Weclome to the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine invites you to discover your future: fulfillment of a dream to practice as a medical doctor. This occurs on the Caribbean island of Sint Eustatius, locally known as Statia.

Committing oneself to study medicine at a foreign medical school in a remote Caribbean locale presents special challenges, particularly to those considering a change in career. Nevertheless, for those bearing strong character and intellect with the intense desire to provide service to those in need, the experience is educationally, socially, and professionally enriching.

To those seeking such enrichments, the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine bids you welcome, and invites you to explore the Statia Experience for yourself.

ABOUT US

Our History

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine was founded by experienced and highly regarded medical school educators and administrators committed to educating future physicians in a student-centered physician-driven learning environment – one that promotes academic excellence with personal and professional integrity at an affordable cost.

The founders obtained the support for a medical school from the enthusiastic native people and government of the island of Sint Eustatius (Statia). Subsequently, the University of Sint Eustatius was awarded a Charter, which was signed by the Minister of Education, the Minister of Health, and the Governor of Sint Eustatius on April 21, 1999.

On May 27, 1999 the Education Committee on Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) confirmed the eligibility of graduates from the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine to register for the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE).

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine opened the doors to its first class of students on September 1, 1999, and was subsequently listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2000.

Our Mission

The mission of USESOM is to develop skilled and compassionate physicians, through innovative educational approaches in conventional and complementary health sciences, to serve the expanding global need for comprehensive, quality health care.

Recognitions

Students and graduates of the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine will be eligible to be registered by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) for Steps 1 and 2 of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). Our medical graduates will therefore be able to enter a residency or fellowship program in the United States that is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).

CURRICULUM

The University of Sint Eustatius offers a comprehensive M.D. degree program, including training in the Basic Sciences and in Clinical Education. Depending on qualifications, a student may enter at either of these levels of training. Since the University of Sint Eustatius offers 1 ½ academic years (3 terms) within one calendar year, students actually complete the programs in less calendar time than traditional 4-year medical programs in the U.S.

PREMEDICAL PROGRAM

FIRST SEMESTER

Medical Terminology (4 Credits)
This basic course will provide the necessary framework to learn basic rules and elements of medical terms. The course will focus how to break down medical terms by knowing the meaning of the prefix or suffix. By learning the individual parts of a medical word, students will be able to understand the complex medical terms and their definitions. Students will be able to identify medical abbreviations, spell and pronounce basic medical terminology.

General Biology with lab 1 (4 Credits)
This course is to provide students with the concepts and factual knowledge in Biology. It covers the biological principles, organization of living matter, structure and functions of cell, tissues, organs and systems of the human body. It deals with fundamental life processes and concepts common to all living organisms. Emphasis is on the application of biological principles and concepts in the field of medicine. Course includes lab work.

Inorganic Chemistry with Lab 1 (4 Credits)
This course provides the students with the fundamental concepts of the chemical processes, enabling students to use chemical concepts in daily living and in the understanding of biochemistry. It covers matter, nomenclature of chemical compounds, chemical composition and properties of compounds and modern atomic theory. It includes atomic structure, chemical bonding; solutions and gas laws. Topics are developed by thoughtful integration of laboratory and problem based instruction.

English Composition I (4 Credits)
This course is designed to give students practice in writing. It helps students to understand the functions of writing and to communicate effectively. Students participate in a variety of writing tasks including preparing descriptions, writing summaries of readings, preparing drafts, and writing compositions.

College Algebra (4 Credits)
The design of this course is to provide a solid foundation in algebra. The topics include the fundamentals of algebra, relations, functions, solutions of first-and second- degree equations and inequalities, systems of equations, matrices and determinants, binomial theorem, polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, analytic geometry. The concepts examined in this course will include, critical thinking and decision making.

SECOND SEMESTER

Computer Science (4 Credits)
This computer science course is designed to give the students the fundamental knowledge and introduction with regard to database management, presentation, web design search engine optimization and other critical disciplines that are necessary in today’s workplace. Emphasis will be placed on making technology the asset/tool and assisting the student with the technological challenges the will confront. This course will all for independent projects dealing with real world applications and situations.

General Biology with Lab II (4 Credits)
This course emphasizes on developing an understanding the concepts of Biology as a living process rather than a body of facts. It helps the students to understand the concepts of cell physiology and structure. All human systems, including the structures, actions and processes of the human body are covered. It enables the students to apply the biological knowledge and critical thinking to medical, environmental and social concerns. Course includes lab work.

