Auc Student Handbook PDF
Auc Student Handbook PDF
Auc Student Handbook PDF
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AUC COURSE CATALOG AND STUDENT HANDBOOK | JANUARY 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME 2
AUC PROFILE 3
AUC OBJECTIVES 8
ADMISSIONS 14
ACADEMIC CALENDAR 16
STUDENT FINANCE 20
TUITION AND FEES 20
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE 21
FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS 21
FEDERAL DIRECT UNSUBSIDIZED STAFFORD LOANS 22
FEDERAL DIRECT GRADUATE PLUS LOANS 22
SCHOLARSHIPS 23
WITHDRAWAL REFUND SCHEDULE 24
RETURN OF TITLE IV FUNDING 26
DETERMINING EARNED FINANCIAL AID 27
CURRICULUM 36
MEDICAL SCIENCES 37
CLINICAL SCIENCES 38
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS 40
CAMPUS RESOURCES, ACTIVITIES & POLICIES 53
ORIENTATION 53
CAMPUS ACCESS 53
ELECTRONIC BOOKS 54
LIBRARY SERVICES 54
INSTRUCTIONAL RESOURCE EQUIPMENT 55
LEARNING RESOURCE CENTER 55
WELLNESS COUNSELING CENTER 55
FITNESS CENTER POLICIES 55
CAMPUS SMOKE-FREE POLICY 57
SAFETY INFORMATION 57
CONFERENCE STIPENDS 59
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AUC COURSE CATALOG AND STUDENT HANDBOOK | JANUARY 2020
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AUC COURSE CATALOG AND STUDENT HANDBOOK | JANUARY 2020
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AUC COURSE CATALOG AND STUDENT HANDBOOK | JANUARY 2020
FORMS
Important Student Forms:
A-1 Request for Long Term Academic Leave from Medical Sciences for an Entire Semester
A-2 Request for Short Term Academic Leave from Medical Sciences
A-3 Request for Academic Leave of Absence Extension for USMLE Step 1
A-4 Request for Academic Leave of Absence from Clinical Sciences
A-5 Official Withdrawal Form for Medical Sciences
A-6 Official Withdrawal Form for Clinical Sciences
A-7 Religious Accommodation Form
A-8 Examination Security Agreement
A-9 FERPA Form
A-10 Request for Excused Absence for Illness
A-11 Technical Standards
A-12 Workflow for Student Academic Concerns
A-13 Canvas Student User Guide
A-14 E*Value Clinical Student User Guide
A-15 Academic Accommodations Request Form
A-16 Guidelines for Student Led Community Engagement Experiences
Application to AUC by a student constitutes agreement to comply with this Course Catalog and
Student Handbook, including the Honor Code, Technical Standards, Non-Discrimination Policy,
and any other policies and procedures, rules, regulations, or amendments thereto. Students
are responsible for complying with the terms of any revised or updated Course Catalog
and Student Handbook from the revision or effective date if specified or otherwise on the
date they are first distributed to the student body or published on AUC’s website
(www.aucmed.edu).
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WELCOME
The AUC community extends its students a warm welcome. AUC students’ medical school
experience should be one of tremendous learning, exploration, and personal and professional
development as a physician-in-training.
We have implemented within this Course Catalog and Student Handbook rules that govern
conduct and operation of our institution. These policies, procedures, and guidelines are
designed to ensure that all members of our university know what is expected of them and
others, and are treated fairly.
• Educationally purposeful. AUC is a place where faculty and students share academic
goals and strengthen teaching and learning on campus and in clinical rotations.
• Open. AUC is a place where free speech is protected and civility affirmed.
• Just. AUC is a place where each individual is treated in a fair and transparent manner
and where diversity is vigorously pursued.
• Disciplined. AUC is a place where individuals accept their obligations to the group and
where well-defined governance procedures guide behavior for the common good.
• Caring. AUC is a place where the wellbeing of each member is sensitively supported
and where service to others is expected.
• Celebrative. AUC is a place where the heritage and purpose of the institution is
remembered and where rituals affirming tradition and change are shared.
So, once again, welcome to the AUC community. We are happy that you are here.
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Adapted from Ernest Boyer (1990), Campus Life: In Search of Community. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
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AUC PROFILE
HISTORY
AUC was founded in 1978 upon a belief in the need for visionary, skilled, compassionate
doctors. The university was originally chartered by the Government of Montserrat in the British
West Indies. In 1995, AUC relocated to the island of Sint Maarten after Montserrat’s Soufrière
Hills Volcano—which had been dormant throughout recorded history—erupted and left much of
the island buried or uninhabitable. Now with its medical sciences campus in Sint Maarten, the
university benefits from a standard of living that is unparalleled in the Caribbean.
In 1998, AUC completed a multimillion-dollar teaching and learning facility in Sint Maarten that
features classrooms and laboratories, a virtual imaging anatomy lab, a microbiology lab, and a
comprehensive medical library. Four years later, AUC constructed modern one and two-
bedroom University Apartments just steps from the university campus. AUC officially opened the
doors of a new academic building in 2013, ushering in a new era for the institution. The new
medical education building houses an anatomy lab, clinical skills training lab, simulation center,
and 400-seat auditorium, as well as faculty offices and additional study and learning spaces for
students.
In 2019, AUC entered into a first of its kind partnership with the University of Central Lancashire
(UCLan) in Preston, United Kingdom, to offer international non-US citizens the opportunity to
complete AUC’s medical sciences curriculum through delivery of a Post Graduate Diploma in
International Medical Sciences from UCLan.
Over the past 40 years, AUC has grown in number and stature. The university has established
partnerships with clinical sites in the United States and United Kingdom and offers global health
electives in five countries. With instruction and rigorous training, each day at AUC provides a
fresh chance to live our vision of preserving, transmitting, and applying humanity’s accumulated
medical knowledge and clinical skills to develop graduates whose accomplishments attest to
their intellectual discipline.
ACCREDITATION
AUC is accredited through 2021 by the Accreditation Commission on Colleges of Medicine
(ACCM, www.accredmed.org), which is the accreditor used by the country of Sint Maarten.
The United States Department of Education, via the National Committee on Foreign Medical
Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA), reviews the standards that countries use to accredit
medical schools. The NCFMEA has determined that the ACCM’s accreditation standards are
comparable to those set by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), which
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STATE APPROVALS/LICENSURE
California
The Medical Board of California recognizes AUC’s resident course of instruction leading to the
MD degree to be equivalent to that required by Section 2089 and 2089.5 of the California
Business and Professions Code. The medical education program is equivalent to that of an
LCME-accredited school. This recognition approves AUC to conduct clinical clerkships in
California and enables its graduates to apply for licensure in the state.
Many other states defer to California’s recognition for the purpose of physician licensure
because most do not have their own review and approval process.
Florida
Under the provision of Chapter 1005, Florida Statutes and Chapter 6E of the Florida
Administrative Code, the Commission for Independent Education of the Florida Department of
Education licenses AUC to offer clerkship instruction in Florida. Additional information regarding
this institution may be obtained by contacting the commission at 325 W. Gaines Street, Suite
1414, Tallahassee, FL, 32399-0400, toll-free 888-224-6684.
New York
The New York State Education Department has approved AUC’s program of medical education
to place students in clinical clerkships at AUC’s affiliated hospitals in the state of New York.
Texas
Recognition by the Texas Medical Board facilitates an AUC graduate’s applicant for physician
licensure. The Texas Medical Board has determined that graduates of AUC have demonstrated
Substantial Equivalence of Their Education.
AUC is listed in the International Medical Education Directory, which is published online by the
Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education Research (FAIMER). AUC
students are therefore eligible to take all United States Medical Licensing
Examination® (USMLE) exams by registering with the Educational Commission for Foreign
Medical Graduates® (ECFMG) and are eligible to apply for licensure in all states in the United
States. More information may be found at the National Committee on Foreign Medical
Education and Accreditation (NCFMEA) website here: https://sites.ed.gov/ncfmea/.
AUC students are eligible to obtain U.S. Federal Financial Aid (if qualified) and become active
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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP
AUC is a part of Adtalem Global Education
500 W. Monroe Street, Suite 28
Chicago, IL, 60661
Tel: +1 630-515-7700
CHARTER
AUC is chartered and approved by the government of Sint Maarten.
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AUC has moved boldly into the future of medical education through the implementation of
innovative teaching programs, modern laboratories, and electronic curriculum delivery.
Campus Location
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
#1 University Drive at Jordan Road
Cupecoy, Dutch Lowlands, Sint Maarten
Tel: +1 721-545-2298
This degree track is open to qualified non-US citizen students holding a Bachelor’s degree who
seek a rigorous medical education program designed to help them master the basic medical
sciences and develop the necessary clinical skills to practice medicine. Students with a
Bachelor's degree will complete AUC’s standard medical sciences curriculum through the
delivery of a Post Graduate Diploma in International Medical Sciences from UCLan, which AUC
and its accreditor recognize as equivalent to the AUC medical sciences curriculum. Students
then proceed to USMLE Step 1 and the clinical sciences portion of the program. This degree
track can be completed in four years. AUC graduates are not currently eligible to obtain
licensure in the UK.
Students in the UK Track Medical Degree Program will follow the policies and procedures of
UCLan during their medical sciences training. More information about AUC’s UK Track may be
found on our website.
UK Track Location
University of Central Lancashire
Preston, Lancashire
PR1 2HE
Tel: +44 (0)1772 201 201
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
The administrative office for AUC is located in Pembroke Pines, Florida. The Office of the
Executive Dean is based within the administrative office along with several student service
departments that assist current students with both the Medical Science and Clinical Sciences
portions of their curriculum. The following offices and/or functions are located within the
administrative office in Pembroke Pines.
• Admissions
• Office of the Registrar
• Office of Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) Student Service
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Administrative Offices
American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
880 SW 145th Avenue, Suite 202
Pembroke Pines, FL 33027
Tel: +1 305-446-0600
Fax: +1 305-444-6791
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AUC OBJECTIVES
INSTITUTIONAL OBJECTIVES
The mission of AUC is to train tomorrow’s physicians, whose service to their communities and
their patients is enhanced by international learning experiences, a diverse learning community,
and an emphasis on social accountability and engagement.
AUC is dedicated to developing physicians who will be socially responsible and clinically
superb. Our graduates are resilient, collaborative, scientifically adept, able to take charge of
their own continuing education and lead the changes required to meet the needs of evolving
populations and healthcare systems.
If any confusion exists concerning any of these policies, questions should be directed to the
appropriate Dean for Student Affairs. If there is still an unresolved issue or concern, this should
be referred to the Senior Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs. Email
communications are welcome.
Medical Interviewing Skills. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to
demonstrate the ability to:
• Gather information in a complete or focused history, develop a differential diagnosis, and
identify risk factors for disease.
Physical Examination. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to
demonstrate the ability to:
• Gather accurate information through the conduction of complete or clinically relevant
focused physical examinations.
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• Interpret the results of a physical exam and use these results in the development of a
differential diagnosis.
Communication with Patients and Families. By the end of the program of study, students
should be able to demonstrate the ability to:
• Apply the principles and techniques of patient-centered interviewing while gathering data
to explore the patient’s perspective, including feelings, attribution, beliefs about health
and wellbeing, fears, and expectations with patients and/or families across a broad
spectrum of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Apply the principles and techniques of patient-centered interviewing in the closing of the
interview, which includes information sharing and addressing patient concerns in the
negotiation of the diagnostic and treatment plans with patients and/or families across a
broad spectrum of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Apply the principles and techniques of patient-centered interviewing in order to seek out
emotions and handle them in an empathic manner with patients and/or families across a
broad spectrum of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Apply the principles and techniques of patient-centered interviewing in the discussion of
serious or sensitive topics in an open, empathic and nonjudgmental approach with
patients and/or families across a broad spectrum of cultural and socioeconomic
backgrounds.
• Communicate with people who have special communication needs such as older
persons, those with impaired hearing, and those who speak a different language.
Communication with Other Healthcare Providers. By the end of the program of study,
students should be able to demonstrate the ability to:
• Orally present a patient encounter or clinical situation in an organized, accurate, and
logical fashion, including the assessment and plan.
• Document a patient encounter in an organized, accurate, and logical manner including
reflection of clinical thinking in the assessment and plan.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with all members of the inter-professional
healthcare team and health-related agencies both orally and in writing.
• Pose an appropriate clinical question when requesting consultation from other members
of the healthcare team.
• Maintain accurate timely and legible medical records.
• Function as a collaborative member of the health care team.
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Medical Knowledge
Inquiry and Discovery. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to:
• Formulate a clinical question or hypothesis and develop a plan of investigation to
evaluate the evidence and apply it to clinical care.
• Use the principles of biostatistics and research design to analyze the results of scientific
inquiry and investigation.
Knowledge for Practice. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to:
• Demonstrate knowledge of the structure and function of the human body—from the
molecular to the behavioral level—necessary for the development of a differential
diagnosis and formulation of a diagnostic and treatment plan.
• Formulate and prioritize a differential diagnosis based on the presentation and
epidemiology of disease.
• Discuss the principles of prevention and health promotion.
• Discuss recommendations for prevention and health promotion.
• Discuss the bio psychosocial model as it impacts healthcare utilization and outcomes.
Treatment. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to:
• Recommend treatment options based on the pathophysiology and prognosis of a
disease.
• Apply preventive care principles and motivational interviewing techniques in health
promotion and disease prevention when treating patients across a broad spectrum of
cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Procedural Skills
By the end of the program of study, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to:
• Follow universal precautions and sterile procedures in all patient encounters.
• Perform the procedures listed below correctly and with attention to patient safety and
comfort:
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Systems-Based Practice
Health Care Delivery Systems. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to
demonstrate the ability to:
• Describe basic principles of the healthcare delivery system, including current
organization, determinants of healthcare costs, how healthcare is financed, and the
impact of costs on the delivery of healthcare and society.
• Discuss current incentives to control costs and their potential impact on healthcare.
• Use a patient-centered, cost-effective, and efficient approach to patient care in a variety
of settings.
• Coordinate patient care within the healthcare system.
• Work with members of the healthcare team to prioritize patient care responsibilities to
ensure safe and efficient delivery of patient care.
Systems Improvement. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to
demonstrate the ability to:
• Identify quality gaps and use a systems approach to find solutions.
• Identify systems errors and implement solutions to improve safety for patients and/or the
healthcare team.
• Advocate for solutions to healthcare delivery problems for patients and society as a
whole.
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Professionalism
Boundaries and Priorities. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to:
• Describe the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability (HIPAA) rules and
regulations.
• Maintain the right to privacy as outlined in HIPAA regulations and ethical principles.
• Practice within the defined boundaries of the patient physician relationship as outlined in
ethical principles.
• Establish a therapeutic relationship that prioritizes patient needs before their own in
patient care.
• Recognize when the student’s own needs or physical, mental, or spiritual condition are
negatively impacting patient care and seek help.
• Avoid conflicts of interest such as the acceptance of gifts or remuneration or association
with organizations or products that may undermine the integrity of their practice.
Ethical Principles. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to:
• Apply ethical principles in the recognition of and definition of ethical problems in clinical
medicine.
• Resolve ethical problems through the application of ethical principles.
• Practice within the guidelines of ethical principles maintaining patient autonomy,
confidentiality, and beneficence.
• Practice within the ethical guidelines and principles pertaining to the provision of or
withholding care.
• Educate patients and obtain appropriate informed consent for tests and/or procedures.
• Work with the healthcare team to develop a plan to respond to medical errors that is
consistent with ethical principles.
Institutional, Regulatory and Professional Society Standards. By the end of the program of
study, students should be able to:
• Adhere to institutional and government regulatory standards for personal, public, and
patient safety and privacy.
• Adhere to principles of ethical research.
Professional Relationships. By the end of the program of study, students should be able to:
• Practice with sensitivity and responsiveness in the doctor patient relationship with
patients of diverse backgrounds including but not limited to race, ethnicity, culture,
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Work Habits, Appearance and Etiquette. By the end of the program of study, students should
be able to:
• Reliably report for assigned duties and fulfill expected responsibilities in a punctual
manner. Take responsibility for errors and work to correct them.
• Be clean and neat and adhere to OSHA dress guidelines and institutional requirements.
• Treat all members of the healthcare team, hospital staff, patients, and families with
courtesy and respect.
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ADMISSIONS
REQUIRED COLLEGE CREDIT
AUC requires applicants to hold a baccalaureate degree from an accredited university as a
condition of matriculation. College credits must include the following:
• Biology: One year of biology, including laboratory work. Prospective students will
benefit by taking courses in one or more of the following: genetics, cellular biology,
developmental biology, and comparative anatomy.
• General Chemistry: One year of general chemistry, including laboratory work.
• Organic Chemistry: One year of organic chemistry, including laboratory work.
Coursework should include both aliphatic and aromatic compounds.
• General Physics: One year of general physics, including laboratory work. Coursework
should include mechanic, heat, light, sound, electricity, and nuclear radiation.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Personal Essay: A one-page personal essay regarding the applicant’s medical career
expectations. In concise terms, applicants should summarize the development of their interest in
medicine, their goals in pursuing a medical career, and personal attributes that qualify them to
be a physician. They must also briefly describe the skills and values they believe a physician
should possess in order to practice medicine in the 21st century. Lastly, applicants must
summarize how their experiences to-date demonstrate an acquisition and possession of those
skills and values. Essays should be limited to 750 words.
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• All letters must be signed, on official letterhead, and should be submitted directly to the
AUC Admissions Department by the referee via mail, email, or Interfolio.
Transcripts: Official transcripts must be sent directly from the college registrar in an official
sealed envelope. For foreign schools, notarized copies of the original transcripts may be
directed to AUC when official transcripts are not readily available. However, official transcripts
must follow the notarized copies prior to matriculation.
The official transcript indicating satisfactory attainment of a bachelor’s degree must be received
by AUC no later than the first day of the second term in the degree program of study. It is the
student’s responsibility to ensure that his/her official transcript is received by AUC on time. Any
student who does not provide the official transcript indicating satisfactory attainment of a
bachelor’s degree will have his/her enrollment cancelled, resulting in the loss of any academic
work submitted or grades earned. If the condition has not been met by the start of the 2nd
semester, the student will be withdrawn from AUC and all financial aid funds for the first term
will be required to be returned.
All foreign transcripts must be evaluated by a credentialing service that is a member of the
National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). A listing of credentialing
members can be found at www.naces.org. Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores are
required for admission to AUC and must be taken within the last 5 years. Applicants must
request that their MCAT scores be sent directly from the testing agency to AUC’s Administrative
Office. The code for AUC is 907. For MCAT testing information, please contact the MCAT Care
Team, Association of American Medical Colleges, Section for Applicant Assessment Services,
2450 N St., NW Washington, DC 20037, Phone: 202-828-0690, www.aamc.org/mcat.
English Requirement (UK Track only): Required for non-native English speakers, or
applicants who graduated from institutions in which the education is not delivered in English, or
as requested by the Admissions Committee if deemed necessary to assess success at AUC.
TECHNICAL STANDARDS
Technical Standards consist of the minimum physical, cognitive, and emotional requirements to
provide reasonable assurance that students can complete the entire course of study and
participate in medical training and practice. Students applying for admission will be required to
sign a declaration that AUC’s minimum Technical Standards are met as a condition for
admission. If at any point during enrollment it is determined that a student is unable to meet
AUC’s Technical Standards with appropriate accommodations, the student may be withdrawn
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Students should be aware that current criminal background checks are required twice during
medical school, prior to admission and upon transition to Clinical Sciences. If a student does not
pass a hospital’s background check and is therefore unable to progress through the medical
education program, this situation may constitute grounds for dismissal. Students should review
AUC’s Administrative Review and Grievance Procedures (ARGP) as well as Technical
Standards.
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
January 6 – First day of the May 4 – First day of the August 31 – First day of the
semester semester semester
January 6 - Welcome, May 4 – Welcome, August 31 – Welcome,
orientation, and formal orientation, and formal orientation, and formal
instruction instruction instruction
April 21-23– Final exam August 18-20 – Final exam December 15-17 – Final
period period exam period
April 24 – Last day of August 21 – Last day of December 18 – Last day of
semester semester semester
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ROLLING ADMISSION
AUC enrolls three classes each year: in January, May, and September. This rolling admissions
process means that students with a desire to start medical school do not need to wait for the
typical medical school admission cycle of some U.S. and Canadian medical schools. Interested
applicants can begin the application process at any time during the year prior to their desired
start semester.
AUC reserves the right to change entrance requirements, application procedures, and
admission or academic policies at any time, without prior notice.
If credits are accepted for transfer, no less than 75 percent of the course credits required for the
entire program of study must be completed while enrolled at AUC.
WITHDRAWAL
Students may voluntarily withdraw from enrollment at AUC. The effective date of the withdrawal
(Date of Determination) shall be the date that the student expresses their intent to withdraw
from AUC. Expressed intent shall be made via the completion of the Official Withdrawal Form
located in the Forms Section of this Course Catalog and Student Handbook.
Students intending to withdrawal must then apply for readmission if they wish to return to AUC
and will be subject to the Withdrawal Refund Schedule (see Student Finance section).
Applications will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee. Readmission is not guaranteed.
Readmitted students will typically be subject to all academic policies and tuition and fees in
effect at the time of re-enrollment, without any “grandfathering” provisions based on their
original admission. Student withdrawals are governed by the following policies:
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Application for Withdrawal from Medical Sciences: Beyond the drop deadline published
each semester, a student may not withdraw from or drop a single course; they must withdraw
completely from AUC. Medical sciences students may begin the withdrawal process by
completing an Application for Withdrawal Form.
Clinical Sciences students wishing to withdraw from AUC entirely may begin that withdrawal
process by completing the Application for Withdrawal Form described above. The student
should submit the completed form to the Office of the Registrar for processing. Upon processing
and verification within two weeks of receipt, the student will be notified that he/she has been
formally withdrawn from AUC. Any applicable late cancellation fees will be charged to the
student’s account.
