David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Campuses

The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA offers a comprehensive range of courses focused on medical education, biomedical research, and clinical training. The flagship program is the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, which spans four years and integrates foundational sciences with clinical practice. In the first two years, pre-clinical courses cover anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, and medical ethics. These are delivered through lectures, small-group discussions, and problem-based learning to build a strong scientific foundation.

• Human Anatomy and Embryology: Detailed study of human body structures using cadavers, imaging, and virtual tools.
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Exploration of cellular processes, genetics, and metabolic pathways.
• Physiology: Understanding organ systems and their functions in health and disease.
• Pathology: Examination of disease mechanisms, histopathology, and diagnostic techniques.
• Pharmacology: Principles of drug actions, therapeutics, and pharmacogenomics.

The third and fourth years emphasize clinical rotations in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, family medicine, and neurology. Students engage in hands-on patient care at affiliated hospitals like Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, gaining skills in diagnosis, treatment, and patient communication. Elective courses allow specialization in areas such as oncology, cardiology, infectious diseases, and global health.

• Internal Medicine Clerkship: Rotations in inpatient and outpatient settings, focusing on chronic and acute conditions.
• Surgical Rotations: Exposure to general surgery, orthopedics, and subspecialties like neurosurgery.
• Pediatrics: Training in child health, development, and adolescent medicine.
• Psychiatry: Courses on mental health disorders, psychotherapy, and psychopharmacology.
• Electives in Research: Opportunities for biomedical investigation in neuroscience, immunology, and genomics.

Beyond the MD program, graduate courses include PhD tracks in biomedical sciences through the Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Program (MBIDP), covering advanced topics in cell biology, genetics, and bioinformatics. Master's programs in clinical research and public health offer courses on epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and clinical trial design. Interprofessional education integrates nursing, pharmacy, and social work perspectives. Specialized courses address health disparities, medical informatics, and precision medicine, preparing students for diverse careers in academia, industry, and public service. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, cultural competency, and lifelong learning, with over 100 elective options to tailor education to individual interests. Research opportunities abound, with courses in grant writing, data analysis, and ethical research conduct. Clinical skills labs simulate procedures like suturing, intubation, and ultrasound use. Overall, the programs foster compassionate, innovative physicians equipped to address global health challenges.