Discover personalized medical education
University quick view
95
%
Pass rate on USMLE Step 2 CK
3
Annual enrollment terms: January, May, and September
Based on scores from the first quarter of 2023
20 96 +
Teaching hospital affiliations in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico
90
%
Astoundingly high retention rate
%
of first-time applicants obtained residencies in 2023
umhs.org/md
Affordable tuition and comprehensive financial aid program and scholarships for qualified students
Discover UMHS WELCOME Our mission, Our vision, Our approach . . .......... 1 President’s message .................................... 2 Our founder ................................................. 4
ABOUT UMHS ..................................... 6 Credentials and licenses . . ............................. 7 Instructional site locations .. .......................... 9 St. Kitts facilities .. ........................................ 11 Noteworthy services ....................................12 St. Kitts campus visits ..................................12
ACADEMICS ...................................... 14 Curriculum ..................................................15 Accelerated Review Program . . ...................... 23 Residency Match Results 2023 . . ................... 24 Alumni success . . ......................................... 28
FACULTY ............................................ 32 Executive office .......................................... 34 St. Kitts administration . . .............................. 35 St. Kitts faculty ........................................... 38 Clinical administration .. ............................... 43 Portland, Maine administration and faculty . . ... 45 Research . . .................................................. 47
STUDENT LIFE . . ............................... 48 Student body .............................................. 49 Student groups ........................................... 49 Campus events ........................................... 50 Sports and recreation . . .................................51 Support services .. ....................................... 53
LIVING IN ST. KITTS ...................... 54 About St. Kitts .. ........................................... 55 Getting to campus . . ..................................... 56 Housing .. .................................................... 56 Explore the sites around town ...................... 56 Getting around .. .......................................... 59 Family and pets .. ......................................... 59
ADMISSIONS .. .................................. 60 Admissions overview ....................................61 Admissions process .................................... 64 Tuition and fees . . ......................................... 65 Financial aid ............................................... 66 Student loans ............................................. 66 Scholarships .............................................. 68 Administrative contact information .. ............. 70 Next steps .................................................. 72
Compassion. Integrity. Excellence. Dreams Realized. UMHS. Our mission
Our vision
Our approach
The University of Medicine and
Our vision is to continue to be
Our approach to medical education
Health Sciences is committed
a vanguard among alternative
is unique. We combine top-quality
to educating uniquely skilled and
medical schools. We provide a safe,
faculty, primarily from the U.S. and
diverse medical professionals
modern environment conducive
Canada, with a personalized approach
eager to meet the need for
to helping promising medical
to educating students.
physicians in various settings
students achieve their dreams of
throughout the United States
becoming doctors—who not only
We offer leading-edge facilities to give
and the world. With a focus on
become professionals, but lead their
quality patient care, and utilizing the
professions through excellence.
latest in advanced technological instruction and personalized education, our aim is to produce
our students the best training, yielding doctors who perform well on the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and earn highly sought-after residences in the U.S. and Canada.
genuinely passionate physicians who are highly prepared for practice in a changing medical landscape.
Welcome
1
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the University of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dear Prospective Student, At UMHS, we are dedicated to providing you the best education
preceptors who mentor and fully prepare them to seamlessly
possible. Our state-of-the-art medical school is for students
transition into the clinical program. Once students have
who deserve and demand a quality education in a small school
successfully completed the fifth semester and passed USMLE
environment. Our faculty are highly credentialed and recruited
Step 1, they then enter the Clinical Science Program. UMHS
primarily from the United States. They love to teach and are fully
is currently affiliated with over 20 teaching hospitals located
committed to your success.
throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
UMHS is fully accredited by the Accreditation Commission on
Graduates of UMHS qualify for residency placement both in
Colleges of Medicine (ACCM). This international accrediting body
the United States and Canada. Our graduates obtain premier
has adopted U.S. standards of accreditation and is recognized
residencies in virtually every specialty. In fact, over 90% of first-
by the National Committee on Foreign Medical Education and
time applicants obtained residencies in 2023. The hospital
Accreditation (NCFMEA) under the U.S. Department of Education.
list is very impressive and is an indication of the quality of our
The Committee has determined that ACCM standards of
graduates. (Please visit umhs.org/match for a comprehensive
accreditation, both as written and applied, are comparable to
listing of our residency placements dating back to 2016.)
the standards of accreditation in the United States. We also have
Over the last 10 years, we have invested more than
multiple state approvals providing our students with additional clinical and residency opportunities.
medical schools in the Caribbean. Our modern campus is
The Basic Science Program, consisting of semesters 1–4, is
comparable to, or better than, those of most U.S. medical
located at our modern campus on the beautiful Caribbean island
schools. I urge you to visit our website and video page to view
of St. Kitts. Our traditional medical school curriculum compares
our amazing facilities.
with most U.S. medical schools. Shelf examinations, created
UMHS has affiliated with Kaplan Medical and AMBOSS, which
by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME), have been incorporated into both the Basic and Clinical Science Programs. Shelf examinations are similar in style and format to the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and ultimately help prepare students for USMLE Steps 1 and 2. The NBME provides each student with a detailed analysis of each exam and information about how they compare to U.S. medical students.
are the premier USMLE Review Programs in the United States. All students have full access to their review materials beginning in the first semester. Outcomes and performance on USMLE are critically important, and we believe in providing our students with the best resources available to ensure their success on USMLE Step 1 and 2 CK. During the fifth semester in Maine, students are offered a 15-week live review program through Kaplan Medical.
Pre-clinical exposure begins in the first semester and
We have integrated material from ICM to ensure that the review
continues throughout the Basic Science Program. While in St.
program includes clinically relevant material which ultimately
Kitts, students have access to a variety of clinical settings,
prepares them for Step 1. We may be the only foreign medical
including the local hospital and our 24-bed virtual hospital/
school that provides these resources to students beginning in
skills lab, located on campus.
their first semester. In terms of performance, we are proud to
The fifth semester, which includes a clinical correlations
announce that our students had a 95% pass rate on the Step 2
and board review component, is held at our Portland, Maine, campus. During the fifth semester, students have the opportunity to work one-on-one with more than 30 M.D.
2
$100 million to develop one of the most state-of-the-art
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
CK for the first quarter 2023. In fact, we offer outcomes that are as good, if not better, than any of the other Caribbean medical schools. Your success is our success.
Welcome
Our 4% attrition rate is one of the lowest in the Caribbean. Many offshore schools have attrition rates that exceed 30% as a result of students not qualifying for USMLE Step 1. We believe that we should do everything possible to ensure students’
We have invested more than $100 million to develop one of the most state-of-the-art medical schools in the Caribbean.”
success in medical school. We understand the impact of significant student debt, so we work hard to ensure that your education is affordable. Compared to most of the other foreign medical schools, the cost of education is considerably lower at UMHS. In addition, we offer financial aid that can cover the full cost of attendance. Financial aid options include student loans, scholarships, institutional loans, provincial loans, and payment plans. In fact, as further evidence of our commitment to students, we substantially increased our scholarship awards recently. Please note that in the last five years we have awarded over $3 million in scholarships. Thank you for taking the time to learn about the benefits of attending medical school at UMHS. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
WARREN ROSS, J.D. President University of Medicine and Health Sciences
Welcome
3
A legacy of excellence in medical education
Welcome
Dr. Robert Ross (1917–2011) had a lifetime of expertise
are conducive to large and small group instruction, with a
in the area of medical education. As the founder and
focus on problem-based learning. The 11,000-square-foot,
former owner of one of the largest and most prestigious
technologically advanced anatomy lab is comparable to
Caribbean medical schools, he brought a wealth of
the best laboratories in the United States. The University
experience, knowledge, and resources to offer you
also has a 24-bed virtual hospital ward that utilizes human
the best education possible.
simulators. Here, students can integrate clinical skills with
Dr. Ross was a benefactor who addressed the growing
basic science knowledge early in their training.
need for qualified health care practitioners in the United
Dr. Ross was also an idealist. He saw a rapidly changing
States and Canada. His reputation for developing academic
medical profession that would require physicians to be well
institutions and his dedication to excellence were known
educated and able to adapt to new technologies easily and
worldwide. In 2007, he founded the University of Medicine
quickly, while also offering compassionate support to each
and Health Sciences (UMHS).
and every patient. He believed these capabilities would
An innovator, Dr. Ross used technology and the latest
define physicians in the twenty-first century.
teaching techniques to provide an academic institution
Dr. Robert Ross left a lasting legacy to each and every
dedicated to excellence. The state-of-the-art classrooms
student and graduate. He is greatly missed.
Welcome
5
About UMHS Credentials and licenses Instructional site locations St. Kitts facilities Noteworthy services St. Kitts campus visits
About UMHS
Focused on excellence We are fully equipped to prepare you to practice medicine in the U.S. CREDENTIALS AND LICENSES Accreditation status
State approvals
The University of Medicine and Health
In addition to accreditation, there
Sciences has obtained the necessary
are a small number of states that
Granted full accreditation from the
accreditations and listings so that
have provisions for approving foreign
St. Christopher and Nevis Accreditation
our students may sit for the United
medical schools. Gaining state
Board, an arm of the Ministry of Education,
States Medical Licensing Examination
approvals enhances the reputation
in 2012 and 2017
(USMLE) and apply for certification
of the University, provides further
from the Educational Commission for
opportunities to expand the clinical
Listed in the International Medical
Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
program, and substantially increases
Education Directory (IMED) of the
This certification is required for an
residency opportunities, which
Foundation for Advancement of
international medical school graduate
positively impacts both our students
International Medical Education and
to obtain a residency and license to
and graduates.
Research (FAIMER) since June 2008.
practice medicine in the United States.
UMHS currently has approval in Georgia,
To be eligible for licensure, graduates
California, and Florida. We have also
Listed in the World Health Organization’s
must have successfully passed
submitted our application for New York
(WHO) official World Directory of Medical
all three steps of the USMLE and
state approval and anticipate a site visit
Schools (wdoms.org), since August 2008.
satisfied the requirements specific
later this year.
Our Accreditations and Accolades
to each U.S. state. Graduates who
Full accreditation from the
have successfully passed Step 1 and
Accreditation Commission on
Step 2 CK of the USMLE are eligible for
Colleges of Medicine (ACCM).*
ECFMG certification, which is required to obtain a residency in the United States. Graduates must also have either a passing Step 2 CS result or, after March 2020, an approved ECFMG Pathways 3 or 6 in order to obtain
Recognized by the National Committee on Foreign Medical Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA), a division of the U.S. Department of Education.**
ECFMG Certification. USMLE Step 3 is taken after graduation. Since licensure requirements vary by state, we urge all students to contact their licensure board(s) for further details. UMHS students are eligible to sit for the USMLE as a result of the IMED and WHO AVICENNA listings.
* ACCM is recognized by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) as an official accrediting body. An internationally recognized accrediting body, ACCM has adopted the Liaison Committee of Medical Education (LCME) Standards for Accreditation. The LCME is authorized by the U.S. Department of Education to review and accredit U.S. and Canadian medical schools. ** The NCFMEA is authorized to evaluate the standards of accreditation applied to foreign medical schools, and to determine the comparability of those standards to standards applied to medical schools in the United States. NCFMEA recognition is a prerequisite to qualify for federal student loans, and is also a requirement for Florida approval.
About UMHS
7
Georgia
California
In 2015, UMHS was granted full approval
As of 2020, the University of Medicine
in Georgia. We are the first foreign
and Health Science was approved
medical school to have been approved
in the state of California. As a result,
by the state of Georgia under the new
UMHS students now qualify for clinical
standards of the Georgia Composite
rotations, residencies, and licensure in
Board. This approval allows our
California. Our goal is to make California
University to continue to conduct clinical
a regional clinical center, with multiple
programs in Georgia. Consequently,
affiliations offering a full complement of
our students are eligible for unlimited
core and elective rotations. We currently
clinical rotations, residency selection,
have students rotating in California and
and licensure in Georgia.
we have graduates in residencies there
Florida
as well.
In 2019, UMHS was licensed by the
New York
Florida Department of Educations’
UMHS has applied to New York, and
Commission for Independent Education.
is anticipating a site visit in 2024.
As a result of our ongoing approvals,
Currently, students at UMHS are able
UMHS now has authorization to establish
to complete 12 weeks of rotations in
clinical affiliations in Florida. Currently,
New York and qualify for licensure.
UMHS is affiliated with Larkin Hospital
Once approved, students will be able
and Westchester Hospital/Keralty in
to complete an unlimited number of
the Miami area. Other hospitals will be
rotations in the state and qualify for
added in the near future.
NY residencies.
Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission for Independent Education, Department of Education, 325 West Gaines Street, Ste. 1414, Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0400; toll-free telephone number: (888) 224-6684.
Credentialed faculty UMHS has brought together a team of extraordinary educators with extensive backgrounds in medical education, research, and administration. Faculty members were selected because of their unique academic medical capabilities. Team members range from educators who transitioned from private practice to academic medicine, to faculty who have spent their entire careers focused on providing the finest instruction to medical students. UMHS maintains a low ratio of students to faculty, providing students with a personalized education. The language of instruction in St. Kitts and the United States is English. UMHS has highly qualified and credentialed faculty that are dedicated to the success of their students.