Medical Sciences
Health Insurance Fees will be refunded at the rate of 100 percent if all of the following
conditions are met:
• The student of the incoming cohort officially withdraws within the first 30 days of the
semester. Health Insurance Fees are non-refundable for returning students.
• Health Insurance card is returned to the Business Office at the time of withdrawal.
Clinical Sciences
Health Insurance Fees will not be refunded unless both of the following conditions are met:
• The student was approved and waived insurance before the October 1st deadline.
• Non-Usage Confirmation is approved by the school-sponsored health insurance
company.
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TRANSCRIPTS
Medical Sciences
Students withdrawing from AUC prior to taking final exams will receive “W” on their transcripts. If
the student withdraws after taking final exams, the numerical and alphabetical (F/P/H) course
grades will be recorded. If the student has accumulated failed credits for dismissal, the
dismissal stands, and the student cannot withdraw at that point. All approved withdrawals must
then be submitted to the Office of the Registrar.
REFUNDS
For a withdrawal during the first 60 percent of a semester, as per U.S. federal regulations,
student loan entitlement is recalculated, and AUC and the student are each proportionally
responsible for returning “unearned” financial aid to the relevant lender(s). If a student
withdraws after the first 60 percent of the semester (nine weeks), no refund is given.
Note: Although an academic leave of absence may be authorized in special circumstances, for
students who received U.S. Federal Direct Loans is considered a withdrawal as of the date of
the last academically related activity or the date the institution determined the change in status.
For students who have withdrawn from AUC and then reapply, their applications will be formally
reviewed by the Admissions Committee to determine whether they are eligible for readmission.
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STUDENT FINANCE
TUITION AND FEES
1Ifapplicable, students enrolled for 8-9 credits pay a tuition rate of 50% of the Medical Sciences tuition rate; students
taking less than 8 credits will pay a rate of 25% of the Medical Sciences tuition rate.
2Tuitionwill be prorated per clinical at a rate of $1,625 per credit/week, Malpractice Insurance at $19 per credit/week,
Educational Resource Fee at $16 per credit/week. Health Insurance is billed on a periodic basis in September,
January and May regardless of schedule and is not subject to proration.
3Sint Maarten Campus only (not applicable to UK Track)
4
Residency Permit Fee: The laws of Sint Maarten require residence permits for all students. The annual cost is $280
(500 guilders) and will be charged in full each year on the anniversary of student’s Incoming Semester while the
student is enrolled in the Medical Sciences. For U.S. and Canadian residents, this will be billed along with tuition and
due at orientation. For international students (visa required) payment is required with the Enrollment Reservation Fee
payment a minimum of 60 days prior to arrival in Sint Maarten.
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ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Any student who has not paid tuition and/or fees after the first day of class will be considered as
having a delinquent account. By the second week of the term, AUC will notify the delinquent
student that he/she must be financially clear by the end of the fourth week of the term. Students
who fail to fulfill this condition may be involuntarily withdrawn from enrollment at AUC and will
receive a “W” grade on their transcript for courses taken during that term. Standard cancellation
and refund policies will apply.
Exceptions to the above policy will only be granted under limited circumstances. Hence, a
written petition addressed to AUC’s Chief Financial Director, must be submitted for review and
consideration of any requests.
Canadian students should consult with their provincial government regarding available financial
aid resources. Most foreign citizens are not eligible for federal student aid from the U.S.
Department of Education. Visit StudentAid.gov/eligibility/non-us-citizens to learn more. Students
should also check with their country’s government to see what aid they might be able to offer.
U.S. Veterans and their dependents may be eligible for funding through the Veteran’s
Administration. Please contact the student finance office at 305-446-0600 x 8810 for more
information or go to http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/post911_gibill.asp. GI Bill® is a registered
trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education
benefits offered by the VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at
http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
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Eligible students may be able to receive Federal Direct Loans to help cover the cost of higher
education. The U.S. Department of Education offers eligible graduate students at participating
schools Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. The current interest rates for Federal Direct
Unsubsidized loans first disbursed on or after July 1, 2019 is 6.08%. Interest will begin to accrue
upon disbursement of this loan and will continue until paid in full. In addition, there is a 1.059%
loan fee on all Direct Unsubsidized Loans first disbursed on or after October 1, 2019. The loan
fee will be proportionately deducted from each loan disbursement. Prior federal loans and
financial aid history for loans disbursed may be reviewed at the National Student Loan Data
System (NSLDS) website.
Eligibility for the Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan is not based on need. The federal
government does not pay the interest during school attendance or during the six-month grace
period. Students may pay the interest while completing their program or allow it to accumulate
and be added to the outstanding principal, thereby increasing the amount to be repaid.
The maximum aggregate student loan debt for graduate students from all Direct Loans may not
exceed $138,500 (including all federal loans received for undergraduate study, both subsidized
and unsubsidized combined).
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including any Federal Direct Unsubsidized loan. Prior federal loans and financial aid history for
loans disbursed may be reviewed at the National Student Loan Data System website.
The federal government does not pay the interest on these loans. Students have the
option of paying the interest while completing their academic program or allowing it to
accumulate and be added to their outstanding principal.
SCHOLARSHIPS
• Alumni Heritage Scholarship: Awarded to qualified applicants who have a
work/volunteer history with an AUC graduate.
• Canadian Scholarship: Awarded to qualified applicants who are Canadian citizens or
permanent residents.
• Community Outreach Award: Awarded to qualified applicants who have shown
exceptional dedication to their communities, hospitals, or charities.
• Mississippi College Scholarship: Awarded to qualified applicants who have graduated
from Mississippi College’s MS Biology program.
• International Scholarship: Awarded to qualified applicants who are residents of a
country outside of the United States or Canada.
• Dean’s Academic Scholarship: Awarded to students with a strong overall
undergraduate GPA and MCAT score.
• Trustee’s Academic Excellence Scholarship: Awarded to students who have
performed very well on the MCAT and have a very strong overall undergraduate GPA.
This scholarship is automatically awarded to qualified incoming AUC students.
• Academic Merit Scholarship: Awarded to students who have a solid overall
undergraduate GPA and MCAT score.
• First Generation MD Award: Awarded to qualified applicants who are striving to be the
first generation physician within their family.
• MERP Advancer Award: Awarded to students who have excelled academically and
provided leadership to peers during the Medical Education Readiness Program (MERP).
• Social Accountability Award: Awarded to students who have made contributions to the
communities of Sint Maarten during their Medical Sciences education. The award is
given during the third, fourth, or fifth semester.
• Student Engagement Award: Awarded to students whose activities as part of the
campus community have helped to enhance and foster the AUC culture of collaboration.
The award is given during the third, fourth, or fifth semester.
For additional information on scholarships offered by AUC, please review the AUC website at
https://www.aucmed.edu/admissions/scholarships.html.
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The enrollment reservation fee is applied to tuition for students who matriculate.
DEFERRALS
Deferrals will be granted at the discretion of the Director of Admissions on a case-by-case basis.
Additional miscellaneous fees may be required for testing/test registration, background checks,
health and drug screenings. For more information about these fees, please contact the Office of
Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) Student Services at
[email protected].
AUC reserves the right to change tuition and fees at any time without prior notice.
1. If a new student withdraws prior to the start of the first semester, no tuition charges are
due; however, the student’s acceptance deposit is not refunded.
2. If a continuing student withdraws prior to the start of a semester, no tuition charges are
due for that semester.
3. If a student withdraws during the first 60 percent of a semester, tuition charges are
directly prorated based on the portion of the semester that has elapsed. As semesters
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are normally 16 weeks in length, tuition is prorated for withdrawals based on their actual
start and end dates of the payment period.
4. If a student withdraws after the first 60 percent of a semester, which is usually after
completing Week 10, the full tuition charges remain due.
For withdrawal during the first 60 percent of a semester/payment period, student loan awards
are federally required to be recalculated on a prorated basis up to 60 percent, and AUC and the
student are each proportionally responsible for returning “unearned” loan funds to lenders. In
addition to the lender returns required by U.S. federal regulations, AUC may return any
remaining credit balance to lenders, decreasing the student’s loan debt for that semester.
Student Government Association (SGA) fees and the electronic resource fee are non-
refundable. The annual Residence Permit fee is refundable only within the first two weeks of the
relevant semester.
Students registering for clinical clerkships are obligated to provide notice of cancellation in
writing to the Student Services Department more than 45 business days prior to the start of the
clerkship to receive a refund of tuition and fees and to avoid late cancellation charges.
AUC will provide any refund due within 30 days from the date notice of withdrawal or from when
an approved Academic Leave of Absence is received by AUC’s Office of the Registrar.
Any student who is admitted to and enrolled in AUC for the first semester may be eligible for a
full refund of the first-semester tuition if s/he is admitted to a United States-based or Canada-
based allopathic medical school, provided that:
• The starting semester for which the student is admitted to a United States-based or
Canada-based allopathic medical school has not passed;
• The student has supplied the AUC Office of Student Finance with proof that the
student has been admitted to a United States-based or Canada-based allopathic
medical school;
• Such proof is in the form of print or electronic copy of a formal letter of admission on
official university letterhead; and
• The student has not begun his or her second semester at AUC.
Under the terms of this policy, AUC will refund 100 percent of the first-semester tuition. All other
fees and deposits will be subject to the policy terms noted in the Withdrawal Refund Schedule.
Students who withdraw from AUC after the start of the second semester will be subject to the
same refund policies noted in the Withdrawal Refund Schedule. Students who withdraw from
AUC during their clinical rotations will be subject to any applicable late cancellation fees for the
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scheduled rotations.
All AUC students who receive Title IV aid and withdraw prior to the end date of a payment period
will be reviewed to determine whether unearned Title IV aid must be returned. The term “Title IV
aid” refers to the following federal financial aid programs: Direct Unsubsidized loans and Direct
PLUS loans.
In order to determine whether a student’s unearned Title IV aid must be returned, as a non-
attendance-taking institution, AUC must determine the student’s withdrawal date. AUC considers
students to have withdrawn as follows:
• Students who cease attendance from all of their courses eligible for Title IV aid will
be considered to have withdrawn.
• A student is considered to have withdrawn if he or she does not complete all the
days in the payment period.
• The effective date of withdrawal is either the date the student notified the institution
of the withdrawal or student’s last academically related event, if available. When a
student withdraws, AUC assesses tuition based on the period he or she attended,
and in correspondence with federal loan entitlement regulations
• In the case of an unofficial withdrawal, and the school may not know that the student
has ceased attendance until late in the period, the determination of the withdrawal
date will be the midpoint or the last date of an academically related activity.
• If a student earns a passing grade in one or more of his or her classes, for that class,
AUC may presume that the student completed the course requirements and may
consider the student to have completed the period.
Students may officially withdraw based on the date the student notifies the institution or date of
the last academically-related event. If they earn all Fail (F) or Withdrawn (W) grades within a
semester due to failure to complete the semester, the 50 percent mark will be used for the
semester for return of Title IV calculations purposes.
Please note that in addition to the withdrawal notification, students must also follow the required
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process as set forth by AUC for withdrawing. This process requires the student to complete all
applicable forms and retrieve all required signatures.
If the total amount of Title IV aid that a student earned is greater than the total amount of Title IV
aid that was disbursed to the student as of the date of determination, the difference between
these amounts will be treated as a post-withdrawal disbursement. A post-withdrawal award will
be offered to the student. Upon acceptance, a disbursement payment will be made to the
student’s account and a notification sent by email.
Earned aid is not related in any way to institutional charges. AUC’s refund policy and Return of
Title IV Funds procedures are independent of one another. A student who withdraws from a
course may be required to return unearned aid and still owe institutional charges.
The responsibility to repay unearned Title IV aid is shared by AUC and the student. For
example, the calculation may require AUC to return a portion of federal funds to the federal Title
IV programs. In addition, the student may also be required to return funds based on the
calculation. A student returns funds to the federal student loan programs based on the terms
and conditions of the promissory note of the loan.
The return of Federal aid is in the following order: Direct Unsubsidized loans and Direct PLUS
loans. AUC is required to return the funds by the 45th day after the date the institution
determined the student has withdrawn.
The following formula is used to determine the percentage of unearned aid that has to be
returned to the federal government:
• The percent earned is equal to the number of calendar days completed up to the
withdrawal date, divided by the total calendar days in the payment period (less any
scheduled breaks that are at least 5 days long).
• The payment period for most students is the entire semester. However, for students
enrolled in modules (courses which are not scheduled for the entire semester or term),
the payment period only includes those days for the module(s) in which the student is
registered.
• The percent unearned is equal to 100 percent minus the percent earned.
• Institutional funds are earned and recalculated based on the pro-rated policy as
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described for federal financial aid funds. Tuition/fee refunds also affect the recalculation
of institutional financial aid.
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Students are required to register (make payment of tuition, deposits and any fees, including
University Apartment Occupation Fees and Student Government Association Fees) on or before
the first day of the semester. Payment of tuition and fees is considered a financial condition of
enrollment. Therefore:
• Any Medical Sciences student who fails to register in person or check in personally at
the Registrar’s Office on-campus before 5:00 p.m. local campus time of the first day of
formal instruction as noted in the Academic Calendar will be charged a $1001 late fee.
Registration includes electronic registration for courses as well as physical check in with
the Office of the Registrar.
• Any Clinical Sciences student who registers after commencement of clinical rotations will
be charged a $100 late fee;
• Any student with a delinquent account will be notified by the second week of the term
that s/he must pay any outstanding balance by the end of the fourth week of the term;
• Any student who fails to pay all outstanding amounts must be financially cleared by the
Office of Student Accounts by the end of the fourth week or will be involuntarily
withdrawn from enrollment and his or her transcript will reflect a “W” grade for courses
undertaken in that term. AUC’s standard cancellation and refund policies will apply to the
balance of any account due; and
• Any student who defaults on a signed promissory note during a given semester may not
register for the subsequent semester unless the student pays in full all tuition and fees
for the semester at or before the time of registration.
Any student who is indebted to AUC will be required to settle his or her account before receiving
graduation clearance diplomas, degrees, official transcripts, and other official recognition of
1 All references to currency in this Course Catalog and Student Handbook shall refer to US dollars.
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work done at AUC. Such debts include, but are not limited to, amounts owed in satisfaction of
tuition, loan agreements, fees and charges, food service, and occupation of AUC’s University
Apartments. No student may withdraw from enrollment with AUC in good standing or graduate
from AUC unless all financial obligations are paid in full.
Medical Sciences
Students are allowed to add an individual course during the first week of the term when given
permission to do so by the appropriate dean. Students are allowed to drop an individual course
within the timeframe specified in the master semester schedule released by the Office of
Academic Affairs. Semester-long courses must be dropped during the first eight weeks of the
semester so long as the student will maintain full-time enrollment with the reduced course load
and has been given permission to do so by the appropriate dean. No student will be allowed to
drop any particular course more than once. The Medical Sciences student must complete the
dropped course within the next successive semester.
Students will be required to register for the published curricular course load each semester
unless they have dropped or failed a course or have obtained prior written consent from the
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Students who have failed or dropped a course or
otherwise obtained written consent from the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs to deviate
from the published curricular course load must register for a full-time course load as determined
by the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Full-time enrollment constitutes a course load of 10
credit hours or more. Students may not enroll in courses in the curriculum across more than two
semesters.
Medical Sciences students may only register for less than full-time status if they have fewer than
10 credit hours remaining to complete the medical science curriculum. Halftime enrollment
constitutes a course load of 8 or 9 credit hours. Less than half-time enrollment constitutes a
course load of 7 or fewer credit hours. Students registered for less than half time enrollment will
not qualify for Federal Financial Aid.
No Medical Sciences student may register for more than 21 credit hours per term without the
prior written consent of the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, nor may any medical science
student register for two classes that meet simultaneously. No students can sit for stipulated
homework and exams, including quizzes, block exams and final exams, unless the Registrar
has enrolled the student in the course. A student may audit lectures at the discretion of both the
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and the Course Director. All courses required in the first
four academic semesters must be successfully completed before students may register for the
fifth semester Introduction to Clinical Medicine course.
Clinical Sciences
Clinical Sciences students should be aware that financial aid eligibility during Clinical Sciences
is based on the number of weeks enrolled per semester. Students in Clinical Sciences must
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register for a minimum of 8 weeks of clinical rotations per term of enrollment to be considered
full-time. Students registered for 4-7 weeks of clinical rotations per term of enrollment will be
considered halftime. Students registered for fewer than 4 weeks of clinical rotations per term of
enrollment will be considered less than half-time. Students must be registered for a minimum of
8 weeks for every clinical term unless they are in the final term of their clinical rotations.
Students registered for less than 8 weeks will require an approved short-term leave of absence
from the Office of the Registrar. The approval of the leave of absence is not guaranteed.
Please refer to AUC’s policies on Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) qualitative standards
and Leaves of Absence within this document for more details.
HEALTH INSURANCE
Medical Sciences
A flat rate health insurance fee will be charged per semester at the time of registration. Students
exempt from AUC’s health insurance coverage will receive a reversal of the charge on their
account. Although it is not required, it is highly recommended that students maintain health
insurance coverage while on Long Term Leave of Absence to avoid a lapse in coverage.
Clinical Sciences
All students in the Clinical Sciences curriculum are required to have and maintain an active
medical insurance policy. AUC provides all clinical students a health plan administered by Aetna
Student Health. For information on the plan and for benefit information please visit
www.aetnastudenthealth.com and search “American University of the Caribbean School of
Medicine” to locate AUC.
The insurance coverage is an Annual Enrollment from August 25 of the current year to August
24 of the following year. The coverage year is broken into three trimesters for the purpose of
billing ONLY and to allow newly enrolled clinical students coming into the plan the opportunity to
enroll or waive health insurance.
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Insurance is automatically billed to all students at the start of each semester. The billing periods
are as follows:
• Billed in August - Coverage for August 25 through December 25
• Billed in December - Coverage for December 26 through April 23
• Billed in April - Coverage for April 24 through August 24
The insurance cost is $2,712.00 for the year, billed at a rate of $904.00 per semester
during the 2019 – 2020 plan year. Insurance rates are subject to change and include an
administration fee.
Other insurance information: Navigator, Vision & Dental Discount Program, On Call
Students are highly encouraged to create an Aetna Navigator account to easily access their
personal information, print and request ID cards and review your claims. Students can also
enroll in voluntary term life insurance, dental and vision discount programs for an additional cost
at www.aetnestudenthealth.com.
For information on claims, coverage benefits, or to obtain a new insurance card please contact
Aetna Student Health at 1-877-381-3551.
For information on emergency evacuation services and other travel benefits, please visit On Call
International. On Call International is available to all AUC students whether or not the student is
enrolled in the school sponsored health insurance plan. (Card and information are also
accessible through the Aetna website).
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anticipated Match date. The student’s AUC account will be billed at the current insurance rate
for each semester of insurance needed (a one-time billing), and must be paid in full before the
graduation date. Insurance cannot be prorated. When residency begins in July, this will create
an overlap of insurance from July to August.
Waiving Coverage
Students who waive the school-sponsored coverage are responsible for payments of
their own premiums, deductibles, and medical expenses.
Continuing students (which includes students returning from a leave of absence), may
waive coverage only once per year during the initial enrollment period which is from
August 15 to October 1 only with comparable insurance in place.
Students who meet the waiver criteria may waive the AUC provided insurance during the open
waiver period (August 15 to October 1). Students must fill out an electronic waiver form with
supporting documentation. The Aetna and U.K. Waiver forms can be found in the Student portal
under Resources/Administrative. Once a waiver is applied to a student’s account, the waiver
remains in effect until the following August or until a student requests to be reinstated in the
University sponsored insurance plan. There is no need to file additional waivers within the same
academic year. Waivers will be accepted from August 15 up until the waiver deadline (October
1). Waivers received after the deadline cannot be accepted. Incomplete or late waivers
received by the Office of Student Finance will not be processed and students will be billed
insurance for the remainder of the academic year. (The academic year is from August to
August). The only exception to waive insurance after October 1 will be for a Qualifying Life
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Important:
UK Waivers
Students who will be in the UK for 6 months or more must submit a waiver request upon your
arrival in the UK. Complete the UK Waiver Request on the AUC Student Portal and provide a
copy of the UK Residency Card. If you file late, charges for past semester insurance charges
will not be refunded and your waiver request will become effective for the following term while
you remain in the UK. Upon expiration of the UK Residency Card or an early return from the UK,
insurance will automatically reinstate in the term in which you return at the full insurance period
rate. Insurance cannot be prorated but will be retroactive as of the start of the term in which you
returned. If you have, or will have, comparable insurance in place upon returning from the UK,
you must submit a waiver request to [email protected] as early as possible to prevent any
gap of insurance coverage.
Example: If you are newly enrolled at AUC in January, you have until Feb 1 to add dependents
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or request a waiver of the insurance. If you are newly enrolled at AUC in May, you have until
June 1.
Reinstatement of Coverage
Students who have previously waived the school-sponsored insurance may re-enroll at any time
throughout the year into the Aetna Student Health plan by filling out the Reinstatement Form
located on the Student Portal. Requests must be submitted in a timely manner to avoid any
gaps or lapses in insurance coverage. Since insurance cannot be prorated, students will be
charged for the full semester of insurance for the term in which insurance needs to be
reinstated.
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CURRICULUM
The medical school curriculum comprises 9.5 semesters: 5 semesters of Medical Sciences
taught at the medical campus on Sint Maarten and 4.5 semesters of Clinical Sciences taught at
hospitals affiliated with AUC. All instruction and services are provided only in English.
Three semesters of 16 weeks each are scheduled per year beginning in January, May, and
September. AUC’s curriculum is frequently reviewed and modified in order to ensure the most
effective delivery of relevant content to students. Please consult the AUC website for current
curriculum information.
