Abstract

This policy establishes the requirement to complete coursework within specific time limits in order to graduate from the UAB Heersink School of Medicine.

Reason for Policy

This policy establishes the requirement to complete pre-clinical and clinical curriculum, as well as to pass Step 1 and Step 2 CK of the United States Medical Licensing Examinations in order to graduate. It establishes time limits for the completion of each phase of the curriculum.

Policy

All required courses in the pre-clinical curriculum must be successfully completed within four consecutive years from a student’s matriculation date to medical school. For purposes of this policy, the pre-clinical curriculum includes all required first- and second-year courses, plus a passing score on the USMLE Step 1 examination. Failure to successfully complete all coursework in the pre-clinical curriculum required for graduation within the four-year time limit will constitute sufficient grounds for dismissal from the Heersink School of Medicine.

All courses in the clinical curriculum must be successfully completed within three consecutive years from the date of a passing score on the USMLE Step 1 examination. For purposes of this policy, the clinical curriculum includes all clerkships and scholarly activity, as well as the appropriate number of acting internships, electives, and special topics courses required for graduation. It also includes a passing score on the USMLE Step 2 CK examination. Students in the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) must complete the clinical curriculum and pass Step 2 CK within three consecutive years from the date of return to medical school coursework. Failure to successfully complete all coursework in the clinical curriculum required for graduation within the three-year time limit will constitute sufficient grounds for dismissal from the Heersink School of Medicine.

All decisions regarding dismissal or extensions are subject to approval by the Student Academic Standing Committee (SASC).

History

Created: 2014
Approved: Dec. 14, 2021 by UA System Office
Revised: Jan. 1, 2022

University of Alabama at Birmingham Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine policies shall be reviewed periodically to determine whether revisions are appropriate to address the needs of the medical school community.