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Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum at the University of Chicago provides a solid foundation in the basic sciences, building on a rich tradition at our institution in developing new knowledge. Realizing that scientific discovery impacts clinical practice, our curriculum is designed to emphasize the relationship between the basic and clinical sciences.

During their first two years, students are taught basic science courses from the University's leading scientists. Students begin seeing patients in their first quarter through the Clinical Skills sequence. In their second year, students delve deeper into clinical practice through innovative courses like Clinical Pathophysiology & Therapeutics and Physicial Diagnosis. By the time students enter their clerkship rotations during their third year, they are considered part of the healthcare team.

One of the unique aspects of the Pritzker curriculum is its grading system, which is Pass/Fail. The Pass/Fail system encourages cooperation among students, develops lifelong learners, and allows students to prioritize their learning and extracurricular experiences.

Holly Humphrey

Beyond the textbooks and the technology that takes place in the classroom, the real essence of our curriculum is the interaction that our students have with each other, with the faculty, residents and fellows, and most importantly with our patients so our students are very well prepared to make the transition into residency programs and ultimately as physicians. - Holly Humphrey, MD’83, Dean for Medical Education