The Anatomy and Embryology course at Washington Medical Sciences University
(WMSU) provides medical students with an in-depth understanding of the human body’s structure and developmental origins.
Combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, this course covers the anatomical organization and embryonic
development of key regions, including the thorax, abdomen, head/neck, and limbs.
A strong emphasis is placed on the clinical relevance of anatomy, integrating diagnostic imaging techniques to enhance
students’ understanding of medical conditions and radiological interpretation. Through medical case studies and
problem-based learning, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing them for real-world.
The course also provides a comprehensive study of embryology, exploring the process from conception to the formation of
complex organ systems. This knowledge is essential for understanding congenital abnormalities and developmental disorders.
By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in human anatomy and embryology, equipped with the
necessary skills for their medical careers.
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of cellular and tissue structures. Students will explore the organization and functions of cells, tissues, and organs, examining their physiological and pathological aspects. Key topics include cell biology, tissue types, organ systems, and their functions.
This essential course provides a comprehensive exploration of the biochemical foundations
of life and their relevance to medicine. Designed for future healthcare professionals, it covers the molecular processes
governing human physiology and pathology.
Students will study biomolecules—proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates—and their roles in cellular
function. The course delves into genetic information, gene expression, and cellular regulation, as well as
metabolism and energy production.
A key objective is connecting molecular biochemistry with clinical practice, emphasizing its application in
disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Students will also learn about pharmacological interventions and
the development of new therapies.
By course end, students will have a solid understanding of biochemistry’s role in health and disease, equipping
them to make informed clinical decisions in their medical careers.
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of genetics and its impact on medicine. Students will learn the
principles of Mendelian genetics, genetic variation, and the molecular mechanisms of genetic disorders.
Key topics include inheritance patterns, genetic testing, counseling, and genomic technologies. The course also
covers the ethical and social considerations of genetic information in clinical practice.
Through case studies and practical e-labs, students will learn to assess and interpret genetic data, identify
individuals at risk, and provide informed care. The course addresses complex diseases, pharmacogenomics,
and personalized medicine, highlighting the role of genetics in tailoring healthcare.
By course end, students will understand how genetics shapes medicine and patient care, preparing them for
comprehensive and advanced medical practice.
This foundational course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles governing the human body’s
functions. Students will explore the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, endocrine, musculoskeletal, and
digestive systems, learning how they work individually and together to maintain homeostasis.
Key topics include physiological processes, cellular and molecular mechanisms, and regulatory pathways. The
course covers the body’s adaptation to various conditions and its response to disruptions and diseases. In
addition to theoretical knowledge, the course includes practical laboratory work, allowing students to apply
physiological concepts through experiments and simulations. This hands-on experience enhances comprehension and
critical thinking.
The clinical relevance of physiology is emphasized, showing how concepts relate to diagnosing and treating
medical conditions. This knowledge is essential for making informed clinical decisions and providing optimal
patient care.
By course end, students will have a deep appreciation of the human body’s intricacies and a solid foundation
for their medical careers, equipped with the skills to understand the physiological basis of health and disease.
This course provides medical students with a comprehensive understanding of the nervous system’s structure
and function. It covers the brain and nervous system, offering insights into the principles underlying human
behavior, cognition, and physiological processes.
Students will learn to diagnose and manage neurological disorders such as strokes, neurodegenerative diseases,
and traumatic brain injuries. Emphasizing clinical relevance, the course helps students connect basic science
with patient care.
By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in neuroscience, enabling them to excel in
clinical practice, make informed treatment decisions, and contribute to advancements in neurology.
This course equips medical students with the knowledge and skills to understand, critically evaluate, and
contribute to medical research. It fosters an appreciation for evidence-based medicine and promotes engagement
in scholarly activities that advance healthcare practice and patient outcomes.
The curriculum includes interactive lectures, workshops, group discussions, guided research projects, and
presentations. Students will work individually and collaboratively on research activities, guided by faculty
mentors.
By course end, students will appreciate the significance of research in medical practice, critically evaluate
scientific literature, and contribute to advancing medical knowledge through their own research endeavors.
This course provides medical students with a comprehensive understanding of the broader healthcare landscape, focusing on
preventive care, community health, and sociopolitical factors influencing public health. It equips students with the knowledge,
skills, and ethical perspectives to address population-level health issues and contribute to healthier communities.
Key topics include epidemiology, healthcare policy, health disparities, environmental health, infectious disease control,
health promotion, and global health. Students will learn to analyze health data, evaluate public health interventions, and
engage with community stakeholders to implement evidence-based strategies.
By course end, students will appreciate the social determinants of health, understand healthcare’s role in addressing community
needs, and recognize the importance of public health in preventing and controlling diseases. This knowledge will be invaluable
in making a positive impact on individual and population health in their medical careers.
This essential course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of microorganisms and their role in
human health and disease. Students will learn the fundamental principles of microbiology, including microbial
structure, function, growth, and genetics, as well as mechanisms of pathogenicity and the immune response.