Inorganic Chemistry with Lab 11 (4 Credits)
The course is developed to emphasize the applications of chemistry in the field of medicine. Chemical reactions, equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry and topics related to biochemistry are included. This course enables the students to improve their problem solving skills, and mathematical skills. The course structure is designed to enhance the connections between theory and practice by engaging students in sessions of integrated laboratory and lecture.

English Composition II (4 Credits)
This course is designed to develop the writing skills of students. The course emphasizes precision in grammar, maturity of style and diction, clear organization of material, skill in methods of objective analysis and interpretation of literature. Students will develop skills in critical thinking, organization, and clear precise communications.

Biostatistics (4 Credits)
This course is an introduction to statistical concepts and analytical methods as applied to data in biomedical sciences. It emphasizes the basic concepts of quantitative analysis of data, and statistical inferences. Topics include probability, frequency distributions, central tendency and dispersion; hypothesis testing, confidence intervals for means, variances and proportions; the chi-square statistics; data analysis and linear correlation. The course provides students a foundation to evaluate information critically.

THIRD SEMESTER

Physics with Lab I (4 credits)
This course is a conceptual study of units and dimensions of physical quantities, vectors, kinematics, laws of motion and its applications, work and energy, properties of matter, sound, oscillations, gravitation, fluid mechanics and thermal physics. Students perform experiments dealing with the basic laws of mechanics, vibration, circular motion, fluids, heat and thermal properties of materials.

Physiology I (6 Credits)
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the function and regulation of the organ systems of the body and physiological integration of the systems to maintain homeostasis. Course content will include study of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, immune, reproductive, and endocrine systems. Students receive a quantitative and integrated concept of sub cellular, cellular and organ system functions.

Organic Chemistry with Lab I (4 Credits)
This course covers basic principles of structure and nomenclature of organic compounds, both aliphatic and aromatic. It emphasizes on the principles of chemical reactions of organic compounds related with the synthesis or degradation of biomolecules in human metabolism. Saturated hydrocarbons, unsaturated hydrocarbons, Cis-trans isomerism and addition reactions are covered. Lab activities include the use of models for the design of hydrocarbon and isomer structures. Experiments such as purification or separation, physical characterization, reaction types, and synthesis of organic compounds are included.

Human Anatomy with Lab I (5 Credits)
This is a basic course which provides knowledge of the structure and functions of human body. Students will understand the key principles in human anatomy and recognize the unique role of anatomy in clinical settings. The course covers the anatomical terminology to describe the basic structures of the human body. Students work as a member of a laboratory team.

Histology and Cell Biology (6 Credits)
This course will introduce the student to the molecular and biochemical bases for cell structure and function. Lectures and Lab will explore the microscopic anatomy of cells, tissues and organs.

FOURTH SEMESTER

Physics with Lab II (4 credits)
This course provides basic knowledge in Biophysics. It enables the students to understand the concepts of human physiology. The course includes basic principles of electricity, electromagnetism, light and optics. Modern physics consists of quantum physics, relativity, atomic physics, nuclear physics and nuclear medicine. The course is designed to increase problem-solving and analytical thinking skills. Students perform experiments based on the principles of electricity, optics and atomic physics.

Physiology II (6 Credits)
This course provides the students with a high level of understanding of the physiological basis of medicine. The essential concepts of physiology and mechanisms of body function are presented at various levels of organization, ranging from cellular and molecular to tissue and organ system levels. Emphasis is placed on understanding the integrated regulation of various body processes among the major systems.

Organic Chemistry with Lab II (4 Credits)
This course is a further study of the chemistry of carbon compounds from a functional group perspective. The course covers structure and nomenclature of specific organic compounds like alcohols, thiols, aldehydes, ketones, amines, esters and carboxylic acids. Emphasis is given on reactions, preparations, uses, and simple mechanisms. Lab activities are focused in the detection and identification of the presence of the functional groups studied in the course in molecules of biomedical relevance as proteins, drugs, and others.

Human Anatomy with Lab II (5 Credits)
This course is a study of human body by regions and systems. The course emphasizes the aspects of clinical anatomy. It provides the knowledge of the role of human anatomy in health and disease. Anatomy laboratory course provides laboratory experiences that apply to the topics and concepts covered in the fundamentals of Anatomy.

