The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has introduced ASCEND, a redesigned curriculum that aims to transform medical education through a personalized and active-learning approach. Developed over several years with input from students, faculty, and administrators, ASCEND officially launched in fall 2024 and is structured around three phases: pre-clerkship, clerkship, and integration and transitions.
The 17 month pre-clerkship phase establishes a foundation in basic sciences while integrating early clinical exposure. It begins with BaseCamp, a weeklong orientation designed to help students acclimate to the program. Following this, students engage in a five month foundations block covering core sciences, such as molecular biology, immunology, anatomy, and pathology. The curriculum then transitions into organ systems-based modules that incorporate lectures, workshops, and laboratory experiences. Active learning in small groups and faculty mentorship is emphasized throughout.
Students also participate in the Practice of Medicine module, which develops clinical skills such as patient assessment and medical decision making. The Inquiry (THINQ) curriculum supplements this phase by fostering scholarly research, social justice awareness, and leadership skills.
During the 13 month clerkship phase, students gain hands-on experience through core rotations in specialties including emergency medicine, neurology, pediatrics, and psychiatry. The curriculum follows a biphasic structure, initially focusing on acute and emergent care before shifting to chronic disease management and preventive health.
A distinctive feature of this phase is the Coaching, Advising, Mentoring, and Preparation (CAMP) weeks, which provide time for reflection, wellness, and faculty-guided mentorship between six-week clinical rotations. Students also have elective opportunities to explore specific medical interests.
The final 15 month phase prepares students for residency through advanced clinical experiences, including an eight-week chronic care clerkship and specialty-specific internships. Students complete a scholarly research project in their chosen concentration, supported by faculty mentorship. A two-week transition-to-residency course provides hands-on training to ease the shift into post-graduate medical practice.
