The first block consists of Biochemistry, Cell Biology, and Genetics. Patients are also seen at this time. During the second year, students finish all of their clinical rotations. Everyone is required to take a course in cost effective medicine that deals with the complexities of managed care. During this time, students begin to decide what path in medicine they will pursue.
Students doing research work usually do so on a fellowship.
This year is intended to teach students to look at information from current journals so that students become accustomed to the habit of always keeping in step with the latest medical information. The fourth year is like the fourth year in a traditional curriculum. Duke students do very well on their boards and have a solid understanding of the basic sciences. Students are not required to take the boards to get through the Duke curriculum. Usually part II is taken first because the students have just completed their clinical rotations during their second year.