Key topics include the structure and function of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, along with their role
in infectious diseases. The course emphasizes disease transmission, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Through engaging lectures, practical demonstrations, and hands-on labs, students will develop proficiency in
clinical microbiology, diagnostic techniques, antimicrobial agents, and infection control strategies. Special
emphasis is placed on antimicrobial resistance and responsible antibiotic use.
By course end, students will be equipped to recognize, diagnose, and manage infections, contributing to their
future roles as proficient and compassionate healthcare providers. This course is a crucial step toward becoming
well-rounded and informed medical professionals.
This course offers medical students a comprehensive understanding of the legal and ethical dimensions of
medical practice. In today’s intricate healthcare environment, where medical advances bring complex dilemmas,
this course equips students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills to navigate these challenges.
Topics include patient rights, informed consent, medical malpractice, confidentiality, end-of-life decisions,
organ transplantation, and emerging healthcare issues. Real-world case studies and scenarios illustrate the
intersection of law and ethics in medicine.
Emphasis is placed on ethical reasoning, effective communication, and professionalism. Through discussions,
case analyses, and ethical dilemmas, students develop a strong ethical foundation to guide their future practice.
Aspiring physicians need to navigate medical law and ethical dilemmas, making informed and morally sound decisions.
This course explores key legal principles, ethical frameworks, and practical applications essential for their medical
careers.
This course explores the intersection of human behavior, psychology, and medical practice, providing medical
students with a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping patient interactions, healthcare decisions,
and overall well-being.
Students will delve into the dynamics of human behavior in healthcare, examining psychological processes in
patient-provider relationships, communication, and the impact of stress on health. Emphasis is placed on empathy,
cultural competence, and ethical considerations in patient care.
Topics include patient-centered communication, health behavior change, psychological aspects of pain, coping
strategies, and societal influences on health disparities and access to care. Ethical challenges in healthcare,
such as patient autonomy and informed consent, are also addressed.
By course end, students will integrate behavioral science principles into clinical practice, effectively
communicating with diverse patients, addressing behavioral challenges, and collaborating with interdisciplinary
teams to provide holistic care.
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the immune system’s crucial role in maintaining human health and
combating diseases. Understanding immunology fundamentals is essential for future healthcare professionals to diagnose,
treat, and prevent medical conditions.
Students will study cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying immune responses, system regulation, and interactions
with other body systems. Real-world clinical scenarios and cutting-edge research challenge students to apply their
knowledge, preparing them to diagnose and treat various immunological conditions effectively.
In this course, students explore the intricate world of diseases, understanding their origins, manifestations,
and impacts. Through detailed examination of cellular and tissue abnormalities, students sharpen diagnostic skills
and gain insights into disease underpinnings.
The curriculum covers various body systems, focusing on how they are affected by pathological processes.
Students learn about disease diagnosis, progression, and treatments, connecting clinical presentations with
underlying pathology.
Through lectures, discussions, e-laboratory work, and case studies, students gain a comprehensive understanding
of disease mechanisms. This course lays the foundation for further studies in clinical medicine and specialties,
providing invaluable insights for future medical practice.
The Pharmacology course offers a comprehensive exploration of pharmacological principles and their practical applications in
medical practice. Understanding how drugs interact with the human body is essential for safe and effective patient care.
This course equips future healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about drug therapy,
assess risks and benefits, and optimize patient outcomes.
Through lectures, interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, students cover a broad spectrum of topics—from
drug mechanisms of action to therapeutic uses and potential adverse effects. The curriculum includes pharmacokinetics,
pharmacodynamics, drug interactions, and individual variations in drug responses, providing students with a solid foundation
in pharmacology.
This fundamental course in medical education focuses on essential skills and principles for establishing
meaningful connections with patients and gathering critical medical information through effective history taking.
Emphasizing interpersonal communication in healthcare, the course instills values of empathy, respect, and
patient-centered care.
Students gain knowledge and skills related to building effective patient relationships and conducting
comprehensive medical histories. The course plays a foundational role in medical education, emphasizing
communication, empathy, and patient-centered care.
Systemic Pathology offers a comprehensive understanding of pathological processes underlying diseases affecting
various organ systems. This course equips medical students with the knowledge to diagnose, treat, and manage
diseases.
Through lectures, seminars, case studies, and interactive discussions, students analyze clinical cases, examine
tissue specimens, and engage in group discussions. This hands-on approach enhances their ability to interpret
clinical findings and laboratory results, laying a solid foundation for diagnosing and treating diseases.
Pharmacology II provides an in-depth exploration of pharmacological principles in clinical practice. This
advanced course equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to make evidence-based drug
therapy decisions, assess individual patient responses, and optimize treatment outcomes.
Students learn to consider safety, efficacy, and patient-centered care when making drug therapy decisions.
Through case studies, discussions, and practical exercises, students develop expertise in assessing drug therapy
outcomes and optimizing patient care.
