Program Overview

The RGUST SOM MD program is a 4 ½ year curriculum designed to prepare students to become competent, compassionate, and globally minded physicians. The program integrates basic sciences, clinical sciences, and professional development to ensure graduates are well-prepared for medical practice in Guyana and internationally.

• Duration: 4 ½ years (2 ½ years pre-clinical + 2 years Clinical Clerkship)
• Outcome: MD degree, eligibility for postgraduate training and licensure examinations globally
• Philosophy: Hands-on, patient-centered education with emphasis on global health perspectives

Curriculum Structure

Phase I – Basic Sciences (Pre-Clinical)

Duration: 2 ½ years (5 semesters)

Location: RGUST SOM Campus, Guyana

Purpose: Establish a strong foundation in the medical sciences, clinical reasoning, and professional ethics.

Core Components:

• Foundational Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Histology, Embryology
• Pathophysiology & Disease Mechanisms: Pathology, Microbiology, Immunology, Pharmacology
• Behavioral & Social Sciences: Psychology, Medical Ethics, Global Health Perspectives
• Early Clinical Exposure: Patient interviews, physical examination skills, simulation labs
• Integrated Learning: Problem-based learning (PBL), case discussions, small group tutorials

Assessment:

• Written exams (MCQs, short answers)
• Practical exams (OSPE – Objective Structured Practical Examination)
• Early clinical skills evaluation

Phase II – Clinical Clerkships

Duration: 2 years (8 semesters)

Location: Affiliated hospitals and clinics in Guyana and international partner institutions

Purpose: Transition from theoretical knowledge to direct patient care, under supervision of qualified faculty.

Core Rotations (Mandatory):

• Internal Medicine – 12 weeks
• Surgery – 12 weeks
• Pediatrics – 8 weeks
• Obstetrics & Gynecology – 8 weeks
• Psychiatry – 6 weeks
• Family Medicine / Primary Care – 6 weeks

Elective Rotations (Optional):

• Emergency Medicine (Compulsory)
• Radiology
• Dermatology
• Infectious Disease, etc.

Assessment:

• Clinical evaluations (direct observation, case presentations)
• OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)

Program Highlights

• Hands-On Training: Early patient contact, simulation labs, and supervised clinical practice.
• Global Health Focus: Curriculum integrates international health challenges, preparing students for diverse healthcare environments.
• Qualified Faculty: Experienced educators and clinicians committed to student success.
• Research Opportunities: Students encouraged to participate in clinical and community-based research projects.
• Professional Development: Emphasis on ethics, communication, teamwork, and leadership.

Student Guidance & Support

• Mentorship: A Student is given mentorship for academic and career guidance upon request.
• Academic Support: Tutorials, remediation programs, and exam preparation workshops.
• Career Preparation: Guidance for postgraduate training, residency applications, and licensure exams (USMLE, PLAB, MCCQE, etc.).
• Wellness & Safety: Policies to safeguard student welfare, including duty hour limits, counseling services, and reporting mechanisms.