Which Curriculum Track is Right for You?

We recognize that everyone learns in different ways, so to ensure that our DOs are successful, we offer two curriculum tracks for Pre-Clerkship: Synergistic Guided Learning (SGL) and Problem-based Learning (PBL) While both tracks provide a comprehensive study environment, they each approach them from a different perspective and learning style.

Rowan-Virtua SOM’s SGL Track has evolved into a single-pass, system-based design, where organ systems are combined into blocks that reflect a more intuitive progression of learning. While this follows a more traditional education and learning style, there is a reduced emphasis on lectures and an increased focus on self-directed and team-based learning

The PBL track follows a double-pass, systems-based model and is valued by its students and facilitators for its independent learning format. In this student-centered approach to curriculum, clinical case presentations are the stimulus for acquiring the basic science knowledge needed to understand underlying mechanisms, as well as the means of developing clinical reasoning skills.

All students follow the same curriculum path for the third and fourth years of study.

Clerkship

Your clinical experience

Your clerkship, or third and fourth years of education, is focused on clinical education. This is your time to enhance the techniques you have learned in the classroom. You will experience hands-on patient care, develop clinical technical skills, and serve as a member of a medical team. Explore more in our Clerkship section.