Medical Sciences
One semester credit hour for at least 15 hours of didactic sessions including lectures and/or
other instructor-led educational activities, supplemented by laboratory instruction as described
in individual syllabi.
Clinical Sciences
• For core clerkships and elective rotations, one clinical week converts to 1 semester
credit hour. The number of hours per week may vary depending on the rotation and site.
AUC provides each clinical site guidance regarding the number of clock hours a student
is expected to be present each week.
*Outside preparation is not considered in the conversion of contact hours to credit hours.
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MEDICAL SCIENCES
The first 5 semesters at AUC involve concentrated study of the Medical Sciences. Anatomy,
Histology, and Molecular Cell Biology are the main focus for the first semester. The following
semesters explore a logical sequence of science coursework including advanced courses in
Molecular Cell Biology, Physiology, Pathology, and Behavioral Science.
AUC’s curriculum presents clinical medicine beginning in the first semester through a series of
Introduction to Clinical Medicine (ICM) courses. This allows students to learn clinical skills and
apply medical sciences to clinical cases well before they advance to the clinical portion of the
program. After completing Medical Sciences, students are required to take the USMLE Step 1
exam. Upon successfully passing the exam, they begin Clinical Sciences.
ICM I, II, III and IV are graded as Pass/Fail only. AUC reserves the right to change the
curriculum at any time, without prior notice.
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CLINICAL SCIENCES
Upon completing the Medical Sciences curriculum and passing the USMLE Step 1 exam,
students enter the Clinical Sciences portion of the program. For students who matriculated to
AUC before the September 2019 Semester, clinical instruction encompasses 72 weeks of
clerkships that are typically completed in 4.5 semesters. Students matriculating to AUC
beginning in the September 2019 Semester or later will complete 80 weeks of clerkships within
5 semesters.
Clerkships are full-time assignments in a clinical setting whereby students perform as active
members of a “team” of students, house staff and attending physicians. Under supervision, the
student interviews and examines patients, evaluates laboratory and radiographic data,
synthesizes information, and discusses patients with the team. Each student will have a clinical
supervisor who assesses his/her performance according to standards set by AUC.
AUC students may complete their clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals located in the United
States and United Kingdom. Those assigned to core clerkships in the United States may be
required to rotate to more than one clinical site.
Each affiliated hospital has a clinical site director, clerkship director(s), faculty members, and a
medical education coordinator charged with supervising and otherwise facilitating the clinical
experience for AUC students. Clerkship directors are responsible to the clinical deans for
implementing the published requirements of AUC’s Clinical Sciences curriculum which may
include an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). They also undertake daily
supervision of clinical teaching programs. Medical education coordinators’ supplemental
responsibilities include student counseling, daily program coordination, management, and
record-keeping requirements. Clinical faculty members provide academic instruction in
accordance with approved course syllabi and are responsible for monitoring attendance and
assessing student performance.
To ensure a smooth transition during clerkships, AUC maintains the Office of UME Student
Services. The student services staff, located at AUC’s Administrative Offices, facilitates the
placement of students at affiliated hospitals. Additionally, they serve as a bridge between
students and hospital sites by offering consultation regarding clinical clerkships and working
with on-site program directors, faculty members, and administrative staff.
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ELECTIVES 30/38* 45 - 80
* For students matriculating beginning in September 2019 or later
Per ACGME guidelines, students should not spend more than 80 hours each week in any core
clerkship or elective. Hours are defined as and include 1) all patient care, including inpatient and
outpatient as well as on-call and overnight call experiences and 2) all teaching sessions such as
rounds, grand rounds, lectures, case conferences, morbidity and mortality conferences, among
others. Patient encounters include all patients seen on rounds, any surgeries or procedures,
work with standardized patients, and also any virtual cases completed in Canvas. All patient
encounters, whether assisted or observed, should be logged on E*Value and will be reviewed
by the Clerkship or Elective Director. Each clinical sciences student should expect to engage in
a minimum of 20 patient encounters per week.
In consultation with his or her Student Services Advisor in the Office of Clinical Student
Services, each student selects elective rotations in the US and UK from the list of approved
practice areas found under Elective Rotations below. Student Services Advisors and PMAs will
provide students with information on which specialties they will be the most competitive. Four to
6 weeks of family medicine is highly recommended, as this is a condition of licensure in many
states.
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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Detailed course information can be found in AUC’s learning management system, Canvas, at
https://auc.instructure.com.
GROSS ANATOMY
(7 credit hours) Course Number 140
The clinical human anatomy course examines form and function of the human body at a
macroscopic level. Detailed regional anatomy lectures are complemented by introductory
lectures on systems-based topics such as skeletal, cardiovascular and nervous system.
Medical imaging sessions provide foundational knowledge of radiology, MRI, and CT imaging
which promote understanding of cross-sectional and 3-dimensional structure. This is further
enhanced through the use of select anatomical technologies. Labs provide the opportunity to
dissect a complete cadaver, as well as hands-on sessions with ultrasound and select procedural
simulators.
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Basic principles of embryogenesis used in diagnosis, care and prevention of birth defects are
stressed, and case studies are introduced throughout. Extensive clinical correlations are
discussed as well as the correlation of developmental events with the structural organization of
the human body as observed in the study of gross anatomy and histology.
PHYSIOLOGY
(5 credit hours) Course Number 221
Physiology I is the foundation course for understanding normal body function. Medical students
gain an appreciation for the balance between and within the various organ systems required to
maintain steady functioning of the human body. The course builds from an early emphasis on
the basic principles of physiology moving on to the exploration of nerve-muscle function
involuntary and smooth muscle, gastrointestinal system, and culminating in a detailed analysis
of the heart and vascular system. Pathophysiology is used to analyze system function and
compensation during clinically relevant disease processes.
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BIOSTATISTICS / EPIDEMIOLOGY
(1 credit hour) Course Number 270
Statistics are important tools that help us better understand causes and consequences of
human medical problems. This course covers the basics of biostatistics and quantitative
methods in epidemiology and clinical applications in evidence-based medicine and decision-
making methods. The course also provides students with exposure to the necessary tools for
evaluating the medical and epidemiological literature. The philosophical framework and
methodology of disease causation, prevention, and prediction will be presented.
PHYSIOLOGY II
(5 credit hours) Course Number 323
Physiology II continues to build on the foundation established in Physiology I. Students are
required to take Physiology I prior to taking Physiology II. The course continues the study of the
function of human body organ systems with a comprehensive analysis of the endocrine and
reproductive systems. A comprehensive study of the pulmonary system is followed by the
analysis of clinically relevant, common acid-base disorders and their physiological
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compensation. Fluid and electrolyte balance is studied with a detailed analysis of the renal
system. At the end of the course, all medical students will have a firm grasp of body system
functions and integration of systems. Students will demonstrate the ability to analyze and
identify the impact of disease processes on normal human physiology.
MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY
(5 credit hours) Course Number 333
The Medical Microbiology course is designed to give the prospective physician an
understanding of the microbial pathogens and the mechanisms by which they cause disease.
General microbiology is taught within the context of a syndrome-based infectious disease
format.
PATHOLOGY I
(7 credit hours) Course Number 346
Pathology I introduces students to the cellular systems of organs and traces the morphologic
changes in a cell that are responsible for disease in organs. As cells undergo alteration, their
change in function is studied with respect to its deviation from the “normal” state. Topics such as
inflammation, repair and regeneration, neoplasia, genetic basis of diseases and infection are
explored. It then continues the study of pathologic basis of diseases using a physiologic system
or organ-based approach. Appropriate use of the laboratory is stressed in the diagnosis of
disease while case presentations further emphasize the clinical aspects of the pathologic
processes. This course serves as a precursor to Pathology II.
MEDICAL PHARMACOLOGY
(6 credit hours) Course Number 421
Medical Pharmacology focuses on how drugs and other chemical agents regulate or modify
physiological and pathophysiological functions of the body. The course demonstrates how drugs
affect living organisms and contribute to the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and/or cure of
diseases. The major emphasis in the first part of the course will be on the general principles of
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NEUROSCIENCE
(5 credit hours) Course Number 430
Medical students are required to take Anatomy, Physiology I and II prior to taking the
neuroscience course. Neuroscience is a course effectively integrating neurochemistry,
neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropathology, neuropharmacology, and basics of medical
neurology. The course serves as a strong foundation for the analysis of common basic clinical
neurological disorders. Starting with an intense overview of the nervous systems, the course
systematically examines the sensory and motor systems with special emphasis on blood supply,
the plastic changes within each system associated with age, disuse, or lesions. Advanced
analysis of spinal cord, brainstem, cerebellum, basal ganglia, cortical function, language, praxis,
sleep and associated lesions due to stroke, degenerative changes, epilepsy, and tumor
complete the course. Students successfully completing the course will be able to correctly
identify common neurological deficits and discuss their pathophysiology.
PATHOLOGY II
(7 credit hours) Course Number 452
Pathology II continues to apply the basic concepts learned in Pathology I for the study of
pathologic basis of disease using a physiologic system or organ-based approach. This course
covers organs and systems not presented in Pathology I. Appropriate use of the laboratory is
stressed in the diagnosis of disease while case presentations further emphasize the clinical
aspects of the pathologic processes. Successful completion of Pathology I is required to enroll
in this course.
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history needed to prioritize a differential diagnosis. Documentation of assessment and plans and
progress notes are introduced.
MEDICAL ETHICS
(1 credit hour) Course Number 480
Combined with the Introduction to Clinical Medicine course in the 5th Semester, Medical Ethics
is designed to introduce ethical, professional, and legal issues that arise in the practice of
medicine. This course provides students with basic tools used to recognize ethical, professional,
and legal conflicts in clinical settings, as well as resources used to critically examine and
address questions and concerns that these conflicts present.
Students perform a physical examination based on a defined checklist of items provided to them
when they first start the ICM curriculum. Genital examinations are taught through the use of
professional patients. Students also have two clinical experiences with local physicians.
Simulations include interviews with standardized patients and emergent scenarios in the high
tech simulation center. Interviewing skills workshops are integrated with Behavioral Science.
These sessions include practice in motivational interviewing skills, closing the interview,
performing the mini-mental status examination and documenting the mental status examination.
Group interviews include focused visits and full histories and cover topics that include
abdominal pain, fatigue, substance abuse, domestic violence and mood disorder. Each student
performs and documents a final complete history in preparation for their clinical clerkships.
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taking skills, manage stress and burnout, and reduce test anxiety).
Course faculty will systematically emphasize selected topical areas for in-depth analysis such
as kidney pathophysiology, biostatistics and cardiovascular physiology. From small group
workshops to optional webinars and large class settings, students will have the opportunity to
test their understanding of basic medical sciences and how it relates to clinical medicine.
Students are provided with several resources to test their knowledge base. At the start of the
course, each student will be provided with a self-assessment exam not unlike the NBME CBSE,
which allows for in-depth analysis of their strengths and weaknesses. Results of this CBSSA
exam will be used for one-on-one student/faculty discussions and advising sessions tailor-made
for each individual student. Regular USMLE question and answer practice sessions will occur
throughout the course. The course will culminate with two NBME Comprehensive Basic Science
Exams (i.e., Comp 1 and Comp 2) and a full-length USMLE Step 1 simulation exam.:
Physiology and Pathology and two USMLE CBSE in the last three weeks of the course. In
addition, a simulated USMLE Step 1 exam will be offered so students can get a good idea of
their equivalent USMLE Step 1 score.
BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE
(5 credit hours) Course Number 521
The behavioral science course is designed to teach essential skills of identification and effective
management of patient behavior through practical application of the biopsychosocial model of
human behavior. The course will develop skills in the behavioral basis of clinical medicine
focusing on mind-body interactions in health and disease, physician-patient interactions, and
contemporary social/cultural issues in health care. Interview skills and the assessment of
psychosocial risk factors at each stage of human development will be taught. Psychopathology
will be presented from the DSM 5 as it applies to primary care, referral, and management.
Students will study diagnostic criteria, prevalence rates, differential diagnosis, prognosis, and
treatment of all major mental disorders. This knowledge will be applied in small group
assignments of the clinical medicine curriculum. Clinical case examples in primary care settings
will be discussed to prepare students for the Behavioral Subject and the USMLE Step 1
Examination.
Course Overview: The LEC is designed to support the needs of students who require additional
support to develop competency in completing a course / courses, and other preparation skills
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during medical sciences. LEC aims at strengthening other non-cognitive areas such as goal
setting, time management, note taking, test taking strategies and study approaches. The
course involves active learning and engagement, participation and discussions by students,
facilitated by Academic Support team.
AUC is actively developing a 3-credit LEC which will be offered for the first time in the May 2020
semester and a 3-credit Learning Mastery Course (LMC) which will be offered for the first time
in the September 2020 semester. The 3-credit LEC will be a required course for students who
fail a major course.
INDEPENDENT RESEARCH
(1-3 credit hours) Course Number 601, 602, 603
Enrollment in Independent Research offers an opportunity for students to conduct a project in
the basic and/or Clinical Sciences in collaboration with faculty mentor(s). Students will master
research skills by developing a scientific research question/hypothesis through a study of the
scientific literature and/or collection of data. Students will gain skills with finding, analyzing,
interpreting, and evaluating key information and data from primary literature and/or novel
research data.
Additionally, students will learn how to use scientific evidence and logic to support a hypothesis
or understand a clinical disease model, propose potential future research to further resolve the
question or better understand the disease. Students will also obtain improved communication
skills by learning to use the appropriate format and style for scientific writing in primary
literature, creating and confidently delivering written and oral proposals and reports, and
learning how to evaluate and critique scientific literature.
Enrolled student(s) work with a committee comprised of faculty mentor, community mentor, and
Assistant Dean for Community Engagement. The student must be in good academic standing
and demonstrate SAP. Students enrolled in this activity must follow the Guidelines for Student
Led Community Engagement Experiences.
The number of hours of credit earned is determined by hours invested in the project. A grade
(Pass, Incomplete, Honors) is assigned to the work by the committee.
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Service-learning credits cannot be used as credits required for graduation, or to fulfill the
requirements for satisfactory academic progress SAP.
INTERNAL MEDICINE
(12 weeks)
This core clerkship is designed for students to participate in general internal medicine areas,
granting exposure to the diagnostic and treatment process as it unfolds. The core clerkship will
involve inpatient and outpatient settings and expose students to a broad array of subspecialty
services. Students develop competence in evaluating broad clinical problems, patient
management skills, interpretation of laboratory and imaging results and documentation and
communication of findings. Students will also learn about screening guidelines and disease
prevention. Their “hands-on” patient experience is supplemented by tutorials and didactic
sessions.
SURGERY
(12 weeks)
The core clerkship in surgery aims to develop skills that general physicians expect of students
as well as skills unique to surgery. Students further develop abilities in data synthesis and
problem solving, and become oriented to the clinical setting related to surgery. Ideally, students
follow patients from admission through discharge. Students are expected to participate in all
aspects of patient care including assisting in the Operating Room, Emergency Room and Acute
Care Units. Students will learn systems-based approaches to patient safety and minimizing
preventable errors in the Operating Room.
PEDIATRICS
(6 weeks)
This core clerkship provides a broad overview of general pediatrics and may also include
exposure to pediatric subspecialty services. Students will gain experience in in-patient and
ambulatory pediatric care. Pediatric intakes and ward rounds are the basis of in-patient care.
Ambulatory care experience is gained in general pediatric clinics by evaluating patients with
common complaints and disorders Students will also see patients presenting for well-visits and
learn about normal childhood development and disease prevention. Students’ “hands-on”
patient experience is supplemented by tutorials and didactic sessions.
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Introduction to the newborn nursery and neonatal ICU will be encouraged. As time permits,
students will follow patients through completion of their admission, delivery or surgery and their
postpartum or postoperative care. Students will also participate in gynecologic surgery and the
care of patients admitted to the hospital’s gynecology service. They may also work with
subspecialists in areas such as maternal-fetal medicine, gynecologic oncology and reproductive
endocrinology.
PSYCHIATRY
(6 weeks)
This clerkship builds upon classroom knowledge developed during the first and second years of
the Medical Sciences. Treatment of psychiatric patients in the in-patient setting comprises the
majority of the rotation. Students will be trained to administer and interpret mental status
examinations. Students may also participate in services such as consultation/liaison, geriatric,
addiction services. Resources available for care of psychiatric patients are presented and
students are encouraged to assist in discharge planning. Skill in the evaluation and diagnosis of
the psychiatric patient is developed through direct patient interviews and didactic sessions.
ELECTIVE ROTATIONS
In consultation with his/her Student Services Advisor, each student selects elective rotations
from the AUC Elective Guide. Students are advised to take four to eight weeks of electives in a
primary field of interest. Four to six weeks of family practice is highly recommended, as this is a
condition of licensure in many US states.
The elective rotations described below are a sample of those commonly selected. Please refer
to the AUC Elective Guide for a comprehensive listing of elective rotations.
FAMILY PRACTICE
(4 – 6 weeks)
This clerkship encompasses the comprehensive and longitudinal care of patients with a special
emphasis on care of individuals in the context of families and communities. Students participate
in patient care at offices and clinics throughout the region, including hospital-based sites and a
variety of community-based locations.
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PSYCHIATRY SUB-INTERNSHIP
(4 weeks)
This senior elective introduces students to the management of psychiatry issues in medical
patients. This elective considers the implications of recent neuroscience discoveries on the
mental functioning of patients a primary care specialist may encounter in their practice. This
rotation focuses on patients who are generally functional and may not be severely mentally ill
but are suffering from psychological effects of severe medical problems.
EMERGENCY MEDICINE
(4 weeks)
During this elective, students are exposed to three types of patients: emergent (patients with life
threatening conditions), urgent (patients in need of immediate treatment) and non-emergent
(patients with minor illness or injury). Students learn to make a rapid evaluation of the patient’s
condition, take a pertinent history, and assist in the treatment of the immediate medical problem
at hand. Ordering and interpretation of appropriate lab and x-rays for precise and rapid
determination of a treatment plan are stressed; as well as proper referral and follow-up care
instructions to the patient.
CARDIOLOGY
(4 weeks)
This elective introduces students to all aspects of cardiovascular medicine including valvular,
ischemic, hypertensive and congenital heart disease with an emphasis on clinical assessment
and physical diagnosis skills. Students may have the opportunity to participate in the full
spectrum of noninvasive cardiology testing, including ECG interpretation, echocardiography,
electrophysiology lab and stress testing.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
(4 weeks)
During this elective, the student may observe cases including endoscopies, ERCP esophageal
motility tracings, flexible sigmoidoscopies, colonoscopies, and gastroscopies. Involvement will
include reviewing x-rays with the teaching staff. Students will be expected to present cases
logically and concisely and have the experience of first encounter with patients and be able to
make supervised clinical decisions.
NEUROLOGY
(4 weeks)
This elective is designed to give the student an opportunity to learn the neurologic exam as well
as to be acquainted with the diagnosis, findings and treatment of the following frequently seen
neurological diseases: stroke, headaches, multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, dizziness,
dementia, neuropathy, myopathy, meningitis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, coma, among
others. The student may participate in daily hospital rounds, perform consultations with
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RADIOLOGY
(4 weeks)
This elective will introduce the student to the fundamentals and basic principles of radiologic
imaging and interpretation necessary for clinical management. In addition to learning to
interpret plain film imaging, the students will also be exposed to more advanced imaging
modalities (CT, Ultrasound, and MRI). The students will be taught relevant radiologic anatomy
and the appropriateness of ordering various studies in the diagnosis of disease. They will be
exposed to what the performance of various studies entail and the basics of radiologic reporting
and dictation.
PULMONARY
(4 weeks)
This elective is designed to expose the student to management of acute and chronic respiratory
disease in the office and hospital settings, including the ICU. It includes exposure to fiber optic
bronchoscopy, thoracentesis, pulmonary function testing, ABGs and diagnostic imaging of the
lungs and chest (x-ray and CT). It also includes introduction to the management and treatment
of sleep disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
ANESTHESIOLOGY
(4 weeks)
This elective is designed to enhance the cognitive and procedural skills of students participating
in the performance of anesthesia on patients undergoing surgical or endoscopic procedures.
Students learn the basics of emergent management of cardiopulmonary resuscitation including
intubation, risks and complications of anesthesia in patients of advanced age, those with
multiple co-morbidities, and individuals with polypharmacy. Students will be able to participate
in the preoperative, operative, and post-operative management of patients.
MEDICAL SUBSPECIALTIES
Hematology
Allergy and Immunology Hospitalist
Ambulatory Care Infectious Disease
Cardiology Intensive Care (Burn)
Critical Care Intensive Care (Cardiac)
Dermatology ICU/CCU
Emergency Medicine Nephrology
Emergency Medicine (Wilderness) Neurology
Endocrinology & Metabolism Oncology
Family Practice Ophthalmology
FM/EM Pathology
Family Practice (Geriatric) Pathology (Anatomical)
Family Practice (Rural Family Medicine) Pathology (Hematopathology)
Family Practice (Sub-Internship) Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Gastroenterology Preventive Medicine
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PEDIATRIC SUBSPECIALTIES
Gastroenterology
Adolescent Hematology/Oncology
Allergy and Immunology Infectious Disease
Ambulatory Care Intensive Care Unit
Cardiology Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Developmental/Behavioral Neurology
Emergency Pulmonary Disease
Endocrinology Sub-Internship
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CAMPUS ACCESS
The AUC campus is monitored by security personnel. Only AUC faculty, staff, students,
spouses and authorized visitors who display current ID badges are allowed on campus. AUC
reserves the right to ask any visitor, student, or staff member to leave the facility following any
disruptive behavior. Spouses and visitors must check in with a security guard and obtain a guest
permit. This will enable them to access the campus if the visit is authorized. The campus opens
at 7:00 a.m. daily.
Students placed on suspension for any reason will immediately lose their access to campus.