The Physical Diagnosis course is designed to provide medical students with essential skills and knowledge for performing comprehensive and accurate physical examinations. Through guided learning and practice, students develop proficiency in assessing organ system health, recognizing normal and abnormal findings, and integrating clinical observations into patient care plans.
The 12-week clinical clerkship in Internal Medicine aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of adult medical care. The clerkship focuses on familiarizing students with various aspects of patient care for adults, including conducting interviews, performing physical examinations, presenting findings, formulating differential diagnoses, and creating evidence-based care plans that prioritize value. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical abilities and critical thinking skills in the context of patient illnesses.
The Surgery Clerkship is a fundamental component of medical education, immersing students in the field of
surgery and providing essential skills and knowledge for evaluating, diagnosing, and managing surgical conditions.
This intensive clinical rotation exposes students to various surgical specialties, emphasizing hands-on experience,
critical thinking, and effective communication within a surgical context.
Students observe and actively participate in a range of surgical procedures, from routine interventions to
complex surgeries in specialties such as general surgery, orthopedics, neurosurgery, and urology. They learn
to assess patients preoperatively, manage preparations, and provide postoperative care, including wound management
and monitoring for complications.
By the clerkship’s end, medical students develop a comprehensive foundation in surgical practice, enabling
effective collaboration in surgical teams, application of evidence-based strategies, and confident approach to
surgical care. This experience is pivotal for students aspiring to become well-rounded physicians capable of
providing quality surgical care and contributing to the advancement of surgical medicine.
The Pediatrics clinical clerkship offers aspiring healthcare professionals a comprehensive understanding of
pediatric medicine, focusing on the care of infants, children, and adolescents. This course aims to equip students
with foundational knowledge and clinical skills essential for excelling in pediatrics.
The clerkship includes outpatient and inpatient responsibilities. Students work with general pediatricians, learning
to obtain pediatric histories and perform physical examinations on children of different ages. They become proficient
in assessing childhood development and providing anticipatory guidance to children and their families.
The Obstetrics and Gynecology course provides medical students with a comprehensive understanding of women’s
reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth, and related disorders. It aims to equip students with both theoretical
knowledge and practical skills necessary for excelling in obstetrics and gynecology.
Students work in ambulatory, inpatient, and surgical settings, experiencing a wide spectrum of obstetrical and
gynecological care. They deliver preventive care, apply screening practices, and communicate health education to
patients, collaborating with healthcare team members.
Under close faculty supervision, students assume increasing responsibility for ambulatory and inpatient care.
They participate in prenatal, labor, delivery, and postpartum care, as well as surgical procedures. The course
explores ethical dilemmas and cultural factors in reproductive health and decision-making.
Through supervised clinical sessions, students learn practical skills such as pelvic examinations, prenatal
assessments, and basic gynecological procedures.
By course end, students will be well-prepared to diagnose, treat, and manage various reproductive health issues,
serving as a foundation for specialization in obstetrics and gynecology or other medical fields.
The Psychiatry Clerkship offers an immersive experience emphasizing patient evaluation and treatment across
multiple settings. Students engage in diverse opportunities for comprehensive and enriching experiences.
This dynamic and engaging clerkship provides medical students with a foundational understanding of psychiatric
medicine. It aims to equip students with knowledge, skills, and empathy to assess, diagnose, and manage mental
health conditions across diverse patient populations.
Through clinical experiences, didactic lectures, interactive discussions, and case-based learning, students
gain insight into the complexities of psychiatric care and its role in healthcare. The clerkship fosters a
compassionate and well-rounded approach to psychiatric care, preparing students to provide high-quality mental
health support in various healthcare settings.
Learning opportunities include community-based settings, inpatient and outpatient psychiatry treatment programs,
emergency departments, consultations/liaison services, residential treatment programs, correctional facilities,
and more.
The 6-week Family Medicine course is tailored for fourth-year medical students, providing comprehensive and
continuous care for patients of all ages and genders, along with their families. Integrating various sciences,
it considers psychosocial, cultural, and community factors influencing health.
This clerkship offers a comprehensive clinical experience, aiming to provide students with a solid foundation
in family medicine principles and practice. Students gain a deep understanding of diverse patient populations
and medical conditions encountered in family medicine.
Active engagement in assessment, diagnosis, and management of various medical issues across the lifespan is
emphasized. Through hands-on experience in primary care settings, students develop skills for comprehensive,
patient-centered care.
Under supervision, students attain competencies primarily through ambulatory clinical experiences, focusing
on managing chronic diseases, promoting health maintenance, and diagnosing new issues. The rotation enhances clinical
skills and familiarity with coordinated healthcare by family practitioners. Emphasis on screening, prevention,
and research activities further enriches the course.
Elective courses in the MD Program offer students the opportunity to explore specialized areas of medicine that align with their interests and career goals. These courses provide a broader and more diverse learning experience beyond the core curriculum, allowing students to deepen their knowledge in specific fields, develop new skills, and gain exposure to emerging medical trends and technologies. Elective courses are designed to enhance the overall medical education experience, allowing students to tailor their education to their personal interests and career aspirations.