Electives

Please address questions to Camille Socarras, 319-335-8051, 1193 MERF

MED:8070 The Examined Life: Writing and Medicine 

Duration: 10 weeks (1 semester hours); Fall semester

Intended for M1s/M2s, open to all.

Description

This course takes an interdisciplinary approach to understanding medicine, blending literature, storytelling, ethics, visual arts, and philosophy to explore the human side of healthcare. Through light reading, engaging discussions, creative and reflective writing, and other explorations, students will be supported in developing a deeper understanding of themselves in context of medicine and humanities. This seminar will enhance the ability to communicate effectively, refine critical thinking skills, examine medical training through multiple humanities disciplines, and learn to tell compelling stories.

MED:8401 Medicine, Literature, & Writing

Duration: 4 weeks (4 semester hours); offered twice every Spring

Open to M4s

Description

Medicine is more than science—it is storytelling, ethics, and the art of human connection. This course invites students to explore the intersection of medicine and the humanities through literature, philosophy, and narrative medicine. Participants will engage in dynamic discussions, writing exercises, and interdisciplinary readings and conversations that sharpen their ability to communicate, reflect, and advocate for compassionate care. By critically engaging with key texts, exploring the ethical and philosophical dimensions of medicine, and applying these insights to real-world practice, students will cultivate the intellectual and emotional depth necessary for a truly holistic approach to healing. Through creative exercises and collaborative learning, this course will challenge students to see their role as physicians not just as healers, but as storytellers, humanists, and ethical decision-makers.

Humanities Individually Arranged Electives

This elective provides students with an opportunity to explore the intersection of humanities and medicine through an independent study or project. Students may focus on any area and topic of their choosing that is based in a humanities academic discipline, encouraging critical reflection and humanistic exploration. Applications may be submitted HERE after being approved by the Writing and Humanities Program director, 6 weeks in advance of the intended start date.

Educational Objectives:

By the end of this elective, students will:

  • Conduct independent research or creative projects and develop critical thinking skills through engagement with a humanities discipline, (philosophy, religion, history, language arts (literature, writing, oratory, rhetoric, poetry, etc.), the performing arts (theater, music, dance, etc.), and the visual arts (painting, sculpture, photography, filmmaking, etc.).
  • Explore how humanistic perspectives enhance care, empathy, and professional identity formation.
  • Analyze the role of the humanities in shaping knowledge, ethics, and practice.
  • Effectively communicate findings through writing, presentations, or artistic expression.

Program Outline:

The elective is designed to be self-directed with structured mentorship.

Proposal Development:

  • Define an investigative question or creative project theme.

  • Develop a structured plan with the Writing and Humanities Program director and your mentor.

Independent Research & Study:

  • Conduct a literature review or engage with primary sources (historical texts, narratives, artworks, etc.).

  • Analyze case studies, ethical dilemmas, or cultural representations.

Regular Mentor Communication:

  • Discuss progress, challenges, and insights.

  • Receive feedback and refine work/project direction.

Final Project & Presentation:

  • Submit a paper, critical essay, or creative work (e.g., a reflective narrative, visual art, or performance).

Assessment & Evaluation:

  • Research and critical thinking

  • Application of knowledge and development

  • Communication and presentation

  • Mentor assessment

Student Support