Students who are dismissed without the right to appeal will have their campus access revoked
three days after formal notification of dismissal.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
AUC encourages students to become involved in community outreach programs. Students are
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able to utilize their newly gained knowledge while volunteering to participate in general health
care events (i.e., diabetes screening) or teach health education to Sint Maarten residents. Other
community service initiatives include island beautification, rehabilitation programs, aid to
children, and animal welfare. Students engaging in community outreach must follow the
Guidelines for Student Led Community Engagement Experiences.
DRESS CODE
Attire both on- and off-campus (excluding clinical hospital settings) is generally informal,
although students are required to be presentable in keeping with the standards of future
physicians. Students that are found to be dressed inappropriately are subject to being asked to
leave the campus or hospital rotation until such time that they are allowed access upon
appropriate attire. Continued inappropriate dress may lead to disciplinary action per the ARGP.
ELECTRONIC BOOKS
AUC uses electronic books (eBooks) for all their semesters in Medical Sciences and students
must independently purchase the complete list of all required books. AUC has developed
relationships with publishers and often receives the eBooks at a discounted cost and is thus
able to pass a savings onto students via the AUC Bookstore.
Students should note that not all vendors offer all the required books as new, used, for rent or
electronic; thus, students may have to purchase books from several vendors. Books may need
to be shipped by the student and personally cleared by customs, as these options on vendor
sites may not be available ship to the Caribbean islands (i.e. Amazon).
Books are required and essential for learning the material needed for Medical Sciences. A
faculty member may request to review that a student has purchased all required materials.
LIBRARY SERVICES
The Medical Library, located in Building 1, is open and staffed 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m.
until 11:00 p.m. The library seats more than 250 in four quiet study rooms including one space
with four computer terminals that is open 24/7. In addition, there are 10 small group study rooms
in the library, seven in Building 2 and eight on the 5th floor of the on campus apartments that can
be reserved on the library website at http://aucmed.libguides.com/library.
The library has 4,000 print titles, a growing e-book collection, and a collection of DVDs. There is
a robust interlibrary loan service offered at no cost with a turn-around time of 1-3 days. Other
services include printing, copying, and scanning.
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USMLE, Bates’ Visual Guide to the Physical Examination, OVID Evidence-Based Medical
Reviews, LWW Basic and Anatomical Sciences Collection, more than 500 medical journals, the
library catalog, and the ability to conduct a search that encompasses all of the library’s
electronic resources in the One Search box. Anything students need to know about the library
(check out procedures, overdue fines, library staff, library mission and vision, contact
information, etc.) is available on the website.
The Library staff and the Library Director are available to help during regular library hours.
In Clinical Sciences, the Associate Dean for Student Affairs serves as an ombudsman for any
academic or non-academic challenges that occur during the course of the Clinical Sciences
curriculum. Wellness Counseling is also available by contacting the Clinical Wellness
Counselor.
Fitness Center hours may be limited. Currently enrolled students of AUC, faculty, staff and such
guests that have been issued an identification badge bearing the name and picture of the
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individual “User” are approved to use the Fitness Center. Fitness Center users must always
have an AUC ID badge available for easy verification by AUC staff.
Users of the Fitness Center will always be expected to comply with any policies, rules or
regulations which may be posted from time to time to govern such usage. Use of the Fitness
Center is a privilege, not a right. Failure to comply with terms of usage will result in revocation of
this privilege.
Fitness Center users shall be expected to meet a standard of hygiene and cleanliness while
attending classes, lectures, and examinations suitable for an institution of learning leading to a
professional degree.
Assumption of Risk
Use of AUC’s Fitness Center is voluntary. Users assume responsibility for their own well-being
and safety. Users are advised to consult a physician on matters regarding their health status
prior to entering the Fitness Center. Users of the Fitness Center attest and verify that they are
physically fit to engage in any activity that they undertake.
In consideration of their use of the Fitness Center, Users hold harmless AUC, its employees,
Board of Trustees or any other person with an interest in or acting on behalf of AUC, from all
liability for injury to property or person suffered during such use. This is binding upon their heirs,
executors and administrators and is demonstrated and renewed each time the User enters the
Fitness Center.
The following rules have been established to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all Fitness
Center users and to preserve the facilities for their intended use. Cooperation of all users is
appreciated. Staff has been hired to enforce all Fitness Center rules and all posted regulations.
Fitness Center users who notice violations of rules, regulations, or policies are asked to bring
them to the attention of the staff.
• No bicycles or animals are permitted inside the Fitness Center. Gallon jugs, smoking,
smokeless tobacco, alcoholic beverages and gum are not permitted. Beverage
containers must have a lid. Turf shoes, cleats, spikes, or roller blades must be removed
before entering. Spitting, inappropriate language, verbal abuse and fighting will not be
tolerated.
• Sweat towels are not provided and Users should bring their own.
• Users are expected to be considerate of others. Time limitations may be posted
imposing a limit on the length of workouts or activities during peak hours of usage.
• Persons must be at least 18 years of age in order to be in the strength room area. Lifters
must wear workout clothing, including shirt and shoes; no street clothing is allowed.
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Lifters must re-rack all plates, dumbbells and attachments after each use and wipe off
equipment after use. Lifters must not drop or throw weights. For safety purposes,
children under 13 are not permitted in the weight training or free weights area.
All buildings, including academic, administrative, dining, residential service and mixed-use
facilities and all vehicles, which are owned, operated or leased by AUC, will be entirely smoke-
free. This includes the use of e-cigarettes or vaping devices. The smoke-free policy will apply to
all indoor air space, including all common areas and assigned spaces. Smoking is not permitted
on the exterior breezeways or within 50 feet of an entrance or window of any building. Smoking
is permitted only in designated smoking areas. All cigarette butts should be appropriately
extinguished and disposed of in a receptacle provided for that purpose.
Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary actions or terminations pursuant to AUC’s
ARGP. Students who cause damage to AUC property in violation of the smoking policy will be
charged for necessary repairs including refinishing, repainting and reupholstering.
SAFETY INFORMATION
The security of all members of the AUC community is a priority. Each year, AUC publishes a
report outlining security and safety information, as well as crime statistics for the campus
community. This report provides suggestions about crime prevention strategies as well as
important policy information on emergency procedures, reporting of crimes and support services
for victims of sexual assault. The report also contains information about AUC’s policy on alcohol
and drugs and informs students where to obtain the policy. This report is available from the
campus administrator and is posted on the Student Consumer Information page of the AUC
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website.
SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS
The campus is monitored by a digital surveillance camera system. Cameras are located outside
and inside many campus facilities, including residence halls and academic buildings in areas
where there is common access and no normal expectation of privacy. The camera system is
used for crime prevention and investigative purposes.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Please refer to AUC’s Student Consumer Information webpage for additional and the most up-
to-date information on health and safety and other matters including the annual crime statistics
and fire safety report.
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CONFERENCE STIPENDS
Conference stipends are intended to support current AUC students in their pursuit of research
and presentation of original material at formal professional association meetings. These set
stipends are available for both medical sciences and clinical sciences students and are to be
used toward registration fees, travel, accommodation, and costs associated with poster printing.
Application for a conference stipend does not guarantee approval and is subject to review and
availability. Please note that receipts for expenses must be submitted for reimbursement within
30 days of the end of the conference.
MEDICAL SCIENCES
Medical Sciences students who are participating in research with faculty members and have
received an invitation to present their original research at a conference may contact the
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for approval prior to the start of the conference. A limited
number of conference stipends for Medical Sciences students are available and must be
approved prior to attendance at a conference. If approved, the Associate Dean for Academic
Affairs will provide reimbursement information. All on-campus research proposals must be
reviewed and approved by AUC’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) before initiation. UK Track
students are not eligible for conference stipends.
CLINICAL SCIENCES
Clinical Sciences students who have submitted an abstract to a conference and have received
conference approval for presentation may contact the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student
Affairs to apply for a conference stipend. A limited number of conference stipends for clinical
sciences students are available but must be approved prior to attendance at a conference. Clinical
Sciences students may receive one conference stipend during their clinical training. To apply for
a conference stipend as a Clinical Sciences student, please email a copy of the submitted abstract
and proof of acceptance by the conference with authors listed in advance of the conference. If
approved, the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs will provide reimbursement
information. All clinically based research much be reviewed and approved by the IRB at the
relevant site before initiation.
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CLINICAL SCHEDULING
REQUIREMENTS & ROTATIONS
The following section sets out the policies and procedures that AUC students must follow to
obtain core clerkship and elective rotation schedules. Only clinical experiences established by
AUC and the students in accordance with these procedures will be recognized by the Office of
Clinical Student Services. As per our accrediting body, core clerkships can only be completed at
clinical sites that have a formal affiliation agreement with AUC. Elective rotations do not have
the same affiliation restriction but still require pre-approval as noted in the elective section.
Unapproved core clerkships and elective rotations will not count toward graduation
requirements and will not be paid for by AUC.
Clinical Education Fellows are recent AUC graduates who lead virtual TCM sessions for cohorts
of new clinical science students. Each Clinical Education Fellow is assigned groups of 8-10
students who have recently passed their USMLE Step 1 exam and are preparing to begin their
clinical clerkships. Clinical Education Fellows facilitate weekly one-hour online sessions to learn
about resources, documentation skills, and professionalism, and to prepare for clinical
clerkships. In monthly meetings after clerkships have started, students will learn about exams
during clinicals, including an introduction to the basics of USMLE Step 2 CS, as well as
electives and applying to the Match. Meetings take place using cloud-based videoconferencing
technology that is easily accessible on laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Clinical Education
Fellows discuss strategies for excelling during clinical training and with preparation for USMLE
examinations.
Although participation in the TCM Program is a graduation requirement, students will not receive
a grade for TCM on their transcripts. However, students will be evaluated based on
professionalism.
TCM Participation
Participation is required at all TCM meetings including weekly and monthly 1-hour sessions.
Exceptions include ALOA, illness, or emergency.
All clinical sites have been informed that, for those rare sessions which are scheduled during
typical working hours, AUC students need to be excused for 1 hour once a month. As such, it is
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very important for students to discuss their TCM meeting time and schedules with their clerkship
faculty at the very start of the rotation.
For the rare circumstance when a meeting conflicts with critical clerkship didactic or clinical
learning, students should notify his/her Clinical Education Fellow in writing prior to the absence.
A student is responsible for contacting his/her Clinical Education Fellow via email or phone as
soon as possible for every required session that is missed. On an occasional basis, the group
may move its meeting to accommodate known scheduling conflicts. Failure of a student to
contact his/her Clinical Education Fellow may result in an unexcused absence.
Since this program is designed to provide AUC students with the opportunity to participate in a
“community of practice,” neither excused nor unexcused absences during the year can be made
up or remediated. A pattern of three or more absences during the year without timely and valid
explanation(s) will be referred to the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs for further
investigation and intervention.
More detailed information regarding the TCM program may be found in the TCM section of
Canvas.
RECOMMENDED ELECTIVES
The only residency and licensure requirement for elective rotations is Family Medicine which
does vary by state. As such, AUC strongly recommends that all students take at least one
Family Medicine elective. Emergency Medicine and Neurology may also be beneficial electives.
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If relevant, students can consult their Student Services Advisor for details.
Delinquent case logs (case logs which are beyond 30 days from the end of the clerkship) will be
referred to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs for review and may result in the student’s
account being locked until all case logs are completed for the rotation. Delinquent case logs for
three or more clerkships will result in remediation as well as completion of a professionalism
exercise to be determined by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs. Failure to submit final case
logs within 30 days from the end date of the clerkship will result in an “F” grade for the rotation
until remediation has been completed with the Associate Dean for Student Affairs. As
remediation is mandatory, the outcome is final and there is no associated appeal process.
Students are required to complete a Clinical Clerkship Evaluation Form in E*Value for every
core and elective rotation. Failure to submit a Clinical Clerkship Evaluation Form within 30 days
of completing a rotation will result in an “I” grade for the clerkship. Refer to Grading System
section in this document for more information on “I” grades.
A single Summary Assessment of the student’s clinical performance will be submitted at the end
of every core and elective rotation by the clinical sites. For any core or elective clerkships that
span across two semesters, students will receive one Summary Assessment. Clinical sites have
30-45 days from the end of a core or elective rotation to submit the completed Clinical Student
Assessment Form to AUC. Completed Summary Assessments are submitted to the Office of the
Registrar via email ([email protected]). The final grade for the rotation will be posted
once all clerkship requirements have been satisfied.
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ELECTIVE ROTATIONS
A total of 30 weeks of elective rotations must be taken. Each elective clerkship should be at
least 4 weeks in duration. Only four 2-week electives are permitted per student during the
clinical years, unless a request for an exception is submitted to the Office of Clinical Student
Services and approved by relevant Associate Clinical Dean (US or UK). The maximum length of
time that a student may take any elective clerkship in any one subject area is 12 weeks. The
maximum number of non-internal medicine related electives is 12 weeks, unless a request for
an exception is submitted to Student Services and approved by the Associate Clinical Dean for
the US. Internal medicine electives include Family Medicine, Neurology, Emergency Medicine,
Radiology, Ophthalmology, Behavioral Medicine, Sports Medicine, Critical Care, Dermatology,
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, as well as all the traditional internal medicine subspecialties.
AUC’s affiliated institutions are listed on the school’s website. Students may also verify an
institutional affiliation and the rotations that are available by contacting the Office of UME
Student Services at [email protected]. No student may take more than two
electives, with a combined total duration of 8 weeks, at any one unaffiliated institution.
An elective clerkship may be taken through a non-affiliated institution in the United States that is
ACGME accredited in the elective subject area. After approval by the Office of Clinical Student
Services, the student may be required to pay the site directly and will be reimbursed at the rate
notified by the university (rates subject to change).
Any student wishing to take an elective rotation at an institution that does not sponsor or
participate in an ACGME-residency program in the same subject area (one that is not listed on
the ACGME web site at www.acgme.org) must obtain prior written approval from the relevant
Associate Clinical Dean (US or UK). Written approval is required whether the rotation is
requested at an affiliated institution or non-affiliated institution. Certain documentation will be
required to support the application, such as a proposed curriculum, schedule, preceptor CV, and
criteria for assessment.
Requests for specialty rotations, such as Global Health Electives, will be considered on an
individual basis after supporting material is reviewed and approved by the Office of Clinical
Student Services as requested. If a student is going to rotate at a clinic, that clinic must be
affiliated with a hospital that will be signing the Clinical Student Assessment Form and entering
into an agreement with AUC, should it be required. Students cannot rotate at solitary clinics or
urgent care centers that are not part of a hospital.
For approved electives, the student may be required to pay the site directly and will be
reimbursed at the rate notified by the university (rates subject to change).
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Upon receiving a passing USMLE Step 1 score, students are responsible for sending in their
score reports in PDF format to the Office of UME Student Services
([email protected]) which is responsible for managing students’ promotion to
clinical sciences and scheduling rotations.
AUC students who are not U.S. citizens nor lawful permanent residents of the United States
must obtain a B-1 Nonimmigrant Visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to entering the
United States to sit for their USMLE Step 1 examination and to complete their Clinical Sciences
training. AUC will provide documents in support of a B-1 Visa application. It is our strong
recommendation that students apply for the visa in the country of which they are a citizen. AUC
is not responsible for obtaining B-1 Visas for students and does not guarantee that every
student who applies for a B-1 Visa will be granted one. It is the student’s responsibility to plan
accordingly and to consult with an immigration attorney if necessary.
The Office of UME Student Services schedules the student for one or more available clerkships
and sends the schedule to the student. Students must review and acknowledge receipt of their
schedule within 24 hours of receipt. UME Student Services will always attempt to match a
student’s clinical rotations to their preferred geographical preferences, but there is no
way to guarantee that match. Students may only undertake core clerkships at AUC-affiliated
institutions in the US and UK. Under no circumstance is a student allowed to apply for a core
clerkship rotation at a non-affiliated institution.
The Office of UME Student Services schedules the student for one or more available clerkships
and sends a tentative schedule summary to the student in advance of a clerkship start date.
Students should note that their schedule is subject to change until the office receives official
written confirmation from the student sent to [email protected] that he or she
has received a schedule.
Every student who has passed his or her USMLE Step 1 examination and will be traveling to the
UK for completion of 18 weeks or more of core clerkships is eligible for a $1,200 subsidy toward
the cost of expenses during these rotations. It is recommended that students traveling to the UK
use this subsidy to purchase their round-trip airline ticket as AUC will provide no other subsidy.
Students cancelling their UK rotations after receiving this subsidy will be responsible for full
repayment of the subsidy in addition to other applicable charges.
If the student cancels or changes the schedule for any reason with less than 45 days’ notice, he
or she will be charged a late cancellation fee of $600 per week for the total number of weeks
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cancelled. This fee will be in addition to any penalty fee charged by the hospital.
Once a student has received a fully-or-partially-tracked (all or some rotations at the same site)
core clinical clerkship schedule, he or she must complete the acknowledgement and agreement
in its entirety and supply the required documentation. If at any point after receiving the tracked
schedule, the student should wish to change any part of it, he or she may incur associated fees
including applicable late cancellation fees, a $2,000 administrative fee, and any additional fees
or penalties imposed by the site for the uncompleted rotations.
Students removed from a fully or partially tracked core clinical clerkship due to administrative
leave, involuntary deregistration, or failure to supply required hospital documents by required
deadlines will also be subject to a $2,000 administration fee plus the applicable late cancellation
fees for any tracked clerkships that fall within the 45-days of their removal from the site.
All new clinical sciences students are required to submit hospital clearance documentation to
American Data Bank (Complio). Any student experiencing difficulty with this process should
contact [email protected] at least 60 days prior to their scheduled core or
elective rotation. For core rotations, students should upload hospital clearance documentation to
American Data Bank (Complio) during their leave of absence. Students must complete a drug
screening and a criminal background check prior to the start of their clinical rotations.
All clinical students are responsible for updating health records, HIPAA certificates, infection
control certificates, background screenings, and drug screenings as required by their assigned
clinical sites. Failure to provide required and updated documentation within 45 days prior to the
start of a rotation will result in cancellation of the core or elective rotation with a penalty fee of
$600 per week cancelled plus any additional fees charged by the hospital site.
Students must start their clinical rotations within 60 calendar days from the receipt of
their USMLE Step 1 score. Student requests to delay this start will not be considered.
Prior to each clerkship start date, the Office of Clinical Student Services will notify the hospital of
the student assignment by email. Typically, AUC submits a roster of assigned students, together
with the documentation listed below. Students should note that prior to that time, the hospital
may not have any information regarding the assignment and thus students should call the Office
of Clinical Student Services and not the hospital to verify their rotation schedule.
Documentation provided to the hospital site by UME Student Services is listed below:
• Letter of Good Standing
• Malpractice Insurance Certificate
• Student Transcript
• Student Immunization Records
• Clinical Student Assessment Form
• Rotation Confirmation Form
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• Criminal Background Checks and all other current documentation that may be required
by the hospital site or mandated by third parties
After receiving confirmation from the hospital, the Office of Clinical Student Services will confirm
the assignment with the student by email. Students are expected to check their AUC email
account on a daily basis. The student is also expected to acknowledge the confirmed
assignment by return email.
A list of hospitals affiliated with AUC for elective rotations is disseminated by the Office of UME
Student Services to all clinical sciences students once each semester. Students may explore
available elective rotations at IMG friendly sites by reviewing sites that accept international
medical students found on the AAMC’s Extramural Electives Compendium here:
https://services.aamc.org/eec/students/index.cfm.
While a student may request an elective rotation at an unaffiliated institution, students are
advised that such a request may take several months to evaluate, and AUC may not be able to
accommodate the request. Occasionally, an unaffiliated
institution site will require that AUC enter into a formal
affiliation agreement prior to scheduling a student for
electives. In that case, AUC and the institution will enter into
contract negotiations, which may take months and is not
guaranteed to result in agreement. Students should take
these complexities into consideration when requesting an
elective rotation at an unaffiliated institution. Because of
such possible restrictions, AUC requires all requests for
unaffiliated electives be submitted no less than 90 days prior
to a requested start day. Even with this 90-day window,
there is no guarantee the rotation will be approved.
If a student changes a confirmed elective schedule for any reason with less than 45 days’ notice
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before the scheduled start date, he or she will be charged a late cancellation fee of $600 per
week by AUC for the total number of weeks cancelled. This fee will be in addition to any penalty
fee charged by both affiliated and non-affiliated sites.
After receiving written confirmation from the clinical site, the Office of Clinical Student Services
will confirm the clerkship assignment with the student by email. Students are expected to check
their AUC email account daily. The student is also expected to acknowledge the confirmed
elective assignment by return email.
• California: Affiliation agreements are required for all rotations completed in California.
• Florida: In order to schedule a rotation in Florida, students must complete the individual
hospital’s application process. Upon receiving confirmation of a scheduled rotation from
the hospital, please forward the confirmation email to the Office of UME Student
Services at [email protected]. AUC will inform the Senior Director of
Business Operations, who will complete a Commission for Independent Education form
and work directly with the hospital administration to attempt to execute an affiliation
agreement. Affiliation agreements are required for all rotations performed in Florida.
• Texas: AUC students may engage in clinical rotations in the state of Texas only through
a Texas-based university program. For more information on clinical rotations in Texas
please contact the Office of UME Student Services at
[email protected].
• New York: AUC students engaging core clerkships or in elective rotations at an affiliated
or a non-affiliated site in the state of New York are required to apply for a letter of
eligibility through the New York State Education Department (NYSED). Students will be
responsible for providing the UME Student Services with a $30 check or money order
addressed to the NYSED to process the letter of eligibility once the student has received
a written confirmation from UME Student Services or the hospital that he or she has
been accepted for the elective rotation. Failure to provide the required documentation 45
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days prior to the start of a rotation will result in cancellation of the core or elective
rotation with a penalty fee of $600 per week cancelled plus any additional fees charged
by the hospital site. For more information or assistance with this process students can
email the UME Student Services at [email protected].
