The curriculum is specially designed for students interested in a fundamental understanding of the quantitative molecular science that underlies medicine. This understanding serves students with diverse interests in biomedical research as well as science and technology-based clinical care. The course work is also particularly appropriate for those students who hope to combine research and clinical skills in their careers. The approach of the curriculum is both quantitative and clinical, with special attention given to current issues in modern biology, biotechnology, engineering, as well as the physical sciences. The HST experience incorporates courses in human pathophysiology, research and clinical clerkships leading to the M.D. from Harvard Medical School as well as other advanced degrees.
Students also participate in a research project of their choice and complete a thesis.
Based on the curriculum and their work, students are prepared to embark on advanced careers in biomedicine and beyond. Students are encouraged to pursue advanced study in areas of interest that complement course work offered in the Program. The HST program is designed to train socially responsible physicians with an understanding and command of the science underlying medicine. As such, the goal is to provide the most advanced grounding possible in the pre-clinical years. The courses are offered on both campuses and are organized on the semester format to provide the maximum flexibility for the student to register for courses at either University.