Scholarly Concentrations

What are Scholarly Concentrations?

Scholarly Concentrations (SC) are longitudinal programs of study that parallel the core medical curriculum and are designed to foster self-directed and experiential learning through mentorship. The SCs are optional curricular experiences that create an individualized academic experience for students to explore subjects (both medical and non-medical) in-depth beyond the conventional medical school curriculum. SCs involve an in-depth literature review and analysis of existing data in an area specifically chosen by students. In addition, SCs include a required, student-generated academic product (e.g. poster, formal presentation, written thesis, other).

Purpose and Goals: 

The purpose of Scholarly Concentrations is to allow academic enhancement, skill development, and career exploration by cultivating habits of scholarly research and inquiry. Through individualized and self-directed learning paired with engaged mentorship, students participating in SCs will develop skills related to analytic, creative, and critical thinking to excel in areas of academic medicine, community-based practice, health care policy or emerging technologies with a goal of fostering curiosity, independence, leadership, and discovery.

Scholarly Concentration Areas:

  • Basic Biomedical Research
  • Population Health (subgroups: e.g., environmental health, sickle cell, cystic fibrosis, transplant, cancers, etc.)
  • Public Health, Advocacy and Community Engagement
  • Global Health
  • Medical Education
  • Women's Health

Application and Participation Requirements