*** Statement of Legal Control: University of Medicine and Health Sciences Limited Corporation is registered with the Florida Department of State as a foreign profit corporation doing business as University of Medicine and Health Sciences.’
8
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
About UMHS
INSTRUCTIONAL SITE LOCATIONS Basic Science Program
Clinical Science Program
Students must pass USMLE Step 1 to
St. Kitts Campus (semesters 1–4)
Portland, Maine (semester 5)
progress to the sixth semester. In May
Students complete the Basic Science
Clinical students transition to scenic
2022, the review course transitioned
Program at the UMHS campus in St.
Portland, Maine, in the United States,
from a live six-week to a 15-week
Kitts and learn from highly credentialed
for their fifth semester. Maine was
review course. The review course has
faculty and learning specialists
selected by UMHS because of its long
integrated more clinically relevant
recruited primarily from the United
tradition of providing quality health
material into the course to further
States. Here, teaching modalities range
care and its demonstrated excellence
prepare students for Step 1. For a listing
from classic lectures to learning in small
in medical education. UMHS has
of course descriptions, please visit
group settings.
developed a modern teaching facility
umhs.org/clinicalprogram.
that is strategically located within close
Clinical rotations (semesters 5–10)
A compelling differentiator at UMHS is the access students have to a variety of clinical settings and relevant clinical material throughout the Basic Science Program, beginning in their first semester. For example, our 24-bed virtual hospital—equipped with the
proximity to several teaching hospitals, clinics, and housing. It contains a stateof-the-art classroom, skills laboratory, study area with computer connectivity, examination rooms, student lounge, and faculty offices.
Students complete the Clinical Science Program in the United States and Canada. UMHS is affiliated with more than 20 teaching hospitals in New York, Connecticut, Georgia, Florida, Michigan, Maryland, Oklahoma, California, Canada,
latest in human-computer simulation
The fifth semester consists of two
and Puerto Rico. For a full listing of our
technology—gives students a platform
required courses that include a USMLE
affiliates and course descriptions, visit
to discuss medical issues in small
review component through Kaplan
umhs.org/clinicalprogram.
teams, learn physical diagnosis, and
Medical, which is considered one of the
develop clinical skills in a safe and
premier review programs in the United
standardized environment. Also, in ICM
States. The USMLE review provides
1 and 2, students have access to local
additional support to ensure students
hospitals as well as professional and
have every opportunity to pass USMLE
real patients.
Step 1 with competitive scores.
About UMHS
9
UMHS is a leader in the use of human simulation models, an advanced capability allowing students to integrate clinical skills with basic science principles.
About UMHS
ST. KITTS FACILITIES The fully networked campus is a cornerstone of a modern medical school. UMHS operates one of the newest and most technologically advanced campuses in the Caribbean, with facilities incorporating technology on the cutting-edge of health care instruction. Our students can access educational software, faculty presentations, and extensive online resource databases from virtually any location. Auditorium
Human simulation laboratories
The innovative, 210-seat auditorium is equipped with 56” LED monitors, highdefinition LCD projectors, an ELMO® presenter, and additional equipment designed to enhance the instructor’s presentation. In all classrooms and laboratories, we have installed Microsoft Surface Studio 2 computers so that faculty can annotate their presentations and provide further graphics and texts
UMHS is a leader in the use of human
during the lecture.
Multipurpose laboratories Two modern, 100-seat multipurpose laboratories house cutting-edge technology, including audiovisual equipment, high-definition 55” LED monitors, ELMO® presenters, and Microsoft Surface Studio computers for presentations. One of the laboratories is also equipped with a significant collection
laboratories Our 11,000-square-foot, state-ofthe-art anatomy building contains both neuro and gross anatomy laboratories. The gross laboratory is furnished with approximately 20 dissection tables, and there is a 6:1 ratio of students to cadavers. A prosected cadaver is utilized for demonstration purposes and is viewed over 20 high-definition LED monitors stationed at the end of each student’s cadaver work table. Power poles are also placed at the end of each cadaver table for students who want to connect to our anatomical database on a laptop or tablet. To maintain a temperature controlled facility and minimize odors, we also installed a 50-ton Addison Air Conditioner in the
Resource Center
simulation models. Our Human
The Anne Ross Library and Learning
Simulation Laboratories are designed
Resource Center (LRC) is designed to
with the functionality and appearance
provide students with an atmosphere
of a hospital ward or clinic. We utilize a
for quiet study. The library houses an
variety of both low– and high-fidelity
impressive collection of multimedia,
simulators including iStan —the most
books, and journals in both hard copy
advanced, realistic, wireless Human
and electronic formats. It has break-out
Simulator available today. It has the
study rooms equipped with computers
capability of providing jugular vein
and audiovisual equipment.
®
distention, bilateral chest movement, real breath, heart, and bowel sounds,
All desks and study carrels in the library
and articulated motion.
are laptop ready. The LRC houses more
Our most recent addition includes
Library and LRC staff are available
Next Generation Harvey® —The
to assist students with research,
Cardiopulmonary Patient Simulator
information retrieval, and technology-
realistically simulates nearly any cardiac
based questions.
than 50 computers for student use.
disease at the touch of a button by varying blood pressure, pulses, heart sounds, murmurs and breath sounds.
of anatomical models for student use.
Anatomy and neuroanatomy
Library and Learning
Campus bookstore The bookstore carries textbooks, study
We also acquired an ultrasound machine,
guides, diagnostic and surgical tools,
which is utilized in both ICM and anatomy.
and other essential items.
Our next investment will be SimMan 3G, which is one of the most modern simulators offered by Laredal, a leader in simulation technology.
Café The café is open throughout the day for meals, snacks, and refreshments.
Classrooms There are smaller classrooms and
We also have a variety of vendors on campus that offer a diverse array of food options.
break-out rooms throughout the campus, designed to offer closer interaction between faculty members
Gym
and students for a more personalized
Our full-service gym offers a variety of
educational experience. These spaces
Life Fitness, Precor, and Cybex machines,
are used for small group instruction,
including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary
seminars, group study, and problem-
bicycles, free weights, and more. In
based learning sessions.
addition, the campus also has a basketball court and soccer field for student use.
lab to extract and replace the air 24/7. About UMHS
11
NOTEWORTHY SERVICES Technology support
Disability accommodations
direct services, and refer them to
UMHS utilizes an advanced computer
UMHS strives to enable students with
appropriate resources, both on and
and communications network and
disabilities to assist themselves in
off campus. Assessment services are
supports the latest in technology-
achieving their educational goals
typically not available in St. Kitts and
based teaching aids. The Information
and enhancing their leadership
should be obtained in the United States
and Technology Services Department
development through participation
or Canada prior to matriculation.
manages these capabilities and
in the many facets of campus life.
provides end-user support to students
Students with disabilities may be
and faculty. The IT department is
required to provide documentation of
comprised of professionally trained,
the disability. The cost of assessment
experienced, and dedicated staff
and documentation is the student’s
members who are focused on providing
responsibility. The University works
responsive support.
with students with disabilities to identify and assess needs, provide
ST. KITTS CAMPUS VISITS Prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit the St. Kitts campus. Visits are by appointment and should be scheduled through the Office of Admissions. All travel, food, and lodging costs for such visits are initially the responsibility of prospective students and their families. However, for those students that ultimately matriculate after a campus visit, the University does offer a set reimbursement for travel-related expenses. Contact the Office of Admissions for further details.
12
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
About UMHS
About UMHS
13
Academics
Curriculum Accelerated Review Program Residency Match Results 2022 Alumni success
Academics
A program designed to make you a great doctor With the help of our rigorous curriculum and supportive faculty, you’ll graduate prepared to change your patients’ lives. CURRICULUM To graduate with an M.D., students must successfully complete the basic and clinical science programs and pass the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE) Step 1 and Step 2 CK. A passing Step 2 CS result is also required or, after March 2020, an approved ECFMG Pathway 3 or 6, which is in lieu of the discontinued Step 2 CS exam.
Basic Science Program (semesters 1–4)
Extended Basic Science Program Select students are granted the
Please note:
The Basic Science Program is taught at
opportunity to enroll in our Extended
our state-of-the-art campus in St. Kitts.
+ Those admitted to the EBS
Basic Science Program (EBS), which
The four-semester program provides
program or opting into the
allows them to complete the Basic
students with a thorough education in the
program will not be permitted
Science curriculum over the course
basic biomedical sciences, which includes
to accelerate into the four-
of five semesters instead of the
history taking, physical examination skills,
semester Basic Science
standard four. The ultimate goal is to
and problem-solving techniques.
Program at a later date.
reduce the students’ course load to
Block examinations are given three
ensure academic success, maximize
+ Those who plan to voluntarily
times per semester. Exams for all
performance, and provide them with
courses are administered on the same
the best opportunity to master the
day to simulate the USMLE experience.
information. Students who have entered
Shelf examinations, created by the
this program have traditionally excelled
National Board of Medical Examiners
both academically and personally.
(NBME), are given as final examinations
EBS students take courses with students
in each of the core basic and clinical
in the regular four-semester program, so
science courses. These examinations
all students are part of the “mainstream.”
are similar in style and format to the
As an incentive, the University has
USMLE and are utilized by most U.S.
reduced tuition for the EBS program so
medical schools. Students receive
that students pay the same tuition as
a thorough evaluation of their test
those completing the four-semester
scores, including insights on how they
sequence. The only additional costs to
performed compared to students in U.S.
students attending EBS are time (an
medical schools. Shelf examinations
additional semester), cost of living on
ultimately prepare students for USMLE
the island, and semester fees.
participate in this program should notify the Office of Admissions prior to the start of classes and registration in St. Kitts.
+ Those who begin the regular four-semester program may opt into the EBS program following the completion of the first mini-examination, either in the first or second semester.
Step 1 and 2. Weekly quizzes utilizing USMLE-style questions are also now offered in virtually all classes. This further prepares students for Step 1, keeps them engaged, and improves academic performance.
Academics
15
BASIC SCIENCE CURRICULUM Semester
Department
Course no.
Course name
Credits
Total
1
MANT
0603
Gross and Developmental Anatomy
11
1
MANT
0620
Histology
5
1
MBIO
0652
Medical Cell Biology
6
1
MICM
0660
Introduction to Physical Diagnosis
2
2
MBIO
0760
Biochemistry
7
2
MPHY
0711
Physiology
10
2
MBIO
0770
Genetics
3
2
MBEH
0714
Epidemiology and Evidence Based Medicine
2
2
MMCR
0823
Immunology
3
3
MBEH
0830
Behavioral Sciences and Medical Ethics
6
3
MNEU
0810
Neuroscience/Neuroanatomy
7
3
MPAT
0800
Pathology I
9
3
MNEU
0814
Clinical Skills (Neurology & Behavioral)
1
3
MMCR
0822
Microbiology
5
4
MPHM
0910
Pharmacology and Therapeutics
7
4
MPAT
0900
Pathology II
12
4
MICM
0930
Introduction to Clinical Medicine I
6
25
Total
24
25
28
Curriculum as of September 2023, subject to change. For the most current version of our curriculum and course descriptions, visit umhs.org/bsp.
EXTENDED BASIC SCIENCE CURRICULUM Semester
Department
Course no.
Course name
Credits
1
MANT
0603
Gross and Developmental Anatomy
11
1
MBIO
0652
Medical Cell Biology
6
1
MICM
0660
Introduction to Physical Diagnosis
2
2
MBIO
0760
Biochemistry
7
2
MMCR
0823
Immunology
3
2
MANT
0620
Histology
5
2
MBIO
0770
Genetics
3
3
MMCR
0820
Microbiology
5
3
MPHY
0711
Physiology
10
3
MBEH
0714
Epidemiology and Evidence Based Medicine
2
4
MBEH
0830
Behavioral Science and Medical Ethics
6
4
MNEU
0810
Neuroscience/Neuroanatomy
7
4
MPAT
0800
Pathology I
9
4
MNEU
0814
Clinical Skills (Neurology & Behavioral)
1
5
MPAT
0900
Pathology II
12
5
MPHM
0910
Pharmacology and Therapeutics
7
5
MICM
0930
Introduction to Clinical Medicine I
6
Curriculum as of September 2023, subject to change. For the most current version of our curriculum and course descriptions, visit umhs.org/ebs.