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• Students are not allowed to take time off in the UK prior to the beginning of core
rotations.
• Students are not permitted to take any time off during the first three days of a core
rotation.
• The UK Border Agency (UKBA), also known as the UK Visa and Immigration Authority
(UKV&I) has strict rules for students issued with a Tier 4 visa. The UKBA must be
notified, through the AUC UK Dean’s Office of all students’ travel details (including dates
of return and departure; flight, ferry or train numbers; as well as destination).
• The UK Dean’s Office is responsible for notifying the UKBA of students’ ALOA from any
of AUC’s eight clinical sites in the UK. Students travelling abroad who have not notified
the UK Dean’s Office prior to their travel may be denied re-entry into the UK by the
UKBA. The UKBA liaises with the UK Dean’s Office for all students returning to the UK
upon the student’s passport swiping at the border. It is extremely important that students
give the UK Dean’s Office three weeks (21 days) notice of all travels abroad (even if it
does not involve taking a working day off on leave).
• Students in possession of an EU or UK passport do not need to be concerned about the
UKBA notification but are still required to adhere to the leisure time limits and notify their
site coordinator.
• Students must follow the leave policy for all leaves, including holiday leaves, such as
Christmas and New Year.
• Any breach of these AUC Rules will constitute grounds for the student’s immediate
dismissal from AUC.
• Any breach of the UK’s immigration laws means the UK Home Office may revoke a
student’s permission to be in the UK, detain a student, prosecute a student in the
criminal courts and then remove or deport a student from the UK. This will count as an
adverse UK immigration history and will impact on a student’s ability to return to the UK
or enter or obtain visas for other countries.
• Requests should be submitted to the UK Dean’s Office via the hospital site coordinator,
director or deputy, and not directly to the UKBA from the student.
• Leave for emergencies will always override these rules and when such an instant arises,
students should contact their site coordinator immediately to oversee the logistics and
liaise with the UK Dean.
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In addition to the requirements for ECFMG certification, the criteria for certification of an
application to take the USMLE Step 1 is that a student must complete the Medical Sciences
portion of the curriculum with an AUC cumulative GPA greater than or equal to 70 percent.
All students are required to pass the USMLE Step 1 before proceeding to clinical rotations. The
current passing score for this exam is 194. Upon receiving a score, students are responsible for
sending in their score reports in PDF format to the Office of UME Student Services at
[email protected].
Students are advised that the Medical Sciences administrators and faculty will communicate
with Clinical Sciences administrators and/or faculty regarding students commencing clinical
rotations. In appropriate cases, students will be notified of preparatory, remedial, or other work
that they are required to complete as a condition of progressing through the clinical program.
Student responsibilities:
• At the start and middle of each rotation, students on core clerkships document self-
assessments and learning goals. Students share this information with their assigned
Clinical Education Fellow (in the TCM program) through E*Value.
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• Students are routinely encouraged to share and discuss their strengths, weaknesses,
and learning goals with their clerkship or elective director at the start of the rotation and
during a mid-clerkship feedback session.
• Students are required to attend a Shelf Exam, COMP, and Step 2 CK Webinar before
their first NBME Shelf Exam. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in an
honor code violation. These webinars occur on Thursdays on a rotating schedule listed
below. Any changes to the schedule will be announced in the Dean’s Weekly Update
which comes out on Wednesdays.
Webinar: Shelf Exams, COMP, Step 2 CK
1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 12pm ET
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at 6pm ET
https://zoom.us/j/340955586
• At any time, students who have doubts about their performance should actively seek
such feedback from their supervising clinical faculty and early on in the rotation. Clinical
students should feel free to consult their Student Services Advisors and clerkship and
site directors at their clinical site to resolve any issue before it becomes a performance
problem.
Faculty responsibilities:
• Each core Clerkship Director must provide formal mid-clerkship feedback to students
after 2 to 3 weeks in a 4- or 6-week clerkship and after 5 or 6 weeks in a 12-week
clerkship. This routine process is for the purpose of identifying and formally notifying any
student who is having difficulty so he or she has an opportunity to improve his or her
performance during the remainder of the course.
Per the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) guidelines, the full summative
comments as they appear in each Clinical Student Assessment Form will be included in every
student’s Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE) letter. The MSPE letter is a
summary and evaluation of a student’s performance while in medical school and is required for
all residency program applications. While every student will be permitted to review their MSPE
letter prior to its submission, students may only submit requests to change or correct factual
errors, such as spelling of names, punctuation, etc. Students with questions or concerns about
the comments in clerkship evaluations should address them directly with the comment
author(s). As such, it is strongly suggested that students read all clerkship evaluations as they
are submitted and contact comment author(s) as soon as possible to discuss any questions or
concerns with evaluation content. Author(s) who agree to change comments must submit a new
evaluation to the Office of the Registrar.
Clinical Sciences students must also pass a written National Board of Medical Examiners®
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(NBME) Clinical Subject Examination for each of AUC’s five core clerkships to pass the
clerkship in that specialty.
The NBME Clinical Subject Examination for each core clerkship must be taken during the final
week of the clerkship unless approved by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs. This will
require students to travel to a Prometric testing site at the appropriate examination appointment
time within an examination window arranged by Office of UME Student Services. Once the
testing windows are arranged by the Office of UME Student Services, the student will receive a
scheduling permit. The student must then schedule his or her examination on an exact date
within the window, confirmation of which is sent to his or her AUC student email address. All
students are expected to sit for the applicable NBME Clinical Subject Examination when
scheduled. If an exam is delayed, the student will be subject to financial penalty by the
Prometric center and possible course failure. Any postponement in taking a NBME Clinical
Subject Examination must be approved by the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student
Affairs.
The student will receive a 7-day window of opportunity to schedule the NBME Clinical Subject
Examination within the last week of the core and must schedule and take the NBME Clinical
Subject Examination within that window. The NBME Clinical Subject Examination may not be
postponed except for personal illness or an emergency situation within one’s immediate family,
an emergency situation in the environment which prevents its completion, or a change enforced
upon AUC due to factors outside of the student’s control. Failure to complete an NBME Clinical
Subject Examination for other reasons without approval by the Associate Dean for Student
Affairs will result in that student being ineligible for honors in the clerkship. Students who do not
complete their NBME subject exams during the last week of clerkship will be reported to the
Associate Dean for Student Affairs and may result in administrative fees being assessed by the
school or the testing facility, possible failure of the course, and will be noted as a breach of
professional conduct in the student’s file. An accumulation of three or more such breeches
triggers a formal administrative review (see ARGP for details). Students will be granted leave
from their current clinical activity sufficient to cover adequate time for travel to the site of their
NBME Clinical Subject Examination, performance of the NBME Clinical Subject Examination
and return. The student will be required to notify his/her clerkship director of the necessity for a
leave to complete an NBME Clinical Subject Examination.
If the student does not pass the NBME Clinical Subject Examination with a minimum score of 62
on the first attempt, then he or she will receive a temporary grade of “I” for the clerkship and
may retake the examination up to three more times. Any student who fails an NBME Clinical
Subject Examination will be required to work directly with the Assistant Dean for Academic and
Student Affairs as well as the relevant Clinical Chair to arrange remedial clinical instruction and
personalized advising with respect to preparation and scheduling a subsequent attempt. If a
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student who failed an NBME Clinical Subject Examination is currently enrolled in another
clerkship, upon consultation with the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, he or
she may be granted an extension until after the completion of other core clerkships. Once the
student successfully passes the relevant NBME Clinical Subject Examination, then his or her
core clerkship grade will be changed to “P.” If a student fails the NBME Clinical Subject
Examination for a fifth time, then the student will receive a final grade of “F” for the rotation and
be required to repeat the entire clerkship. A sixth failure on an NBME Clinical Subject
Examination in the same specialty will constitute grounds for academic dismissal with the right
to appeal.
Students who fail any NBME Examination (subject or comprehensive clinical) will be charged for
the subsequent re-attempt per exam. The fees are administered by NBME and are subject to
change without notification.
Any student who is granted a Long-Term Leave of Absence to take one or more NBME Clinical
Subject Examination and who does not sit for the NBME Clinical Subject Examination during the
leave period will be subject to academic dismissal with the right to appeal.
Students who have not passed the NBME Clinical Subject Examinations in all five core subjects
after two Long-Term Academic Leaves will be required to consult with the Assistant Dean for
Academic and Student Affairs who will refer the matter to the Clinical Sciences Leadership
Committee for review.
Any incidents pertaining to breaches of test security will be investigated. No one is allowed to
duplicate or retain any portion of any administered examination. This includes NBME
examinations, course quizzes, and examinations. AUC adheres to the policies and procedures
detailed in the NBME Executive Chief Proctor’s Manual. No one is allowed to have any
unauthorized personal items and/or devices in the testing room, such as cellular phones,
iPad®/iPod® and recording/filming devices. AUC will take immediate disciplinary action through
the Clinical Sciences Leadership Committee in response to breaches of test security up to and
including immediate and permanent dismissal.
Timing
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the COMP exam will be the Tuesday following the close of the testing window (except during
observed holidays). AUC will send COMP scores to the student via the student’s AUC email
account.
Ideally, students should complete all five (5) core clerkships prior to taking the COMP. However,
students may elect to sit for their first attempt of the COMP at their own discretion. Students
who take the COMP prior to completing all core clerkships are permitted only one early attempt
at the COMP.
For students who will not have completed all core clerkships by July 10th of the year prior to
the expected graduation date, those who satisfy the following requirements may request of the
Office of UME Student Services to take the USMLE Step 2 CK exam before all core clerkships
are completed. These students must have:
• Passed all Medical Sciences courses on the first attempt
• Passed USMLE Step 1 on the first attempt with a score of 229 or above
• Passed at least three core clerkships including Internal Medicine on the first attempt
• Passed all NBME Clinical Subject Examinations on the first attempt for the core
clerkships taken
• Passed the COMP on the first attempt with a score of 79 or above.
The COMP is a pass/fail examination that also provides students with a numeric grade.
Students who have completed all five (5) core clerkships when they take the COMP are
required to obtain a passing score of 211 or above before taking USMLE Step 2 CK.
Students who have not completed all five (5) core clerkships when they take the COMP are
required to achieve a passing score of 79 or above and meet the other requirements described
above before taking USMLE Step 2 CK.
Students who have not completed all five core (5) clerkships when they take the COMP and
achieve a passing score ranging from 74-78 must wait until the completion of their core
clerkships before taking USMLE Step 2 CK.
AUC students who have not taken the COMP exam prior to January 1, 2019 will be allowed six
(6) attempts in total and two (2) attempts per semester to pass this exam. Failure to pass the
COMP after six (6) attempts will result in an academic dismissal with the right to appeal.
Remediation
Failing scores: Students who fail the COMP examination with a score of 73 or below twice or
more are required to contact the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs for
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counseling and to assist with addressing issues related to the examination and development of
an individualized study plan.
General
Students who take the USMLE Step 2 CK Examination prior to taking and passing the COMP
will be considered to have violated the Student Honor Code and will be subject to disciplinary
action up to and including dismissal. Students have the right to appeal the decision (refer to the
Academic Performance section). Students may contact the Office of UME Student Services with
questions about these requirements. The current passing score for the USMLE Step 2 CK is
209.
Any Clinical Sciences student who will take or retake USMLE Step 2 CS Exam on or after
January 1, 2019 is required to complete and receive the results of the AUC-sponsored Kaplan
CS Practice Exam before taking the USMLE Step 2 CS exam. Therefore, the CSA should be
scheduled 2-4 months prior to CS. Currently, clinical students are required to take—but are not
required to pass—Kaplan’s Clinical Skills Practice Exam (CSPE, or previously Becker’s Clinical
Skills Assessment) prior to taking the USMLE Step 2 CS Exam. Starting January 1, 2020, we
will begin requiring all incoming clinical students to pass the CSPE prior to taking Step 2 CS.
This policy update will go into effect for any student who begins their first clinical rotation on or
after January 1, 2020. Current clinical sciences students are not impacted; however, we strongly
encourage this group to not just take, but to pass, the CSPE.
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RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS
AUC is committed to diversity and nondiscrimination and recognizes that many religious
observances occur on days not designated as AUC holidays. As such, AUC has provided
policies and procedures to accommodate the religious observances of students.
It is the responsibility of each student to file his or her own Religious Accommodation Request in
accordance with the time limits set forth in the Procedures to Request Religious
Accommodation section. Every effort will be made for approval of such requests but there may
be denial if the requested accommodation constitutes an undue hardship for AUC or requires a
change in the medical education program. In a clinical setting, where granting of a religious
accommodation on short notice could impact patient safety, the accommodation may be denied.
It is the responsibility of the student to avoid such situations via advance planning.
Medical Sciences
On the Medical Sciences campus, a student requesting religious accommodation must make a
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formal request to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs within 4 weeks after matriculating to
AUC. If a student experiences a genuine religious conversion after matriculating to AUC and
wishes to request an accommodation pursuant to the converted religion, he or she should
contact the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs within the first week of the following semester so
that a formal request may be made.
Clinical Sciences
For students undertaking clerkships, which may include being on call, patient care must always
take precedence. The expectation is that all clinical students will have 100 percent participation
unless they have obtained an excused absence in advance from their attending physician and
Clerkship Director. Clinical students should note that the hospitals, not AUC, have control over
clerkship schedules for clinical training. Therefore, approval of a Religious Accommodation
Request on the Medical Sciences campus will not ensure that accommodations will be granted
during clinical clerkships.
Similarly, the NBME shelf exams are administered to clinical students by the Prometric center,
which is an independent third-party entity, and the school cannot enforce religious
accommodations on behalf of a third party. The student will have to arrange this via scheduling
examination appointments according to his or her religious needs.
Clerkship Directors may deny a request if there is any concern that the student’s absence would
have a negative impact on patient care, or they may grant a religious accommodation to a
student but ask the student to reschedule or make up any missed clinical time. If a student is
experiencing any difficulties obtaining a religious accommodation during a clinical rotation, he or
she can contact the Associate Dean for Student Affairs for assistance with the process.
However, the final decision rests with the student’s Clerkship Director, not the Clinical Dean.
In the Medical Sciences, once a religious accommodation request is granted, it will constitute an
excused participation for all recognized holidays for the student’s religion and cover his or her
entire course of enrollment in the Medical Sciences curriculum. Therefore, once a student is
granted a religious accommodation, he or she will be scheduled to take make-up exams for all
exams falling on recognized holidays for the specified religion as described below.
In the Clinical Sciences, a religious accommodation will apply to the length of a specific rotation
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As stated on the AUC website and elsewhere in the Course Catalog and Student Handbook,
AUC reserves the right to schedule classes and exams at any time and on any day of the week.
AUC will endeavor to avoid scheduling exams on certain recognized high holy days: Christmas,
Good Friday, Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha. However, this may not
be possible in the event of rescheduling due to tropical storms, hurricanes, or other occurrences
beyond the control of AUC resulting in power or internet outages.
Record Keeping
Materials related to a student’s Religious Accommodation Request, including the written request
for accommodation and any other document or information, will be treated as confidential
except as necessary to give effect to the accommodation granted.
For Clinical Sciences students, the Clerkship Director may impose administrative disciplinary
action if the student fails to satisfactorily complete any alternative assignment or make-up
examination. Time limits with respect to taking the NBME exams should be noted carefully as
these will continue to apply whether or not a religious accommodation has been granted.
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denied, the administrative review process shall be expedited as much as reasonably possible to
ensure that a student pursuing a religious accommodation is not unduly disadvantaged by the
passage of time.
ECFMG CERTIFICATION
The ECFMG is the agency that registers foreign medical students for the purpose of taking the
USMLE Steps 1–3. Passing USMLE Steps 1–3 is a requirement for licensure in the United
States. To qualify to sit for the USMLE exams, students must be certified by AUC as “officially
enrolled” (with exception of the USMLE Step 3).
On the ECFMG certification form, students must authorize ECFMG to provide examinee-specific
USMLE performance data to AUC, including whether the examinee passed the exam and the
examinee’s numerical scores on the three-digit scale. AUC has an interest in receiving accurate
and timely student performance data for several reasons including accreditation, state approvals
and licensure and curriculum evaluation. Therefore, each student must authorize ECFMG to
deliver his or her examination results to AUC as condition to AUC certifying the student as
“officially enrolled.”
Students, who meet ECFMG requirements, will be certified to take the USMLE Step 2 CK
examination prior to satisfying the AUC USMLE Step 2 CK Policy. Certification will allow clinical
students an appropriate length of time to select an examination date with the Prometric Test
Centers. Students who fail to satisfy the AUC USMLE Step 2 CK Policy and take the
examination will be considered to have violated the Student Code of Conduct and will be subject
to an Administrative Review, which could ultimately result in disciplinary action or dismissal from
AUC. Students have the right to appeal the decision.
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Clinical medicine teaching opportunities may be available in the TCM program. Interested
graduates should contact the Associate Dean for Student Affairs for more information.
OSPD assists students who are preparing for residency by advising on the application process
and providing necessary documents to MATCH-related organizations such as the NRMP,
ECFMG and ERAS.
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SCOPE
The Professional Conduct Policy applies to the following situations. AUC reserves the right to
investigate and resolve reports of alleged misconduct in all of these situations:
• Involving students, a group of students, or a student organization
• Occurring from the time of a student’s application for admission through the actual
awarding of a medical degree (even if the conduct is not discovered until after a degree
is awarded), including, but not limited to:
o During the academic year
o Before classes begin or after classes end
o During both Medical and Clinical Sciences
o While on leave from AUC
• Occurring either on or off campus
AUC reserves the right to investigate and resolve any report or incident in which a student is
alleged to violate any of the principles or policies published by the university or local, state, or
federal laws or policies, regardless of the location where the incident occurs. Students are also
expected to follow the policies and procedures of institutions and clinical sites that they may
visit, including during international travel.
AUC visitors and guests are expected to follow all university policies. Student hosts are
accountable for the conduct of their guests and may be subject to disciplinary action as the
responsible party for violations of university policy incurred by their guests.
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self-discipline in all of my affairs and refrain from biases including but not limited to: race, sex,
age, sexual orientation, disability, and religion. Unethical or unprofessional behaviors will be
assessed and will lead to consequences in accordance with university policies. I will sign and
uphold the honor code throughout my enrollment at AUC.
CONDUCT VIOLATIONS
Any student found to have engaged in the following acts of misconduct may be subject to
administrative review. This list is not all-inclusive but includes categories of misconduct as
defined by AUC.
1. Acts of dishonesty, including but not limited to the following:
a. Furnishing false information to any AUC official, faculty member or office
b. Forgery, alteration or misuse of any AUC document, record or instrument of
identification
c. Computer piracy, including duplication of computer software, copyright
infringement and unauthorized computer entry
2. Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings
and/or other AUC activities, including its public service functions on or off campus, or
other authorized non-AUC activities.
3. Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, and harassment including, but not
limited to, sexual harassment, gender-based harassment, coercion and/or other conduct
that threatens or endanger the health or safety of any person, either on or off AUC
premises or at any AUC-sponsored activity.
4. Attempted or actual theft of and/or damage to property of the AUC or property of a
member of the AUC community or other personal or public property.
5. Gambling on AUC premises, at AUC functions or through the use of AUC’s equipment.
6. Failure to comply with directions of AUC officials or law enforcement officers acting in
performance of their duties. Failure to identify oneself to these persons by producing an
AUC issued ID or other recognized form of ID such as a driver’s license or state issued
ID when requested to do so.
7. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any part of AUC premises, or
unauthorized entry to or use of AUC premises.
8. Unauthorized recording of conversations, telephonic or otherwise. Students may not
record conversations without notifying and obtaining permission of the conversation
participants prior to initiating the recording.
9. Violation of published AUC’s policies, rules or regulations.
10. Violation of federal, state, or local law on AUC premises or at AUC-sponsored or AUC-
supervised activities or other violation of federal, state, or local law which has an
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ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
Bullying and cyberbullying, which is using one’s power to control or harm or threaten individuals
including, but not limited to, face-to-face interactions and any electronic communication
(communication transmitted by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a
telephone, cellular phone, computer, or pager) whether it be a single incident or a series of
incidents. Bullying fosters a climate of fear and disrespect that can seriously impair the physical
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and psychological health of its victims and create conditions that negatively affect learning,
thereby undermining the ability of students to achieve their full potential.
• Places a person in reasonable fear of harm to the person’s body, reputation, or property;
• Has a substantially detrimental effect on a person’s physical or mental health; or
• Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's academic performance.
The Anti-Bullying policy shall include both direct, indirect, and electronic acts. If the electronic
act is directed specifically at one or more people and is maliciously intended for the purpose of
disrupting AUC’s environment and has a high likelihood of succeeding in that purpose then it will
be considered as bullying regardless of whether it originated on AUC property or with AUC
equipment.
ANTI-HAZING POLICY
AUC prohibits students and other persons associated with any AUC organization from engaging
in any activity that can be described as hazing.
Participation in the activity of “hazing,” defined as any action taken or situation created which,
regardless of intent or consent of the participants: may reasonably produce bodily harm or
danger, mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, fright, humiliation or
ridicule, or otherwise compromises the dignity of an individual; compels an individual to
participate in an activity that is unlawful and or contrary to AUC’s rules, policies and regulations;
will unreasonably or unusually impair an individual’s academic efforts; and occurs on or off
campus. Hazing is further defined as an act that endangers the mental or physical health or
safety of a student, or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation or
admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for, continued membership in a group or
organization. Such activities and/or actions prohibited include, but are not limited to: tests of
endurance; submission of member or prospective members to potentially dangerous or
hazardous circumstances; any activity that by its nature is so intense that it would cause severe
mental anxiety, mental distress, panic, human degradation or public embarrassment; creation of
excessive fatigue or a late work session that interferes with scholastic activities or deprives
persons of the opportunity for sufficient sleep (six hours per day), decent edible meals and/or
access to means of bodily cleanliness; forcing or coercing a person to consume alcohol or other
substances, in any amount; any requirement that compels an individual to participate in an
activity that is illegal, perverse or indecent; and compelling individuals to engage in sexual
behaviors, sexual or racial harassment or slurs or exhibitionism.
