Doctor of Medicine (MD) Program
The Pars Medicine Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is a comprehensive four-year professional degree program designed to prepare students for careers as skilled, compassionate, and scientifically-grounded physicians. Our curriculum integrates foundational biomedical sciences with clinical excellence, emphasizing evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and lifelong learning.
Program Overview
The MD curriculum is structured across four progressive years, transitioning students from foundational medical sciences to advanced clinical practice. Our integrated approach ensures that students develop both the knowledge base and practical skills essential for modern medical practice.
Year 1: Foundational Sciences
The first year establishes the scientific foundation of medical practice through comprehensive study of:
- Gross Anatomy and Embryology - In-depth study of human anatomical structures through cadaveric dissection and imaging
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology - Understanding cellular and molecular processes underlying health and disease
- Physiology - Integrated organ system function and regulatory mechanisms
- Histology - Microscopic structure of tissues and organs
- Introduction to Clinical Medicine - Early patient interaction, history-taking, and physical examination skills
- Medical Ethics and Professionalism - Foundation in ethical decision-making and professional conduct
Year 2: Systems-Based Learning
The second year integrates basic sciences with pathology and pharmacology through organ system-based blocks:
- Cardiovascular System - Normal function, pathophysiology, and pharmacological interventions
- Respiratory System - Pulmonary physiology, disease processes, and clinical applications
- Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Systems - Digestive processes and related pathologies
- Renal and Urinary Systems - Kidney function, fluid-electrolyte balance, and disorders
- Endocrine and Reproductive Systems - Hormonal regulation and reproductive health
- Neuroscience - Neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and neurological disorders
- Musculoskeletal System - Orthopedic principles and rheumatologic conditions
- Clinical Skills Development - Advanced diagnostic reasoning and patient communication
Year 3: Core Clinical Rotations
Year three consists of required clinical clerkships providing hands-on patient care experience across essential specialties:
- Internal Medicine - 12 weeks of inpatient and ambulatory adult medicine
- Surgery - 8 weeks including general surgery and subspecialty exposure
- Pediatrics - 8 weeks of child and adolescent care
- Obstetrics and Gynecology - 6 weeks of women's reproductive health
- Psychiatry - 6 weeks of mental health and behavioral medicine
- Family Medicine - 6 weeks of comprehensive primary care
- Emergency Medicine - 4 weeks of acute care management
Year 4: Advanced Clinical Experience and Preparation
The final year provides flexibility for career exploration, advanced training, and residency preparation:
- Acting Internships (Sub-Internships) - Advanced clinical responsibility in chosen specialty areas
- Elective Rotations - Exploration of specialty interests and career pathways
- Advanced Emergency Medicine - Required advanced acute care rotation
- Critical Care or ICU Experience - Intensive care medicine exposure
- Research or Scholarly Project - Optional research elective or capstone project
- Board Preparation - USMLE Step 2 CK and CS preparation and completion
Graduation Requirements
To earn the MD degree, students must successfully:
- Complete all required coursework and clinical rotations with passing grades
- Pass USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 CK examinations
- Complete USMLE Step 2 CS or equivalent clinical skills assessment
- Demonstrate professional competency across all ACGME core competencies
- Fulfill all academic integrity and professionalism requirements
- Complete required scholarly activity or research project
- Satisfy all financial obligations to the institution
Special Programs and Opportunities
MD students have access to numerous enrichment opportunities including dual degree programs (MD/PhD, MD/MPH, MD/MBA), international clinical electives, research fellowships, and leadership development programs.
For more information: Contact the Office of Medical Education at
See full curriculum documentation.