Thumbay International Pathway – Medicine

Study Plan (period of study 2026-2029)

Year 1 Semester – 1

Year 1 Semester – 2

Year 2 Semester – 3

Year 2 Semester – 4

Year 3 Semester – 5

Year 3 Semester – 6

Course Type: GE – General Education; BS – Basic Science; PS – Preclinical Science

Course Description

Year 1 – Semester 1

CSE 102 Communication Skills in English

The overall aim of the course is to enable the student to become oriented to the communication tasks of a physician by developing an appreciation of the interpersonal nature of medical encounters in different clinical situations, develop basic communication skills and learn communication strategies. The course provides a variety of patient encounter settings to understand the basic interpersonal communication processes, gain sensitivity to patient perspectives and develop a sense of personal awareness which will help the student deal with patients of all ages and both genders in routine and challenging situations and work effectively as a member of the healthcare team.

EMS 101 Emirati Studies

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the most significant aspects of the United Arab Emirates, offering students insights into the features of Emirati society. It covers economic and social development, affirming the nation’s core values and heritage, and includes studies in key areas such as history, geography, internal and external policies, social systems, human development, and demographics. The course emphasizes the role of Emirati citizens in development, with particular attention to women’s empowerment and their societal contributions. Additionally, it highlights the country’s focus on sustainable energy, economic advancements, and development indicators, alongside its global competitiveness.

Furthermore, the course addresses future strategic development plans and the challenges they entail, recognizing the UAE’s pioneering role on the international stage and its progress in global development and competitiveness indicators. It offers a detailed analysis of the social aspects of Emirati society, focusing on its unique culture, community dynamics, and the interplay of multiethnicity and cultural diversity, underpinned by the values of tolerance and indigenous traditions. By the end of the course, students will have developed an awareness of multiculturalism and the ability to relate their understanding to a global context.

CHM 114 Chemistry

This course provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts and practical techniques in chemistry, focusing on the structure, properties and reactions of biomolecules. The course covers units of measurement, quantities, solutions, chemical reactions, acid-base theories, buffers and buffering capacity. The course provides an extensive understanding of the chemistry of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. It also includes comprehension of enzymology, vitamins, minerals, free radicals and antioxidants. Students will engage in practical experiments throughout the course to reinforce their understanding of biochemical concepts and enhance their laboratory skills. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, data analysis and applications of biochemical principles in real-world contexts.

BIO 101 Human Biology

This introductory course introduces students to the structure and functioning of the major human body systems including the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, neuromuscular, and endocrine systems. Concepts of genes and heredity, infection, and immunity as well as the relationship between man and environment are also covered. The objective of this course is to enable the student to apply knowledge of the structure and function of the organ systems to the working of the human body. The student will apply knowledge of heredity and the roles of chromosomes and genes, concepts of infection and immunity to understand disease states.

PHY 101 Biophysics

This course focuses on the study of fundamental principles of Physics which could be applied in biomedical sciences to explain the physiology of the human body. Fundamental principles of Dispersion, Osmosis, Hydrostatic pressure, and the energies associated with fluid flow are discussed which would help to explain the physiology of circulatory and nervous system. Principles of mechanics, heat, thermodynamics, gas laws, wave motion, acoustics and Optics are included that have application in explaining principles and procedures in Anatomy and Physiology of the human body. Important topics like Electrostatics, Electricity, Magnetism, Electromagnetic Induction, Nuclear Physics are included to explain the working principle of MRI, LASER, Ultrasound, X-rays, CT scan etc. Based on the fundamental principles of electricity and circuits, safety measures while working in laboratories and Operation theaters, and first aid to avoid further complication are dealt with in the course. The lecture session is supplemented with a non-lecture session during which students apply the concepts discussed in the lecture using computer simulations or specific examples which provide a thorough understanding of the concepts. Successful completion of the course helps students to apply the principles of Physics in Medicine in explaining many processes. 