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Hazing may include any forced activity that could adversely affect the mental health or infringe
on the rights of an individual. Any activity as described above upon which initiation or admission
into or affiliation with an AUC organization is directly or indirectly conditional shall be presumed
to be a "forced" activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such an activity
notwithstanding. For each registered student organization, the organization president and
faculty sponsor must sign a statement every semester certifying that they have been informed of
and understand this policy.
Organizations found to have violated this policy shall at a minimum be prohibited from utilizing
AUC facilities for an academic term and at a maximum be required to have the organizational
charter revoked and be permanently removed from the campus. Nothing herein shall preclude
AUC from taking disciplinary action against individual members participating in any activity
considered to be hazing.
• Behave in an appropriate manner and cooperate with all AUC personnel as they carry
out their duties.
• Not engage in behavior that is threatening, dangerous or harmful to self or others, that
disrupts the learning environment, or that damages AUC property.
• Not possess firearms, other weapons, or fireworks while on the AUC campus.
• Not tamper with wiring, fire alarms, etc.
AUC forbids the illegal use, possession, distribution or sale of drugs or alcohol by students,
faculty or staff at any time. Violators may be subject to both criminal prosecution and disciplinary
action.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
AUC maintains a policy of non-discrimination regardless of race, color, religion, age, gender,
disability, national origin, sexual orientation or gender expression.
Because AUC places such importance on its Non-Discrimination Policy, separately published
procedures have been developed, which are incorporated by reference in this Student Course
Catalog and Student Handbook.
To assist a prompt and appropriate response, complaints alleging violation of the Non-
Discrimination Policy should be made in accordance with AUC’s ARGP. Any questions
concerning AUC’s Non-Discrimination Policy or ARGP should be directed to the appropriate
designated Student Affairs Dean. On the Medical Sciences campus, questions should be
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directed to the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs and at clinical sites, questions should be
directed to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs. If a student is not comfortable bringing a
complaint or concern forward through the ARGP, anonymous reporting is available.
For any allegation made that a student has violated a provision of this Course Catalog and
Student Handbook that is subject to the ARGP, the Administrative Review Committee’s and the
Administrative Review Grievance Committee’s determination shall be made on the basis the
standard of whether it is more likely than not that the accused party violated the applicable
Course Catalog and Student Handbook provision or other rule or requirement.
AUC may be required to report incidents of discrimination to the U.S. Department of Education’s
Office for Civil Rights. This may include complaints, investigative reports, hearing transcripts,
decisions and appeals.
AUC’s Medical Sciences campus and clinical rotation sites routinely require students enrolled in
Medical Sciences courses or clinical clerkships to consent to random drug tests. Selection for
drug testing at the Medical Sciences campus is random and a student may be selected more
than once. Failing or refusing a random drug test may result in disciplinary action, up to and
including dismissal from the medical education program. Students should be aware that their
matriculation is contingent upon acceptance of any drug screening program whether universal
or random imposed by the school. Failing a drug test or refusing to comply with a drug test will
be grounds for discipline, up to and including immediate dismissal from AUC. Violation of this
policy does not require AUC use the Administrative Review Process to impose discipline. A
student testing positive for banned substances will be immediately dismissed from the clinical
site at the discretion of the clinical site, usually permanently and without the possibility of
negotiation. All such dismissals result in non-academic leaves.
Any student that is the subject of disciplinary proceedings while enrolled at AUC may be subject
to an additional background check and drug screening conducted by the school. Submitting a
false or misleading statement on any document, including background information, to AUC will
constitute grounds for dismissal. AUC reserves the right to conduct random drug tests at any
time on any enrolled student.
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AUC is required to report all such leaves related to alcohol or substance abuse to the ECFMG
upon the student’s graduation. This can have deleterious effects on ultimate licensure. Students
should be aware that the half-life of marijuana is long and the drug may be detectable in the
body for as long as two months. This makes the social use of marijuana unacceptable in a
medical student’s career. Students should be aware that recent ingestion of poppy seeds may
cause urine drug testing to be positive for opiates.
If a student has lost federal student aid eligibility due to a drug conviction, he or she may regain
eligibility by passing two unannounced drug tests conducted by a drug rehabilitation program
that complies with criteria established by the U.S. Department of Education.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
No educational community can thrive if its members counterfeit their achievements or seek to
establish an unfair advantage over their fellow students. AUC’s academic standards are based
on the pursuit of knowledge and assume a high level of integrity in every member of the
community. When this trust is violated, the community suffers injury and must act to ensure that
its standards remain meaningful.
Violations of academic integrity, for the purposes of this policy, are those that permit a student
to gain an unfair advantage over other students. Any purposeful deception in the preparation
and/or submission of papers and assignments and completion of exams, tests or quizzes is
considered cheating, and is a violation of academic integrity and may result in disciplinary action
up to and including dismissal from the university.
Examples of cheating or academic dishonesty include but are not limited to:
• The discussion, distribution, and/or use of any materials that specifically references past
or current exams
• Sharing AUC exam questions for a course in which an individual is currently enrolled or
has yet to be enrolled. These include, but are not limited to:
o Any document or compilation of previous exam questions
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This policy establishes operating principles and acceptable use policies as they relate to the
students use of the Internet and the email services provided by AUC. Students are expected to
conduct themselves according to the standards set out in the AUC Honor Code in general and
specifically as set out below.
Responsibility and Respect. The Internet is a network intended for use by users who act in a
mature manner. By accessing AUC’s resources, students are deemed to recognize this principle
and undertake at all times to act with respect, courtesy and responsibility, giving due regard to
the interests and rights of other Internet user groups. This general guideline carries with it the
following specific responsibilities:
Improper Uses. The student will avoid violation of certain generally accepted guidelines on
Internet usage such as restrictions on mass mailings and mass advertisements, pirating or
copying of software, mail bombing or other methods of attempting to deny service or access to
other users and attempts to violate security.
Compliance with Laws. The student will ensure that his or her use of the Internet complies
with all applicable federal, state and local law and regulation, including but not limited to those
principles of law which protect against compromise of copyrights, trade secrets, proprietary
information and other intellectual property rights, libel or defamation of character, invasion of
privacy, tortious interference and export of technical or military data to prohibited countries.
Validation of Information. The student is responsible for validating the integrity of the
information and data s/he receives or transmits over the Internet.
Security. The student is required to protect the security of his or her Internet account and
usage. The student's password should be treated as private and confidential and not disclosed
to or shared with any third parties.
Discretion and Judgment. The student is expected to use discretion in the treatment and
handling of Internet information and data and to take particular care to insure that adult
information is not transmitted to juvenile users of the Internet.
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Pornography. AUC adheres to U.S. laws and regulations regarding adult-related material of
any nature. Students must not publish pornography using AUC’s email account.
Net abuse, including but not limited to activities such as using a nonexistent email return
address on a commercial solicitation, spamming (sending unsolicited advertising to numerous
email addresses or newsgroups and/or generating a significantly higher volume of outgoing
email than a normal user), allowing spamming by third parties to promote a web site hosted by
AUC, trolling (posting outrageous messages to generate numerous responses), mail bombing
(sending multiple messages without significant new content to the same user), subscribing
someone else to a mailing list without that person's permission, cross-posting articles to an
excessive number of newsgroups or attempting without authorization to enter into a secured
computer system. AUC reserves the right to determine what constitutes net abuse.
Excessive CPU Usages. Students using excessive amounts of CPU processing on any of
AUC’s servers may have their account suspended on a temporary or permanent basis, at the
discretion of AUC.
Repeated offenders, having been warned of unacceptable email service usage, may be subject
to disciplinary proceedings in accordance with AUC’s ARGP.
Official Communication
Students are deemed to have received any email sent by AUC to an AUC email account.
Therefore, it is recommended that students regularly check their AUC email account for
important messages from faculty and administration (at least every 48 hours), and to ensure
that there is adequate room in their account inbox for messages to be received.
Any student wishing to report a problem regarding his or her AUC email account should send a
message to [email protected] or call the IT department on campus at 1-721-545-2298
or in Pembroke Pines, FL at (305) 446-0600.
Use of AUC electronic information resources is a privilege, not a right. This policy sets out the
responsibilities of students who use the electronic information resources at AUC. These include
the academic and administrative networks, computer systems and labs, online information
resources (whether hosted on or off campus), telecommunications systems and all Internet
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The electronic information systems at AUC are provided for the purposes of instruction,
research, personal development and administration. This policy informs students of AUC’s
expectations and their responsibilities. This policy applies to all users of AUC system resources,
including those who access these resources from off campus.
Academic Purpose
AUC seeks to provide an environment in which academic usage of electronic information and
resources has the first priority and in which there is respect for freedom of inquiry and
expression; appropriate privacy and confidentiality; freedom from sexual harassment and
protection of intellectual property. In particular, the same standards and principles of intellectual
and academic freedom already supported by AUC in other areas extend to material received
through the network. This extends also to publication: the same standards of intellectual and
academic freedom developed for faculty and student publication in traditional media are
applicable to publication in electronic media. These standards are set out in AUC’s Intellectual
Property Policy. In addition, respect for law and fairness are crucial elements of this
environment.
Responsibilities
Students are expected to abide by the policies of AUC, whose existence makes the use of these
electronic information resources available. Every student is also expected to be considerate of
other users, including faculty and staff. Examples of infringements of these principles may
include, but are not limited to the following:
• Using the AUC electronic information resources for unauthorized, illegal or criminal
purposes. For clarification, visiting pornographic websites or other urls that are
inconsistent with the educational objectives of AUC or which pose a risk to the school’s
systems are not an authorized use of the electronic resources.
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Obstructing other users work or access by consuming gratuitously large amounts of system
resource (e.g., network bandwidth or printers). This includes, but is not limited to, downloading
large files for non-academic purposes, peer-to-peer networking, game playing or other
monopolizing of the electronic information resources for entertainment or personal use.
Individuals using AUC electronic information resources or systems will be held responsible for
their own actions and will be subject to applicable laws and AUC policies.
Normal operation and maintenance of the systems requires backup and caching of data and
communications, the logging of activity and the monitoring of general usage patterns. In
particular, students should be aware that any AUC electronic information resources that they
are given access to, including computers located in the computer labs, are not intended as a
private resource. Therefore, any personal use of these resources should be undertaken with
that understanding.
In all matters relating to privacy and security of individual accounts and communications, along
with requests for release of information, AUC electronic information resource / computer system
users are required to abide by applicable laws and AUC policies, which allow for examination or
disclosure of those records in response to requests through a proper subpoena or court order,
police, and/or administrative agencies and in response to AUC investigations.
Violations of the policy stated here are treated like any other AUC policy violation and are
governed by the same procedures. Notification of possible violations may be made to the
campus Information Technology Services (“ITS”) Help Desk at telephone extension 259 or to
[email protected].
System administrators are authorized to immediately take actions such as locking accounts
when investigating or when the safety and wellbeing of students, faculty, staff or property is at
risk. The means of investigating may include, but not be limited to, monitoring traffic and files,
including the contents thereof.
Sanctions for violating this policy can include all regular sanctions (admonition, warning,
reprimand, suspension, dismissal, etc.). In addition, it can include loss of electronic information
resource / computer systems access.
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Open Access
AUC is committed to allowing access to all electronic information resources to all members of its
community, free of restrictions such as age or residency status.
Evolving Policy
AUC’s ITS policies are designed to reflect current conditions. As information technology
continues to develop and conditions change, we will review our policies accordingly. All students
will be held accountable for complying with policies notified to them from time to time.
Student groups or individual student Web pages on any social media platform, such as
YouTube, Facebook, Google+ and Twitter, forums or blogs are not under AUC’s purview.
Therefore, they may not be used to promote, voice an opinion of or recruit for AUC in any way.
Students must adhere to the Professional Code of Conduct when they engage in social media
and mention AUC. What applies as appropriate conduct on campus also applies to conduct on
social media platforms.
Student Responsibilities
It is important that all students understand their responsibilities when using social media.
Students can have no reasonable expectation of privacy in material that they choose to place
online or enter or send through resources provided by AUC. Students must recognize that they
are responsible for anything they write or present online, and that they may be subject to legal
or Administrative Review proceedings by AUC and/or others (including other students,
colleagues and third parties) based on what they write or present online. Responsible behavior
is expected of all AUC students when they participate in or partake of social media or blogging.
Students’ communications, regardless of format, must conform to the Professional Code of
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Conduct. It is not the goal of AUC actively monitor all student communications; however, should
the university become aware of inappropriate behavior that may violate the Professional Code
of Conduct, the behavior may be investigated and addressed per AUC’s ARGP.
Be Judicious. Always use best judgment and make sure efforts are transparent.
Think before posting. Students should keep in mind that what is written and posted in
electronic formats on the Internet, instant messaging, email or social networks is easily
accessible to all and will be in existence virtually forever.
Protect yourself. Personal information can be shared over the Internet with more people and at
a faster rate than ever before; accordingly, be careful about what is shared.
• Students are strictly prohibited from transmitting by way of any electronic media any
patient-related image information that may be reasonably anticipated to violate patient
rights to confidentiality or privacy, or otherwise degrade or embarrass the patient.
Limiting access to postings through privacy settings is not sufficient to ensure privacy.
• Students must not refer to patients in a disparaging manner, even if the patient is not
identified.
• Students must not take photos or videos of patients on personal devices, including cell
phones. Students should follow the clinical agency’s policy for taking photographs or
videos of patients for treatment or other legitimate purposes using devices provided by
the clinical agency.
• Students must maintain professional boundaries in the use of electronic media. As with
in-person relationships, the student has an obligation to establish, communicate and
enforce professional boundaries with patients in the online environment. Use caution
when having online social contact with patients or former patients. Online contact with
patients or former patients blurs the distinction between a professional and personal
relationship. The fact that a patient may initiate contact with the student does not permit
the student to engage in a personal relationship with the patient.
• Students must promptly report any identified breach of confidentiality or privacy.
• Students must not post content or otherwise speak on behalf of the clinical site unless
authorized to do so and must follow all applicable policies of the clinical site.
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Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary actions or terminations pursuant to AUC’s
ARGP. Students who cause damage to AUC property in violation of the smoking policy will be
charged for necessary repairs including refinishing, repainting and reupholstering.
Students should be aware that current criminal background checks are required on an ongoing
basis during the term of their enrollment. If a student’s criminal background changes after s/he
submits to the background check associated with admissions to AUC, but before the student’s
official graduation from AUC, the student is required to bring the change to AUC’s attention.
A student’s criminal background may impact the student’s standing in a number of ways. For
example, a student’s criminal conviction may result in dismissal. Pending charges may prevent
a student from completing the clinical portion of the curriculum. A student may be required to
take personal leaves or withdraw from enrollment until pending criminal charges are resolved. If
the school conducts its own disciplinary proceedings based on student misconduct underlying or
related to the student’s criminal background, the student may be suspended or dismissed
regardless of whether or not a criminal conviction is rendered.
The appropriate Dean renders non-academic dismissals. The procedure for appealing a non-
academic dismissal is dependent on a student’s academic standing at the time of dismissal, and
is detailed within the AUC ARGP.
Any student that is the subject of disciplinary proceedings while enrolled at AUC may be subject
to an additional background check and drug screening conducted by the school. Submitting a
false or misleading statement on any document, including background information, to AUC will
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constitute grounds for dismissal. AUC reserves the right to conduct random drug tests at any
time on any enrolled student.
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CLASS SIZE
Average lecture class sizes range from 85-240. Teaching is also delivered in laboratories or
simulation centers and small group sessions. Students may access class scheduling, lecture
materials and resources on Canvas, the learning management system.
ATTENDANCE
Medical Sciences Course Participation Policy (Semesters 1-5)
As an institution, AUC does not provide remote or distance learning. At the start of each
semester, all enrolled students must check in on campus in person before the AWOL (absent
without official leave) date provided.
During the semester, AUC reserves the right to schedule lectures, laboratory sessions,
conferences, and examinations on campus at any time and on any day of the week during the
entire semester including holidays and weekends. Students are expected to attend all
scheduled lectures, conferences, and laboratories.
At the end of each semester, students are expected to remain on campus until after the
completion of final examinations. Students are discouraged from making plans to leave the
Medical Sciences campus before the designated end of the semester. If an exam must be
postponed or rescheduled by AUC for any reason, a student’s prior travel plans will not be
considered a sufficient reason to miss the exam. Students are responsible for knowing their
academic status at the end of each semester.
The Assistant Dean for Student Affairs must approve any “Leave of Absence” from campus. Any
“Unexcused Leave of Absence” from campus may be considered as a professionalism issue
and result in a disciplinary action.
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Make-Up Examinations
Students who miss an examination (but not an optional B examination or a quiz) due to an
Excused Absence must take the next regularly scheduled make-up examination as determined
by their Course Director.
Multiple educational activities are included in every Medical Sciences course during which
participation is mandatory. These activities are defined in the Participation Requirements
Section of each course syllabus and may include, but are not limited to, small group
discussions, skill building workshops, simulations, labs, team-based learning activities, quizzes
and examinations that factor into final grades. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of the
participation expectations in each course.
If a student anticipates missing a mandatory participation activity and/or examination, they must
communicate and receive approval in writing from the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs a
minimum of two weeks in advance. Any student who has received an approved Religious
Accommodation Request from the Office of Student Affairs will automatically be granted
approval.
In cases involving acute illness or an emergency, students should notify the Assistant Dean for
Student Affairs as soon as possible. Lack of participation in mandatory activities and/or
examinations as a result of health or other emergencies must also be documented within 48
hours with valid proof of illness or emergency submitted by the student to the Assistant Dean for
Student Affairs.
If the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs deems the lack of participation to be unexcused, a
grade of zero for any activity missed shall be recorded by the Course Director. Failure to
communicate with the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, Course Directors, and/or a pattern of
lack of participation across courses will be referred to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs,
considered as a potential professionalism issue, and may result in a disciplinary action.
Make-Up Course Work: The consequences of missing a mandatory participation activity will be
determined by the Course Director. At the discretion of the Course Director, a student may be
required to complete a missed assignment. If a student does not participate in a session or
sessions that cannot be otherwise made up or completed, the student is advised that the lack of
participation may affect his or her performance evaluation in the course. It is the student’s
responsibility to work directly with the Course Director on this issue.
Examinations and Grades: Under no circumstances will a student be relieved of meeting all of
the academic requirements of the course. A student who misses a final exam with approval from
the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs shall receive an “I” (incomplete) grade in accordance with
the Academic Performance section.
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Students engaging in clinical rotations are expected to maintain 100 percent participation and
must abide by the holiday and/or time off policy set by the rotation site. Failure to participate in
a clinical rotation may result in a failing grade. If a student wishes to request personal time
off including time off for residency interviews, he or she must seek approval from the attending
physician, clerkship director, and the relevant AUC clinical dean. Unexcused absences can
negatively affect the student’s evaluation of performance during rotations resulting in either a
lowered evaluation grade or expulsion from the rotation site. An Absence Request Form may be
downloaded online from the AUC website.
Any missed time must be made up at the Clerkship Director’s discretion. Students are required
to arrange make-up time for any absences directly with their attending physician(s).
Scholarship
Acceptance of a student’s work for presentation at an academic conference does not result in
automatic approval of time off from a clinical rotation. As soon as they are aware that their work
has been accepted (which is typically months to weeks in advance of the academic event),
students should seek permission to be absent from their clinical responsibilities from their
Clerkship and/or Site Director by completion of the Absence Request Form. The student will
then submit this form to the Office of UME Student Services. Missed sessions must be made up
at the Clerkship Director’s discretion.
USMLE Step 2
Students may also seek permission for absence from clinical responsibilities to attend AUC’s
recommended USMLE Step 2 CS practice exam, the Clinical Skills Assessment (CSA), or
USMLE Step 2 CS. The CSA is a one-day course that may only be offered on weekdays in the
northeast region. Students who are registered for the course or the exam may submit an
Absence Request Form to their Clerkship Director for approval. Any missed time must be made
up at the Clerkship Director’s discretion.
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GS = Good Standing
AP = Academic Probation
NP = Non-Academic Probation
AW = Academic Warning
SP = Suspended
AD = Academic Dismissal
RA = Readmitted after Appeal
AR = Academic Warning/Readmitted after Appeal
ND = Non-Academic Dismissal
SF = SAP/FA Probation
SR = SAP/FA Probation/Readmit after appeal
SD = SAP/FA Dismissal
MT = Exceeds Max Time Frame
AA= Academic Probation/Readmit after appeal
WNS= Withdrawn No Show
Academic Dismissal (AD) = Student triggers academic dismissal criteria; student fails to meet
academic plan and/or terms of an appeal, student fails to remediate and/or appeal tentative
Academic dismissal standing.
*Student is placed on academic plan/given appeal terms in order to remain enrolled in AUC.
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Academic performance is reviewed throughout the duration of the portion of the program.
If, after reviewing a student’s academic progression, AUC determines that a student cannot
complete the relevant curriculum of the medical education program within the seven academic
years, then he or she will no longer be eligible for FA and will be dismissed from AUC without
right of appeal.
SAP indicates that a student has met academic requirements to an acceptable level within a
specified time period. A student’s SAP standing is important during academic evaluation and
determination of eligibility for financial aid. Students who do not meet SAP requirements are
subject to dismissal and/or loss of Title IV funding.
To evaluate students’ academic progress, the medical education program is divided into
increments of academic years. An academic year comprises two terms of 16 weeks. Therefore,
the AUC Medical Sciences curriculum encompasses one and one-half academic years in a
calendar year. At the end of each academic year completed during the medical science and
clinical science course curriculums, each student’s academic progress is evaluated. SAP
evaluation will also occur on a semester basis if a student has failed to meet SAP in the
previous academic year. This evaluation involves two metrics—one quantitative and one
qualitative.
