Winter 07/Spring 08 Course Descriptions

All courses below are approved to be taught in Winter 2007 and Spring 2008; however, some (or all) may not be offered in either term.  The courses that are offered in Spring link to the Schedule of Classes.  Classes with alternative delivery modes (Web based, cable TV, correspondence, etc) are noted in the Schedule at the section level.  The complete list below is a good indicator of what may be offered over the next few years (contact department about offerings).  For explanations of course elements see the Key to Course Descriptions.

Medicine - Interdepartmental (MED )  Department Info

MED 481A -- Assessing Early Stage Technologies for Commercial Potential  (2 units)
Description:  This is pre-business plan course designed to equip students to effectively evaluate and assess early stage technologies to identify potential applications and market opportunities, enabling decisions to advance research and design, and solicit early stage investment.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Special course fee required:  Students will be assessed a $20 per unit fee when registering for this course for Winter or any Summer Session.
Identical to:  ENTR 481A; ENTR is home department.
May be convened with:  MED 581A.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 499 -- Independent Study  (1-18 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 501 -- Preparation for Clinical Medicine  (12 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  formal admission to the Ph.D./M.D. program, consent of instructor.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 505 -- Social and Behavioral Science  (6 units)
Description:  This course is an interdepartmental, required course that is part of the basic science curriculum. In the same way that the traditional basic sciences serve as the background for understanding clinical medicine this course serves as the "basic science" for understanding the psychosocial and emotional aspects of clinical medicine. The student will gain knowledge and understanding of the individual as a total person, and of biological, environmental social and psychological factors that influence that person as a patient. Also explored are age-specific life events, environmental stresses, biological processes, social behaviors that contribute to normal human development and to individual sickness, community-oriented primary care, and introduction to psychiatry and psychopathology. Panel discussions, lectures, patient interviews, small group discussions, field trips, etc., are utilized in this interdisciplinary course to achieve the objectives. Some of the topics included in the course are the doctor-patient relationship, major health problems for children and adults, substance abuse, issues in human sexuality, coping with chronic illness, health care and elderly, death and dying, ethical issues in medicine and legal aspects of medical care.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  formal admission to the Ph.D./M.D. program, consent of instructor.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 506 -- Social and Behavioral Science II  (6 units)
Description:  This course is an interdepartmental, required course that is part of the basic science curriculum. In the same way that the traditional basic sciences serve as the background for understanding clinical medicine, this course serves as the "basic science" for understanding the psychosocial and emotional aspects of clinical medicine. The student will gain knowledge and understanding of the individual as a total person, and of biological, environmental, social and psychological factors that influence that person as a patient. Also explored are age-specific life events, environmental stresses, biological processes, social behaviors that contribute to normal human development and to individual sickness, community-oriented primary care, and introduction to psychiatry and psychopathology. Panel discussions, lectures, patient interviews, small group discussions, field trips, etc., are utilized in this interdisciplinary course to achieve the objectives. Some of the topics included in the course are the doctor-patient relationship, major health problems for children and adults, substance abuse, issues in human sexuality, coping with chronic illness, health care and the elderly, death and dying, ethical issues in medicine and legal aspects of medical care.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 581A -- Assessing Early Stage Technologies for Commercial Potential  (2 units)
Description:  This is pre-business plan course designed to equip students to effectively evaluate and assess early stage technologies to identify potential applications and market opportunities, enabling decisions to advance research and design, and solicit early stage investment. Graduate-level requirements include graduate students serving as team leaders.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Identical to:  ENTR 581A; ENTR is home department.
May be convened with:  MED 481A.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 596D -- Medicine and Literature: The Human Perspective  (2 units)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 596M -- Mind: Body and Behavioral Health  (2 units)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 596O -- Violent Behavior: Causes, Consequences and Solutions  (5 units)
Description:  Format: Lectures with ample time for questions and discussion. Personal observations and experiences of professionals and victims. Field trip to high crime area and juvenile court.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 596Q -- Space Biology  (1-2 units)
Description:  The development and exchange of scholarly information, usually in a small group setting. The scope of work shall consist of research by course registrants, with the exchange of the results of such research through discussion, reports, and/or papers.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 599 -- Independent Study  (1-18 units)
Description:  Qualified students working on an individual basis with professors who have agreed to supervise such work. Graduate students doing independent work which cannot be classified as actual research will register for credit under course number 599, 699, or 799.
