Built to Heal
Our Foundations and Frontiers curriculum is phased to instruct students in the fundamentals of biomedical science and the emerging fields of population health and health informatics. Marked by early clinical exposure, team learning and technology-enhanced education, our method is forward thinking and patient focused.
Two Campuses, One Outstanding Curriculum
Philadelphia and West Reading
Drexel MD students will start their medical education in either Philadelphia or West Reading. Students at both campuses are provided the same outstanding curriculum, mentored by expert faculty, and given opportunities to pursue passions through exposure to diverse and underserved communities.
Friends in Many Places
Over 20 affiliated training sites
Collaboration is Key
Learning societies, small-group work, in-class team learning, and pass-fail program for first two years encourage collaboration.
4 Dual Degree Programs
MD/PhD; MD/MPH; MD/MBA; MD/MS
PHASE 1: FOUNDATIONS
This 17-month phase sets students on the path to becoming Drexel doctors. Basic science skills are integrated through independent study, team-based classroom learning, and practice in Drexel’s simulation center. First years also have opportunities for patient interaction in community settings.
In year two, students revisit the major organ systems with a focus on abnormal processes. As students develop their knowledge and doctoring skills, opportunities for diversified patient interaction increases.
Year 1
Fall Semester (18 weeks)
Molecules to Organs
Human Structure and Function I
Case-Based Learning
Foundations of Patient Care
Health Advocacy Practicum
Frontiers 1A
Spring Semester (19 weeks)
Human Structure & Function II
Case-Based Learning
Foundations of Disease
Foundations of Patient Care
Health Advocacy Practicum
Frontiers 1B
Year 2
Fall Semester (18 weeks)
Human Disease Systems
Foundations of Patient Care
Case-Based Learning
Health Advocacy 2
Frontiers 1C
Spring Semester (13 weeks)
Human Disease Systems
Foundations of Patient Care
Case-Based Learning
USMLE Step 1 Exam Prep
PHASE 2: APPLICATIONS
Phase 2 begins with Clerkship Fundamentals, a required course which prepares students for success in their clerkships. Then, Drexel students put their studies to work in a wide range of clinical settings across metropolitan, suburban and rural communities.
Year 3
Required Courses/Clerkships
Clerkship Fundamentals
Medicine (10 weeks)
Surgery (10 weeks)
OB-GYN (5 weeks)
Pediatrics (5 weeks)
Family Medicine (5 weeks)
Psychiatry (5 weeks)
Neurology (5 weeks)
Ambulatory Selective (5 weeks)
Regional Medical Campuses
*Locations that have all required 3rd & 4th year clerkships
Allegheny Health Network
Cape Fear Valley Health Network
Crozer-Chester Medical Center
Kaiser Permanente – Bay Area
UPMC Harrisburg
Tower Health
WellSpan York Hospital
Pediatric Training
St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children
Other Clinical Training Sites
Drexel has academic affiliation agreements with a wide range of sites that provide high-quality clinical training for our students.
PHASE 3: TRANSITIONS
The final year is marked by advanced clinical education and preparation for residency. In Pathways, students work with a dedicated faculty advisor to create their individualized career plan.
Year 4
Summer Term
USMLE Step 2 Exam Prep
Pathway System of Advising
Clinical advisor in chosen specialty area prepares student for desired residency and ensures student meets all fourth-year requirements.
Required Courses
Sub-Internship
Emergency Medicine
Transition to Residency
Immersion in Residency
Clinical Elective Rotation
Complete an elective rotation at hospitals or sites that are not Drexel clinical affiliates, including international rotations.
Additional Options
Students may choose to leverage the expertise of one of Drexel’s other colleges by studying for a graduate certificate in one of the Frontiers content areas.
Students may conduct a scholarly project under direction of a faculty member.