Course Structures and Assessments

There are eight courses within the Application Phase:

Transition to Application Phase (TAP)

Moving from the structured environment of the classroom to the dynamic world of clinical medicine is one of the most significant and challenging steps in medical education. Students often face hurdles such as applying knowledge in real-time, adapting to diverse clinical settings, and navigating new roles and responsibilities. The Transition to Application Phase (TAP) course was designed by course directors in collaboration with rising fourth-year students to address these challenges head-on. This required experience for all students entering the Application Phase provides practical strategies, insights, policies, and guidance to help you prepare successfully as you begin your clinical rotations. By the end of TAP, our goal is that you’ll feel more equipped, confident, and ready to thrive in the clinical environment.

Learn More About The Transition Course

Community Based Primary Care (CBPC)

Course Directors: Karina Whelan, MD and Yee Lam, MD, PhD

Course Coordinator: Andi Corona

Pediatrics

Course Directors: William Mills, MD, MPH, Hannah Coletti MD, MPH and Sara Duffus, MD

Course Coordinator: Reneva Grimsley

Psychiatry

Course Directors: Dana Doctor, MD and Surabhi Kasera, MD

Course Coordinator: Kim Infante

Surgery

Course Directors: Andrew Schneider, MD, MSc and Maggie Hodges, MD, MPH

Course Coordinator: Stacey Owen

Medicine

Course Directors: Raquel Reyes, MD, MPA and Rana Alkhaldi, MD

Course Coordinator: Carol Carden

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Course Directors: Noor Dasouki Abu-Alnadi, MD and Alexandria Kraus, MD

Course Coordinator: Kayla Stephens, M.Ed

Social and Health Systems 4

Course Directors: Amy Weil, MD and Jennifer Martini, MD

Course Coordinator: Maria Sears

Conclusion of Application Phase (CAP)

Course Director: Kathy Barnhouse, MD

Course Coordinator: Courtney Garcia

The Conclusion of Application Phase (CAP) course consists of both summative and formative assessments to ensure student readiness for increased independence in patient care during Individualization Phase and required preparatory elements for Individualization Phase. Students will also participate in independent learning to prepare for USLME Step 2. Summative assessments will include OSCEs, skills stations, and the Family Medicine NBME Shelf exam. The Individualization Phase preparatory elements will include course and phase orientations and dedicated time for residency application planning. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support certification will be completed during the CAP course. The course will also include an interprofessional experience coordinated with the Office of Interprofessional Education.

Grading and Assessment

All campuses adhere to the same assessment structure and grading standards. Each course has a Course Committee comprised of the course’s directors, site directors, and a representative for academic assistance. A Course Committee meets at a course’s midpoint to provide formative feedback and its conclusion to determine final grades.

Read the Application Phase Summative Assessment and Grading Standards Policy for more information.