Grading:  Alternative grades are awarded for this course: S P C D E.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 612 -- Prologue  (2 units)
Description:  The goals of the Prologue are higher order learning objectives including adoption of professional values, internalization of motivation for learning, appreciating the richness and ambiguity of medical knowledge, examining doctor-patient communication, and taking on management of personal health. Prologue is designed to explicitly demonstrate that doctoring functions at the interface of science and humanism, and that the skilled practitioner must be facile in both of these domains.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  1 hour lecture, 1 hour discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 613 -- Foundations  (10 units)
Description:  The Foundations Block teaches basic clinical skills as well as the fundamentals of human biology, mechanisms of disease, and therapeutics in a context that fosters development of skills in evidence-based decision making, self-directed learning, communication, and professionalism. The block is designed to provide the student with the background knowledge required for subsequent blocks.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 6 hours lecture, 3 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 614 -- Musculoskeletal System  (5 units)
Description:  The Musculoskeletal System Block covers the structures of the limbs and spine with a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the fundamental tissues of bone, joint, muscle, and skin. The goals are to enable students to learn how the normal and abnormal mechanisms of development and disease of these structures are relevant to orthopedics, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and traumatic injury. In this manner, students will be introduced to common diseases of bone and muscle which may include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain, muscle enzyme mutations, and muscular dystrophy. Related health issues such as living with disability or pain, and chronic care, paternalism of health providers, and age & gender differences in bone fractures will be addressed.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  4 hours lecture, 1 hour discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 617 -- Nervous System  (9 units)
Description:  The Nervous System Block is a comprehensive overview of general principles in neuroscience, neuropathology, neurology, and psychiatry. The overarching goals are to introduce students to basics of the structure and function of the human nervous system while integrating gross anatomy of the head and neck, related histology and pathology, clinical applications in neurology, and relevant psychiatry and psychopathology.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  1 hour laboratory, 4 hours lecture, 4 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 618 -- Cardiovascular, Pulmonary, Renal Systems  (12 units)
Description:  Cardiovascular, Pulmonary, and Renal Systems is a 12-week block designed to provide students with an in-depth study of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, renal, and urinary systems through lessons that integrate cell metabolism, endocrinology, normal and pathologic anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, pathophysiology, histology and the physical examination, diagnostic testing and imaging.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  11 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 620 -- Digestion, Metabolism, & Hormones  (14 units)
Description:  The Digestion, Metabolism, & Hormones block provides a comprehensive overview of digestion of foodstuffs and nutrition, the metabolism of nutrients in liver, the role of adipose tissue in fat storage, and the endocrine system. The goal of the block is to provide a platform for learning how digestion, metabolism and nutrition are biochemically and physiologically integrated, to examine disease states associated with certain malfunctions in these systems, and to become familiar with forms of treatment of such diseases. The endocrine system is presented within the context of its roles in nutrient processing and responses to stimuli related to body requirements such as fuel mobilization, stress and development. Consequences of pathological conditions within the endocrine system are considered. Anatomy and cell biology are used to gain an understanding of function of the relevant tissue and cells.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  13 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 621 -- Life Cycle  (9 units)
Description:  The Life Cycle Block teaches:1) The biology and medicine of human reproduction and sexuality, and 2) Normal and abnormal development throughout the life cycle. Life Cycle will move from reproductive anatomy, histology and physiology through the life span from conception to pregnancy, birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, aging and end-of-life. Life Cycle also will introduce the cancers of the male and female organs of reproduction.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Graduate Students Only.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 622 -- Immunity and Infection  (9 units)
Description:  The Immunity and Infection block provides the student with a foundation of basic scientific principles in immunology and microbiology in order to interpret clinical problems. The disciplines involved in this block include immunology, microbiology (virology, bacteriology, mycology and parasitology), pathology, infectious disease, pharmacology, humanism, global & public health issues, and Bioterrorism.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Graduate Students Only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 623 -- Cancer Block  (4 units)
Description:  The goal of this integrated cancer block is to prepare the student for the oncological clinical encounter. At the end of the cancer block, the learner will have acquired foundational knowledge in cancer epidemiology, prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and palliation as well as knowledge-based skills critical to the patient-physician relationship, such as cancer risk history taking, risk modification counseling and cancer screening education. The student will have gained the multidisciplinary tools necessary to approach patient care across the cancer continuum.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Graudate Students Only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 624 -- Advanced Topics  (4 units)
Description:  The Advanced Topics Block addresses complex and multi-organ system disease processes, with an emphasis on the integration of basic science principles with clinical practice through the study of cases. Students develop “best practice” algorithmic approaches to diagnosis and treatment and incorporate the use of ancillary diagnostic methods/ procedures to monitor and manage patient outcomes. Special attention is given to evolving laboratory diagnostic approaches that use telemedicine. Course instruction promotes an understanding of how advances in the basic sciences inform future medical practice.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  Graduate Students Only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 625 -- Human Neuroscience  (6 units)
Description:  Functional and morphological organization of the human central nervous system.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Prerequisite(s):  consent of instructor.
