The mission of the medical education program of the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA is to prepare graduates for distinguished careers in clinical practice, teaching, research, and public service. Recognizing that medical school is but one phase in a physician's education, the faculty has worked to create an environment where students prepare for a future in which scientific knowledge, societal values, and human needs are ever changing. To meet this challenge, our graduates have the skills to provide quality care for their patients, to contribute to the growth of scientific knowledge, and to continue learning throughout their careers. They are involved in service to the community and demonstrate a firm commitment to the humanistic, ethical, legal and cultural aspects of medicine. We believe that a diverse student body is an integral part of medical education and is essential to the development of patient-centered care (see our diversity statement).

In 1996 a faculty-student retreat evaluated the existing curriculum. After deciding where improvements might be made, a task force looked for the best aspects of medical curricula across the nation. Using these as a starting point, a new curricular structure was developed incorporating principles selected as "best practices" in medical education (see curriculum overview, in PDF format). We implemented this new curriculum for our third year students (Phase 2) in 2000 emphasizing improved clinical skills and fourth year students (Phase 3) in 2001 organized around academic "colleges."

Next, under the direction of the Medical Education Committee, over 100 faculty members and students redesigned the curriculum for Phase 1. The new Human Biology and Disease integrated curriculum blends basic science, evidence-based medicine and clinical skills training from the first day of medical school using active learning methods. Years one and two each begin with a "foundations" block, highlighting scientific principles. A series of thematic blocks focused on groups of organ systems follows. All aspects of the medical student curriculum are designed to prepare students to accomplish a core set of graduation competencies identified by the faculty as essential in meeting the dynamic demands of modern medical practice.

The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA is affiliated with a network of federal, county, and private medical centers as well as community-based providers, allowing us to offer a wide range of education opportunities. One of our strongest assets is a diverse group of faculty members, including community-based volunteers, committed to the education of students, residents, and fellows.

Two special programs further enrich the UCLA experience. Twenty-four students begin their medical education at the University of California, Riverside, in the UCLA/UCR Biomedical Sciences Program. These students join their colleagues in UCLA for years three and four of the curriculum. The Drew University of Medicine and Science selects an additional 24 students for the medical education program based on their demonstrated commitment to serve the urban underserved. These students complete years one and two at UCLA before moving to Drew University and the King/Drew Medical Center for their core clinical clerkships and college curricula.

Students can also choose to participate in one of three dual-degree programs while completing their MD: MD-PHD, Medical Scientist Training Program, MD-MBA, or MD-MPH