is around 150 students.
What is the tuition cost for Creighton University School of Medicine?
The current tuition cost for Creighton University School of Medicine is $58,464 per year.
What is the acceptance rate for Creighton University School of Medicine?
The acceptance rate for Creighton University School of Medicine is around 10%.
What are the core values of Creighton University School of Medicine?
The core values of Creighton University School of Medicine are compassion, justice, and excellence.
What is the mission of Creighton University School of Medicine?
The mission of Creighton University School of Medicine is to educate and train physicians who are committed to providing compassionate and competent patient care, advancing medical knowledge through research, and serving the needs of underserved communities.