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The quantitative measure evaluates a student’s pace of progression through the medical
education program within the maximum time frame. The pace of progression is calculated
by dividing the cumulative course credits or clerkships weeks that the student has successfully
completed by the cumulative course credits or clerkship weeks that the student has
attempted. The pace of progression calculation will include credits for all courses attempted,
except for those that have been dropped during the add/drop period. Courses with a grade “W”
in which a student was enrolled prior to the granting of a Short-Term Leave for a period of
greater than 15 days will count in the pace of progression metrics.
Transfer course credits accepted by AUC toward a student’s completion of the Medical
Sciences curriculum of the program will count as both credits attempted and credits completed
when computing the pace of progression. The number of course credits accepted will be divided
by 15 to determine the number of semesters of enrollment that the student will be deemed to
have completed with reference to the maximum time frame. (For clarification: 1-15 credit hours
will count as 1 semester of enrollment; 16-30 credit hours will count as 2 semesters of
enrollment; 31-45 credit hours will count as 3 semesters of enrollment, etc.).
The qualitative measure evaluates the student’s GPA (medical) or the cumulative average
of clerkship grades (clinical). Course credits are not guaranteed to transfer to other schools.
Acceptance of credits is subject to the receiving institution’s requirements.
DEMONSTRATION OF SAP
All students must comply with the following three components of SAP:
• Students must maintain a 70.0% cumulative grade point average throughout the
duration of the Medical Sciences curriculum of the program.
• Students must maintain a cumulative “Passing” clerkship grade throughout the duration
of the Clinical Sciences curriculum of the program.
Pace of Progression
• Students must successfully complete at least 67% of all attempted credits accumulated
throughout the medical sciences and clinical sciences curriculum.
• Successful attempt in Medical Sciences curriculum is considered passing with a grade
of 70.00% or higher.
• Successful attempt in Clinical Sciences curriculum is considered passing with a “Pass”
or higher.
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The maximum time frame for completion of the entire medical education program is comprised
of 15 semesters of enrollment.
Good Standing
• Student maintains good standing by displaying SAP, complying with all other academic
rules and regulations, and by remaining current with financial obligations.
• Students not meeting SAP standards are subject to dismissal. A student may appeal this
decision and be eligible for a reinstatement contingent to appeal approval.1
SAP/FA Dismissal
• Student fails to meet academic plan, terms of an appeal, remediate and/or appeal SAP
dismissal standing, cannot meet SAP requirements due USMLE testing prohibition, or
fails to meet SAP a second time after being placed back into good standing.
1Studentis placed on an academic plan based on an approved appeal in order to remain enrolled in
AUC. SAP calculations occur every academic year or according to the terms of the academic plan until
successfully meeting the terms of the academic plan or SAP is regained. SAP evaluation will also occur
on a semester basis if a student has failed to meet SAP in the previous academic year.
SAP PROGRESSION
Failure to meet SAP standards may result in loss of financial aid (FA) if applicable. If the result
of the SAP evaluation indicates that a student has not met either one of the qualitative or
quantitative measures or is not meeting the terms of the academic plan the student will be
notified in writing that s/he is no longer eligible for federal FA and is subject to dismissal from
AUC. A student receiving such notification may grieve the determination and request
reinstatement on SAP/FA probation based on the guidelines of the academic plan completed.
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ACADEMIC WARNING
Students will trigger an academic warning (AW) status based on the criteria below. Students
triggering an AW status will have their status reported to the appropriate parties for notification
and/or remediation purposes as needed. Upon triggering an AW, the student’s performance will
be monitored throughout the semester and reviewed in full at the end of the semester and
remedial interventions may be mandated. AW status is not reported on student’s transcript.
Medical Sciences
• Students who have failed 10 or more credit hours in the Medical Sciences curriculum.
• Failure of USMLE Step 1 exam after first attempt.
Clinical Sciences
ACADEMIC DISMISSAL
Students will trigger an academic dismissal status based on the criteria below. Students
triggering an academic dismissal status will have their status reported on their transcript and to
all appropriate parties for notification and/or appeal purposes as needed. Upon triggering
academic dismissal, students may appeal their dismissal if applicable. Upon a successful
appeal the student’s performance will be monitored throughout the semester and reviewed in
full at the end of the semester.
Medical Sciences
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• Failure to report the USMLE Step 1 score by the first day of the subsequent semester
without an approved extension.
• Failure to report the USMLE Step 1 score by the end of a granted extension period.
• Failure of USMLE Step 1 by the Step 1 deadline in the 2nd-term academic leave, if they
missed Step 1 in the 1st-term academic leave.
• Students with a granted LOA who do not sit for USMLE Step 1 exam during the leave
period.
• A student who has been dismissed and reinstated by the Appeal Committee during the
Medical Sciences curriculum will be dismissed without the right to appeal should they fail
any other course or the USMLE Step 1 examination on their first attempt. No student can
appeal to the Appeal Committee more than once.
• If a student fails both the Comprehensive Exam I (Comp 1) and the Comprehensive
Exam II (Comp 2) during the first time he/she takes the ICM 6 course, he/she will receive
an (I) grade for the course, be placed on an LOA during the next semester, be required
to take a review course, and then sit for the Comprehensive Exam a third time (Comp 3).
If a student passes Comp 3, their ICM 6 grade will be updated to a (P). If he/she fails
Comp 3, their ICM 6 grade will be changed to an (F) and the student will be dismissed
from AUC with the right to appeal. If the student successfully appeals his/her dismissal,
he/she must return to the Medical Sciences campus to register for and repeat ICM 6.
Failure to pass the Comprehensive Exam within two attempts to be completed during
this appeal term when they are taking ICM 6 for the second time will result in the
permanent dismissal of the student without the right to appeal.
Clinical Sciences
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exam date will be dismissed. These students must re-apply to AUC and be reinstated
by AUC’s Admissions Committee before registering and sitting for the exam(s).
• Any student who does not graduate within 7 calendar years of matriculating;
APPEAL PROCESS
Students who do not meet SAP or trigger an AP or AD will be notified of their SAP and/or
academic standing and what steps are needed in order to remediate and/or appeal (if
applicable). Student notification will occur via official AUC email account and will have
applicable documentation attached in order to process their remediation and/or appeal. The
information below provides students with a synopsis of the remediation and appeal process.
• Students making an appeal must submit a request to the Associate Dean for Academic
Affairs on why s/he failed to make SAP and what has changed that will allow him or her
to demonstrate SAP at the next evaluation.
• If the student appeals an adverse SAP determination or is reinstated, the university
ensures that the student should be able to make satisfactory academic progress during
the subsequent term(s) of enrollment and meet the university’s SAP standards at the
end of the specified term. Then the university and the student jointly develop an
academic plan for the student to follow and meet the university’s SAP standards by a
specific point in time. Eligibility to appeal the dismissal depends on the student’s
academic status and ability to complete the curriculum within the maximum time frame
(see Maximum Time Frame section).
• A student whose appeal is approved and is reinstated on SAP/FA probation may receive
federal FA for an additional term of enrollment or as stated on the academic plan. While
a student is on SAP/FA probation, AUC will require the student to fulfill specific terms
and conditions in accordance with the academic plan.
• At the end of the one term of enrollment while on AP or FA probation, in order to remain
enrolled at AUC and qualify for future federal FA funds, the student must meet AUC’s
SAP standards OR must meet the requirements of the academic plan developed by
AUC.
• A student on SAP/FA probation may still be dismissed if s/he fulfills the criteria for
academic dismissal (see Academic Dismissal section).
• If, after reviewing a student’s Pace of Progression, AUC determines that a student
cannot complete the relevant curriculum of the medical education program within the
Maximum Time Frame, then he or she will no longer be eligible for FA and will be
dismissed from AUC without right of appeal.
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Medical Sciences
Students that fail to meet SAP for the first time at the end of a given academic year will be
asked to contact the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. Students that trigger an academic
dismissal and wish to appeal (if eligible) or fail to meet the terms of an academic plan must
appeal to the Appeal Committee (details are provided by the office of the Associate Academic
Dean). The Appeal Committee meets at the beginning of each semester.
If a student fails to meet SAP for the first time at the end of a given academic year:
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• Student that fails to appeal within the given timeframe will be permanently dismissed
from AUC.
Synchronization Plan:
Students who fail or drop one or more courses will need longer than the usual five semesters to
complete AUC’s medical sciences program and are at risk of not reaching their academic
potential. A student is considered “off track” if they are taking courses in more than one semester
of the program. A student is considered “on track” if they are taking courses in only one semester,
either because they have gone through the usual progression of courses or they have slowed
down and then gotten back “on track.”
A Student Synchronization Plan has been developed for students matriculating in the January
2020 semester or later to decelerate their academic program while providing them with the
academic support via a Learning Course to improve their study strategies.
The pathway through the plan depends on the number of semesters in which a student fails
courses.
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Clinical Sciences
Students that fail to meet SAP for the first time at the end of a given academic year must
remediate directly with the Associate Dean for Student Affairs. Students who trigger an
academic dismissal and wish to appeal their dismissal (if eligible) or fail to meet the terms of an
academic plan may appeal in writing to the Clinical Sciences Leadership Committee. Students
seeking additional information are encouraged to contact the Office of the Registrar.
Student fails to meet SAP for the first time at the end of a given academic year:
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• Student fails to meet SAP but meets the requirements of the academic plan:
o Status remains SAP/FA Probation; and
o Academic plan is reviewed for continuation of FA eligibility.
• Student fails to meet the academic plan:
o End of semester status updated to SAP/FA Dismissal;
o Student is dismissed from AUC pending appeal to the Council of Clinical Deans;
and
o Student can choose whether to appeal;
o If appeal is approved:
▪ End of semester status is updated to SAP/FA Probation/Readmit after
appeal;
▪ Student must meet with the Associate Dean for Student Affairs to
collaboratively determine the Academic Plan/Appeal Terms; and
▪ Student will forfeit FA eligibility until SAP status is regained.
o If appeal is denied:
▪ End of semester status is permanently placed in SAP/FA dismissal.
o A student who fails to appeal within the given timeframe will be permanently
dismissed from AUC:
▪ Student forfeits FA eligibility.
H (Honors)
In a Medical Sciences course, an Honors grade is defined as a score greater than or equal to
89.50% (final grade 90% [H]).
For core clerkships, clinical students beginning their first rotation on January 9, 2017 or later
who 1) receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance which “Exceeds
Expectations,” 2) meet or exceed all professionalism expectations, and 3) pass the relevant
NBME subject examination on the first attempt will be awarded a final grade of Honors in that
core clerkship.
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For core clerkships, clinical students beginning their first rotation prior to January 9, 2017 who 1)
receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Superior” or “Above Average”
and 2) pass the relevant NBME subject examination on the first attempt will be awarded a final
grade of Honors in that core clerkship.
For elective rotations, clinical students beginning their first rotation on January 9, 2017 or later
who 1) receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Exceeds Expectations”
and 2) meet or exceed all professionalism expectations will be awarded a final grade of Honors
in that elective rotation.
For elective rotations, clinical students beginning their first rotation prior to January 9, 2017 who
receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Superior” or “Above Average”
will be awarded a final grade of Honors in that elective rotation.
P (Pass)
For core clerkships, clinical students beginning their first rotation on January 9, 2017 or later
who 1) receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance which “Meets Expectations”
and 2) pass the relevant NBME examination will receive a final grade of Pass in that core
clerkship.
For core clerkships, clinical students beginning their first rotation on January 9, 2017 or later
who receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Exceeds Expectations” but
they do not initially meet all professionalism expectations and/or they fail the relevant NBME
exam on the first attempt and then pass it on a subsequent attempt will receive a final grade of
Pass in that core clerkship.
For core clerkships, clinical students beginning their first rotation prior to January 9, 2017 who
receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Average” or “Below Average” or
if they receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Superior” or “Above
Average” but fail the relevant NBME exam and then pass it on a subsequent attempt will receive
a final grade of Pass in that core clerkship.
All students must pass the relevant NBME examination to receive a passing grade in core
clerkships.
For elective rotations, students beginning their first rotation on January 9, 2017 or later who
receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Meets Expectations” will receive
a final grade of Pass in that elective rotation. For students beginning their first rotation prior to
January 9, 2017 who receive an overall assessment of their clinical performance as “Average”
or “Below Average” will receive a final grade of Pass in that elective rotation.
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F (Fail)
A failing grade is defined as a score less than or equal to 69.49% in a Medical Sciences course,
or a failing performance in a clinical rotation. A student who is AWOL at the mid-term will
receive an “F” grade in all courses for which s/he was enrolled at the time. Receipt of an “F”
grade will require the student to repeat the course in the next term of enrollment (if s/he is not
dismissed on academic grounds). This grade will remain on the student’s official transcript.
Students will not be allowed extra-credit work, make-up papers or credit for non-academic roles
in order to raise a failing grade to a passing grade.
I (Incomplete)
Medical Sciences
A course grade of Incomplete can only be assigned with an approved Excused Absence and as
a result, the student has missed one or more exams in the course. However, a course grade of
“F” will be assigned if a student needs a grade of more than 100 percent on any missed exam to
pass the course. Make-up examinations for students will be decided between the student and
the Course Director. To remove a grade of “I,” the student must complete the course
requirements before the beginning of the following term, unless otherwise arranged by the
Course Director. Failure to complete the requirements within the time limitations will result in a
change of grade from “I” to “F,” and the student must repeat the course.
An Incomplete for a course can also be assigned if a student has not satisfied the requirements
for certification for the USMLE Step 1 exam as set out in the ICM 6 course syllabus. Receipt of
an “I” grade in this instance will require the student to take a long-term Leave of Absence and
s/he must convert the “I” grade by fulfilling the certification requirement by the end of the next
term. Requests for further extension must be approved by the Assistant Dean for Student
Affairs. Failure to do so will result in an “F” grade being recorded for the ICM 6 course and the
student will be dismissed from AUC on academic grounds. Students have the right to appeal as
long as they are eligible to repeat ICM 6 in the subsequent semester. Students receiving such
an “I” grade for the ICM 6 course should contact the Financial Aid Department to discuss the
effect of this on their loan status.
• A student fails one of three major semester courses with a final course grade from the
Office of the Registrar of 65% - 69%.
• For the two other courses that student is enrolled in for that term, excluding all ICM
courses, Biostatistics/Epidemiology, Medical Ethics, Embryology and Behavioral
Sciences, the student achieves a final course grade from the Office of the Registrar of
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Only students who meet these exact criteria are eligible for selection to sit for the RemCOMP.
Eligible students may be formally invited by the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs to consider
that option. The RemCOMP is offered as an additional benefit to students, and neither eligibility
nor participation is guaranteed, regardless of the criteria set forth above.
Pending the outcome of the RemCOMP, students will receive a final grade of “I” by the Office of
the Registrar. If he or she passes a RemCOMP with a score of 70.0% or higher (no rounding),
the student will then advance to the next semester level. The course grade will be changed to a
‘Pass’ and a 70% score grade, regardless of the Remediation Comprehensive Exam score. If
the student does not pass the RemCOMP, the student will retain his/her original failing course
grade.
Students should note that the RemCOMP may be scheduled in the period between semesters.
Students will be notified of the exact date at the beginning of each semester. Students must
take this date into consideration when making travel arrangements as AUC cannot offer
RemCOMP on a different date for students who are off-campus on the scheduled date.
RemCOMP exams are optional. Students who are eligible for the RemCOMP are not required to
take it. Students can forfeit the opportunity to take a RemCOMP exam if they consider that
repeating a failed course is in their best interest and necessary for improved learning and
academic achievement.
Clinical Sciences
The requirements to receive a final grade in any rotation, core clerkship or elective, are as
follows: passage of the NBME subject exam (for core clerkships only), timely electronic
submission of case log(s), and the Clinical Course Evaluation. Faculty must complete and
submit a Clinical Student Assessment Form. All four requirements must be satisfied in order for
a final grade to be posted. If the student has not fulfilled the requirements to receive a final
grade, an incomplete (“I”) for a clerkship/rotation will be assigned.
Students with Incomplete clerkship/rotations grades (“I”) should note when SAP is calculated
that this will impact their pace of progression through the Doctor of Medicine program. Students
should refer to the academic progression section for the policies regarding SAP and the impact
on Title IV funding. Should a student’s pace of progression be impacted by an “I” grade, s/he will
be alerted by the Financial Aid Department on what steps are needed in order to remediate.
An “I” grade will be converted to an “F” grade if any of the events below occur:
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• Failure to submit a Clinical Clerkship Evaluation Form by the end of the semester in
which the clerkship/rotation was completed.
W (Withdrawn)
Medical Sciences
Any student who obtains an approved Leave from AUC prior to the end of the 12th week of
classes shall receive a grade of “W” in all enrolled courses for the term, unless they have
successfully completed the course prior to the approved leave. If they have successfully
completed the course and taken the final examination, a final grade will be recorded. If the
student did not successfully complete a course, the student must retake and complete those
courses during the next term of enrollment. For the avoidance of doubt, no student may receive
a “W” grade for any one course more than once, (unless the student was previously withdrawn
for non-payment of tuition and fees). Failure to successfully pass the course by the end of the
next term of enrollment will result in an “F.”
GRADE CHANGES
Medical Sciences
If course directors find a calculation or record keeping error in the grade initially submitted, they
will submit a Change of Grade Form to the Office of the Registrar. Students cannot protest their
grade. If students have academic concerns related to curriculum or assessment, they should
refer to the Flow Chart for Student Academic Concerns.
Clinical Sciences
Clinical Sciences grades are typically final unless there is an error in how the grade was
calculated. A student who wishes to contest a final core clerkship or elective rotation grade,
including comments, should first work directly with the relevant course director to discuss his or
her concerns. If the course director is unwilling to accept the student’s appeal, the student has
the option of escalating his or her concern about the grade to the relevant US or UK Associate
Academic Dean depending on the location. The Associate Academic Dean may then discuss
the situation with the course director and/or site director. If no satisfactory resolution is
achieved, the Associate Academic Dean can bring the matter to the Clinical Sciences
Leadership Committee for additional input. The determination of the Clinical Sciences
Leadership Committee is not subject to appeal.
ACADEMIC COMMITTEES
The Appeal Committee is comprised of faculty members with voting right. The Assistant Dean
for Student Affairs and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs serve in an advisory capacity. This
committee is charged with hearing and delivering dispositions on appeals from students that
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have received Academic Dismissals, failed to meet the terms of an academic plan.
The Clinical Science Leadership Committee (CSL) is comprised of six people: The Senior
Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs; the Associate Dean for Student Affairs, who
also serves as University Conduct Officer; the Associate Clinical Dean for the US; the Associate
Clinical Dean for the UK; the Assistant Clinical Dean for the UK; and the Assistant Dean for
Clinical and Student Affairs. During the clinical science training, the overall progress of the
student is heavily dependent on his or her capacity to function in an interactive clinical setting
with patients, faculty and administration in addition to maintaining adequate participation and
academic progression. For this reason, the CSL was established to proactively consider and
monitor the academic performance and progress of all clinical students. Due to the widely
varying schedules of clinical students, the CSL meets twice a month to consider the progression
of students who are falling below normal criteria with respect to clinical and academic
performance as well as professionalism.
Ad hoc meetings of the CSL are initiated by the Associate Dean for Student Affairs who
monitors performance and receives reports of poor performance or inappropriate behavior. The
Clinical Deans will relay reports that they receive of poor performance or inappropriate behavior
to the Associate Dean for Student Affairs who will then schedule meetings as required.
For current member names of the committees and/or deans listed above, please email the
Office of the Registrar at [email protected].
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The length of an ALOA may be for less than an entire semester of enrollment (Short-Term
ALOA) or for an entire semester (Long-Term ALOA). ALOA request forms are accessible online
at https://www.aucmed.edu/academics/student-forms. Students are permitted a maximum leave
of 15 total days (including weekends) per semester. More than 15 days away from campus
impacts the student’s enrollment status and require a long-term LOA for the remainder of the
semester. The Assistant Dean of Student Affairs reviews all medical sciences LOA requests
with input from a semester lead and course director(s) when the request is for anything other
than a medical, legal, or hurricane-related reason. Students should discuss any LOA request
with their semester lead to understand the academic impact of the leave and to negotiate all
make-up assignments for missed work. An approved LOA does not guarantee a make-up
assignment as it is the sole discretion of the faculty to grant make-up assignment(s). Students
are responsible for all assignments while on an approved LOA or otherwise. Short-Term LOA
requests for planned events must be submitted at least 3 weeks prior to the date of the leave.
AUC is not responsible for pre-purchased airfare if a LOA is not approved. Students choosing to
be away from campus without submitting a LOA request are considered in violation of AUC’s
Professional Conduct Policy.
AUC administration will determine the proper characterization and treatment of an Academic
Leave request depending on the basis for the leave, the student’s status as either a Medical
Sciences student or Clinical Sciences student, and the timing and length of the request. There
may be significant FA and grading consequences that flow from taking an ALOA, which the
student should seriously contemplate before taking an ALOA. During leave, the student must
provide a means of contact at which s/he can be reached within 24 hours and through
which additional contact information can be verified.
Any student contemplating an ALOA should consult with a Financial Aid (FA) officer to
determine whether his or her student loan status will be affected. Students should be aware
that:
• Taking a Short-Term ALOA for a period of greater than fifteen days may adversely
impact the student’s rate of academic progress (SAP), which may in turn result in loss of
FA eligibility or SAP/FA dismissal;
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• Taking consecutive ALOAs of more than one term in duration may result in the student’s
FA obligations going into repayment status; and
• Taking a Long-Term ALOA(s) may adversely impact the student’s ability to complete the
medical education program within seven academic years; failure to complete the medical
education program within seven academic years is grounds for academic dismissal.
