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MD Program

Transition to Application Phase Course

Course Director: Dana Doctor, MD

Course Coordinator: Alice Stone, MAT

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.

Locations of Course Delivery

The Transition to Application Phase Course is required for all students.

  • Central Campus Program Students: All TAP activities will take place in Chapel Hill in various locations within the School of Medicine and UNC Hospitals. Students assigned to Raleigh and Greensboro will have dedicated time at those sites as well.
  • Wilmington Campus Program Students: Wilmington Campus students will complete TAP in Wilmington.
  • Charlotte Campus Program: Course takes place in Charlotte. Charlotte Campus students must complete Basic Life Support Training (BLS) before the conclusion of the final semester of the Foundation Phase.
  • Asheville Campus Program: Course takes place in Asheville. Asheville Campus Students must complete Basic Life Support Training (BLS) before the conclusion of the final semester of the Foundation Phase.

Requirements and Grading

TAP will be graded on a Pass/Fail basis. To pass TAP, students must attend and actively participate in all sessions. Students must also complete the course evaluation form at the end of TAP. Students are expected to wear clean white coats and their UNC ID at all times and dress appropriately.

Learning Objectives and Educational Materials

The objectives of the clerkship will be met by having students actively participate in a variety of educational activities that include a mixture of large group lectures, small group interactive sessions and several hands-on training sessions.

All educational materials can be accessed in the school’s internal learning management system, Canvas, available to students and faculty. Access Canvas learning management system