General Psychology (6 Credits)
The course is an introduction to topics in the field of psychology. The course content includes the biology of behavior, learning, memory, cognition, motivation, emotion, personality, abnormal behavior and its therapies, social behavior and individual differences. The course includes coverage of dealing effectively with the demands of everyday life, interpersonal relationships, and approaches to personal growth.

BASIC SCIENCES PROGRAM

The Basic Sciences program takes place during 15-week terms on the island of Sint Eustatius. Summer and winter breaks are short by U.S. standards, permitting three academic terms in any given calendar year. Students also have the option of completing their 5th semester in the United States, which further reduces students’ total time away from their home country.

The Basic Sciences consists of training in multiple disciplines taught in a 5-term format. Most courses are taught in double 50-minute blocks, 3-5 times per week. Training in some disciplines may span two terms.

For students needing extra preparation for the Basic Sciences program, the University offers an extended program involving an extra 4-month term of pre-basic sciences coursework (e.g., medical physics, chemistry in medicine.). To optimize learning, the courses in the extra term are taught in an integrated, clinically-relevant fashion.

Introduction to Clinical Medicine:
This course is crucial to students entertaining the possibility of a vocation within the medical profession. As multiple university medical educational institutions have shown, the introduction of Clinical Medicine at the earliest possible juncture during the assimilation of the Basic Sciences coursework provides the greatest benefit to the student. This course introduces students to the background and procedural functions of a physician such as: the psychological mind-set, professionalism, skill sets, medical decision making, ethical conundrums, differential diagnosis, and finally making a diagnosis and treating the same real patient predicated on that diagnosis. Thus, the Clinical Medicine Course fully outlines for students, all the aspects of being a physician, which contribute to both the hard work and incredible rewards of practicing the ‘art’ of medicine.

FIRST TERM:

Professionalism & Patient-Doctor Skills I
This course consists of fifteen weeks of lecture during which time students will be educated on what it means to BE the doctor, what is expected in terms of personal deportment, professionalism, appearance, and cultural awareness. Students will practice what they have learned in the classroom and will also observe at the a local, pharmacy, laboratory, and at an in-patient and out-patient hospital, with clinical mentors from 4th and 5th terms.

Gross & Developmental Anatomy
Gross structure and development of organs and systems of the human body.. This course is dedicated to teaching developmental aspects of major organ systems, integrated with a discussion of the gross anatomy of the human body. Within the course, an emphasis is placed on applied and clinical aspects of gross and developmental anatomy. In addition to didactic lectures and cadaveric dissection, the learning of anatomy is enhanced with the help of small group discussions in the laboratory with computer software, study of X- rays, CT scans, MRIs and osteology.

Histology and Cell Biology
Microscopic structure and function of cells, tissues and organs. Formal lectures and student presentations explore the microscopic anatomy of cells, tissues and organs. Emphasis is placed upon the correlation of structure with function.

Public Health
Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine. Epidemiologic principles, measurements, investigations and research designs will be discussed. Students will gain experience in applying epidemiologic methods in clinical problem solving and decision making. Principles of biostatistics as they apply to medicine will be covered. Students are expected to build upon and in turn demonstrate their knowledge in the process of testing hypotheses and making inferences from various types of data. Disease trends in human populations and methods of disease prevention will also be explored. Public health systems and medical care organizations will also be reviewed. Students participate in practical instruction through their participation in community health care projects.

SECOND TERM:

Ethics & Patient-Doctor Skills II
Students will be instructed on the Moral and legal concerns in medicine, through Didactic lectures:. The course will explore complex issues pertaining to confidentiality, informed consent, mental competency, obstetric/pediatric ethics, physician-assisted suicide and conflict of interest situations Current laws, regulations and judicial precedents governing ethical matters in medicine will also be discussed. . Students will be instructed in physical and practical skills involving a stethoscope, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, tuning forks, reflex hammer, laryngoscope, vaginal specula, surgical gloves, gowns, hats, booties, surgical instruments, suture material, casting material, syringes, needles, and other medical instruments essential to a physican’s main functions. Students will also gain valuable hospital experience with 5th term mentors.

Biochemistry and Genetics
Structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and other important biomolecules. Lectures will cover important topics such as structure-function relationships in molecular diseases, enzyme characteristics and kinetics, bioenergetics, metabolism and metabolic interrelationships of important biomolecules, the molecular basis of metabolic diseases, the biochemistry of hormones and cell signaling, and biochemical principles in nutrition. In lab activities, students will be instructed on the basic tests and procedures used in general practice, including pregnancy tests, urine reagent strips and tablets for the detection of glucose and ketonic bodies, and glucometers for monitoring diabetic patients.