16
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
19
18
17
23
25
Academics
Teaching methods TRADITIONAL TEACHING
MENTORING & TUTORING
INDIVIDUAL LEARNING
The lecture format is used to teach
Strong support services are critical to
Utilization of educational software and
basic science content in a small-
ensure student success. Each student
auto-tutorial learning is emphasized
class environment. UMHS offers a
is assigned a faculty advisor who
throughout the learning process and
personalized education, providing a significant amount of individual attention both in and out of class. The faculty have fully embraced the use of audiovisual technology in their approach to teaching visually relevant material. The UMHS lecture halls are designed to provide students with maximum viewing access to all audiovisual content.
mentors them throughout the program. Dedicated to student success, these advisors are available throughout the day to provide academic support and counseling as needed. A tutoring service is also available for students requiring additional support on a specific topic. Course directors and faculty provide academic counseling throughout the semester, especially for those who are in need of additional
CLINICAL EXPERIENCES
support. At the end of each block
During the Basic Science Program,
examination, at-risk students are
students have access to a variety of
required to meet with their faculty
clinical settings, including community
to review their exams and develop
health centers and local hospitals.
an action plan, which can include a
UMHS is unique in offering students
referral to our learning specialists.
an on-campus virtual hospital
Students are encouraged to meet with
experience, where students work with
our learning specialists, counselors,
human-computerized simulators and
faculty advisors, and administration
professional patients in a 24-bed facility.
to ensure their success and that they
Clinically relevant material is included in
receive the resources they need to excel
all Basic Science Courses which further
academically.
is incorporated into the academic program. Thanks to our cloud-based technology, students can access and download faculty presentations, class notes, assignments, and much more from anywhere on or off campus. Last year, the university partnered with EThink, the premier developer of learning management systems in the United States. We have subsequently revamped our learning management system making it faster, reliable, more secure, and easy to use. Examinations are also created and delivered securely using ExamSoft, a computer-based examination software program.
prepares students for USMLE Step 1.
Academics
17
Kaplan and AMBOSS USMLE review programs UMHS is one of the few offshore schools to offer both a Step 1 and 2 USMLE review program through Kaplan Medical and AMBOSS to ensure high pass rates. Students in the Basic Science and Clinical Science Programs will have full access to both of these programs to further ensure their success on USMLE. This includes their comprehensive question banks, video series, diagnostic examinations, and much more. Students will have immediate access to the material, which can also be used to prepare for the NBME Shelf Examinations in both the Basic and Clinical Science Programs. The Kaplan Medical Step 1 On-Demand program is a comprehensive library of over 220 hours of instructional videos. It also includes a collection of quizzes to enable students to gauge their mastery of the material covered in the videos. The program has a database of approximately 3,000 quiz and assessment questions. In addition to the question bank and library of videos, students will also have access to Kaplan’s USMLE Step 1 Lecture Notes eBook series. This series includes volumes dedicated to high-yield concepts in Anatomy, Behavioral Sciences, Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Immunology and Microbiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, and Physiology. The AMBOSS Step 1 Qbank Integrated Plan consists of a focused set of instructional videos to help students truly master the highest yield material. It also has an extensive question bank of over 2,000 assessment questions. These questions provide interactive feedback with detailed explanations and sources students can review to better understand the concepts tested.
18
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Clinical Science Program (semesters 5–10) Designed to give students a broad spectrum of medical practice, the Clinical Science Program allows them to gain specialized skills and practical experience working with patients. The program consists of core and elective rotations that are completed at U.S. teaching hospitals affiliated with UMHS. Fifth Semester (Maine) The fifth-semester program takes place in Portland, Maine. UMHS selected this location because of its reputation for quality health care services and its demonstrated excellence in medical education. The UMHS facilities include a modern classroom, multiple examination rooms, group study rooms, skills lab, faculty offices, and a student lounge. Our fifth semester is designed to prepare students for the rigors of the clinical program and to help them get ready for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1, which they must pass in order to progress to the sixth semester. During the semester, students must complete two required courses designed to help them transition into the core clinical program: Introduction to Clinical Medicine II and Biological Basis of Clinical Medicine, which includes a USMLE review component through Kaplan Medical. In ICM II, introduction is made to core medical information necessary to begin the third year of medical training, building on advances made in the fourth semester of ICM. Didactics are blended with laboratory data interpretation, radiology and other imaging techniques, and electrocardiography, introducing core medical information necessary for the third and fourth years of clinical training. This will be done in a problem-based learning format stressing a review of the basic sciences and the development of case-centered learning goals, and emphasis is placed on the introduction of a series of core medical conditions, integrating behavioral medicine. Critical emphasis is also placed on the development of ethical standards, specialization, as well as education and licensing requirements in the various states. Students are assigned to physicians in actual patient-care settings at several hospitals, clinics, and office health centers in and around the Portland area. All student-clinical experiences are led by a team of more than 30 physician preceptors, many of whom have decades of medical practice and teaching experience. Working beside renowned physicians builds clinical capabilities, increases student confidence, allows students to seamlessly transition into our clinical program, and enhances performance on the USMLE. The 15-week Kaplan Review is taught by renowned faculty from U.S. medical schools who concentrate on high-yield courses in the Basic Science Program. UMHS is one of the only offshore schools that offers a full-semester review program to ensure students’ success on Step 1. The review program also includes a team of learning specialists who will work directly with students on time management, study skills, and test-taking strategies. The purpose of this course is to provide both a general review of topics covered in the USMLE Step 1, and to help each student identify problem areas where extra attention is warranted. During the course, professors cover various high-yield subjects including Biochemistry, Immunology, Microbiology, Physiology, Pharmacology, Genetics and Pathology. Post-lecture Q&A sessions, a self-assessment online exam for each subject, online content consisting of a set of subject-based videos, Kaplan Q bank, and simulated exams are also available.
Academics
Upon passing USMLE Step 1, all students are automatically enrolled in Kaplan online review programs for USMLE Step 2 CK. These programs are ideal for when the student transitions into clinical rotations, and their busy, sometimes unpredictable schedules make a traditional review course impractical. The CK review is also beneficial for students preparing for their Clinical Shelf Examinations as well as the Comprehensive Clinical Science Examination (CCSE).
GRADUATE RESIDENCY TRAINING
Please note that our first-time pass rate on USMLE Step 2 CK is 95%, with an average score of 230 in 2023.
Like students from U.S. medical schools, UMHS students apply
Course name
Credits
Introduction to Clinical Medicine II
7
Biological Basis of Clinical Medicine
4
Curriculum as of September 2023, subject to change. For the most current version of our curriculum, visit umhs.org/clinicalprogram.
Life in Maine Fifth-semester students have an opportunity to enjoy a beautiful state with rugged coastlines and unspoiled landscapes. Portland, Maine, offers all the amenities of a big city: art districts, waterfront areas, museums, parks, and diverse shopping opportunities, but within minutes, students can be in
Fourth-year UMHS students pursue post-graduate residency positions in prestigious hospitals throughout the United States and Canada. After graduating, students begin their internship year alongside their U.S. counterparts as practicing Doctors of Medicine (M.D.) in numerous specialties and in diverse residency training programs. for residencies through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) in order to obtain a position, or “match,” in the United States. Canadian students have the option of applying to the NRMP or, alternatively, to the Canadian Residency Matching Service (CaRMS). Detailed information about residency placement can be found at umhs.org/match.
GRADUATION The University confers the medical degree multiple times per year and holds a formal commencement exercise once a year in New York City, typically at Alice Tully Hall, in June. Graduation requirements
the country to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains with
Successful completion of all required Basic Science and
endless hiking trails, meandering rivers, and pristine lakes.
Clinical courses with a minimum grade of “C.”
Clinical rotations (semesters 6–10)
Passing score on USMLE Step 1 and USMLE Step 2 CK.
After passing Step 1 of the USMLE, students are placed in clinical rotations at affiliated teaching hospitals throughout
Passing Step 2 CS result, or after March 2020, an approved
the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Prior to placement,
ECFMG Pathway 3 or 6.
the clinical department coordinates with each student to see
Minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0.
if they have any specific requests for placement. The Clinical Science Program includes 48 weeks of mandatory core clinical
All required administrative documents on file.
rotations and 30 weeks of elective rotations. The core rotations represent the primary areas of medical practice, and elective rotations provide students with an understanding of the various specialties in medicine. Course name
Duration
Internal Medicine
12 weeks
Surgery
12 weeks
Pediatrics
6 weeks
Obstetrics/Gynecology
6 weeks
Psychiatry
6 weeks
Family Medicine
6 weeks
Electives
30 weeks
UMHS operates on a three-semester per year schedule. To view our academic calendar, visit umhs.org/calendar.
Curriculum as of September 2023, subject to change. For the most current version of our curriculum, visit umhs.org/clinicalprogram. Academics
19
Residency Spotlight: Aaron Vazquez Dr. Vazquez longed to find a medical school where he could shine, with personal attention and devoted instructors to train him. He discovered UMHS at a graduate school fair and was impressed by the hands-on education it offered. He knew right then where he would train to become a doctor. During his time at UMHS, Dr. Vazquez was afforded the opportunity to conduct psychiatric research with a leader in the field. He helped research the effects of providing patient progress feedback and clinical support tools in an in-patient treatment setting, and eventually co-authored a report that was published in the well-known medical journal, Psychotherapy Research. After graduation, Dr. Vazquez completed a psychiatry residency at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. Today, he serves as the Medical Director - Behavioral Health at Intermountain Healthcare in St. George, Utah.
20
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
The medical education at UMHS was the catalyst that gave me the skills and confidence to become a leading physician.”
Academics
Affiliated teaching hospitals UMHS has established affiliations with teaching hospitals throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada, where students complete their core rotations. We are continuing to expand our core clinical affiliations, and are in negotiations with additional teaching hospitals in a variety of states. The following list represents the hospitals where students can complete their core clinical requirements. Hundreds of additional hospitals throughout the United States are available for electives.
California
Michigan
San Bernardino Behavioral Health, San Bernardino
Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, Rochester
senior-year electives at either
Canadian Affiliations
DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Commerce Township McLaren Macomb Hospital, Mt. Clemens
hospitals throughout the United
McLaren Oakland Hospital, Pontiac
States. Most teaching hospitals
Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, Whitby, Ontario Connecticut Danbury Hospital, Danbury Griffin Hospital, Derby Saint Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury
Larkin Community Hospital, Miami Georgia
Maryland Ascension St. Agnes Hospital, Baltimore Holy Cross Hospital, Silver Spring
affiliated or non-affiliated
allow visiting students to rotate with approval from both
Southampton Hospital, Southampton
the hospital and the medical school. Thousands of hospitals
Oklahoma
are available for electives. This
Griffin Memorial Hospital, Norman
is a great opportunity to gain experience at some of the best
Puerto Rico
hospitals in the United States.
Ponce Health Sciences University
We urge students to rotate at
PR Women and Children’s Hospital, Bayamon
hospitals they are considering
Georgia Regional Hospital, Decatur Piedmont Augusta, Augusta
Students can complete their
New York
Florida Keralty Hospital, Miami
ELECTIVES
for a residency, as it gives students an opportunity to learn
Wisconsin Mercyhealth Hospital, Janesville * This list is updated periodically. Visit umhs.org/hospitals for the most up-to-date listing of our affiliated hospitals.
more about the hospital and to network with key administrators and preceptors.
Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore
Academics
21
Academics
Accelerated Review Program The Accelerated Review Program (ARP) is a unique, one-semester preparatory program designed to fully equip students for the academic rigors of medical school. Unlike anything offered by other Caribbean medical schools, this program is designed for students who have the drive to become successful physicians, but who need additional academic and study skills support to ensure their success in UMHS’ rigorous medical education program. Students who apply to UMHS and have met the admissions requirements for medical school will be considered for the ARP. Otherwise, students may opt to apply directly to the ARP program at umhs.org/apply. The program is offered at our state of the art campus in St. Kitts. Students in ARP have full access to the same resources and facilities as the students in the medical school program. Also, virtually every faculty member at the medical school is involved in the ARP. ARP students may also choose to attend classes online from the convenience of their homes and participate in class virtually alongside their on-campus classmates.
REASONS TO ENROLL + Gain confidence through exposure to virtually every Basic Science course and UMHS faculty member
+ Receive a tremendous amount of personalized attention and support in small classes
+ Focus on advanced study skills and time management.
+ Become a more effective and efficient student.
+ Students who complete ARP have
Students who successfully complete the ARP program are granted admission to the
the foundation they need to succeed
Basic Science or Extended Basic Science program. Those who have successfully
in medical school.
completed ARP can also qualify for a total award of $9,000 for the Basic Science Scholarship. This will be a merit-based scholarship reliant on the student’s academic performance in ARP. Students who successfully complete ARP tend to become some of the strongest medical students.
ARP CURRICULUM
Discipline
Duration
Study Skills
Throughout the semester
ARP’s curriculum encompasses foundational material from virtually every class in the Basic
Medical Terminology
2 weeks
Anatomy
3 weeks
course, which integrates multiple
Anatomy Laboratory
3 weeks
disciplines. Completing this series
Neuroanatomy
2 weeks
Histology
3 weeks
Physiology
3 weeks
the wide variety of information
Molecular and Cell Biology
3 weeks
presented in medical school.