BSE 101 Behavioral Science and Ethics

The course is designed to give an overview of the main topics in behavioral sciences and Ethics including biological basis of behavior, mental processes, perception, learning, motivation, intelligence, human development, personality, socialization, social groups, changes in trends, problems of determined individual’s and universal ethical principles. The objective of the course is to enable the student to understand and apply the knowledge, skills and attitude developed in this course to communicate effectively. Students will learn and practice strong values, ethical conduct and social responsibilities, especially personal, academic, and professional integrity while developing collaboration in diverse team settings. Students will be trained to display sensitivity to cultural, psychosocial, and ethical issues.

Year 1 – Semester 2

BMS 201 Biomolecules and Metabolism

This fundamental biochemistry course provides understanding of the molecular level of the chemical process associated with living cells. It provides basic knowledge of the structure-function relationships and metabolism of biological molecules  including  carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids, enzymes, isoenzymes  and the use of cofactors & coenzymes in biochemical reactions which enable the student to appreciate derangement of function resulting from abnormalities in structures of the biomolecules, The practical component of this course will help to illustrate and reinforce the theoretical lectures. It will also provide skills in handling basic laboratory equipment, data analysis and report writing apart from providing opportunities for teamwork. Most importantly, the comprehensive knowledge provided in this course will form a strong foundation for learning in organ system courses taken subsequently.

CTO 201 Cells, Tissues, and Organs

The course Cells, Tissues and Organs provides the learners with basic knowledge of the structural and functional aspects of the human body to support the system-based learning in subsequent courses. The course covers aspects starting from the structure of the cells to the tissues and the organ systems. The course helps the students understand and apply the correct medical terminology terms. Students also develop practical skills of learning to identify surface and bony landmarks of the body as well as the tissues in histological specimens.

HEM 201 Human Embryology

The Human Embryology course is designed to introduce the fundamentals of normal human development and describe the sequence of events in embryological / fetal age-related processes. Understanding of normal development will provide the basis for understanding how general and systemic development processes may go awry leading to congenital disorders.  The course lays the foundation for the understanding of the systemic development of the all-organ systems which will be learnt later.

GIM 201 Genetics, Immunology and Molecular Biology

This course is intended to be an introduction to the interrelated subjects of Genetics, Immunology and Molecular biology. The course aims to build on basic knowledge in biology and cell biology learnt in the prior semester. The course deals with the genetic and molecular biology processes and mechanisms that determine the inheritance of traits in biological organisms. Lectures in human genetics, gene structure and function will complement studies in classical genetics, genetic inheritance, gene mapping, recombinant DNA techniques, mutations, genetic abnormalities and an introduction to population and quantitative genetics. This course explores the basic principles of host defense against pathogens, including aspects of innate and adaptive immunity, and immune evasion strategies. The mechanisms of antibody formation and molecular aspects of cellular immunity, including T and B cell interactions and lymphocyte memory formation, will be emphasized, and connections to modern medicine will be highlighted.

The course develops critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills in classical genetics, immunology molecular biology and serves as foundation knowledge for the organ system courses in the following semesters

Year 2 – Semester 3

BMD 201: Basic Mechanism of Diseases

This course will cover the relevant aspects of the basic mechanisms of disease, the pathological changes and microscopic processes involved in the causation of a disease and their correlation to the clinical manifestations of the disease. The laboratory characteristics, virulence factors of the various biological agents of disease (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) and mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis will be discussed. Simultaneously, the concept of receptors and their role in action of a drug will be described. The course will summarize the general principles of antimicrobial therapy. Opportunities will be provided to understand the principles of epidemiology in public health practice.

HPS 301 Hematopoietic System

The course includes the study of development, normal structure, and functions of the hematopoietic system. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function, epidemiology, associated clinical features and pharmacological and community medicine-based principles. Also included are hemostasis and its related disorders, thrombosis, and the principles of blood component therapy. Problem based learning deals with prototype diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. Skill-based sessions on mannikins and obtaining a comprehensive history is learned as a prerequisite for the clinical phase.