Identical to:  NRSC 625, CBA 625, PCOL 625, PSIO 625.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 626A -- The Doctor and Patient: Integrating the Art and Science of Medicine  (10 units)
Description:  The goals of the course are to provide longitudinal mentoring to medical students with an emphasis on broad-based competency in clinical skills (physical exam, medical interview and medical professionalism) along with the integration of these clinical skills with basic science principles. Additionally, the development of clinical thinking and communication skills is stressed.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 626B -- The Doctor and Patient: Integrating the Art and Science of Medicine  (10 units)
Description:  The goals of the course are to provide longitudinal mentoring to medical students with an emphasis on broad-based competency in clinical skills (physical exam, medical interview and medical professionalism) along with the integration of these clinical skills with basic science principles. Additionally, the development of clinical thinking and communication skills is stressed.
Grading:  Regular grades are awarded for this course: A B C D E.
Typical structure:  8 hours individual studies, 2 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 696W -- Introduction to the History of Medicine  (2 units)
Description:  Goals: The objectives of this elective are to introduce the participants to the medical theories and practices that preceded current medicine, and to acquaint them with some events that were crucial to the emergence of contemporary concepts of medicine.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Typical structure:  1 hour seminar, 1 hour discussion.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 696Y -- Cultural Competence in Health Care  (1-3 units)
Description:  This elective will provide the student an opportunity to acquire a basic foundation in geriatric medicine that includes: improving the student's knowledge of normal and abnormal aging; managing both acute and chronic problems; dealing with ethical dilemmas.
Grading:  Regular or alternative grades can be awarded for this course: A B C D E or S P C D E.
Usually offered:  Spring.

For descriptions of medical student electives, see the College of Medicine Electives Manual.

MED 800A -- Research  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: To enhance research awareness, skills and productivity in a continuum during medical school; to encourage students to value being at the forefront of medicine by becoming scientific physicians, as well as to help fill the gap in the decreasing numbers of translational physician-scientists; to design and implement a research proposal extensive and complete enough to allow the student to pursue a research topic from beginning to completion; to critically review journal articles and give medical students the opportunity to network and present their research; to demonstrate competence in the scientific method.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  prior approval of MSRC.
Identical to:  SURG 800A.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 800B -- Research  (1-16 units)
Description:  This elective is to accommodate students pursuing research interests in fields traditionally not medically oriented.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
May be repeated:  for a total of 32 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 801 -- Preparation for Clinical Medicine  (12 units)
Description:  The clinical companion course to the basic sciences beginning first week of medical school and continuing until the beginning of the first clinical rotation. The overall objective is to provide students with skills, behavioral traits, attitudes and knowledge necessary to enter clinical clerkships. PCM is divided into three main course segments: 1. Patient evaluation, including physical examination, clinical interviewing, specialty examinations and write-ups. During these segments students interact with patient instructors and also spend three semesters interviewing, specialty examinations and write-ups. During these segments students interact with patient instructors and also spend three semesters interacting with a physician-preceptor. (LCC- longitudinal Clinical Curriculum): 2. Clinical correlation's (clinical problem solving) with basic science courses; and 3. Free-standing course segments including cpr, and patient care skills workshop. At the completion of PCM, students will have achieved a prescribed level of skill in data collection, definition of clinical problems, and a logical approach to differential diagnosis. No grade is given until the full 12 units are completed. At the beginning of year IV, PCM administers the OSCE, a clinical competency exam required for graduation.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  consent of instructor.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 802 -- Integrated Problem-Based Learning  (1 unit)
Description:  Problem-based learning is a strategy to provide a stimulus for learning by confronting students with problems from clinical practice. Integrated Problem-Based Learning ( IPBL) integrates concepts from the three basic science courses taught in the second semester of year 1 (Biochemistry, Physiology, and Medical and Molecular Genetics). The overall objectives of Integrated Problem-Based Learning (IPBL) at the U of A are to introduce the student in a practical setting to the thought processes required for solving clinical problems. Specifically, we propose (1) to promote active learning (2) to encourage students to think creatively about medical problems (3) to integrate learning across the basic science curriculum.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  medical students only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 805 -- Social and Behavioral Science  (6 units)