• ALOAs are used for internal tracking purposes only and do not comply with the
Department of Education determination of a Leave. For Title IV purposes, students are
reported as having withdrawn from medical school and may be subject to a return of
Title IV funding.
A LOA may be granted for no more than one semester time period at a time. A request for a
subsequent period of leave or extension must be made by the student and submitted to the
appropriate office at least one month prior to expiration of the current period of ALOA.
A student may not be granted more than three ALOAs for personal or medical reasons during
the student’s enrollment at AUC. This limit is intended to be a cumulative total over the entire
medical education program. Notwithstanding the foregoing, consecutive Long-Term ALOAs
granted for personal or medical reasons shall not extend beyond two consecutive semesters. If
a student does not return to AUC after the end of an approved ALOA, s/he will be withdrawn
from the student roster; with his or her status recorded on the student’s transcript will be
designated AWOL. Additionally, any student who has completed all required clinical training or
will complete less than 8 weeks of rotations in their final semester and is pending a passing
USMLE score will require a Leave of Absence. If a student fails to submit the required ALOA to
the Office of the Registrar by the provided deadline they will be withdrawn from any registered
rotations and designated AWOL.
A student whom AUC has deemed AWOL must reapply to AUC for readmission. Students
should not assume that they will be readmitted once withdrawn from enrollment as
AWOL. Students should be aware that taking an ALOA does not exempt them from academic
requirements of AUC once returning from leave.
Students who fail to register in person by the announced AWOL date and those who are absent
without an approved ALOA at any time during a term of enrollment will be considered AWOL
and will be immediately and automatically withdrawn from the register of enrolled students. Any
student who is AWOL during a term may have his or her course grades for that term recorded
as an “F”.
This may be defined as a leave related to an illness or medical condition sufficiently serious as
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to preclude the student from undertaking normal daily activities (special conditions apply to
medical science students).
In case of either a voluntary or involuntary medical ALOA, conditions that may be imposed
before return is permitted include, but are not limited to, the student:
• Granting permission, via a signed consent, “to allow AUC to send the student’s treating
physician a description of the circumstances of the medical problem that arose on Sint
Maarten or at a clinical site and a description of the medical infrastructure available at
the site to which the student will be returning”;
• Submitting to AUC a letter from the student’s treating clinician that specifically addresses
(i) the student’s fitness to return to the stressful environment of a full-time medical
student; (ii) the need for continuing care, if any, and whether such care can be provided
on Sint Maarten or the applicable clinical site; and (iii) a preventive plan to avoid the
student’s relapse if applicable
• Under circumstances involving the health and safety of either the student or others
within AUC community and/or the student’s inability to meet AUC’s Technical Standards,
AUC may place a student on an involuntary medical ALOA and may impose specific
conditions on the student’s return.
Reasons for this type of leave may include a tragedy in the student’s immediate family or an
unexpected financial difficulty that renders it unduly difficult for the student to continue his or her
medical studies.
Clinical students who intend to apply for an ALOA on medical or personal grounds that will
conflict with a scheduled rotation must first obtain the written permission of the relevant
Clerkship Director(s) and submit such written approval, if granted, to AUC along with their
completed Leave Request Form. Taking leave during clerkships is discouraged and such leave
will not be granted unless it is absolutely necessary for the health and well-being of the student.
The maximum cumulative time period for Medical or Personal Leave for clinical students is two
semesters. An exception to this pathway would be Medical Leave initiated on an emergency
basis in which case these procedures would be followed after the Emergency Leave was
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Students contemplating a Leave on personal or medical grounds should note the Criteria for
Dismissal located in the Academic Performance section.
Students on leave from clinical rotations may be allowed to take NBME or USMLE examinations
with the written permission of the Associate Dean for Student Affairs.
If a student is called for military duty, he or she will be allowed to withdraw without academic or
financial penalty. Once active duty is completed, the student will be restored to the educational
status he or she had attained prior to being called to active duty without loss of academic credits
earned, scholarships or grants awarded, or tuition and other fees paid prior to the initiation of
active duty.
• To study for and take USMLE Step 1 and/or Step 2 CK and/or CS examinations
• To study for and take any NBME core exam, or to cover a gap in scheduled clinical
rotations
• To partake in a research project or other academic endeavor of high esteem, such as
presentation of research findings at a regional, national or international meeting.
In cases of return from non-academic leaves for reasons of conduct or from non-academic
leaves for conduct and medical reasons, the appropriate Dean will determine if the student has
met the requirements set forth in the administrative review process. The appropriate Dean will
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then notify the Office of UME Student Services so a new schedule may be created for the
student.
All student travel should be documented via electronic notification to the appropriate Student
Affairs Dean. For unplanned travel, such as due to a medical or family emergency, the
appropriate Student Dean should be notified as soon as possible.
For a leave period greater than fifteen days, students are required to complete a Short-Term
LOA form. Short-Term LOA for a period of greater than fifteen days may impact Financial Aid
status/eligibility, satisfactory academic progress, and academic progression. If a student is on
probation and/or an academic plan, taking a short-term leave for the duration of the semester
may result in SAP/FA Dismissal, Academic Probation Academic Dismissal.
Long-Term ALOAs
Long-term LOAs are comprised of taking leave for an entire semester. A long-term LOAs must
be approved by the appropriate AUC administrator(s) prior to registration (Medical Sciences) or
before the commencement of the semester being requested (Clinical Sciences). All students
approved for a long-term LOA should note that they will be reported to the National Student
Loan Data System (NSLDS) as Withdrawn “W” until such time that they return to part-time or
full-time status.
Any student who has completed all clinical rotations and is taking an ALOA to sit for the USMLE
Step 2 CK must receive approval from the Office of UME Student Services. Upon approval the
ALOA will be processed to cover the first 12 weeks of the semester that they are sitting for the
exam. At the end of the 12 weeks, all students must submit confirmation of sitting for the
USMLE 2 CK exam to the Office of UME Student Services at
[email protected]. Once the confirmation has been received and reviewed, the
Office of UME Student Services will approve/deny an ALOA extension for the remaining 4
weeks of the semester. If no confirmation is received, the student will be classified as AWOL. All
students approved for a long-term LOA should note that they will be reported to the National
Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) as Withdrawn “W” until such time that they return to part-
time or full-time status.
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Medical Sciences
A medical sciences student who is granted a Long-Term ALOA prior to registration for a
semester will be considered to be on an approved Long-Term ALOA for purposes of measuring
SAP. He or she will not be liable for tuition and fees for that term and will not be eligible to
receive Financial Aid.
When a student takes an approved Long-Term ALOA, the leave term will not count toward the
maximum time frame for completion of the academic program. The semester in which a student
is granted a Short-Term ALOA for a period of greater than fifteen days will count toward the
maximum timeframe for completion of the academic program for the purposes of SAP.
The Student Finance section set out above will apply regarding refunds of tuition and fees to
students that are granted a Short-Term ALOA for a period of greater than fifteen days.
Additionally, the student’s course grades for the semester will be recorded as an “I,” or a “W.”
“W” grades will affect a student’s SAP as described in the Academic Performance section,
which could result in SAP/FA Dismissal. An “I” must be converted to an “H”, “P” or “F” grade
during the next term of enrollment as set out in the Academic Performance section. The
maximum consecutive time period for medical science students taking Academic Leave is two
semesters.
Medical Sciences students are required to submit an ALOA request on the correct form to the
office of the Dean of the Medical Science. All requests for Leave must be in writing and contain
the student’s printed name, student number, reason for the request, dates of the proposed leave
period and student’s signature.
A medical science student must meet the following Special Conditions before an Academic
Leave request will be granted on medical grounds:
• A request for a medical leave must be delivered to the Associate Dean for Student
Affairs prior to any missed exams, unless the medical illness or condition was of a truly
exigent nature and caused the student to miss an exam;
• The request and supporting documentation will be reviewed by the Associate Dean for
Student Affairs, and if deemed necessary, a physician of AUC’s choice;
• The request must be accompanied by the student’s signed consent for release of
medical records which the student contends establish the existence of the qualifying
medical condition; and
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Students will not be allowed to take any exam or attend classes during an approved academic
leave of absence for medical reasons.
Clinical Sciences
Clinical students receive federal financial aid based on confirmation of scheduled rotations. If
there is a break in the student’s scheduled rotations, the clinical student must complete an
Academic Leave Request Form in advance, so that his or her current enrollment status may be
tracked and reported to federal financial aid authorities. Therefore, it is essential for all clinical
students to request and obtain approval for an Academic Leave prior to any break in their
rotation schedule. Any Academic Leaves undertaken during clinical years should preferably be
Short-Term. Students will be granted a maximum of two Long-Term ALOAs to take and pass all
of their NBME Subject Examinations as required unless special dispensation has been granted
by the Council of Clinical Deans.
Every medical sciences student needs to take a Long-Term Academic Leave of Absence to
study and sit for the USMLE Step 1 Examination. To be approved for this LOA, students who
have completed the Medical Sciences curriculum of the educational program must submit a
completed Academic Leave Request Form and the required supporting documentation (see
below) to the Office of the Registrar via email [email protected].
Requests for a 2nd Step 1 LOA will only be considered in cases of documented serious medical
and/or family emergency. These situations are considered on a case-by-case basis and
approval is not guaranteed. Step 1 LOA students experiencing such an emergency should
contact the Associate Dean for Student Affairs as soon as possible to discuss their situation. If
approved, students must sit for USMLE Step 1 on their 3rd term Academic Leave. Failure to
report the USMLE Step 1 score by the first day of the subsequent semester after the approved
Academic Leave will result in dismissal with the right to appeal.
Those students who do not pass the USMLE Step 1 on their first attempt will receive a letter of
warning and will be referred to the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs. Those students and the
Dean will work jointly to develop an academic plan for the USMLE Step 1 examination for a
second time, and the student must take a second academic leave for an additional semester. If
a student fails the USMLE Step 1 for a second time, they will be academically dismissed with
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the right to appeal to the Appeal Committee. Should they be reinstated, a third academic leave
may be required. Under no circumstances can a student take more than three academic leaves.
A student who intends to request a Long-Term Academic Leave for a second term to study or to
sit for the USMLE Step 1 must also submit the following documentation with the Academic
Leave Request Form:
• A copy of the USMLE receipt as proof of attendance and completion of each USMLE
Step 1 exam taken during the prior Academic Leave period;
• A copy of the USMLE result sheet, front and back, for each USMLE Step 1 exam taken
during the prior Academic Leave period; and
• A detailed action plan with timeline setting out the student’s strategy for passing USMLE
Step 1.
Students who have been approved for a USMLE Step 1 ALOA extension for medical reasons as
selected on the leave form, are still eligible to sit for the USMLE Step 1 examination. Please
note this is only for students with an approved Step 1 extension.
A student who intends to request a Long-Term Academic Leave for the third term to study or sit
for the USMLE Step 1 must also submit the following documentation with the Academic Leave
Request Form:
• A copy of the USMLE receipt as proof of attendance and completion of each USMLE
Step 1 exam taken during all prior Academic Leave periods;
• A copy of the USMLE result sheet, front and back, for each USMLE Step 1 exam taken
during all prior Academic Leave periods; and
• Any other records confirming compliance with the prior Academic Leave action plan.
The student’s agreement to comply with an approved action plan will become a condition of the
Academic Leave, if approved. Failure to comply with any condition may result in denial of a
further leave request and, if the student has not taken the USMLE Step 1 exam as agreed or
otherwise not complied; the student will be subject to dismissal. The procedure for appealing
such a dismissal is set out in the Academic Performance section.
Academic, Medical and Personal leaves all count towards Long-Term Academic
Leaves. Students contemplating an Academic Leave on personal or medical grounds
should note the Criteria for Dismissal located in the Academic Performance section.
Students who are requesting to take a leave to study and sit for a USMLE Step 2 examination
must submit a completed Academic Leave Request Form and required supporting
documentation (see below) to the Office of UME Student Services. Students should anticipate
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that two weeks may be necessary to process an Academic Leave Request and should therefore
allow sufficient time for approval to be granted to avoid becoming AWOL. The approval or denial
of the student’s Academic Leave Request will be confirmed by email from the Office of UME
Student Services.
A student who intends to submit a first-time request for a Long-Term Academic Leave to study
or sit for a USMLE Step 2 examination must also submit the following documentation with the
Academic Leave Request Form:
• An email recording his or her agreement to take USMLE Step 2 at least one month
before his/her leave expires; and
• A copy of his/her Prometric final test date confirmation for taking USMLE Step 2 within
the proposed leave period.
Agreement to take a USMLE Step 2 examination on or before the date specified will become a
condition of the student’s Long-Term Academic Leave, if approved. Failure to comply with this
condition will result in denial of any further leave request and the student will be subject to
academic dismissal. The procedure for appeal of such a dismissal is set out in the Academic
Performance section. It is required that if the student receives a failing USMLE Step 2 score,
s/he contact the Assistant Dean for Academic and Student Affairs to discuss a study plan and
the timing for retaking the examination.
A student who intends to request a Long-Term Academic Leave for a second term to sit for a
USMLE Step 2 examination must also submit the following documentation with the Academic
Leave Request Form at least one month prior to expiration of the current Academic Leave
period:
• A copy of the USMLE receipt as proof of attendance and completion of each USMLE
Step 2 exam taken during the prior Academic Leave period;
• A copy of the USMLE result sheet, front and back, for each USMLE Step 2 exam taken
during the prior Academic Leave period;
• A copy of the Prometric final test date confirmation for taking USMLE Step 2 before the
end of the leave period;
• A detailed action plan developed in coordination with the Assistant Dean for Academic
and Student Affairs with timeline setting out the student’s strategy for passing USMLE
Step 2 examinations; and
• An official ECFMG transcript must be provided to the Office of UME Student Services
prior to expiration of the second leave period, if approved.
Compliance with the approved action plan will be a condition of the Academic Leave, if granted.
Failure to comply with any condition may result in denial of a further leave request. If the student
has not taken the USMLE Step 2 exam or otherwise does not comply as agreed, the student will
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be subject to dismissal with the right to appeal. The procedure for appeal of such a dismissal is
set out in the Academic Performance section. It is highly recommended that if the student
receives a failing USMLE Step 2 score for the second time, he/she immediately enroll in a
formal USMLE Step 2 preparation program.
A student who intends to request a Long-Term Academic Leave for the third term to study or sit
for a USMLE Step 2 examination must also submit the following documentation with the
Academic Leave Request Form at least one month prior to expiration of the current leave
period:
• A copy of the USMLE receipt as proof of attendance and completion of each USMLE
Step 2 exam taken during all prior Academic Leave periods;
• A copy of the USMLE result sheet, front and back, for each USMLE Step 2 exam taken
during all prior Academic Leave periods;
• A copy of the receipt for payment for a USMLE Step 2 prep program confirming current
or scheduled enrollment during the proposed leave period;
• A copy of the Prometric final test date confirmation for USMLE Step 2 within the
proposed leave period;
• Any other records confirming compliance with the prior Academic Leave action plan;
A further detailed action plan with timeline setting out the student’s strategy for passing the
USMLE Step 2 during the third requested leave period; and
An official ECFMG transcript must be provided to the Office of UME Student Services prior to
expiration of the third leave period, if approved.
The student’s agreement to comply with an approved action plan will become a condition of the
Academic Leave, if approved. Failure to comply with any condition may result in denial of a
further leave request and, if the student has not taken the USMLE Step 2 exam as agreed or
otherwise not complied; the student will be subject to dismissal. The procedure for appealing
such a dismissal is set out in the Academic Performance section.
If a student needs more than one Long-Term Academic Leave of Absence, he or she must
obtain approval from the Office of the Registrar. The maximum number of Long-Term ALOAs is
limited to three for taking the USMLE Step 2 Exams. If a student has not reported a passing
USMLE Step 2 score(s) by the end of the third semester of a Long-Term ALOA, he or she will
be dismissed per the academic dismissal policy. Academic, Medical and Personal leaves all
count towards the long-term academic leaves. Students contemplating an ALOA on personal or
medical grounds should note the Criteria for Dismissal located in the Academic Performance
section.
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Emergency
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Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that affords students the
following rights with respect to their education records, including:
Students have the right to review their education records within 45 days of the day the
institution receives their request. Students should submit to the Office of the Registrar,
dean, or head of the academic department written requests that identify the record(s)
they wish to inspect. The institution official will make arrangements for access and notify
the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the official to
whom the request is submitted does not maintain the records, that official will advise the
student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
Students may ask the institution to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or
misleading. They should write to the official responsible for the record, clearly identify the
part of the record they believe should be changed and specify why it is inaccurate or
misleading. If the institution decides not to amend the record as requested by the
student, the student will be notified of the decision and advised of his or her right to a
hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the
hearing procedures will be provided to the student when they are notified of the right to a
hearing. Following the hearing, if the institution still decides not to amend the record, the
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One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to a school official
who has a legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the
institution in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position
(including campus security, incident commanders and health staff) or a student serving
on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee. A school official
also may include an Adtalem Global Education colleague, a volunteer, or contractor
outside of the institution who performs an institutional service or function for which the
institution would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of
the institution with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records,
such as an attorney, auditor, intern or collection agent or a student volunteering to assist
another school official in performing their tasks. School officials have a legitimate
educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill
their professional responsibilities for the institution.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if the
institution fails to comply with FERPA requirements
DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The FERPA designates certain student information as “Directory Information” and gives the
institution the right to disclose such information without having to ask students’ permission. The
items listed below as “Directory Information” may be released for any purpose at the discretion
of the institution. Under the provisions of FERPA, students have the right to withhold the
disclosure of any or all of the categories of information listed below. The following information
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will be released unless students specifically request that their information be withheld:
• Directory Information: Name, address, telephone number, email address, date and
place of birth, dates of attendance, previous institution(s) attended, major field of study
(program), enrollment status, degrees and awards, past and present participation in
officially recognized activities, residency obtained.
To Withhold Information
To have directory information withheld, students must submit a written request to the Office of
the Registrar. Once filed, this request becomes a permanent part of the student’s record and no
information may be released until the student instructs the institution otherwise.
TRANSCRIPTS
AUC understands the importance of providing our students with effective and efficient transcript
services. Important events in the students’ lives depend on the prompt and secure delivery of
transcripts and AUC wants to keep students informed of their order and delivery status.
Transcript requests will be processed within one business day and sent to the receiver within
minutes. However, students should allow additional time for mailing if requesting a paper copy.
Please note: Transcript requests to be uploaded to ECFMG/Match are free of charge and
should be requested through the Office of Student Professional Development.
AUC charges $5.00 for each transcript requested and there is an online convenience fee of
$3.00 for each receiver of the transcript (regardless of the number of copies being sent). During
the online ordering process a major credit card will be required to pay these fees. In addition,
other fees may apply if the student chooses to have their transcript sent via postal service rather
than electronically.
Please note: Transcripts will not be sent if there are outstanding financial obligations
associated with the student’s account.
ORDERING PROCESS
• During the online ordering process, students will be instructed to identify the recipient of
the transcript.
• AUC recommends electronic delivery of transcripts. Transcripts will be delivered as PDF
documents through a secure web application.
• Students will be notified via email when the transcript is sent and also when it is
received.
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DELIVERY METHODS
• Electronic delivery is the preferred method and is possible to a network of over 1,800
receivers or to any individual if students provide their email address.
• Before sending an electronic transcript to an individual, please verify that the individual is
willing to accept this secure PDF transcript. To ensure proper notification, request the
individual to add @credentialssolutions.com to their safe sender email list.
• If a student’s transcript cannot be delivered electronically, it will be sent by U.S. first
class mail.
UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS
• Students can log into the student portal at any time and view unofficial transcripts.
Additionally, when registering for a clinical rotation, every student receives a summary
sheet with previous rotations taken and USMLE, COMP, leave of absence information,
and NBME exam scores.
• As part of the residency application process, students are encouraged to review their
unofficial transcript via the student portal prior to the upload of their transcript to ERAS.
Students can request updates to their transcript via email to
[email protected].
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INSTITUTIONAL COMPLAINTS
Students are encouraged to address complaints that they may have concerning AUC through a
personal meeting with AUC personnel directly involved with the issue that is the subject of the
complaint.
In the event the student is unable to resolve their complaint in this manner, the student may
submit a written complaint to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs if the complaint is campus
based, and the Associate Dean for Student Affairs if the complaint is during clinical rotations.
The respective deans will respond to written complaints generally within ten days.
In the event a student has a complaint that has not been resolved by the University through use
of the Administrative Review or Grievance Process, he/she may contact the state in which s/he
resides. A complete list of state agencies, may be found on the AUC website through the
Contact Information for Student Complaint Process:
https://www.aucmed.edu/content/dam/dmi/www_aucmed_edu/PDFs/auc-contact-info-for-
student-complaint.pdf
If a student complaint is associated with the institution’s compliance with academic program
quality and accrediting standards, he/she may file a complaint with the Accreditation
Commission on Colleges of Medicine, the agency that accredits AUC’s academic program.
The ACCM will only consider complaints which have not been resolved satisfactorily at the
institutional level. The contact information for ACCM is:
ACCM Secretariat
131 Belmont, Southern Cross Road,
Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Tel: +353 87 238 8502
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.accredmed.org
If a Missouri resident’s complaint has not been remediated by AUC, then the student may log a
complaint against the school to the Missouri Department of Higher Education. The contact
information is as follows:
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Administrative Offices
This document is current as of the date of publication. From time to time, it may be necessary or
desirable for AUC to make changes to this Course Catalog and Student Handbook due to the
requirements and standards of AUC’s accrediting body, state licensing agencies or U.S.
Department of Education or other reasons. AUC reserves the right to make changes at any time
to any provision of this Course Catalog and Student Handbook, including the amount of tuition
and fees, courses, school policies and procedures, faculty and administrative staff, the school
calendar and additional dates, and other provisions. Students will be notified of changes on the
campus website.
© 2020 American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. All rights reserved.
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