Pre-Clerkship
In your first two years of medical school, we’ll introduce you to the fundamentals of medicine through a series of systems-based courses that emphasize basic science and clinical applications.
The primary goal of Years 1 and 2 is to prepare medical students for supervised learning in a clinical environment.
Each course presents the material in a systems-based approach from basic information to clinical application.
Note: MED 516 Longitudinal Themes is an additional course that runs in parallel to the systems-based courses found in the list below.
For more information about courses in Years 1 and 2, please consult the University Calendar.
University of Alberta CalendarCurriculum Outline
An introduction to the basic health science with a review of some aspects of the essential biochemistry, physiology, anatomy and pharmacology. Particular emphasis on basic medical genetics.
An examination of the endocrine system in health and disease, with particular reference to the mechanisms of disturbances in the endocrine system and the management of these conditions.
The normal function of the heart and blood vessels, the changes in these functions which occur in disease and the management of the conditions which result from such changes in function.
The normal function of the lungs, the changes in these functions which occur in disease and the management of the conditions which result from such changes in function.
The normal function of the kidney, the changes in these functions which occur in disease and the management of the conditions which result from such changes in function.
This course will encompass all aspects of the development of a physician including but not limited to professionalism, evidence-based medicine, ethics, health equity, patient safety, patient immersion experiences, early clinical experiences, communication skills, physical examination, public health and health systems.
Elective time to be developed by the students in consultation with a faculty supervisor.
An integrated course covering nutrition, gastrointestinal physiology, pathophysiology and anatomy. Related surgical, pediatric and geriatric topics will also be addressed.
An overview of reproductive physiology, pathophysiology and anatomy across the human life cycle, including a discussion of pregnancy, fetal development, birth, newborn care, contraception, cancer care, reproductive technology, gender and sexuality and relevant health-related issues. Also covered are physiology, pathophysiology and anatomy of the urinary tract and management of genitourinary concerns.
Anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the disorders of the skin and the musculoskeletal system.
Fundamental Clinical Neurosciences taught in an integrated fashion. Involves instruction in subject areas related to the head and neck, including neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropathology, neuropharmacology, neuroradiology, neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry, rehabilitation medicine, otorhinolaryngology and ophthalmology.
Principles and concepts of clinical oncology.
Psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the study, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental disorders. Each mental health disorder will be explored in terms of definition, epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, signs, symptoms, investigations, treatment and prognosis.
Final pre-clinical exam for students registered in the Year 2 of the MD program.
This course will build upon the knowledge and skills derived from Longitudinal Themes I. This course will encompass all aspects of the development of a physician, including but not limited to professionalism, ethics, health equity, patient safety, patient immersion experiences, early clinical experiences, communication skills, physical examination, public health, health systems and evidence-based medicine.
Elective time to be developed by the student in consultation with a faculty supervisor.
An optional elective of variable length, to be developed by the student in consultation with a faculty supervisor.
Electives Catalogue Year 1 + 2Contact Information – Years 1 + 2
Year 1 Administrator
Sherry Toronchuk
Phone: 780-492-0279
Email: ume.year1admin@ualberta.ca
Year 2 Administrator
Aislin McIntyre
Phone: 780-248-1311
Email: ume15@ualberta.ca
Administrator Electives
Norma Maloney
Phone: 780-492-6743
Email: electives@ualberta.ca