Description:  This course is an interdepartmental, required course that is part of the basic science curriculum. In the same way that the traditional basic sciences serve as the background for understanding clinical medicine, this course serves as the "basic science" for understanding the psychosocial and emotional aspects of clinical medicine. The student will gain knowledge and understanding of the individual as a total person, and of biological, environmental, social and psychological factors that influence that person as a patient. Also explored are age-specific life events, environmental stresses, biological processes, social behaviors that contribute to normal human development and to individual sickness, community-oriented primary care, and introduction to psychiatry and psychopathology, panel discussions, lectures, patient interviews, small group discussions field trips, etc. are utilized in the interdisciplinary course to achieve the objectives. Some of the topics included in the course are the doctor-patient relationship, major health problems for children and adultsm substance abuse, issues in human sexuality, coping with chronic illness, health care and the elderly, death and dying, ethical issues in medicine and legal aspects of medical care.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  consent of instructor.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 806 -- Social and Behavioral Sciences II  (6 units)
Description:  This course is part II of the Social and Behavioral Sciences course in the basic science curriculum. In the same way that the traditional basic sciences serve as the background for understanding clinical medicine, understanding clinical medicine, this course serves as the "basic science" for understanding the psychosocial and emotional aspects of clinical medicine.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  medical students only.
Typical structure:  4 hours lecture, 2 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 810 -- Website Development & Research: A Nutrition-Based Model  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: Upon completion of this elective, the student will be able to create and coordinate a medically based website from ground-up (no programming required), search and distill medical information and learn the most cost-effective and efficient methods to communicate this information to a targeted audience (e.g., patients, colleagues, media). In the process, students will learn about the use of supplements for disease treatment and prevention as well as the steps and controversies involved in manufacturing dietary supplements, including the various levels of GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), methods for certification and quality control procedures, along with principles of independent, post-manufacture, quality assurance testing. Students may also self-select to participate in weekly clinical activities.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  basic computer skills and full-time access to Mac or PC.
Typical structure:  3 hours discussion, 13 hours lecture.
May be repeated:  for a total of 16 units of credit.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 812 -- Prologue  (2 units)
Description:  The goals of the Prologue are higher order learning objectives including adoption of professional values, internalization of motivation for learning, appreciating the richness and ambiguity of medical knowledge, examining doctor-patient communication, and taking on management of personal health. Prologue is designed to explicitly demonstrate that doctoring functions at the interface of science and humanism, and that the skilled practitioner must be facile in both of these domains.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical Students Only.
Typical structure:  1 hour lecture, 1 hour discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 813 -- Foundations  (10 units)
Description:  The Foundations Block teaches basic clinical skills as well as the fundamentals of human biology, mechanisms of disease, and therapeutics in a context that fosters development of skills in evidence-based decision making, self-directed learning, communication, and professionalism. The block is designed to provide the student with the background knowledge required for subsequent blocks.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical Students Only.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 6 hours lecture, 3 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 814 -- Musculoskeletal System  (5 units)
Description:  The Musculoskeletal System Block covers the structures of the limbs and spine with a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the fundamental tissues of bone, joint, muscle, and skin. The goals are to enable students to learn how the normal and abnormal mechanisms of development and disease of these structures are relevant to orthopedics, sports medicine, rehabilitation, and traumatic injury. In this manner, students will be introduced to common diseases of bone and muscle which may include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, back pain, muscle enzyme mutations, and muscular dystrophy. Related health issues such as living with disability or pain, and chronic care, paternalism of health providers, and age & gender differences in bone fractures will be addressed.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical Students Only.
Typical structure:  4 hours lecture, 1 hour discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 815A -- Issues in Women's Health  (1-16 units)
Description:  Subspecialty in women's health issues.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 817 -- Nervous System  (9 units)
Description:  The Nervous System Block is a comprehensive overview of general principles in neuroscience, neuropathology, neurology, and psychiatry. The overarching goals are to introduce students to basics of the structure and function of the human nervous system while integrating gross anatomy of the head and neck, related histology and pathology, clinical applications in neurology, and relevant psychiatry and psychopathology.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical Students Only.