Basic genetics and its relevance to inherited disorders. This course covers topics including the structure and function of genes, the general organization of the human genome and the principles of Mendelian and non-Mendelian genetics as applied to disease. Chromosomal abnormalities, cytogenetics in principles and practice, population genetics as applied to issues of human health and the use of genetics in medicine will also be covered. Principles of molecular recognition, the control of cellular proliferation and the organization, replication and repair of the genome will also be emphasized. Gene expression, mutation, molecular genetics and the techniques of molecular biology will also be covered.

Physiology
Basic human biological processes. Both normal and abnormal physiological states, as seen in both everyday life and in the clinical setting, will be examined fully. Specifically, the mechanical, biomedical, and regulatory processes of major organ systems including cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, endocrine, gastrointestinal, and neural will be covered. Clinical correlation is stressed via case studies of patients with major organ system dysfunction.

Neuroscience
Structure and function of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system. Students will gain knowledge of Neuroscience through didactic sessions and laboratory dissections of the human brain and spinal cord. This will promote a clinically relevant understanding of a functional and dysfunctional nervous system. Through the integration of neuroanatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and biochemistry, students will converse fluently in the language of the nervous system. Emphasized are the clinical examination and the correlation of findings with neuroimages.

THIRD TERM:

Communication & Patient-Doctor Skills Didactics III:
As part of this course, lectures will discuss patient medical history including how it is gathered and recorded. Students will learn how to glean patient information by from dialogue, neurolingusitics (body language) medical records, and other healthcare professionals.. The didactics will include the patient’s demographics, chief complaint, family, social, review of systems, and past medical history. The course will also explain the function as well as how to use SOAP notes. With 5th term mentors, physicians, and clinical asst. students will gain practical knowledge of recording patient history.

Medical Psychology
The biological and psychological bases of mental illness. Major psychiatric disorders are covered with an emphasis on diagnostic features, neurobiological correlates, and psychotherapeutic and biological treatments. During practical role-play exercises, students will gain experience conducting mental status exams, interviewing for specific neuropsychiatric disorders, and managing suicidal behavior.

Microbiology
Microorganisms causing infectious diseases. The course will cover the classification, laboratory identification, pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of disease processes and treatment strategies. Major human diseases of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and helminths will be presented in lectures. Student experiences within the laboratory will supplement didactic instruction. Fundamental concepts of immunology are covered and integrated as various diseases are discussed.

Pathology I
The study of basic reactions of cells and tissues to abnormal stimuli that underlie all diseases. Students examine the mechanisms of injury and disease processes and the body's response. Lectures cover cell injury, acute and chronic inflammation, ischemia and necrosis, neoplasia and mechanisms of pathogenicity. Infectious disease and response to infectious agents are covered.

FOURTH TERM:

Physical Diagnosis & Patient-Doctor Skills IV:
Didactic lectures will demonstrate to students how to peform head to toe physical examinations of mock and real patients. Students will be introduced to clinical skills such as: Auscultation of Cardiac, Pulmonary, and Gastrointestinal sounds; Otoscopy, including the Otoscope, its practical use and functions in the observation of adults and children; Ophthalmoscopy, including the Ophthalmoscope, with instruction on how to use it for observation; Performing interpretation of 12 Lead Electrocardiograms; Using Doppler devices in order to auscultate fetal heartbeats and find arteries and veins; Phlebotomy and starting an intravenous line; Suturing- two handed, one-handed, and instrument-tie; The use of airway and respiratory care instruments and maneuvers in critically ill patients; Administering oxygen through use of the nasal cannula, face mask, and non-rebreather mask, Ambubag-mask, Ambubag-endotrachael tube manual ventilation, Laryngoscope, endotrachael tubes and endotrachael intubation; Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Percussion of body cavities and organs; Pelvic, rectal, and speculum examinations in vitro and on live models and patients; Central intravenous line placement, Gowning and gloving in preparation for surgery; Casting and immobilization of the extremities of injured or post-operative patients; The use of splints, plaster and fiberglass glass casting materials and their application on live patients injections; Intradermal, subcutaneous, and intramuscular injection techniques; Lumbar puncture, Epidural and Subarachnoid (spinal) anesthesia; Local Anesthetic techniques, including local, ring, and nerve blocks.

