Basic Science

In many medical schools students are exposed solely to classroom- based didactics during the duration of their basic science coursework. After approximatly two years they are then required to apply their knowledge to actual cases.

At International American University College of Medicine, similar to many of the best medical schools in the United States, we take a more progressive approach to medical education in that our students are immediately exposed to a case-based, problem-oriented curriculum ("problem based learning", or PBL), which places far more emphasis on learning that is active (researching, discussing) rather than passive (sitting, memorizing). Our curriculum helps build the student’s confidence in their own presentation skills which must be honed by the time they are presenting their cases to a room full of medical doctors.

Case Studies

Students are presented with a specific case and are required to present and discuss this case during the course of the semester. With each case comes a plethora of questions compiled by various faculty members. The student group is required to prepare an oral presentation which addresses each of these questions. The background required to effectively “solve” each case will depend on the specific case discussed during that week. The depth and difficulty of the cases will increase as the students progress towards their final semester in St. Lucia. In addition to case studies, students also participate extensively in local clinics and in the local St. Lucian hospital, St. Jude.

Courses

The first four semesters of the Basic Sciences are carried out on in St. Lucia; the fifth, or “bridge” semester, is done back in the United States. No student can begin their clinical clerkships until Step 1 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination is successfully completed.

Semester 1
Bio Chemistry, Genetics & Nutrition
Microscopic Anatomy - Histology, Embryology, Cell Biology
Doctor - Patient - Society - Medical Ethics, Medical Law, Epidimiolgy, Biostatiscs
Case Study

Semester 2
Gross Anatomy - Anatomy and Neuroanatomy
Physiology
Case Study

Semester 3
Pathology - I - General Pathology
Microbiology & Immunology, Parasitology, Virology
Doctoring I - Behavioural Science, Geriatrics, Public Health and Preventive Medicine
Case Study

Semester 4
Pathology - II - Systemic Pathology
Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Doctoring II - Physical Diagnosis and Clnical Medicine
Case Study

Semester 5
Introduction to Clinical Medicine (ICM) – 7 Weeks
 ICM starts with orientation and certification on CPR, AED & Emergency Care during the first week. For the remaining 6 weeks, students undergo week long clinical rotations in each of the cores namely Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, General Surgery, Ob/Gyn & Pschiatry at Jackson Park Hospital in Chicago, IL
USMLE Review Program - 7 Weeks