CVS 301 Cardiovascular System

The Cardiovascular system will be conducted over a period of 7 weeks. It has been structured as an integrated study of the cardiovascular system including concepts of Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Community Medicine and the corresponding practical and clinical skills. Relevant principles are integrated to understand the behavior of normal circulation and its responses to the stresses of injury and disease. The course deals with common disorders involving heart and blood vessels including Ischemic, Valvular, Congenital and Infectious heart disease, Cardiac muscle disorders, Hypertension, Atherosclerosis and Vasculitis. Problem Based Learning (PBL) and Virtual Patient Learning (VPL) provide opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. The Course builds on the concepts learnt in Semester 1 & 2 with emphasis on the structure and function of the human cardiovascular system in health and disease.

Year 2 – Semester 4

BIS 101 Biostatistics

This course introduces the biomedical student to the principles of statistics and concept of clinical trial design and analysis. Systematic critical appraisal of the design, analysis and outcomes from these trials form the basis for conclusions on effectiveness of different treatment modalities. This provides the evidence base for developing guidelines in clinical care. Research continues to be essential to develop a clearer understanding of approaches. This course is intended to cover the previously mentioned principles to enable the student to be acquainted with clinical trials, especially evidence-based biomedical science.

RES 301 Respiratory System

The Respiratory System has been integrated with relevant concepts, principles and skills from anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and community medicine. The course includes the study of development, normal structure and functions of the respiratory system and their common disorders. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function, epidemiology, clinical features, principles of diagnosis and management of these disorders with a focus on disease prevention will be described.  The medico-legal aspects of specific respiratory disorders will be studied. Also included in this course are clinical skills related to the respiratory system which are learnt on manikins and simulated patients. Problem Based Learning (PBL) deals with prototype diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills.

ALS 301 Alimentary System & Nutrition

The Alimentary System and nutrition will be conducted over a period of 6 weeks. It has been structured to facilitate integrated concepts, principles, and skills from preclinical science disciplines including nutrition. The course includes the study of development, normal structure, and functions of the Alimentary System. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function of the digestive System and its accessory organs, epidemiology, associated with the clinical and laboratory features and pharmacological principles. Problem based learning deals with prototype diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. Skill based sessions for the achievement of the appropriate preclinical competences with the help of manikins and obtaining a comprehensive history are a prerequisite for the clinical phase. The course is built on the concept learnt in Semester 1-2 with emphasis on the structure and function of the human Alimentary System in health and disease.

URS 301 Urinary System

The course Urinary System provides the integrated concepts, principles, and skills from the preclinical science and community medicine disciplines. The course includes the study of development, normal structure, and function of the Urinary System. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function, epidemiology, associated clinical features and the pharmacological principles. Problem Based Learning (PBL) deals with prototype diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. Skill based sessions are placed to facilitate learning, for the achievement of appropriate preclinical competencies with the help of mannikins, simulated patients and obtaining a comprehensive history as a prerequisite for the clinical phase.  The course is built on the concepts learnt in previous semester courses and thus lays the foundation for the clinical phase.

Year 3 – Semester 5

EPI 201 Epidemiology

This course will introduce the students to the principles of epidemiology, measures of disease frequency, various epidemiological study designs such as descriptive, observational, and experimental design. Bias, confounding and causality will be dealt with. The course will also deal with screening for diseases, the principles of screening, various screening methods and ethical approaches and challenges in epidemiologic research and screening. Students will have the opportunity to critically analyze the scientific information available journals to develop their skill by reading, interpreting, reasoning, and evaluating the articles published in scientific journals. The course will be delivered through lecture and activity sessions.

EDM 301 Endocrine System

The Endocrine System will be conducted over a period of 4 weeks. It has been structured to facilitate integrated concepts, principles, and skills from the preclinical science disciplines. The course includes the study of development, normal structure, and functions of the Endocrine System. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function; epidemiology associated with clinical and laboratory findings and pharmacological principles. Problem based learning deals with prototype diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. Skill based sessions for the achievement of the appropriate preclinical competences with the help of manikins and obtaining a comprehensive history are a prerequisite for the clinical phase. The course is built on the concept learnt in Semester 1-2 with emphasis on the structure and function of the human Endocrine System in health and disease.