Pharmacology
An integration of anatomy, histology, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology and pathology in the understanding of complex actions of drugs on the living organism. The main focus of this course is to provide future doctors with a basic understanding of the functions of drugs in the treatment of patients. Basic principles of pharmacology including absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, drug toxicity and drug-drug interactions will be presented together with the principles of drug-receptor interactions. After basic concepts are covered, the pharmacology of all major organ systems will be explored, including the autonomic and central nervous systems and the cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and blood systems. The anti-microbial and cancer chemotherapeutic agents and the basic principles of toxicology will also be covered.

Pathology II
Students will gain an understanding of patho physiology manifestations and the management of common diseases. Pulmonary, cardiac, gastrointestinal, endocrine, rheumatic, orthopedic, renal, neurologic and hematology organ systems will be covered. Course includes laboratory hours.

THE FIFTH TERM:

INTRODUCTION TO CLINICAL MEDICINE:
Didactic lectures: System by system look at clinical patho physiology as elucidated by demonstrating thorough knowledge of the Basic Sciences and the art of Differential Diagnosis. Clinical experience will be specifically tailored by the Clinical Staff and assistants to the areas in which there is more practical hands-on technical skills or more information acquiring skills needed. The students will be evaluated purely on their clinical skills and ability to communicate their findings to their colleagues. There will be a Clinical Medicine “Grand Rounds” monthly.

Introduction to Clinical Medicine:
This course is crucial to students entertaining the possibility of a vocation within the medical profession. As multiple university medical educational institutions have shown,* the introduction of Clinical Medicine at the earliest possible juncture during the assimilation of the Basic Sciences coursework provides the greatest benefit to the student. This course introduces students to the background and procedural functions of a physician such as: the psychological mind-set, professionalism, skill sets, medical decision making, ethical conundrums, differential diagnosis, and finally making a diagnosis and treating the same real patient predicated on that diagnosis. Thus, the Clinical Medicine Course fully outlines for students, all the aspects of being a physician, which contribute to both the hard work and incredible rewards of practicing the ‘art’ of medicine.

Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine: (USMLE Review)
This course provides students with an overview and synthesis of materials covered in the Basic Sciences program in preparation for the successful writing of USMLE Step 1. Presentations will focus on the systems and disciplines which are central to the USMLE Step 1, including Anatomy, Behavioral Sciences, Biochemistry, Immunology, Medical Genetics, Microbiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, and Physiology, etc. Students will also have access to USMLE-type practice questions.

To enhance the Review Course, faculty of the University of Sint Eustatius make themselves available to students in order to address any questions arising from the presentations or practice questions. Course achievement is measured through a simulated USMLE Step 1 examination, which lasts lasting approximately four hours in length. The simulated USMLE Step 1 examination provides diagnostic feedback to permit targeted formulation of remediation plans geared at addressing specific areas of weakness. Grades for the Review Course are awarded on a pass-fail basis.

OPTION FOR U.S-BASED 5TH TERM - 5TH@ATLANTA
After completing the 1st through 4th terms of Basic Sciences terms on Sint Eustatius, students have the choice of completing their 5th Term either on Sint Eustatius or in the United States in Duluth, a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia.

As on Sint Eustatius, 5th@Atlanta includes the Introduction to Clinical Medicine and Fundamentals of Clinical Medicine (USMLE Review). Students will be in the dynamic community of Duluth which offers many conveniences to students, affordable housing and a large medical community to gain practical experience to clinical medicine.

In order to be eligible for the U.S.-based 5th Term, students must enroll before the established deadlines, be in good financial standing with the University, and have the legal right to reside in the U.S.

CLINICAL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The third and fourth years are devoted to 72 weeks of Clinical Clerkships/Rotations at selected hospitals throughout the United States, UK and Canada. Core Clinical Rotations comprise 48 weeks and provide a solid foundation in the essential clinical knowledge and skills for future physicians in all specialties. The remaining 24 weeks are designated for Elective Rotations which provide medical students an excellent opportunity to pursue areas of clinical interests or to explore other specialties. After completing the 72 weeks of Clinical Rotations, our medical students have matched at some of the most prestigious hospitals and Post Graduate Training Programs in the United States.