Typical structure:  1 hour laboratory, 4 hours lecture, 4 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 818 -- Cardiovascular, Pulmonary, Renal Systems  (12 units)
Description:  Cardiovascular, Pulmonary, and Renal Systems is a 12-week block designed to provide students with an in-depth study of the cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, renal, and urinary systems through lessons that integrate cell metabolism, endocrinology, normal and pathologic anatomy, pharmacology, physiology, pathophysiology, histology and the physical examination, diagnostic testing and imaging.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical students only.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 11 hours lecture.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 820 -- The Digestion, Metabolism, & Hormones  (14 units)
Description:  The Digestion, Metabolism, & Hormones block provides a comprehensive overview of digestion of foodstuffs and nutrition, the metabolism of nutrients in liver, the role of adipose tissue in fat storage, and the endocrine system. The goal of the block is to provide a platform for learning how digestion, metabolism and nutrition are biochemically and physiologically integrated, to examine disease states associated with certain malfunctions in these systems, and to become familiar with forms of treatment of such diseases. The endocrine system is presented within the context of its roles in nutrient processing and responses to stimuli related to body requirements such as fuel mobilization, stress and development. Consequences of pathological conditions within the endocrine system are considered. Anatomy and cell biology are used to gain an understanding of function of the relevant tissue and cells.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  College of Medicine approval.
Typical structure:  3 hours laboratory, 13 hours lecture.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 821 -- Life Cycle  (9 units)
Description:  The Life Cycle Block teaches: 1) The biology and medicine of human reproduction and sexuality, and 2) Normal and abnormal development throughout the life cycle. Life Cycle will move from reproductive anatomy, histology and physiology through the life span from conception to pregnancy, birth, infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, aging and end-of-life. Life Cycle also will introduce the cancers of the male and female organs of reproduction.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  2nd year Medical Students only.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 822 -- Immunity and Infection  (9 units)
Description:  The Immunity and Infection block provides the student with a foundation of basic scientific principles in immunology and microbiology in order to interpret clinical problems. The disciplines involved in this block include immunology, microbiology (virology, bacteriology, mycology and parasitology), pathology, infectious disease, pharmacology, humanism, global & public health issues, and Bioterrorism.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  2nd year Medical Students only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 823 -- Cancer Block  (4 units)
Description:  The goal of this integrated cancer block is to prepare the student for the oncological clinical encounter. At the end of the cancer block, the learner will have acquired foundational knowledge in cancer epidemiology, prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and palliation as well as knowledge-based skills critical to the patient-physician relationship, such as cancer risk history taking, risk modification counseling and cancer screening education. The student will have gained the multidisciplinary tools necessary to approach patient care across the cancer continuum.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  2nd year Medical Students only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 824 -- Advanced Topics  (4 units)
Description:  The Advanced Topics Block addresses complex and multi-organ system disease processes, with an emphasis on the integration of basic science principles with clinical practice through the study of cases. Students develop “best practice” algorithmic approaches to diagnosis and treatment and incorporate the use of ancillary diagnostic methods/ procedures to monitor and manage patient outcomes. Special attention is given to evolving laboratory diagnostic approaches that use telemedicine. Course instruction promotes an understanding of how advances in the basic sciences inform future medical practice.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical Students Only.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 825 -- Human Neuroscience  (6 units)
Description:  Functional and morphological organization of the human central nervous system.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  consent of instructor.
Identical to:  NEUR 825, CBA 825, PHCL 825, PSIO 825.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 826A -- The Doctor and Patient: Integrating the Art and Science of Medicine  (10 units)
Description:  The goals of the course are to provide longitudinal mentoring to medical students with an emphasis on broad-based competency in clinical skills (physical exam, medical interview and medical professionalism) along with the integration of these clinical skills with basic science principles. Additionally, the development of clinical thinking and communication skills is stressed.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Medical Students Only.
Typical structure:  8 hours individual studies, 2 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall.

MED 830 -- Supplementary Registration  (1-9 units)
Description:  Provides credit to medical students doing extended research for which they will gain no credit towards their M.D. Degree while allowing medical students to participate in the benefits of being an enrolled student.
Grading:  Grade of K is awarded for this course except for the final term.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 870 -- Issues and Trends in Public Health  (1-16 units)
Description:  An overview of issues and trends in public heath with an emphasis on problem solving strategies in the health care setting. Major areas of public health will be reviewed with a view towards organization, policy making, historical and contemporary issues and trends. Methods: Lecture, class discussion, small group discussion.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Consent of instructor.