Biochemistry
4 weeks
Each of the academic courses
Microbiology
3 weeks
includes a short examination at
Genetics
1 week
Immunology
2 weeks
Neurobehavioral Sciences
4 weeks
A comprehensive final
Pathology
2 weeks
examination is also given
Cardiovascular System
6 weeks
Science Program. The program also features a system-based
of brief, intensive courses permits students to demonstrate their ability to quickly digest and retain
the end of the course to permit faculty to evaluate students’ progress and development.
at the end of the program. Curriculum as of September 2023, subject to change. For the most current version of our curriculum, visit umhs.org/arp. Academics
23
U.S. Residency Match Results 2023 We are proud to announce that over 90% of our first-time applicants obtained a residency in 2023! Anesthesiology
Detroit Med Ctr/WSU MI
Family Medicine Bella Vista Hospital
PR
Anesthesiology Medical College of Georgia
Family Medicine Campbell University
NC
GA
Anesthesiology
St Louis Univ SOM MO
Family Medicine Concord Hospital
NH
Anesthesiology
Univ of Puerto Rico
Family Medicine Conemaugh Memorial Med Ctr
PA
Emergency Medicine
Ascension Macomb - Oakland Hospital MI
Emergency Medicine
PR
Family Medicine
Forrest General Hospital MS
Ascension Macomb - Oakland Hospital MI
Family Medicine
Genesis Quad Cities
IA
Emergency Medicine Beaumont Health MI
Family Medicine
Grand Strand Regional
SC
Emergency Medicine
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Family Medicine
Grand Strand Regional
SC
Emergency Medicine
Kent Hospital
RI
Family Medicine
HCA Healthcare/USF Morsani GME-St Pete
Emergency Medicine McLaren Health Care Corp MI
24
Family Medicine Baptist Mem Hospital DeSoto MS
Anesthesiology McLaren Health Care Corp MI
FL
Family Medicine Lehigh Valley Hospital
PA SC
Emergency Medicine
Piedmont Macon Med Ctr
GA
Family Medicine Lexington Med Ctr
Emergency Medicine
Rutgers-Community Med Ctr
NJ
Family Medicine Manati Medical Center
PR
Emergency Medicine
U Central FL/HCA Healthcare GME
FL
Family Medicine Mayaquez Medical Center
PR
Emergency Medicine
U South Alabama Hospitals
AL
Family Medicine McLaren Health Care Corp MI
Emergency Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Family Medicine Mclaren Oakland MI
Emergency Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Family Medicine Mclaren Oakland MI
Family Medicine
Adena Health System OH
Family Medicine Med Coll Wisconsin Affil Hospitals
Family Medicine
Albert Einstein Healthcare Network
PA
Family Medicine Memorial Hospital at Gulfport MS
WI
Family Medicine
Ascension Genesys Hospital MI
Family Medicine Munson Med Ctr MI
Family Medicine
Ascension St John Hospital MI
Family Medicine
NOSM University/Northern Ontario CN
Family Medicine
Ascension St Mary
IL
Family Medicine
Penn State Hershey Med Ctr
Family Medicine
Ascension St Mary
IL
Family Medicine
Promedica Monroe Reg Hospital MI
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
PA
Family Medicine
Riverside Reg Med Ctr
VA
Internal Medicine
Advocate Health Care
Family Medicine
Roseburg Family Medicine OR
Internal Medicine
Ascension Genesys Hospital MI
IL
Family Medicine
Rush University Med Ctr
IL
Internal Medicine
Authority Health GME MI
Family Medicine
Rush University Med Ctr
IL
Internal Medicine Baptist Health
AR
Family Medicine
SIU SOM & Affil Hospitals
IL
Internal Medicine Campbell University
NC NC
Family Medicine
Sovah Health
VA
Internal Medicine Campbell University/ /Harnett Health
Family Medicine
St Lukes Hospital-Anderson
PA
Internal Medicine Canton Med Ed Fdn/NEOMED OH
Family Medicine
St. Lukes/Scred Hearts
PA
Internal Medicine
Damas Hospital
PR
Family Medicine
Texas Tech U Affil-Permian Basin
TX
Internal Medicine
Damas Hospital
PR
Family Medicine
Texas Tech U Affil-Permian Basin
TX
Internal Medicine
Damas Hospital
PR
Family Medicine
Texas Tech U Affil-Permian Basin
TX
Internal Medicine
Damas Hospital
PR
Family Medicine
Tower Health/Reading Hospital
PA
Internal Medicine
HCA Bayonet Point Hospital
FL
Family Medicine
U Alabama CCHS-Tuscaloosa
AL
Internal Medicine
HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospitals
FL
Family Medicine
U Alabama CCHS-Tuscaloosa
AL
Internal Medicine
HCA Healthcare/USF Morsani GME-Blake
FL
Family Medicine
U Alabama CCHS-Tuscaloosa
AL
Internal Medicine
HCA Healthcare/USF Morsani GME-Citrus
FL
Family Medicine
U Tennessee Health Sci Ctr-Memphis
TN
Internal Medicine
HCA Healthcare/USF Morsani GME-Largo
FL
Family Medicine
UNC Southeastern
NC
Internal Medicine
Hospital de la Concepcion
PR
Family Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Internal Medicine
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Family Medicine
WellStar Kennestone Reg Med Ctr
GA
Internal Medicine
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Family Medicine
Wright Center for GME
PA
Internal Medicine
Kendall Hospital
FL
Family Medicine
Wright State Univ Boonshoft SOM OH
Family Medicine/ Osteopathic Ocean Med Ctr
NJ
Internal Medicine Lakeland Regional Health
FL
Internal Medicine Lakeland Regional Health
FL
Internal Medicine Larkin Community Hospital
FL
Academics
25
26
Internal Medicine Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare
TX
Internal Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Internal Medicine
New Hanover Reg Med Ctr
NC
Internal Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Internal Medicine
NYMC-St Michaels Med Ctr
NJ
Internal Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Internal Medicine Ochsner Clinic Foundation LA
Internal Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Internal Medicine
University of Alberta - Edmonton CN
Internal Medicine
Wayne State University SOM MI
Internal Medicine
Wayne State University SOM MI
Internal Medicine
Wayne State University SOM MI
Internal Medicine
Wayne State University SOM MI
Internal Medicine
Palmetto General Hospital
FL
Internal Medicine
Prime West Consortium CA
Internal Medicine
San Juan City Hospital
PR
Internal Medicine
San Juan City Hospital
PR
Internal Medicine
San Juan City Hospital
PR
Internal Medicine
San Juan City Hospital
PR
Internal Medicine
San Juan VA Med Ctr
PR
Interventional Radiology (Integ)
Spectrum Health/Michigan State Univ MI
Internal Medicine
San Juan VA Med Ctr
PR
Medicine-Pediatrics
Univ of Puerto Rico
Internal Medicine
San Juan VA Med Ctr
PR
Internal Medicine
Sinai Hospital
IL
Internal Medicine
Skagit Regional Health
WA
Internal Medicine
Southeast Health
AL
Internal Medicine
Southeast Health
AL
Internal Medicine
St Bernards Med Ctr
AR
Internal Medicine
St Bernards Med Ctr
AR
Internal Medicine
Thomas Hospital
AL
PR
Neurology Mayo Clinic School of Grad Med Educ
FL
Neurology
IL
U Illinois COM-Chicago
Obstetrics/Gynecology
San Juan City Hospital
PR
Obstetrics/Gynecology
San Juan City Hospital
PR
Pathology
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Pediatrics
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Pediatrics
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Internal Medicine
Thomas Jefferson Univ
PA
Pediatrics Med Coll Wisconsin Affil Hospitals
Internal Medicine
TIGMER
TX
Pediatrics
Puerto Rico Women and Children’s Hospital
WI PR
Internal Medicine
U Central FL/HCA Healthcare GME
FL
Pediatrics
Puerto Rico Women and Children’s Hospital
PR
Internal Medicine
U South Alabama Hospitals
AL
Pediatrics
Puerto Rico Women and Children’s Hospital
PR
Internal Medicine
Univ Central del Caribe SOM
PR
Pediatrics
Sinai Hospital of Baltimore MD
Internal Medicine
Univ of Puerto Rico
PR
Pediatrics
U Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
WI
Transitional
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Psychiatry ECU Health Med Ctr
Psychiatry
Authority Health GME MI NC
Transitional
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Psychiatry
HCA Healthcare East FL Division GME
FL
Transitional
U Central FL/HCA Healthcare GME
FL
Psychiatry
HCA Healthcare East FL Division GME
FL
Psychiatry Larkin Community Hospital
FL
Psychiatry Orange Park Med Ctr
FL
Psychiatry
Ponce Health Sciences Univ SOM
PR
Psychiatry
Ponce Health Sciences Univ SOM
PR
Psychiatry
Ponce Health Sciences Univ SOM
PR
Psychiatry
Tulane Univ SOM LA
Psychiatry
U Illinois COM-Peoria UPHM
Psychiatry
University Hospitals-Columbia MO
Radiation Oncology
Detroit Med Ctr/WSU MI
Radiology-Diagnostic Larkin Community Hospital
For a complete listing of our match results, visit umhs.org/match.
IL
FL
Radiology-Diagnostic McLaren Health Care Corp MI Surgery
Detroit Med Ctr/WSU MI
Surgery
Detroit Med Ctr/WSU MI
Surgery
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
Surgery
U Maryland Med Ctr MD
Surgery
University of Puerto Rico
PR
Transitional Cape Fear Valley Health
NC
PR
Transitional
Damas Hospital
PR
Transitional
Damas Hospital
PR
Transitional
Detroit Med Ctr/WSU MI
Transitional
HCA Healthcare/ USF Moroni GME Trinity
FL
Transitional
Hospital Episcopal San Lucas
PR
Academics
27
I think all the teachers I’ve had have made me, in some way, who I am today. Whether it was teaching me a little bit of professionalism, or a little bit about how I want to act as a future physician, everyone I’ve met at UMHS has somehow left a little mark on me.
Kirthana Sugunathevan, M.D., Class of 2023 A native of Guelph, Ontario, Canada, Dr. Kirthana (“Kerthy’) Sugunathevan started a general surgery residency at Michigan’s Detroit Medical Center SinaiGrace in Summer 2023. She spent a few months teaching at UMHS before starting her residency, and says that she hopes to teach medical students again someday.
UMHS is probably the most unique school in the U.S. and the Caribbean. The administration—especially the president—all the way down through the professors and the staff, are all there to help you succeed. They all want to watch you become a physician and they are there because they love to do it.
Zachary Vandeveer, M.D., Class of 2023 Dr. Zachary Vandeveer was the valedictorian of the Class of 2023. He is also the first-ever UMHS graduate to match into a residency in interventional radiology, which he began in Summer 2023 at Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids, MI.
28
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
At UMHS, I was able to have early hands-on training and experience interacting with patients from diverse backgrounds, which helped to enhance my skills in cultural competency, humility, and empathy. Also, my time spent on an island far from home enabled me to become more independent, develop strong work ethics, and enhance my confidence.
Venus Swearingen, M.D., Class of 2021 Dr. Venus Swearingen chose UMHS because she was attracted to the small class sizes, affordable tuition, and competitive clinical rotation sites. In Summer 2021, she started a family medicine residency at UAMS in Arkansas, where she was set to work at the Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville and Northwest Medical Center in Springdale.
I decided to go to UMHS having in mind that I would do most or all of my clinical rotations on my island of Puerto Rico, so I would increase my chances of getting into a residency program here. It is my goal to be able to help and take care of the people in my community. I can’t imagine being a medical physician anywhere else other than Puerto Rico.
Brian Hernández-Colón, M.D., Class of 2020 Dr. Brian Hernández-Colón is one of several UMHS grads who have matched for a residency in their homeland of Puerto Rico. In fact, he says he chose UMHS because he hoped he would be able to do most or all of his clinical rotations on the island, and eventually pursue a residency program there. Today, Dr. Hernández-Colón is completing the final portion of an OB-GYN residency as a chief resident at St. Luke Episcopal Medical Center in Ponce, Puerto Rico.
Alumni Success
29
I always wanted to become a doctor and attending UMHS allowed me to accomplish my goal of being a physician. I chose UMHS because of the intimate learning environment. I was guided by so many mentors and faculty to help me facilitate my success. This is something that is difficult to find, and mentorship is what helped me get to where I am today.
Sarah Mohtadi, M.D., Class of 2019 Dr. Sarah Mohtadi is the first UMHS graduate to match in California. She landed a psychiatry residency at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles. While completing her residency, she also became heavily involved in COVID-19 vaccination efforts in the state. She even vaccinated the mayor of Long Beach, CA!
Now that I have attended a medical school in the Caribbean, I feel more capable of adapting to change and being resilient. I liked UMHS because it allowed me to focus on my education without any distractions. I had an education comprised of diverse experiences—including cultural interactions among students—on St. Kitts, and also through the different and various locations of my clinical rotations and patient populations.
Abraham Halik, M.D., Class of 2020 Fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a doctor, Dr. Abraham Halik matched in an internal medicine residency at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore, MD. Dr. Halik set his sights on a residency at the prestigious hospital after completing clinical rotations there. Dr. Halik completed his residency in June 2023 and recently started an endocrinology fellowship at University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.
30
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
[As I was] researching different schools for nontraditional students, I started coming across all of these Caribbean schools. I decided that I really wanted to go to the Caribbean [because] I wanted a life experience along with an education.
Jared Sharza, M.D., Class of 2022 As an undergraduate, Dr. Jared Sharza studied economics, pre-law, and anthropology. He only discovered his passion for medicine when he became an EMS worker after graduation. (He also did plenty of EMS work at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.) Today, Dr. Sharza is completing a residency in emergency medicine at McLaren Macomb hospital in Michigan.