CORE ROTATIONS

Internal Medicine (12 Weeks)
Students participate in the comprehensive clinical management of adult patients. Students gain insight into the common medical problems and disorders seen in the specialty of Internal Medicine. This is achieved under the close supervision of Attending Physicians. Formal lectures, informal discussions and student case presentations supplement the experience gained during the Internal Medicine Clinical Rotation.

Surgery (12 Weeks)
Students are introduced to the basic knowledge, skills and behaviors unique to Surgery and is fundamental to the clinical practice of all physicians. Students are exposed to Pre Operative, Intra-Operative and Post Operative care of the surgical patient. Students also, become familiar with the effective use of language, critical thinking skills and conduct unique to the specialty of Surgery.

Obstetrics & Gynecology (6 Weeks)
Students learn the fundamentals of Prenatal and Postpartum care and the management of normal labor and delivery of the newborn. They also gain experience in the diagnosis and treatment of Obstetric Problems and common Gynecological Disorders.

Pediatrics (6 Weeks)
Students learn the similarities and differences unique to the diagnosis and the treatment of pediatric and adolescent patients. Students develop an understanding of normal patterns of growth and development as well as common abnormalities and illnesses of childhood.

Psychiatry (6 Weeks)
Students participate in the care of patients with psychiatric disorders. Students develop skills in taking a psychiatric history, performing a mental status examinations and psychiatric assessments. Students gain familiarity with the common pharmacologic agents and other modalities in the care and treatment of psychiatric patients.

Family Practice (6 Weeks)
Students are introduced to the Primary Care approach to the diagnosis and treatment of common problems encountered in the Family Practice setting. Students gain an appreciation for healthcare maintenance and disease prevention in this diverse clinical setting.

Elective Clerkship (24 Weeks) Fourth Year
Elective rotations are available in hospitals and medical centers throughout the U.S. and U.K. for fourth-year students of the University of Sint Eustatius. Students have opportunities to explore specific areas that have sparked interest during Core Clinical Rotations or expand knowledge and skills acquired in Core Rotations. Some students use electives to enhance their applications for Post Graduate Training Programs.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Aspiring medical students of the 21st century are entering the healing profession at a time when more than fifty percent of their patients will likely desire to incorporate or turn to systems of healing from other cultures and philosophies. At the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine we believe our students need to be prepared to address this reality in the practice of medicine. Therefore, we are integrating into the basic science curricula and clinical experiences a broader focus which includes the history, culture and philosophy of numerous systems of healing as well as essential data on safety, research, and implementation issues in the current context of patient care.

We believe it is important for our students to have a broad understanding of approaches to healing that include acupuncture, herbalism, nutritional supplementation, massage and manual therapies, as well as spiritual and energetic approaches to healing. These diverse approaches to healing are commonly used world-wide and being informed and learning to approach these issues without bias is essential for the health care professional of the 21st century.

This advanced approach is called integrative medicine or an integral health approach. An integral health approach considers and communicates a multi-dimensional view of life and living that understands that people are more than physical beings. Integral medicine approaches the person as a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual being living in a complex cultural, life experience, and environmental context. It understands the conventional models of health maintenance, maximization or restoration, while it also considers the value and efficacy of complementary and alternative therapies, approaches, and lifestyles applied in a scientific manner. It is an approach delivered in a caring, sensitive, process-oriented way to promote optimal health, self-awareness, happiness, and longevity.

In line with the practice at such premier medical institutions as the National Institutes of Health’s Clinical Center, we teach our students be open-minded rather than rejecting of a patient’s philosophical and cultural desires and while building upon the tenets of good science and strong ethics, seek the optimal synthesis of multiple medical modalities provided in harmony with the needs of the patient and deliver care with reverence and humanism. Our approach recognizes that the body has a remarkable capacity for healing that can be facilitated by addressing the underlying causes of illness and suffering and understands that each person has unique needs that must be attended to in every therapeutic setting and encounter. We also believe it is important that our students take to heart the root meaning of the title, “Doctor”, which in Latin translates to “Teacher”. In this, we seek our students to learn, practice, and integrate teaching the tenets of wellness, disease prevention, and self-care into their routine interactions with their patients and community.

The integral health premise is based on an approach articulated by modern philosophers that human life can be understood from the following four inter-related aspects:

1. our internal experience of self-awareness,
2. human existence as described by science,
3. the inter-subjective world of culture, and
4. social systems and the environment.