Typical structure:  8 hours lecture, 8 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 891A -- Optimal Aging Program  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: The Optimal Aging Program seeks to provide experiences for students with older adults who are well and vital. Through this Program, it is intended that students will: expand their concepts of aging to include the increasing reality of healthy, vigorous older adults; understand how to reverse risk factors associated with premature aging; and understand the role of exercise, nutrition, spirituality, and positive mental attitude in the maintenance of health and well being.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  medical students only.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 891B -- Practicum in Clinical Interview and Problem-Solving  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: At the conclusion of this elective students will have further developed their skills in diagnostic clinical interviewing, with special emphasis on clinical problem-solving including the concept of disease, the diagnostic process, illness and symptom analysis, and translating illness into disease.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 891I -- Rural Health Professions Preceptorship  (1-16 units)
Description:  This course is designed to provide medical students with quality educational experiences in selected rural settings.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  open to medical students formally admitted to the Rural Health Professions Program.
May be repeated:  for credit 2 times (maximum 3 enrollments).
Identical to:  MEDI 891I, PED 891I, OB G 891I, SURG 891I.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 891M -- Clinical Age Management  (3-4 units)
Description:  The Kronos Clinic provides a full-spectrum, personalized, disease prevention and optimal health program for its patients. Students will observe the physicians obtain a comprehensive history and physical on each patient. Students will learn how to interpret detailed laboratory reports based on "optimal range levels". The Kronos Science Laboratory measures cardiovascular risk and protection factors, oxidative stress and protections factors, sex hormones, adrenal hormones, insulin, IGF-1, thyroid hormones, trace metals, CBC and Chem 24 panels. Students will learn how to interpret 15 lead ECG exercise treadmill stress tests, VO2 max, DEXA scans, Pulmonary Function Tests, and basic metabolic rates. Students will spend time with a nutritionist learning about optimal nutrition with caloric restriction (ONCR). They will work with an exercise physiologist learning how to do an exercise treadmill test and planning an appropriate individualized exercise prescription. Students will then aid the physician to customize a program for each patient based on their results. This will include dietary recommendations, vitamin and mineral supplements, an exercise prescription, natural hormones if needed, and other lifestyle changes as needed
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Identical to:  F CM 891M.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 891P -- Skills for Teaching Physical Exam  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: This course is designed to provide fourth-year medical students with teaching skills, particularly in the area of teaching physical exam by: providing an overview of professional teaching; integrating knowledge of physical exam skills with an understanding of teaching methods and small group management; providing an practical experiences in student teaching.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  4th-year medical students only.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 896A -- Mind-Body Medicine Skills Group Program  (1-16 units)
Description:  To teach medical students how to incorporate mind-body skills into their professional and personal practices, and to increase their life/professional satisfaction through the use of these skills.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Completion of Third year Clerkships.
Typical structure:  8 hours seminar, 8 hours lecture.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 896B -- Physical and Biological Basis of Nuclear Medicine  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896C -- Prenatal and Infant Nutrition Education  (1-16 units)
Description:  Students will have a better understanding of the nutritional issues that concern physicians and patients that are pregnant and post-partum women, and mothers of newborn infants. The focus of the course will be on nutrition during pregnancy, post-partum weight loss and infant feeding.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896D -- Medicine and Literature: The Human Perspective  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896E -- Managed Care Medicine  (1-16 units)
Description:  Objectives/Goals: To understand 1- the relevance of the different types of "third party" health care insurance payment methodologies, including Medicare and Medicaid, to sound clinical practices, and the role of government (the courts, legislatures, and regulating agencies) in mandating benefits, as a reflection of public policy, and as a regulator; 2 - the operational tools employed in managed care environments in managing health care outcomes and utilization; 3 - the legal duties, rights and remedies for physicians, patients and managed care organizations relative to practice in that environment; and 4 - the underlying ethical principles inherent in medical practice in general and managed care medicine in particular.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 896F -- Video Slam: Patients as Teachers Video Project  (1-15 units)
Description:  By working in teams to develop a videotaped project, students will critically examine the life of a chronically ill patient, including inquiring into such issues as: adherence with medical regimens, the impact of their chronic illness on daily function, and the effect of the chronic illness on the patient's personal and professional relationships. Through their participation, students will develop an awareness of the psychosocial/economic effects of living with a chronic illness and will learn how these effects influence the patients’ health status and management, including the impediments to optimal function that are faced by patients with chronic illness, and how patients navigate the health and social service systems.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Completion of First year of Medical School.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896G -- Government and Health Care Delivery  (1-16 units)
Description:  The overall goal of this elective is to assist students in gaining a better understanding of the two major government-sponsored health care programs - Medicare and Medicaid - with emphasis on how these programs are administered in Arizona. The specific objectives include: gaining a historical perspective, definitions, societal and industry forces, and key elements that have influenced the evolution of these government programs; understanding Medicaid managed care with respect to populations served, barriers to care for certain groups, government oversight and quality of care measurements; increasing understanding of such initiatives as QISMC, HEDIS, and NCQA; direct observation of how healthcare policy is developed by interviewing senior leaders in Arizona's Medicaid program, and learning what a "Medical Director" does. (AHCCCS - Arizona health Care Cost Containment System - Arizona's Medicaid program agency; QISMC - Quality Improvement System for Managed Care - a mandatory program for Medicare managed care plans; HEDIS - Health Employers Data Information Set - a quality report card process for health plans; NCQA - National Committee for Quality Assurance - an accreditation organization for health plans)
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896H -- Gene Therapy for Vascular Disease  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  3rd and 4th-year medical school.
