Academics: What It Means at HMS

What is education like at one of the world's leading medical schools?

It is extraordinarily empowering.

You will begin your learning adventure by developing a solid general foundation in medicine through an engaging, continually innovative curriculum, a problem-based investigative approach to medical diagnoses and treatment, and small, highly interactive classroom sessions. In the process, you will explore the biological and social sciences relevant to medicine, understand pathophysiology and the various mechanisms of disease, and absorb the many dimensions of the patient-doctor relationship.

Subsequently, through an array of electives offered at HMS, and clinical experiences in patient care and clerkships at one of our many affiliated institutions, you will focus your studies in the specific areas of your choice.

Throughout, you will benefit from the many opportunities that Harvard offers.

• Collaborate on research projects with medical practitioners and researchers who are the very best in their fields.
• Take a fifth year before you graduate to complete your research.
• Opt for an elective, or pursue a joint degree, at one of the other world-renowned faculties at Harvard University, or at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
• Travel to Russia to work with AIDS patients, educate homebound elders in Boston about their health care options, or participate in one of the many other service opportunities Harvard offers.

Regardless of your educational, cultural, or social background and irrespective of your individual professional goals, an HMS education will equip you to become a leader in your field.