Any truly integrated vision of health and healing must understand the person from each of these aspects. These same philosophers further postulate that optimal health is best achieved when the individual builds and incorporates a program of self-transformation involving changes in diet, nutrition, exercise, recreation, social interaction, and psychological and spiritual development. A model of integral health directs individuals to these necessary and personal transformations.

It is the goal of the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine to be at the forefront of advances in medical education curriculum development through an adoption of an integral health approach. We believe that this approach meets both the desires of our students as well as the needs of their future patients.

UNDERSEA AND HYPERBARIC MEDICINE

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine offers a variety of elective programs of study in hyperbaric medicine.

The expanding field of hyperbaric medicine involves the breathing of high-concentrations of oxygen at significantly elevated pressures to provide therapeutic benefit in several clinical conditions.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy confers demonstrable benefits in select patients, chiefly through the reversal of hypoxia and the hastened removal of pathological gases (e.g., carbon monoxide). By these means, hyperbaric oxygen has become a prominent front-line or adjunctive component in the treatment of several clinical conditions:

• Decompression Sickness
• Gas Emboli
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Gas Gangrene
• Blood Loss Anemia
• Necrotizing Soft Tissue Injury
• Radiation Necrosis Injury
• Intracranial Abscess
• Problem Wounds
• Thermal Burns
• Crush Injury
• Refractory Osteomyelitis
• Compromised Skin Grafts and Flaps

For students whose medical studies are well managed, participation in a hyperbaric program provides the opportunity to expand scientific and medical experience.

• The diverse pathologies underlying the illnesses treatable with systemically active hyperbaric oxygen suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapeutics are best understood and deployed in a multidisciplinary context.
• Students will receive valuable experience in both theory and practice but must recognize these programs are not currently recognized by a US based Hyperbaric and Undersea accrediting agency.

An additional advantage enjoyed by participants in the Programs of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine is that the opportunity for hands-on patient contact may occur as early as the first term of medical studies.

The clinical populations most likely to be encountered by medical students on Sint Eustatius in this context reflect the geographic intersection of scuba diving (recreational and industrial), which can lead to decompression sickness and gas emboli, and endemic systemic disease (e.g., diabetes) that commonly leads to the expression of problem wounds.

To accommodate the varied aptitudes and interests of medical students pursuing training in hyperbaric oxygen therapeutics on Sint Eustatius, a variety of academic programs have been developed.

Medical students should note that studies in the Programs of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine are typically undertaken concurrently with courses in the Basic Sciences in the University of Sint Eustatius. As such, enrollment in the Programs of Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine need not prolong the stay of medical students on Sint Eustatius.

Health care practitioners and other interested persons are also welcome to participate in the programs. please visit contact us.

ADMISSIONS

The volumes of information to be digested during medical schooling are enormous and often overwhelming. For many prospective students, however, the mere management and submission of documents leading to acceptance and registration can seem equally daunting. At the outset, applicants should become familiar with the time-frame for the processing of completed applications. At the same time, to prevent delays in processing, applicants should ensure that all required admissions documents are submitted in good order, noting any special requirements that may be relevant to applicants from outside of the US and/or those applying for admission as transfer students with advanced standing.

The receipt of a letter of acceptance does not signal the end of the admissions process. For students seeking medical training on Sint Eustatius, subsequent hurdles pertain to immigration. In recent years global political conflicts have impacted immigration practices and standards worldwide. Sint Eustatius is not exempted from these changes, and applicants must ensure that they understand basic requirements that dictate eligibility for immigration into Sint Eustatius. Next, applicants must ensure that all documents required for immigration are prepared accurately and thoroughly.

FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine will be temporarily suspending its recently established financial aid program due to an unforeseen bank regulatory issue. The Office of Financial Aid Services has been working diligently with our banking partners to resume processing applications and disbursing funds for those loan applications already approved. As a result of unexpected delays in connection with finalizing the program criteria, we have exceeded the maximum time allotted for initial disbursement. Under the current regulations, the bank is required to distribute rejection letters to all applicants whose loans are already in the system. These rejection letters will not have any negative consequence on applicants’ credit, nor bear any negative reflection on the applicants’ ability to qualify for the loan once the matter has been resolved. We expect resolution in the coming weeks and fully intend to resubmit all applications. We apologize for any inconvenience resulting from this unexpected situation and look forward to re-establishing our financial aid program at the earliest opportunity.