Identical to:  SURG 896H.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896I -- Fourth Year Study of Social and Behavioral Sciences  (1-16 units)
Description:  The purpose of this elective is to further develop students' understanding of the psychosocial and emotional aspects of clinical medicine. Building on students' clinical experiences, knowledge and understanding of the individual patient as a total person will be explored. Topics for consideration will be of biological, environmental, social and psychological factors that influence a person as a patient. Also to be explored will be age-specific life events, cultural influences, environmental stresses, biological processes, and social behaviors that contribute to normal human development and to individual sickness.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  13 hours seminar, 1 hour individual studies, 2 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896J -- Frontiers in Medical Research  (1 unit)
Description:  Current translational medical research presented in a seminar format by a variety of faculty research teams consisting of a clinical physician scientist and a basic scientist. Current research, relevant issues, historical perspectives and personal experience will be presented and discussed.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
May be repeated:  for credit 8 times (maximum 9 enrollments).
Identical to:  CBIO 896J; CBIO is home department.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896L -- Professionalism in Medicine  (1-16 units)
Description:  Participants will gain a better understanding of the different personal and professional roles they will have as physicians and the duties inherent in those roles. They will have knowledge of the definition of the word “profession”, the history of the development and present status of the medicine profession, and the attitudes and behavior patterns characteristic of professionalism. Participants will be also be able to identify both positive and negative attitudes and behavior patterns in themselves, colleagues, and role models.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  8 hours seminar, 8 hours discussion.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896M -- Mind: Body and Behavioral Health  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
May be repeated:  for credit 1 time (maximum 2 enrollments).
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896N -- Introduction to Narrative Medicine  (1-16 units)
Description:  The use of literary skills to enhance professional development. Opportunity for students to write and critique creative work in a critical, yet nonthreatening environment. Instruction given on craft, writing technique, and reading analysis. The works of several physicians writers (Abraham Verghese, Oliver Sachs, Atul Gawande, Danielle Ofri, Richard Seltzer and others) will be read and discussed. Student writings (essays and journals) will also be read and discussed. Opportunity to write for publication.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  Completion of the Introduction to Narrative Medicine Enrichment Elective.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring, Summer.

