The Medical Genetics course introduces basic principles of human genetics and their application to clinical medicine.  Topics include chromosome abnormalities, genetic patterns of inheritance, inborn errors of metabolism, multifactorial inheritance, population genetics, gene mapping and identification, genetic screening, cancer genetics, pharmacogenetics, gene therapy, genetic counseling, and ethical issues and decision making in medical genetics.  The course consists primarily of self-study assignments that precede interactive, classroom-based problem-solving sessions led by a faculty expert in each topic.  In-class quizzes are administered to provide students with ample formative feedback throughout the course.

Human Behavior & Psychopathology:

The Human Behavior course examines the basic science of human behavior that is relevant to the understanding of mental disorders.  A variety of educational media (lectures, videos, computer media) are used to examine human psychosocial development and the biopsychosocial underpinnings of behavior.  Course content is coordinated with small group sessions in the Academic Colleges, allowing students to practice clinical interview and examination skills, reflect on how patients and physicians react to illness, and recognize salient aspects of the physician’s professional roles.