University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine Campuses

The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on medical education, research, and clinical training. The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is the cornerstone, spanning four years and integrating foundational sciences with clinical practice. In the first two years, students engage in preclinical coursework covering anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and immunology. These courses emphasize problem-based learning and early clinical exposure to foster critical thinking and patient-centered care.

• Anatomy: Detailed study of human body structures using cadavers, imaging, and virtual simulations.
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Exploration of cellular processes, genetics, and metabolic pathways relevant to disease mechanisms.
• Physiology: Understanding organ systems and homeostasis through lectures, labs, and case studies.
• Pathology: Analysis of disease processes, including histopathology and molecular diagnostics.
• Pharmacology: Principles of drug actions, therapeutics, and pharmacogenomics.
• Microbiology and Immunology: Infectious diseases, immune responses, and vaccine development.

The third and fourth years shift to clinical rotations in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, neurology, and primary care. Electives allow specialization in areas like oncology, cardiology, or global health. The MD/PhD program, known as Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), combines medical training with rigorous PhD research in biomedical sciences, including cancer biology, neuroscience, genetics, and immunology. Students conduct original research, culminating in a dissertation.

• Neuroscience: Brain function, disorders, and neuroimaging techniques.
• Cancer Biology: Tumorigenesis, immunotherapy, and precision medicine.
• Genetics and Genomics: Hereditary diseases, CRISPR technology, and personalized medicine.
• Bioethics: Ethical dilemmas in research and clinical practice.

Master's programs include Master of Science in Translational Research, focusing on bridging basic science and clinical applications, with courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, and grant writing. The Master of Public Health (MPH) joint degree emphasizes population health, health policy, and epidemiology. Specialized certificates cover topics like clinical trials and health informatics. Research opportunities abound through centers like the Abramson Cancer Center and the Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics. Interprofessional education integrates nursing, pharmacy, and dentistry students for collaborative training. Community-based learning addresses health disparities in Philadelphia, with rotations at affiliated hospitals such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The curriculum evolves with innovations like AI in diagnostics and telemedicine, preparing graduates for leadership in medicine. Overall, the program produces physicians who excel in patient care, discovery, and advocacy, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and lifelong learning. This holistic approach ensures alumni contribute to advancing healthcare globally.