CANADIAN STUDENTS

Dear Citizens of Canada,

It is with great pleasure and excitement that the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine has been fortunate enough to receive approval and recognition from the Canadian government and the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Ontario!

With this recognition, students who are citizens or residents of Alberta, British Columbia Manitoba, Newfoundland & Labrador and Ontario are eligible for educational funding. If you are a resident of a province other than Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland & Labrador or Ontario, you are encouraged to inquire with your province about the University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine’s designation in that province.

On the following pages you will find information, procedures and resources which will aid you in applying for educational funding with the Canadian Government and the aforementioned provinces. We look forward to assisting you with the application and management of educational funding with Canada.

The University of Sint Eustatius School of Medicine Canadian student loan code is ZUBY!

TUITION / FEES

Tuition Information:

Basic Sciences Program Tuition includes:
US $500 seat deposit (non-refundable and due within 30 days of acceptance), registration and orientation fees, laboratory and manual fees, microscope and slide rentals, technology fee, library fee, health and evacuation insurance (with term break coverage), island administration fees, high-speed internet access fees, and supplemental course fees.

Clinical Medicine Program Tuition includes:
US $1,000 deposit ($500 non-refundable and due within 30 days of acceptance), clerkship administration fees, health insurance (once you begin to rotate, your health insurance cost will be paid through your tuition, students may elect to purchase insurance prior to the start date of their Clinical rotation), malpractice insurance (during Clinical Medicine Program), and USMLE Step sponsorship.

Additionally: Please check with the Clinical Medicine Department in New York, as some sites may require additional fees.

For added convenience, students may use major credit cards for transactions (e.g., payment of tuition or deposits for admission). The Bursar's office accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Tuition is due 30 days before the start of the term. Tuition costs and fees are subject to change without notice. Please refer to the Student Handbook for specifics regarding the financial policies of the University.

ADMISSIONS FAQs

When did the University of Sint Eustatius start?
The University was established in April of 1999. It started training doctors in September of 1999.

How many students are at the University of Sint Eustatius?
As of January 2007, there are approximately 150 students in the Basic Sciences (on island) and 260 students in the Clinical Medicine Program.

What is the professor to student ratio?
One professor for every ten students.

What is included in the tuition?
Tuition includes the costs for lab equipment and fees, library use and fees, use of microscopes and histology slide sets, administrative fees, technology fees, high-speed Internet connections, personal health insurance, evacuation insurance, and liability insurance during clinical years. Fees exclude room and board, textbooks and personal items.

What percentage of the student body is from North America?
Currently, 85% of our students come from the U.S. and Canada.

What countries other than the U.S. are students from?
The Netherlands, Canada, England, Venezuela, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, India, and Pakistan are currently represented in our student body.

How long is the intersession between terms?
Breaks between terms vary from 14-21 days. The longest break of the year usually follows the September term.

In order to enter the Basic Science Program, what/how many Premed subjects must be completed?
A Bachelor’s degree or a minimum of ninety hours of "college-level" study including one year with labs in, Biology, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Physics. These are minimum state licensure requirements for someone holding an M.D. degree.

Do the credits that I earned in a postgraduate nursing and/or PA program count towards my medical degree?
No, all credits for the M.D. degree must be completed while formally admitted and matriculated in a full M.D. degree program. Although some courses (e.g., Anatomy and Physiology) taken while studying Podiatry or Chiropractics provide good preparation, these courses nonetheless are not transferable into the M.D. degree program.

Does a medical school degree/certification from Poland, Israel or other foreign schools allow a student to go directly into Clinicals?
If that certification has made them eligible for the USMLE Step 1 exam, then there is the chance of admission into our Clinical program. The school, at minimum, must be W.H.O.-recognized and ECFMG-approved. The student must pass the USMLE step I exam prior to starting any rotations. Our own Basic Sciences Program coordinator usually analyzes course work to ensure that there are no voids in another program's curriculum.

What GPA is taken into consideration as part of the admissions process?
A student's GPA in the hard sciences is considered in the context of an overall GPA of 3.0. If you are not sure if you qualify or if you have a question, please email us.

Do you evaluate an aggregate GPA or just the GPA from the past two years?
We look at all aspects of each student's academic credentials and maturity, as well as the reputation and level of programs attended. We specifically examine trends of improvement over time.

Is the University recognized by the World Health Organization (W.H.O.)?
Yes, the W.H.O. has recognized the existence of the University of Sint Eustatius in a formal newsletter and on their website.

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