RPS 301 Reproductive System

The reproductive system course is conducted over a period of 4 weeks. This course has been structured as an integrated study of the Reproductive system with relevant concepts of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, and community medicine with the corresponding practical and clinical skills. The course includes the study of development, normal structure and functions of the reproductive system and their common disorders. Emphasis is placed upon etiopathogenesis, pathophysiological basis of clinical manifestations, methods of diagnosis and principles governing the pharmacological management of these disorders. Problem Based Learning (PBL) and Virtual Patient Learning (VPL) provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills.

NES 301 Nervous System

The Nervous System integrates concepts, principles, and skills from preclinical science disciples. The course includes the study of development, normal structure, and functions of the nervous system. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function, epidemiology, associated clinical features and pharmacological and community medicine principles. Problem-based learning deals with common diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem-solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. Skill-based sessions on mannikins and obtaining a comprehensive history are learned as a prerequisite for the clinical phase. The course is built on the concepts learned in previous courses

Year 3 – Semester 6

MSK 301 Musculoskeletal System and Skin

The course skin and musculoskeletal system provides detailed study of the musculoskeletal and integumentary systems in the context of human health & disease in addition to the integrated concepts, principles, and skills from the preclinical science and community medicine disciplines. The course includes the study of development, normal structure, and function of the Musculoskeletal and Integumentary System. Emphasis is placed upon the etiopathogenesis of the altered structure and function, epidemiology, associated clinical features and the pharmacological principles. Problem Based Learning (PBL) deals with prototype diseases and provides opportunities to develop problem solving, self-directed learning and communication skills. Skill based sessions on mannikins and obtaining a comprehensive history prepare the student for the clinical phase. The course is built on the concepts learnt from previous courses and lays the foundation for the clerkships in medicine and other clinical specialties.

RME 201 Research Methods

The course will equip the student with the fundamental concepts of Research Methods. This course will help the students to understand basic principles of conducting research and learn to design a research project considering its ethical issues. The students learn to apply basic principles and to develop tools for data collection in research. The course is designed to develop skills in understanding and interpreting qualitative or quantitative data in medical research.

ITE 101 Information Technology for Health Professionals

This course develops practical skills in digital technology applications within healthcare. Through intensive hands-on sessions, students gain proficiency in using software tools, managing information, and digital communication. The curriculum is designed to enhance healthcare delivery by applying technology effectively, leveraging artificial intelligence, and fostering professional digital interactions.

GLS 201 Global Health

The course provides a comprehensive overview of health challenges and solutions across diverse populations worldwide. It emphasizes the role of socio-economic, cultural, environmental, and political factors in shaping health outcomes. Students will examine infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health, and the impact of globalization on healthcare delivery. The course integrates case studies, lectures, and interactive discussions to foster a deeper understanding of health inequities and strategies for promoting equity. Participants will explore international health systems, global health governance, and policies while developing skills in collaboration, research, and ethical decision-making. Designed to prepare future healthcare professionals, this course highlights the importance of multidisciplinary approaches and cultural competence in addressing global health needs. By the end, students will be equipped to contribute effectively to improving health outcomes on a local and international scale.

Students enrolled with MUL will take the Polish Language course in their third year.

POL 101: Polish Language

Polish language is offered to the students who are enrolled in clinical phase with Medical University of Lublin. It provides basic communication skills in Polish language which will help students in transition to MUL.

This course is designed for beginners who must learn the fundamentals of the Polish language and culture. Participants will focus on essential grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and everyday conversational skills. Through interactive lessons, exercises, and cultural immersion activities, students will gain confidence in understanding and speaking Polish. Topics include greetings, introductions, basic questions, and simple dialogues for practical situations. The course also highlights Polish traditions, holidays, and social norms, enriching the learning experience. Upon completing the course, students will possess the basic language skills required for everyday interactions and further studies in Polish language. They will be prepared to transition to Poland for the next phase of their medical education.