UMHS [felt] very familiar, and everybody was so warm and welcoming. [Also, during my search, I connected with a really close friend from college who was already studying at UMHS, and] he told me about how much the professors had an open-door policy, how everybody was so willing to help you out... I knew it was an environment that I was going to thrive in.
Michelle Hornedo, M.D., Class of 2022 A native of Puerto Rico, Dr. Michelle Hornedo has wanted to become a doctor since she was in kindergarten. She was attracted to UMHS because of its supportive atmosphere. Today, she is completing an internal medicine residency at Ohio Health, Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, OH.
Alumni Success
31
Faculty Executive office St. Kitts administration St. Kitts faculty Maine administration and faculty Clinical administration Research
Faculty
Educators dedicated to your success Our skilled and credentialed educators will put you on a path toward a rewarding career in medicine.
To read all about our faculty and administration, visit umhs.org/faculty.
UMHS faculty members share a love of teaching. Primarily recruited from U.S. and Canadian medical schools, their chief mission is to provide the best academic program possible, and to ensure each individual student’s success in medical school. To that end, they have fully embraced the use of technology to enhance the overall learning experience. However, what makes UMHS truly unique is the access students have to the faculty, both on and off campus. Because we are a small school with a low student-to-faculty ratio, we are able to provide students with a significant amount of attention. Each professor has scheduled office hours throughout the semester to meet, advise, tutor, and counsel students.
Faculty
33
Credentialed faculty EXECUTIVE OFFICE
Warren Ross, J.D. President
David R. Graham, M.B. Ch.B., M.D., F.R.C.P., F.F.S.E.M. Provost
Anne Prillaman, J.D., M.B.A. Chief Financial Officer
34
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Jerry W. Thornton, Ph.D. Executive Vice President
Faculty
ST. KITTS ADMINISTRATION
Shivayogi Bhusnurmath, M.B.B.S., M.D. Pathology, FRCPath (London, UK) Dean of Basic Sciences, Professor of Pathology
Norma Ann Celestine, M.L.S., B.A., A.H.I.P. Director of Library and Educational Applications, Assistant Professor of Library Research
Sudhir Ambati, M.B.B.S., M.P.H. Dean of Student Affairs, Course Director of Epidemiology and Evidence-based Medicine, Associate Professor of Preclinical Science
Ruth Fitzgerald, Ph.D. Director of Counseling Services
Craig Ayre, B.Ed., Ph.D. Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Associate Professor of Molecular Sciences
Neilal Isaac, M.D., MMED Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, Assistant Professor, Pre-clinical Sciences and Simulation Lab Director,
Faculty
35
ST. KITTS ADMINISTRATION (CONT.)
Caroline Liburd
Prakash Mungli, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Ayo Olujohungbe, B.Sc., MCSE
Housing Director
Associate Dean, Chairman of Molecular Sciences, Course Director and Professor of Biochemistry
Campus IT and LRC Director
Edwin S. Purcell, Ph.D.
Dan Vitalo, B.A.
Sherisse Wallace, BSN, RN
Vice President of Facilities
Campus Nurse
Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
36
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Faculty
Dr. Cherrilyn Warde-Crawford, PsyD, CCTP-II Campus Counselor
Faculty
37
ST. KITTS FACULTY
Rada Alexandrescu, M.D., SFHEA, RCS
Mirza Ali, M.D., M.B.B.S. Professor of Pathology
Associate Professor of Anatomy
38
Jiji Aravindakshan, M.D., M.B.B.S. Associate Professor of Physiology and Pathology
Janak Awasthi, Ph.D.
Douglas A. Cotanche, Ph.D.
Gareth Davies, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor and Course Director of Neuroscience
Professor of Anatomy
Professor and Course Director of Immunology, Professor and Course Director of Genetics
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Faculty
Arun Dhakal, M.D., MS, FAIMER
Thomas R. Gest, B.S., M.S., Ph.D
Lata Gowda, M.P.T., B.P.T., B.A.
Associate Professor and Course Director of Histology
Professor and Course Director of Anatomy
Human Simulation Educator
Veerabhadra Gowda, M.B.B.S., M.D., D.C.C.P.
Cavelle Hobson, M.D.
Anoop Kumar Jalan, M.D., M.B.B.S.
Professor of Pharmacology, ICM & Physical Diagnosis
Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine
Professor of Pathology
Faculty
39
ST. KITTS FACULTY (CONT.)
Yogitha Jalan, B.SC., M.SC. Instructor of Microbiology
Neeraj Kumar, Ph.D. Professor and Course Director of Microbiology
40
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Frank Jones, Ph.D.
Ashok Kumar, Ph.D.
Course Director of Medical Cell Biology and Professor of Molecular Sciences
Associate Professor of Pathology, Course Director of Pathology 1
Peter Lee, Ph.D.
Thomas Mccracken, Ph.D. (H.C.), M.S., M.S., B.E.
Associate Professor and Course Director of Behavioral Sciences
Professor of Anatomy
Faculty
Lori Montross, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Behavioral Sciences
Jadadeesh Nagappa, M.B.B.S., D.F.M.
Natalie S. Osborne, M.D. Assistant Clinical Professor
Professor and Course Director of Physiology, Director of Accelerated Review Program
Jane Pringle, M.Ed.
Avinash Rawal, Ph.D.
Angela Rowlands, M.Ed.
Instructor of Learning Development and Language Skills
Professor of Molecular Science
Associate Professor and Lead of Learning Development and Communication Skills
Faculty
41
ST. KITTS FACULTY (CONT.)
Bichara S. Sahley, B.SC. (HONS), M.D., M.B.B.S., D.M. (UWI) Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine
Angela Unger Waigand, M.A., Ed.D. Instructor of Learning Development and Language Skills
42
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Pinakini Shankar, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Sirjana Subedi, M.B.B.S
Course Director and Professor of Pharmacology
Clinical Instructor of Preclinical Sciences
Luisa Veloz, M.D.
Frank Wagner, PSY.D., M.A., B.S., B.B.A.
Assistant Professor of Preclinical Science
Chair and Professor of Behavioral Science
Faculty
CLINICAL ADMINISTRATION
Steve Caplan, M.D. Clinical Chair, Chief of Pediatrics
David L. Felten, M.D., Ph.D.
Charles Herrick, M.D.
Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor of Neurosciences
Clinical Chair, Chief of Psychiatry
Robert Levine, M.D.
Elizabeth Morgan, M.D.
George H. Shade Jr., M.D.
Clinical Chair, Chief of Family Medicine
Clinical Chair, Chief of Surgery
Dean of Clinical Science, Clinical Chair, Professor of Clinical Medicine
Faculty
43
CLINICAL ADMINISTRATION (CONT.)
Khalid Zakaria, M.D. Clinical Chair, Chief of Internal Medicine
44
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Faculty
PORTLAND, MAINE ADMINISTRATION AND FACULTY
Kim Anderson
Molly Johannessen, Ph.D.
Office Manager and Standardized Patient Coordinator
Director of Education and Teaching, Director of the Biological Basis of Clinical Medicine course, Associate Professor of Physiology
Mohan Kumar, M.D., M.B.B.S.
Matthew Michaud, N.D., M.A.
Director of Maine Integrated Program, Course Director of ICM I (St. Kitts), ICM II (Maine), Chairman of Pre-Clinical Program - St. Kitts
Director of Maine Operations, Associate Director of Academic Support and Learning Development
Jovana Kakuca, B.S. Educational Services
Julie Rice, B.A. Program Coordinator and Facilities Manager
Faculty
45
PORTLAND, MAINE ADMINISTRATION AND FACULTY (CONT.)
Heather Robertson, MHS, PA-C Director of ICM II Clinical Skills Lab & Preceptorship Program
Donna Thompson, M.D.C.M. Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor of Clinical Medicine
PORTLAND, MAINE CAMPUS FACULTY Mohan Kumar, MD Teresita Maguire, MD Bruce Kenney, DO Margaret Shepp, MD Patrice Thibodeau, MD Shannon Deschenes, DO
Marly Biermann, MD Sandra Harris, MD Laurin Koskinen, MD Alfred Riel, MD Shapir Rosenberg, MD James Schneid, MD
Judith Ziegler, DO David Burke, MD Elizabeth Morgan, MD Shannon Hanna, PsyD Mark Alexander, DO Lisa Parsons, DO
PORTLAND, MAINE FACULTY PRECEPTORS David Burke, MD Alison Daigle, DO Thomas Morrione, MD Louis Di Salvo, MD Minda Gold, MD
Lisa Lucas, DO Aaron Perrault, MD Annamarie Pond, MD Joanna Rulf, DO Karen Saylor, MD
Diane Zavotsky, MD Bethany Picker, MD Stephen Saylor, PA-C James Gillen, PA-C
Kevin Ball, NRP Kathy Johnson, NRP
Tom Lafferty, NRP Stella Collin
CSL INSTRUCTORS Heather Robertson, MHS, PA-C Jay R. Souder, APRN 46
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Faculty
Research Tangible advancements that make a difference The University of Medicine and Health Sciences is dedicated to providing medical students independent research opportunities to develop skills beneficial to their medical training. Students can participate in diverse forms of research during the Basic Science program under the guidance of highly skilled faculty and under dedicated faculty members’ direction during the medical research elective. The University administration understands the importance of students’
At UMHS, students have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge medical research.
participation in research and research-related activities. The University invested substantially in equipment and faculty with the drive and passion for research over the last few years. This resulted in a boom in the number of research projects that the University has churned out in the recent past, with students as authors of many of the published papers. The University’s research activities are coordinated by the research committee, chaired by Dr. Craig Ayre. We also offer a research elective where students are guided through the scientific process and paper writing methods with in-class instruction, peer-to-peer writing exercises, and journal club presentations. To date, UMHS faculty and students have published well over 50 papers in various reputable and high-impact journals. These publications include original research papers in the fields of microbiology, anatomy, public health, and medical education, anatomical case reports, literature reviews in different areas of medicine, and book chapters in the field of stem cells and regenerative medicine. With all the provided research opportunities during the Basic Science program, graduates from UMHS have the necessary experience to compete for top residencies and are well prepared to engage in future medical research endeavors.
Faculty
47
Student life
Student body Student groups Campus events Sports and recreation Support services
Student life
Students of medicine and the world The vibrant atmosphere on our campus evokes a collegial environment, ideal for learning and living. STUDENT BODY
STUDENT GROUPS
Though a wide mix of ages,
UMHS is home to several dynamic
backgrounds, genders, and religious
student organizations, and new ones
beliefs are represented in UMHS’
are continually forming to reflect the
diverse student body, all of our
diversity of the student population
students have at least one thing
and evolving student interests and
in common—the desire to become
needs. Listed here are a few of the
professional physicians. This sense of
organizations on campus.
shared purpose allows our students
Student Government Association (SGA) The SGA represents all UMHS students in student affairs and administrative matters. It also schedules a variety of recreational activities each semester that foster socialization and teamwork— important components of becoming a physician. These events are also great opportunities to experience all that St.
and to make rewarding and enriching
American Medical Student Association (AMSA)
connections with their peers. Although
AMSA is a student-governed national
All students are SGA members, and dues
they are aggressive in pursuit of their
organization that is committed
are collected each semester as part of
medical degrees, when time permits,
to representing the concerns of
the UMHS tuition and fees. Students
students take time to enjoy the beauty
physicians in training. AMSA is
elect SGA officers to represent them.
of St. Kitts and all that it has to offer.
committed to improving medical
to easily see past any differences
Kitts has to offer.
training and the nation’s health.
Student life
49
Additional student groups
+ American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA)
+ Oncology Awareness Medical Student Association (OAMSA)
CAMPUS EVENTS New Student Orientation
White Coat Ceremony
First-time UMHS students are required to
First-semester students are welcomed
attend orientation, which occurs several
into their clinical studies with a special
days before classes begin. It gives students
ceremony that includes a formal cloaking
+ Surgery Interest Group (SIG)
a chance to learn about the campus and
of students in their white coats to
+ UMHS Sports Clubs:
student services, register for classes, meet
commemorate the start of their journey
Soccer
classmates, and acclimate to island life.
toward a medical career.
Football
The program features a detailed campus
Basketball
tour, an introduction to the faculty, and
Fourth-Semester Banquet
Ultimate Frisbee
special presentations on topics such as
As students complete the Basic Science
Scuba Diving
housing, safety and security, banking,
Program and prepare to return to the U.S.,
Volleyball
visas and immigration, and more. There
they are treated to a special banquet to
Softball
are also several events such as a first-
recognize their achievements.
semester party, a snorkeling trip, and a tour of Basseterre.
50
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Student life
SPORTS AND RECREATION St. Kitts is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystalline waters, soft, sandy beaches, tropical forest areas, and a spectacular dormant volcano. St. Kitts offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Sports There are a wide range of outdoor activities available, including water-based sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. The island has a golf course and facilities for basketball, tennis, cricket, and other outdoor sports. St. Kitts is a perfect setting for hiking, where opportunities include a fortress, waterfalls, caves, and a volcanic crater. Zip-lining through the rain forest is another popular attraction. On campus, we have a gym that is equipped with a full range of cardio equipment, free weights, and a large variety of Precor and Life Fitness machines. We also have a new basketball court and soccer field for student use. Students at UMHS have formed a number intramural teams including soccer, basketball, volleyball, and flag football.
