Basic Science Years

The Alpert Medical School pre-clinical science curriculum is a systems-based course of study that consists of four semesters (two years) of Integrated Medical Science (IMS-I through IMS-IV).

IMS-I is an introduction to the basic medical sciences, included gross and microscopic anatomy, biochemistry, cell biology, introductory immunology, genetics, nutrition science and general pathology. 

IMS-II encompasses brain sciences (neuroanatomy, basic neuroscience, neuropathophysiology, brain and behavior, and neuropharmacology), combined microbiology/immunology/infectious diseases and endocrine physiology/pathophysiology.

IMS-III and IMS-IV consist of systems-based physiology/pathophysiology/pathology that include but are not limited to the cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, hematologic and gastrointestinal systems.  These last two semesters also encompass human reproduction, growth and development, and supporting structures.  IMS-II through IV extensively utilize problem-based, small group learning.

Concurrent with IMS-I through -IV is Doctoring, a four-semester course that focuses on fundmental clinical skills, professionalism and the doctor-patient relationship