International University of Barbados – School of Medicine
Address: One Welches Welches, St. Thomas BB22025 Barbados

The International University of Barbados (IUB) School of Medicine offers a dynamic, comprehensive, and student-centered medical education. The program is structured around a curriculum that integrates theoretical learning with clinical exposure from the first year, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of modern medical practice. IUB provides a progressive approach to medical education, emphasizing active learning through problem-based learning (PBL), which promotes collaborative learning, critical thinking, and self-directed inquiry.

Basic Sciences Curriculum Overview

Semester 1: Foundations of Medical Knowledge and Clinical Skills

  • Clinical Skills I: Pre-Initial Clinical Experiences (2 Credits) This foundational course lays the groundwork for the development of key clinical skills, emphasizing professionalism, patient communication, ethics, and physical evaluation. Students engage in simulated patient interactions and clinical practice, gradually building their competency through hands-on experiences.

  • Gross & Developmental Anatomy (16 Credits) This course provides students with an in-depth understanding of human anatomy, both gross and developmental, using a regional approach. Key anatomical systems are studied, with clinical correlates throughout to reinforce learning. Developmental anatomy is integrated to highlight common clinical anomalies.

  • Histology & Cell Biology (8 Credits) Students gain an understanding of cellular structure and function at the microscopic level, emphasizing the relationship between cellular organization and function. Through histological observation, students begin applying their knowledge to clinical problem-solving.

  • Evidence-Based Medicine & Clinical Outcomes Research (2 Credits) This course introduces students to the principles of evidence-based medicine and research. Students will engage in critical appraisals of scientific literature, exploring the application of evidence to clinical practice. The course includes self-directed learning sessions and research projects culminating in a Capstone report in later years.

Semester 2: Expanding Clinical Competencies

  • Clinical Skills II: Initial Clinical Experiences (2 Credits) Building on skills from Pre-ICE, this course offers expanded clinical exposure, including direct patient interaction in community clinics. Students refine their skills in patient interviews, physical examination, and documentation.

  • Public Health (2 Credits) The Public Health course emphasizes epidemiology, biostatistics, and preventive medicine. Students learn to apply epidemiological principles in clinical decision-making, while also studying trends in disease prevalence and health interventions.

  • Biochemistry & Genetics (10 Credits) This course covers fundamental biochemistry and genetics concepts, focusing on their application in diagnosing and treating diseases. Emphasis is placed on molecular mechanisms, metabolic pathways, and the genetic basis of human disease.

  • Physiology (10 Credits) Students study the function of human organ systems, including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and gastrointestinal systems. Case-based learning sessions integrate clinical and physiological concepts, helping students understand disease pathophysiology.

Semester 3: Advanced Clinical Skills and Clinical Disciplines

  • Clinical Skills III: Pre-Advanced Clinical Experiences (2 Credits) Students continue to refine clinical skills in a more advanced context. This course includes direct patient interactions in a hospital setting, emphasizing skills in presenting patients, formulating differential diagnoses, and managing complex clinical cases.

  • Medical Microbiology (10 Credits) This course provides an introduction to infectious diseases, covering bacteriology, virology, immunology, and parasitology. Students learn diagnostic techniques such as microbiological cultures and staining, and how to evaluate immune responses.

  • Neuroscience (6 Credits) Focusing on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, this course explores the structure and function of the nervous system. The course integrates clinical aspects of neurology, preparing students for neurological case management.

  • Behavioral Sciences (8 Credits) Students explore the psychological, emotional, and sociological factors that influence health and disease. The course addresses mental health, behavioral disorders, and therapeutic interventions, emphasizing cultural competence and effective patient communication.

Semester 4: Specialized Medical Disciplines and Pharmacology

  • Clinical Skills IV: Advanced Clinical Experiences (4 Credits) This course offers advanced clinical training, where students work under supervision to gain hands-on experience in hospital wards and specialized clinical settings. The emphasis is on teamwork, patient management, and leadership in clinical environments.

  • Medical Pharmacology (8 Credits) The study of pharmacology is introduced, covering drug mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. Students learn about the therapeutic use and potential side effects of drugs, and how these relate to disease treatment.

  • Pathology II (8 Credits) The second part of the pathology course focuses on systemic pathology, covering the pathophysiological mechanisms of common diseases. The course integrates clinical case discussions, helping students bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

Semester 5: Transition to Clinical Practice and USMLE Preparation

  • Bridge to Success Program (8 Credits) The Bridge to Success program is designed to prepare students for the USMLE Step 1 examination. The program includes intensive review sessions, clinical vignettes, practice questions, and workshops focused on test preparation, stress management, and clinical reasoning.