MED 896O -- Violent Behavior: Causes, Consequences and Solutions  (1-16 units)
Description:  Lectures with ample time for questions and discussion. Personal observations and experiences of professionals and victims. Field trip to high crime area and juvenile court.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Course includes 1 or more field trips.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896P -- Survey of Chinese Medicine  (3 units)
Description:  Goals: Upon successful completion of this elective, students will: be familiar with the terminology and theory used by practitioners of Chinese medicine; have gained a deeper understanding of patient's reasons for pursuing this form of intervention; understand the specific qualifications required for practitioners of Chinese medicine; be able to explain the different schools of thought in Chinese medicine taught in the US; have learned about the safety and efficacy of Chinese medicine; have gained a technical and experiential introduction to Acupuncture; understand the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbal formulation and the common Tonic herbs.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896Q -- Space Biology  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896R -- Keeping Your Gluteus Maximus Out of The Courthousimus, or Legal Issues Affecting  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: To familiarize the physician-in-training with legal issues that affect his/her medical practice, without making him or her either a specialist or a cynic. Some of the topic areas that would be covered include, but (as lawyers say. . .) are not necessarily limited to: 1 - Confidentiality of medical information and medical records: children's medical records; patients' rights to access their own medical information, including mentally ill patients; disclosure of information in these records to third parties; difference between confidentiality and privilege, including how privileges can be waived or lost; 2 - Dealing with employment-related issues, including identifying and describing disabilities for individuals seeking accommodations under the ADA; FMLA and worker's compensation issues; 3 - Dealing with the mentally ill and duties that arise from that relationship (e.g., duty to warn third parties of dangerous mentally ill patients' threats or propensities); 4 - The Medical Practice Act, including obligations as a physician and duty to report impaired physicians or physicians who engage in unprofessional or unsafe conduct; scope of BOMEX authority; impaired physicians and responsibility as a physician; 5 - Dealing with attorneys and the court system, including testifying (how to answer questions; preparing for a deposition or courtroom experience; dealing with your own counsel, as well as opposing counsel); 6 - What can be included in reference letters; giving and getting references and seeking information about other physicians or personnel when hiring; sticky issues involving your own employees.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  1 hour discussion, 15 hours seminar.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896S -- Salt, Water and Kidney Disorders  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896T -- Medical Spanish - Intermediate and Advanced Levels  (1-16 units)
Description:  The goal of this elective is to help students develop medical Spanish vocabulary and skills to effectively communicate with Spanish speaking patients. At the conclusion of this elective students will be able to effectively interview patients whose primary language is Spanish.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  minimum of 2 years of Spanish, preferably at the College level. All students must participate in a pre-placement test/interview with course instructors to assess skill level. First year Medical Students Only.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896U -- Cardiovascular Pathophysiology  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Prerequisite(s):  3rd and 4th-year medical students only.
Identical to:  SURG 896U, PSIO 896U, MEDI 896U.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.

MED 896V -- Pain Management - An Interdisciplinary Approach  (3 units)
Description:  Goals: This interdisciplinary course will prepare students (nursing, pharmacy, medicine) to assess, plan for, apply appropriate strategies and evaluate outcomes for patients experiencing acute or chronic pain in a variety of settings. The course will focus on current theories and concepts related to pain management. Upon successful completion of this elective, the student will be able to: describe pathophysiological, psychological, social and spiritual responses to pain; utilize and discuss common assessment tools, developed and tested to examine perceived pain, and evaluate their usefulness and applicability across a variety of practice settings; identify pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions to manage pain; determine the appropriateness and utility of interventions in terms of patient outcomes; describe pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of commonly used pharmacological therapies of pain including synergism; evaluate specific pain management techniques in relation to established theories and current research; identify teaching strategies for patients and family members; discuss ethical and legal issues related to pain and pain management; demonstrate effective collaboration as a member of an interdisciplinary team in the management of pain.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  2 hours discussion, 1 hour seminar.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896W -- Introduction to the History of Medicine  (1-16 units)
Description:  Goals: The objectives of this elective are to introduce the participants to the medical theories and practices that preceded current medicine, and to acquaint them with some events that were crucial to the emergence of contemporary concepts of medicine.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  1 hour discussion, 1 hour seminar.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896Y -- Cultural Competence in Health Care  (1-3 units)
Description:  Goals: This elective will provide the student an opportunity to acquire a basic foundation in geriatric medicine that includes: improving the student's knowledge of normal and abnormal aging; managing both acute and chronic problems; dealing with ethical dilemmas.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  1 hour discussion, 2 hours seminar.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 896Z -- Medicine in a Media Culture  (1 unit)
Description:  Goals: Upon successful completion of this elective, students will be able to: demonstrate an understanding of research that has been done on media, including advertising and how the messages and images media present correlate with various health attitudes and behaviors demonstrate basic media education skills including assessing their own media habits and influences utilize a media history form to correlate the patient's media habits with assessed behavioral, attitudinal and health potential problems areas plan for incorporating media education into the practice setting.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
Typical structure:  1 hour discussion, 1 hour seminar.
Usually offered:  Spring.

MED 899 -- Independent Study  (1-16 units)
Description:  contact department.
Grading:  Medical grades are awarded for this course: S P F K.
May be repeated:  an unlimited number of times, consult your department for details and possible restrictions.
Usually offered:  Fall, Spring.