Recreation The island of St. Kitts offers a diversity of cultures and a treasure trove of historic sites to explore. There are plantation homes to view, small towns that highlight colonial architecture to explore, and quaint local shops for browsing. Each year, St. Kitts holds a colorful carnival and a music festival. Special events are often held at the 10,000-seat stadium built for the 2007 World Cup Cricket Games. For students interested in wildlife, St. Kitts has many interesting birds to observe, including frigate birds, egrets, and herons. St. Kitts is also known for its green vervet monkeys.
Student life
51
Student life
SUPPORT SERVICES On-campus support services at UMHS are available to help counteract academic concerns, poor health, stress, or other problems that may negatively impact a student’s educational progress.
Academic advisors Each student is assigned an academic advisor. The advisor’s role is to provide educational support and guidance, and to help students determine future career goals. The faculty also have office hours to provide further academic support to the students. Our learning specialist on campus also provides another level of advisement to support our student body.
Medical health care The UMHS Health Care Clinic is staffed with a registered nurse who provides University
Our students become a family united in the goal of achieving their dreams and pushing each other to succeed.
members with care or referral for additional medical services. St. Kitts has health clinics located throughout the island. The main hospital in St. Kitts is the Joseph N. France General Hospital in Basseterre. Every student is required to maintain health insurance coverage and emergency evacuation insurance, which is used to transport an ill student to the closest U.S. hospital.
Mental health care The mental and physical health of UMHS students and faculty is of vital importance. There is a counselor available to students on the UMHS campus. Referral to appropriate mental health care providers occurs if additional intervention is required.
Campus safety Student safety and security is a priority at UMHS. There is an on-campus security office with staff available to assist with any questions or concerns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Students are required to obtain a University ID card when they first register for classes. All students are also required to show their UMHS identification cards to enter the campus, and their cards must be visible at all times while they’re on campus. According to the Ministry of National Security in St. Kitts-Nevis, the islands have relatively little crime. Nevertheless, UMHS community members should always exercise normal precautions, just as they would in their hometowns.
Student life
53
Living in St. Kitts About St. Kitts Getting to campus Housing Explore the sites around town Getting around Family and pets
Living in St. Kitts
Getting to know the island UMHS students can enjoy all that life has to offer while living and learning in one of the most stunningly beautiful spots in the Caribbean. ABOUT ST. KITTS
ELECTRICITY
St. Kitts and her sister island, Nevis, compose the Federation of St. Christopher
+ St. Kitts (general):
and Nevis. St. Kitts has become the commonly used name for St. Christopher, and the people of St. Kitts are called Kittitians. English is the primary language, although Kittitians often speak a dialect called Patois. The Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, which symbolically recognizes the British monarch as head of state. The
220 volts/60 cycles*
+ UMHS campus: 110 volts/60 cycles
+ United States: 110 volts/60 cycles
country became autonomous in 1967 and is led by a prime minister. The capital of St. Kitts is Basseterre. The economy of St. Kitts traditionally focused on sugarcane production. However, in recent years, tourism, export-oriented manufacturing, education, and offshore banking have become the primary businesses. St. Kitts offers many Western-style
TIME ZONE + Atlantic Standard Time
amenities, including resort hotels, excellent restaurants, taxi services, stores for
+ Same as the east coast
shopping and groceries, and houses of worship for a variety of religious beliefs.
of the United States
+ Daylight Saving Time is not observed
CURRENCY + Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC)
+ Approximate exchange rate of 2.7 EC to 1 USD
+ Bank branches are easily found in Basseterre and they all provide 24-hour ATM services.
FOOD SHOPPING + U.S.-style supermarkets + Farmers market + Fish market
*You will likely need a converter to use American appliances in your St. Kitts apartment.
Living in St. Kitts
55
GETTING TO CAMPUS St. Kitts is located in the Eastern Caribbean. Renowned as an island resort destination, St. Kitts is easily accessible from New York, Miami, Puerto Rico, and other major airports. The major St. Kitts airport is Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw International Airport (airport code SKB), which islocated about three miles northeast of Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts.
HOUSING All UMHS students live off-campus during their time in St. Kitts. There are many apartments near the University. Apartments are fully furnished, so students only need to bring bedding, towels, personal items, and clothing. To help students identify and secure the right accommodations, UMHS maintains a Housing Department on the St. Kitts campus, along with an online housing database featuring available rental units.
EXPLORE THE SITES AROUND TOWN Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, the island of St. Kitts offers a diversity of cultures and a treasure trove of attractions and sights to explore. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
56
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Living in St. Kitts
SPORTS AND ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES + Basketball
+ Sailing
+ Cricket
+ Stand-up
+ Golf + Jet skiing + Kayaking
paddleboarding
+ Surfing + Tennis
+ Kiteboarding + Wakeboarding + Zip lining + Snorkeling + Scuba diving
PERFECT SETTINGS FOR HIKING AND ENJOYING NATURE + Ancient fortress + Beautiful, sandy beaches + Crystalline waterfalls + Caves + Spectacular dormant volcano + Tropical forest areas + Vast wildlife and marine life
CULTURAL SITES AND EVENTS + Annual colorful carnival and music festival
+ Historic plantation homes + Quaint local shops + Small towns with colonial architecture
+ Special events at the 10,000-seat stadium built for the 2007 World Cup Cricket Games
Living in St. Kitts
57
Learn more about life in St. Kitts, visit umhs.org/studentlife.
58
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Living in St. Kitts
GETTING AROUND UMHS provides transportation to students who live outside the general vicinity of campus. However, students are encouraged to consider purchasing a used vehicle in St. Kitts to make it even easier to get around. The UMHS Student Service Office maintains a list of available used cars and can assist students in locating an appropriate vehicle. Public transportation options, including mini buses and taxis, are also available. Road conditions on the island are significantly different from those in the U.S. or Canada. Here are a few things you should know:
+ Cars ride on the left side of the road.
+ A visitor’s driver’s license is required
+ Roads are paved, but they may be
to rent or purchase a car. A student
narrow and poorly marked.
+ It’s customary for drivers to stop on the road to visit with other drivers, blocking at least one lane of traffic.
+ Honking a car horn is considered a common form of greeting, not a warning.
with a valid driver’s license from their home country may obtain a visitor’s license from the traffic department, the fire station, or at the airport.
+ Because of the road conditions, the use of motorcycles or bicycles is not recommended.
FAMILY AND PETS Considering bringing your family or pets with you to medical school? Here are some important details worth noting:
+ A valid passport and travel
+ It is likely that family and/or friends
documents are required to
will not be able to gain employment
enter St. Kitts.
while on the island, because the
+ Anyone planning to stay more
government of St. Kitts imposes
than 30 days will need a resident
restrictions regarding who can
visa (typically extended only to
work here.
spouses and children).
+ UMHS does not offer schooling for the
+ Due to strict government regulations pertaining to the importation of
children of faculty, staff, or students,
animals and common restrictions in
but a small number of the schools on
most St. Kitts housing units, you are
St. Kitts provide a North American-
advised to avoid bringing pets with
style of education.
you to St. Kitts.
Living in St. Kitts
59
Admissions Admissions overview Admissions process Tuition and fees Financial aid Student loans Scholarships Administrative contact information Next steps
Admissions
We seek students who are motivated to succeed UMHS attracts students who are committed to serving others and becoming successful, caring physicians. ACADEMIC PREREQUISITES
ADMISSIONS OVERVIEW If you feel you would fit in among our diverse student body, we encourage you to complete an application for admission. Serious consideration is given to all candidates showing the potential to succeed in the University’s rigorous academic program. Many variables including, but not limited to, academic performance, credit load, work, volunteer and research experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay are carefully reviewed when assessing candidates.
Admissions criteria
the ability to adapt, study hard, integrate
Academic performance
various modes of instruction, and
UMHS reviews transcripts to
retain useful knowledge required for
determine whether the applicant
promotion. The applicant’s personal
has the intellectual capability
essay, letters of recommendation,
to handle a challenging medical
and personal interview are important
school curriculum. At UMHS,
components used to assess motivation.
we are specifically interested in the pattern of an applicant’s academic development and look for
Admissions requirements Prospective students must meet the
identifiable trends in performance.
minimum requirements for admission
Test-taking ability
Sciences. Applicants are expected to
Standardized test scores are helpful in evaluating each applicant’s needs relative to placement in the UMHS curriculum. The Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT) is required by UMHS for all U.S. citizens and permanent residents, and scores must be submitted as part of the application. Any applicant who took the
to the University of Medicine and Health
Inorganic or General Chemistry (with Labs) 1 year Organic Chemistry (with Labs)* 1 year General Biology or Zoology (with Labs) 1 year Physics (with Lab) 1 semester English 1 year College-Level Mathematics** 1 semester
have completed a minimum of three
* Applicants may substitute one semester of Biochemistry for Organic II if this is the prescribed pre-medical chemistry sequence at their college or university.
years of study (90 semester credits)
**Preferably Calculus or Statistics
at an accredited college or university. The Admissions Committee gives serious consideration to all candidates demonstrating the potential to meet the rigorous academic requirements of a highly structured curriculum.
RECOMMENDATIONS + Earning a bachelor’s degree prior to matriculating at UMHS
+ Completing additional advanced
test must submit all resulting scores
Educational recommendations
as part of the application. While not
Applicants should have a broad
required of non-U.S. citizens, the MCAT
background in the humanities and have
is recommended for all applicants,
completed at least 12–16 credit hours in
including Canadian citizens or residents.
either the humanities and/or the social
settings, research, public health,
or behavioral sciences. Successful
or community outreach activities
Motivation Perhaps one of the most important qualities of an applicant is a level of
science courses, such as Genetics, Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry
+ Gaining experience in clinical
completion of academic prerequisites is required of all applicants.
personal motivation for success. We seek students who have demonstrated Admissions
61
Admissions
Application procedure Application Visit umhs.org/apply to complete our online application. Make sure all fields are complete before you submit your application, because you won’t be able to access it again after submission. Personal essay This is an important aspect of the application. Follow the directions on the application completely. Application fee There is a non-refundable application fee of $75 for the UMHS application. Letters of recommendation If there is a pre-professional advisory committee at the college or university where you completed pre-medical and/or post-baccalaureate coursework, then we strongly recommend that you obtain a letter of recommendation from this committee. If you attended a school at which there is no pre-professional advisory committee, you must submit at least two letters of recommendation from faculty members who are familiar with your academic ability. Additional letters may be submitted from professional health care workers who have had direct experience working with you.
Application Checklist Completed application for admission $75 application fee Personal essay Letters of recommendation Official transcripts MCAT score, if applicable TOEFL scores, if applicable Signature form signed by the applicant
Official transcripts While unofficial transcripts will be accepted for the purposes of initial evaluation, all applicants must request official transcripts from all universities or colleges previously attended in order to complete their application. MCAT scores All U.S. citizens and permanent residents are required to submit a score report
All documentation that cannot be sent electronically must be mailed directly to: The Office of Admissions, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts, North American Administrative Office, 275 Seventh Avenue, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10001
from the Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT). The MCAT is recommended, although not required, for Canadian and international applicants. Additional examination requirement for international students International students whose principal language is not English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). At a minimum, a score of 600 on the paper-based version, 250 on the computer-based version, or 100 on the internet- based version of the TOEFL must be achieved.
Qualified applicants can choose from three start dates each year: January, May, or September.
Admissions
63
Information for non-U.S. applicants
ADMISSIONS PROCESS
Applicants from Canada Canadian applicants should follow the
Preliminary evaluation
The program was designed for
application procedures listed on the
The UMHS Faculty Admissions
students who wish to spread the
previous page.
Committee reviews each application and
highly compressed work of the
conducts a preliminary evaluation of the
Basic Science Program over a five-
applicant’s credentials. If it is determined
semester period. Accepted students
that the applicant meets the University’s
are invited to enter this program
minimum qualifications, the applicant will
if, in their view, they would benefit
be invited for a personal interview.
from the additional time to complete
Non-U.S. and non-Canadian applicants Other international applicants should complete the application process described on the previous page and submit TOEFL scores. Students from
the academic program. In select
Personal interview
cases, based on the admissions
Conducted by one of the University’s
criteria, the admissions committee
admissions staff members
may determine that some admitted
geographically dispersed throughout
students will be placed directly into
Internationally educated applicants
North America, the personal interview
the EBS program. Students accepted
Applicants who attended international
allows applicants to discuss their
into the Basic Science Program may
colleges or universities must have their
academic record and provide any
instead choose EBS up until a week
college courses evaluated by an approved
additional background information
after the first block exam in semester
National Association of Credential
that may help the UMHS Admissions
one or two. See the Extended Basic
Evaluation Services (NACES) agency,
Committee assess the applicant’s
Science Program section on page 15
such as World Education Services,
maturity, aptitude, and motivation.
for more details.
