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Curriculum

   

The Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine educational program is driven by our educational goals and objectives and is organized into four Value Domains: Basic Sciences, Clinic Sciences, Research and Interprofessionalism. 

Our program provides the necessary education to ensure a solid foundation in the basic and clinical sciences, development of clinical skills, and provides clinical experiences in all of the major clinical disciplines. Research and interprofessionalism are interwoven throughout the curriculum to produce a graduate highly capable of pursuing any career option in medicine.

Maximizing Self-Directed Learning

   

The curriculum maximizes self-directed learning by minimizing formal didactic sessions and emphasizing self-directed learning. Small teams work in a Problem-based Learning format utilizing patient cases, called Patient Case Work. Continuous faculty assessment of student performance in small groups will be a critical aspect of student learning.

Online experiences, discussion sessions, and experiential learning are also employed. 

Phase 1 and Phase 2

The curriculum is divided into two main phases with multiple blocks varying in duration and content. Phase 1 will begin with orientation and continue for nine consecutive blocks and will provide students with a solid foundation in the four value domains, as well as dedicated time to conduct independent research and to participate in interprofessional health care educational experiences that will include service-learning programs.

Phase 2 includes third-year clerkships and fourth-year electives, integrated with continuing education in research and interprofessionalism.