English-speaking countries may be exempt from this requirement, but that is determined by the Office of Admissions.
to determine whether the courses are
4 Denial
comparable and equivalent to courses
Application decision
An applicant may appeal this decision
taken in the U.S. or Canada. All required
Applicants can expect to receive
in writing and must supply additional
documents, if originally in a foreign
written notification of the admissions
supporting documentation for review
language, must be accompanied by
committee’s decision approximately
by the admissions committee.
a notarized English translation.
two weeks after the personal interview.
5 Acceptance into the Accelerated Review Program (ARP)
Transfer applicants Students transferring from M.D.
There are five decision options: 1 Acceptance
programs at other universities
Accepted students will receive a
may only enter the program in the
formal letter of acceptance and an
fifth semester or earlier. To be
electronic Welcome Packet. They will
considered for admission, transfer
also be contacted by a staff member
applicants must meet all UMHS
who will assist with all aspects of the
prerequisite requirements, including
enrollment process.
successful completion of all required
2 Acceptance/wait list
undergraduate courses. In addition
If the semester for which an accepted
to official transcripts from their
applicant has applied has reached
prior medical school(s), applicants
capacity, he or she will be placed on a
| must submit official copies of
waitlist and offered the opportunity to
all undergraduate and graduate
attend in the chosen term if a vacancy
transcripts (if applicable), two letters
occurs. Otherwise, the student will
of recommendation, a personal essay,
be able to start classes in the next
the application fee, and MCAT results
available semester.
(if applicable).
64
3 Acceptance to the Extended Basic Science Program
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
UMHS believes that with the right support, students who have the passion to become physicians can master the educational process to achieve their goals. The ARP is designed for students who have the drive to become physicians, but who need additional academic and study skills support to ensure their success in the rigorous medical education program. Students who apply to UMHS and have met all minimum entrance requirements will be considered for the ARP based on their prior academic performance and personal interview. See the ARP section on page 23 for additional details.
Admissions
TUITION AND FEES The University of Medicine and Health Sciences prides itself on providing a quality education at an affordable
Liability insurance Liability insurance is required for students throughout the clinical program in the United States.
price. We understand that student loan
School fees
debt can be a significant burden, so we
This fee covers the costs associated
have established tuition at a value that
Basic Science Program (**13-29 credits)
Per-semester fee
Tuition
$15,300
Health Insurance (age-based)
$278–$669
Evacuation Insurance
$105
with the use of laboratory, competency
Lab & School Fees
$800
makes the academic program (as well
testing, and computer facilities. The
as repayment) affordable, with costs far
Student Government Association
$30
fee will be billed along with tuition for
below those of many other schools.
all semesters in St. Kitts.
Accelerated Review Program Per-semester fee Tuition $9,700
associated with attending any
Additional expenses
Health Insurance (age-based)
educational institution: direct costs,
Evacuation Insurance
$105
Student Government Association
$30
students should take into account
Books and equipment Each semester, students receive a list of the required books, supplies, white coats, and scrubs that they will need to purchase. The most efficient way to obtain these items is through the campus
both direct and indirect costs when
bookstore on the St. Kitts campus.
considering their financial needs.
Deposits
Laptop/tablet computers Students are required to bring a laptop or tablet computer to campus. For more information about laptop/tablet computer
A nonrefundable $500 deposit must
requirements, refer to umhs.org/tech.
There are two categories of costs
such as tuition and other charges billed for by UMHS, and indirect costs, such as living expenses and transportation. UMHS only bills for direct costs, but
Direct costs
be received by UMHS within 10 days of acceptance. This payment will be credited toward the first semester’s tuition. Tuition
Transportation UMHS provides transportation to students who live outside the general vicinity of campus. Students are encouraged to
Tuition payments are due before
purchase a used vehicle in St. Kitts.
classes begin each semester.
Living expenses Students should budget for typical living expenses, including housing, utilities, food, local transportation, and entertainment. Costs will vary based on the level of accommodation and location.
Health insurance Health insurance is required for all students attending UMHS. Students are automatically enrolled in the medical health insurance plan offered by UMHS, unless proof of coverage is provided by the student before or during registration. Evacuation insurance Medical evacuation insurance is required for all students enrolled at the St. Kitts campus to cover the costs incurred by evacuating a student from the island in a medical emergency. Enrollment in the medical evacuation insurance plan offered by UMHS is automatic, and corresponding fees are due at the beginning of each semester.
$278–$669
Extended Basic Science Program (**13-26 credits) Tuition
$13,030
Health Insurance (age-based)
$278–$669
Evacuation Insurance
$105
Lab & School Fees
$800
Student Government Association
$30
Fifth Semester, Maine (11 credits) Tuition
$17,950
Health Insurance (age-based)
$375–$903
Liability insurance
$344
Clinical Science Program Tuition
$17,950
Health Insurance (age-based)
$375–$903
Liability Insurance
$344
Tuition rates effective September 2023. Note: Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice. Tuition is assessed based on student classification, program of study and the number of credits for which a student is registered. ** Tuition will be prorated for total registered credits in the Basic Sciences (BAS) and Extended Basic Sciences (EBS) which fall below the semester credit range stated above. The Basic Science and EBS charge will be at a rate of $1000 per credit. Tuition in 5th semester–Maine will be pro-rated at a rate of $1,125 per credit for students that are registered for less than 11 credits. Tuition for the Clinical program (Sem 6-10) will be pro-rated at a rate of $1,125 per credit/rotation week plus the cost of liability insurance for those students scheduled for more than 78 weeks of rotations. Any necessary adjustments to accounts will be made upon official notification from the Registrar. A student failing any course in any semester will be required to repeat that course and will be charged in accordance with the tuition and fees schedule.** Admissions
65
FINANCIAL AID
STUDENT LOANS
With the Smart Option loan:
UMHS recognizes that a medical education requires a significant financial investment from students and their families. We encourage students to plan and carefully consider all anticipated costs. Accepted students will receive a detailed financial aid package and will be offered financial aid counseling. The Office of Financial Aid staff helps students review and understand how previous education debt, personal financial resources, and credit history may impact their ability to finance their medical education.
A student will not be permitted to
+ Students can defer payments
Once enrolled, students continue to receive guidance from the Office of Financial Aid with presentations and practical workshops on budgeting, credit awareness, and debt management strategies. Each UMHS financial aid counselor has years of experience helping students develop viable financial plans to achieve their educational goals.
Private Educational Loan Program
the option to choose either a variable
Sallie Mae offers UMHS medical students
or a fixed interest rate.
borrow more than the cost of
until after graduation or opt to
attendance for each loan period.
make monthly payments while
Even if a student loan is credit approved
still in school.
by a bank for an amount larger than
+ Repayment terms can fluctuate
the cost of attendance, the Office of
between five and 15 years after
Financial Aid will only certify a maximum
graduation.
amount equal to that of your total cost. Consumer or other personal debt (credit cards, mortgages, car payments, legal fees, etc.) cannot be included in the cost of attendance. For more details, visit umhs.org/studentloans.
a variety of student loan options including, but not limited to, the graduate Smart Option private loan program. They also offer the undergraduate Smart Option Program to ARP students. These private educational loan programs may lend up to the full cost of attendance for each loan period. Your cost of attendance and the
+ Repayment terms will vary, based on loan amount and year in school.
+ There is no cosigner requirement; however, applying with a creditworthy cosigner may help you qualify and/or receive a lower interest rate. You have
+ The application is online and easy to complete. Residency and Relocation Loan Program With this loan from Sallie Mae, students can finance the costs associated with finding a residency, including travel to interviews, relocation costs, board
Financial aid services
semesters included in your loan period will
The Office of Financial Aid offers
vary according to your progress through
guidance on:
the curriculum. However, the standard
+ Budgeting
cost of attendance budgets can be found
+ Credit awareness
at umhs.org/financialaid. Please note,
To qualify, a student must be either a U.S.
this loan is only available to eligible U.S.
citizen or a permanent resident who is
citizens or permanent residents.
enrolled at least part time in his or her
+ Debt management For additional details on financial aid, visit umhs.org/financialaid.
examination expenses, and other related expenses. Students can borrow as little as $1,000 or as much as $20,000.
final year of study, or a recent graduate who has completed his or her final year of schooling and is no more than 12 months past graduation. UMHS Institutional Loan Program This special loan program, for both incoming and current UMHS medical students, is need based and requires a credit-worthy, U.S. cosigner. Qualified applicants can borrow up to $6,000 per semester.
66
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Admissions
Canadian student loan programs Provincial loans Canadian students are eligible for Provincial Loans in the province of residence—for example, Ontario residents are eligible for an Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) loan. Students may apply for up to 52 weeks of financial assistance annually. Canadian students should contact their individual provinces directly for information regarding additional requirements. Additional information may be available from the provincial and territorial student financial assistance offices:
+ Alberta studentaid.alberta.ca + New Brunswick www2.gnb.ca + Newfoundland Labrador gov.nl.ca/education/studentaid + Northwest Territories www.gov.nt.ca/SFA + Nova Scotia studentloans.ednet.ns.ca + Ontario osap.gov.on.ca/OSAPPortal + Prince Edward Island studentloan.pe.ca + Saskatchewan saskatchewan.ca/studentloans Credit-based loans UMHS has coordinated credit-based loans with the Royal Bank of Canada and the National Bank of Canada. Each program offers specific terms and conditions, as well as pre-set limits. The lines of credit are credit based, and a cosigner may be required. To apply for a credit based loan from one of these banks, Canadian
Sallie Mae Smart Option Loan Program Attain loans for up to the full cost of attendance (tuition and housing) Defer payments until after graduation or opt to make monthly payments Repayment terms can fluctuate between five and 15 years after graduation Apply online and get a credit result in only 15 minutes
students may go to any bank branch office with their acceptance letter.
Admissions
67
SCHOLARSHIPS UMHS believes that all education should be affordable and that students should have access to enough financial aid to cover their full cost of attendance. With that in mind, the university has decided to substantially increase the award amounts for the scholarships listed below. In some cases, we have doubled the amount from previous years. Over the last five years, we have awarded close to $3 million in scholarships. We know that finances are a major concern for students, but by maintaining affordable tuition, providing scholarships, offering payment plans and student loans, students can achieve their dream of becoming a physician without a significant amount of debt.
Merit scholarships The Founder’s, President’s, and Provost’s scholarships are merit-based awards provided to qualified students as new matriculates. Awards granted under these programs are based on the academic strengths demonstrated in each student’s application for admission. All accepted students are considered for these scholarships. Awards granted under these programs are applicable towards tuition for the Basic Science semesters attended on the St. Kitts campus. A comprehensive review of the accepted student’s admissions file is conducted to determine award amounts. We weigh each student’s cumulative GPA, as well as GPAs for all premedical coursework, advanced biology coursework, and graduate and medical school coursework. Award recipients will be notified via email. Terms of each award will be outlined in the award letter.
Founder’s Scholarship ($14,000 Total)
ACCM, has adopted the US standards of accreditation, and
This scholarship was developed in memory of our founder,
is recognized by the US Department of Education through
Dr. Robert Ross. As a leader in medical education, he spent a
NCFMEA. Students have excelled academically and are
lifetime helping thousands of students achieve their dream of
performing exceptionally well on the licensing examination.
becoming a physician. He was a pioneer in establishing one
As further evidence of our commitment to student success,
of the first Caribbean medical schools in 1978. In establishing
90% of our first-time applicants obtained a residency.
UMHS, Dr. Ross had unlimited resources to build one of
To qualify for the president’s scholarship, students must
the most state-of-the-art campuses in the Caribbean. He maintained the highest of academic standards and spared no expense in providing students the resources and faculty they needed to succeed. To qualify, students must maintain at a minimum an undergraduate GPA of 3.76 or higher. In addition, the university will also consider a number of other variables including Science
maintain at a minimum an undergraduate GPA of 3.51 to 3.75. The university will also consider a number of other variables including Science GPA, MCAT Scores, and may request a personal statement. Award amount is $2,750/term or $2,200/term for students in the EBS program.
GPA, MCAT scores, and may request a personal statement.
Provost Scholarship ($10,000 Total)
Award amount is $3,500/term or $2,800/term for students in
The Provost Scholarship was developed in recognition of Dr.
the EBS program.
David Graham and his commitment to providing UMHS an outstanding medical education while maintaining the highest of
President’s Scholarship ($11,000 Total)
academic standards.
This scholarship was developed in recognition of President
Dr. David Graham qualified in 1977 from the Liverpool Medical
Warren Ross who has committed his entire life to helping students achieve their dream of becoming a physician. President Ross has over 45 years of experience in academic medicine and was intimately involved in developing virtually every aspect of UMHS. His goal was to develop a modern state of the art medical that was comparable to medical schools in the United States. By maintaining a small school environment, he was able to provide students with a personalized education with the learning resources and faculty that they need to succeed. Under his leadership, UMHS has obtained multiple state approvals and accreditations. One of our accreditors,
68
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
School at the University of Liverpool in the UK. He trained in many of the hospitals in the northwest of England, including the Royal Liverpool University Teaching Hospital, and also, in the University Hospital, London, Ontario, Canada. He carried out research in several areas of Respiratory Medicine producing papers and presenting at the American Thoracic Society. An extended piece of research led to the award of a Postgraduate Degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD) by the University of Liverpool.
Admissions
In 1999, he was appointed as the Postgraduate Dean for the
For questions, contact Dr. Brijette Sena, Associate Dean of
Mersey Deanery and was responsible for the development and
Academic Administration.
delivery of training for over 2200 junior doctors in the hospitals across Merseyside. In 2008, he became a Professor of Medical Education at the University of Liverpool and soon afterward, also became Dean of the Liverpool Medical School. As Dean of the Medical School, he was responsible for both the Teaching Programs for 1500 medical students and the five Research Schools. To qualify for this scholarship, students must maintain an undergraduate GPA of 3.25 to 3.5. In addition, the university will also consider a number of other variables including Science GPA and MCAT scores. It may also request a personal statement. Award amount is $2,500/term or $2,000/term for students in the EBS program.
ARP Scholarship ($9,000) UMHS is very proud of the students who have successfully completed the Accelerated Review Program. As an incentive to excel in this program, we have developed a new merit-based scholarship to reward our high achievers. Students who have successfully completed ARP can also qualify for a Basic Science Scholarship. This will be a merit-based scholarship reliant on the student’s academic performance in ARP. Students who have maintained a B or greater in ARP will automatically qualify for the scholarship. Students in the four-semester Basic Sciences program will receive $2,250 per semester, while those in the five-semester
Dr. William Thurman Scholarship for Academic Excellence Our late founding Provost, Dr. William Thurman, made an enormous contribution to the creation and development of UMHS. His spirit of professionalism along with a clear student-centered approach lives on, and is part of the UMHS ethos. Dr. Thurman loved medicine and always inspired students to achieve greatness.
Extended Basic Sciences program will receive $1,800 per semester—each resulting in a total award of $9,000. ARP graduates entering into the medical school program will be considered for the other university scholarships automatically. Students who qualify will be considered for the scholarship offering the largest amount of funding.This scholarship will be effective September 2023. Students currently enrolled
To honor his memory and lasting impact on our University, the
in the May ARP class and all subsequent classes will qualify.
Board of Trustees has established the Dr. William Thurman
For further details about qualifying please contact the
Scholarship for Academic Excellence. This scholarship will be
Financial Aid Department.
awarded to exemplary students who demonstrate academic excellence during their clinical semesters (semesters 6-10).
St. Kitts Scholarship
Award recipients stand to receive up to $1,000 per semester.
In concert with the Kittitian Government, UMHS offers two
To qualify, students must meet the following criteria:
+ Maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.80 for an award toward any clinical semester
+ Achieve a minimum of 75 on the first attempt of all NBME Core Shelf exams, for an award toward semesters 7, 8, and 9
+ Be in good academic standing for an award toward any clinical semester
+ Earn a score of 240 or higher on a first attempt at USMLE Step 1 for a semester 6 award
+ Earn a score of 240 or higher on first attempt at USMLE Step 2 CK for a semester 10 award
significant scholarships to citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis. Students interested in applying should contact the Human Resource Management Department, Office of the Prime Minister of the Federation of St. Christopher and Nevis.
Veterans Scholarship We are proud to offer the Robert Ross Veterans Scholarship. This is a need-and-merit-based scholarship that is available to veterans, servicemen, and servicewomen during Basic Science semesters. Students may be eligible for up to $1,000 per semester. Students interested in the program should contact the Office of Financial Aid for further details.
In addition to the per-semester awards, the scholarship fund also grants an additional $2,500 award to the Valedictorian at graduation. There is no application necessary. Students’ academic records will be reviewed upon receipt of each NBME and USMLE Score. Any award granted will be applied to the appropriate semester.
Admissions
69
Administrative contact information EXECUTIVE OFFICE Warren Ross, J.D. President wross@umhs-sk.net David R. Graham, MB, ChB, M.D. FRCP, FFSEM Provost dgraham@umhs-sk.net Jerry W. Thornton, Ph.D. Vice President jthornton@umhs-sk.net Anne Prillaman, J.D., M.B.A. Chief Financial Officer aprillaman@umhs-sk.net
ADMISSIONS AND ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT Sean Powers, B.A. Vice President of Admissions spowers@umhs-sk.net Shyam Dharia, B.S. Director of Enrollment Management sdharia@umhs-sk.net Nelida Alvarez, A.S. Post Acceptance Director nalvarez@umhs-sk.net Carole Walker, M.A. Regional Director of Admissions, Midwest cwalker@umhs-sk.net Earl Mainer, B.A. Senior Associate Director of Admissions, Southeast emainer@umhs-sk.net Brad Schmidt, M.Ed., Senior Associate Director of Admissions, Southeast bschmidt@umhs-sk.net Melanie Weiner, M.S. Associate Director of Admissions, Southeast meweiner@umhs-sk.net Corie Thayer, B.A. Associate Director of Admissions, Midwest cthayer@umhs-sk.net Hamed Mouseghy, M.D. Associate Director of Admissions, California and Western US drmouseghy@umhs-sk.net Geneviève Gagné,B.A Associate Director of Admissions, Canada ggagne@umhs-sk.net Alysha Nicholls, M.S.H.E. Associate Director of Admissions, Northeast anicholls@umhs-sk.net
70
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Guillermo Gumieny, M.A. Associate Director of Admissions, Puerto Rico ggumieny@umhs-sk.net Shelly Surowitz Applicant Coordinator, Florida Office ssurowitz@umhs-sk.net Gillian Hyman Admissions Associate, Florida Office ghyman@umhs-sk.net
Marlene Hummel, B.S. Associate Registrar mhummel@umhs-sk.net Kayla Martinez, M.B.A. Associate Registrar kaylamartinez@umhs-sk.net Ebony Smith Assistant Registrar for Academic Administration esmith@umhs-sk.net
Deborah Galdames Applicant Coordinator dgaldames@umhs-sk.net
Ariana Everett Registrar Coordinator for Academic Administration aeverett@umhs-sk.net
ALUMNI AFFAIRS
Molly McLaughlin, M.A. Assistant Registrar mmclaughlin@umhs-sk.net
Michelle Peres, B.A. Director of Alumni Affairs mperes@umhs-sk.net Scott Harrah, M.A. Director of Digital Content, Alumni Communications Liaison sharrah@umhs-sk.net
PORTLAND, MAINE CAMPUS Donna Thompson, M.D.C.M. Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor of Clinical Medicine dthompson@umhs-sk.net Molly Johannessen, Ph.D. Director of Education and Teaching, Director of Biological Basis of Clinical Medicine, Associate Professor of Physiology mjohannessen@umhs-sk.net Heather Robertson, MHS, PA-C Director of ICM II Clinical Skills Lab & Preceptorship Program hrobertson@umhs-sk.net Matthew Michaud, N.D., M.A. Associate Director of Support and Learning Development mmichaud@umhs-sk.net
OFFICE OF THE REGISTRAR Linda Everett, B.S. University Registrar leverett@umhs-sk.net Brijette Sena, Ed.D, M.B.A. Associate Dean of Academic Administration, Director of Institutional Research bsena@umhs-sk.net
Isabel Monarca Assistant Registrar imonarca@umhs-sk.net Earnestine Harrison Assistant Registrar eharrison@umhs-sk.net
CLINICAL DEPARTMENT George H. Shade Jr., M.D. Dean of Clinical Sciences gshade@umhs-sk.net David Felten, M.D., Ph.D. Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences dfelten@umhs-sk.net Donna Thompson, M.D. Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor of Clinical Medicine dthompson@umhs-sk.net Phillip Perri, B.S. Director of Hospital Procurement pperri@umhs-sk.net Maxine Paul, J.D. Director of Clinical Relations mpaul@umhs-sk.net Brandy Admendares, M.A. Associate Director of Clinical Placement badmendares@umhs-sk.net Tamara Lara, B.A. Clinical Placement Coordinator tlara@umhs-sk.net Veronica McFarland, B.A. Clinical Placement Advisor vmcfarland@umhs-sk.net Kelli Jefferson Clinical Placement Advisor kjefferson@umhs-sk.net
Admissions
CLINICAL CHAIRS Steve Caplan, M.D. Chief of Pediatrics David L. Felten, M.D., Ph.D. Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences, Professor of Neurosciences Charles Herrick, M.D. Chief of Psychiatry Robert Levine, M.D. Chief of Family Medicine Elizabeth Morgan, M.D. Chief of Surgery George H. Shade Jr., M.D. Chief of Obstetrics/Gynecology Khalid Zakaria, M.D. Chief of Internal Medicine
OFFICE OF THE BURSAR Magdalena Rosario, B.A. University Bursar mrosario@umhs-sk.net David Curry, B.A. Student Account Specialist dcurry@umhs-sk.net
PURCHASING DEPARTMENT
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Vincent Bologna, B.A. Director of Purchasing vbologna@umhs-sk.net
Wayne Williams, B.S. Chief Technology Officer wwilliams@umhs-sk.net
ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
Mohit Saxena, M.S. Senior Systems Analyst msaxena@umhs-sk.net
Patrick McCormick, B.S. Associate Dean of Academic & Student Affairs pmccormick@umhs-sk.net Jonathan Timen, B.A. Assistant Director of Academic Affairs jtimen@umhs-sk.net Garrett Eisler, M.A. Senior Professional Development Advisor geisler@umhs-sk.net
OFFICE OF FINANCIAL AID Elissa Schoening Director of Financial Aid eschoening@umhs-sk.net Sandra Paul Assistant Director of Financial Aid spaul@umhs-sk.net
MARKETING DEPARTMENT Ryan Ross, M.P.H. Director of Marketing rross@umhs-sk.net Michelle Coelho, B.A. Associate Director of Marketing mcoelho@umhs-sk.net Scott Harrah, M.A. Director of Digital Content, Alumni Communications Liaison sharrah@umhs-sk.net Natasha Vass Junior Marketing Associate nvass@umhs-sk.net
Nandi Guy Financial Aid Advisor nguy@umhs-sk.net
BOARD OF TRUSTEES The school is governed by an independent and voluntary Board of Trustees, which serves as the highest authoritative body of the school. Its members are selected by the board itself and may represent the founders, supporting governmental agency, or the public who have an interest in the general welfare of the school. Board members are free of conflicting interest with the school and independent of the administration. The Board of Trustees shall be the final authority on all matters regarding academic programs of UMHS. In consultation with the CAO, CEO, executive vice president, deans, and representatives of the faculty, the Board of Trustees shall provide oversight of the institution by (1) establishing broad institutional policies, provide oversight for institutional direction, and ensuring that the institution provides adequate financial resources. Finally, the Board is an overseer of the institutional management in the performance of its duties and responsibilities. Board of Members James Williams (Chairman) John Doelp
Thomas Last Orrin Lippoff
Admissions
71
Next steps UMHS believes in a comprehensive approach when making admissions decisions. There is no single factor that will determine your eligibility. We assess your academic performance, motivation, and maturity to better evaluate your whole character. Please go through the steps carefully, make sure you have completed the necessary prerequisites, and contact a member of the UMHS admissions team if you have any questions. Please note that all documentation, other than the application and essay, must be sent by mail to: The Office of Admissions University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts North American Administrative Office 275 Seventh Avenue, 26th Floor New York, NY 10001
Apply today at umhs.org/apply. This publication has been authorized and approved by the Board of Trustees, President, and Dean of the University of Medicine and Health Sciences. In this publication are descriptions of the UMHS educational program and facilities. The University of Medicine and Health Sciences reserves the right to modify or change the curriculum, tuition, or fees of any sort without prior notice. UMHS also reserves the right to modify or change examination and semester schedules without prior notice. Each student is responsible for complying with the degree requirements in effect at the time of their enrollment and attendance. The University of Medicine and Health Sciences admits students without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, disability, or age, to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally made available to students at the University. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, disability, or age in the administration of its educational programs and other University administered policies.
72
UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
next steps
1. F ill out application Visit umhs.org/apply to complete our online application. Be sure to print out and sign the Signature Form, and pay the $75 application fee.
2. Write your essay Your personal statement will give us a more complete idea of you as a person and potential physician. Tell us why you are considering a career in medicine. Write your essay directly into the online application or upload it separately.
3. Submit letters Two letters of recommendation (at least one from your pre-medical advisor or a science professor) should be mailed directly from your former institution(s). If your school has a pre-medical committee that has already evaluated you, we will accept that report instead of separate letters.
4. Send transcripts The registrar’s office of your former institution(s) should mail your official transcripts directly to UMHS. Foreign transcripts must be translated and evaluated by an approved NACES agency, such as World Educational Services (wes.org).
5. Report test scores As we require the MCAT for all U.S. citizens and permanent residents, make sure to schedule the exam if you have not yet taken it. International students whose principal language is not English must take the TOEFL or IELTS exam. All test scores can be mailed directly to UMHS from the appropriate organizations. You may also upload screenshots of your MCAT scores via the document upload tool in our online application.
next steps
73
North American Administrative Office 275 Seventh Avenue, 26th Floor New York, NY 10001 U.S./Canada: 866.686.0380 admissions@umhs-sk.net
Learn more For more information about the University of Medicine and Health Sciences, please visit:
umhs.org/md