I would like to take this time to welcome you all to a new and exciting year at Georgetown American University. The mission of the University is to create and nurture a diverse student body committed to

leadership in alleviating human suffering caused by disease through innovative research and healthcare delivery.

At GAU we are not only focused on equipping students with the quality education to become successful health professionals, but we also provide the necessary tools that would mold you into becoming humanitarians and lifelong learners. The experience you will gain at GAU would stretch your imagination undoubtedly beyond its limits, to bring out your best qualities as you step into a career of exciting possibilities.

This handbook is a tool to help you navigate through the GAU experience. I urge you to pay close attention to the Student Code of Conduct. It serves as a reminders of the qualities that we, as a community expect every GAU student to

exhibit. Learning is more than what you experience in the classroom. Not only am I expecting you to perform at your highest level academically, but I also expecting you to have a personal commitment to your holistic development.

I have a personal commitment to make Georgetown American University a high-quality University. My commitment along with yours will lead us to great success, and I look forward to that, and so should you.

Welcome to Georgetown American University!

Dr. Melissa Varswyk, M.D

Tweet with us: www.twitter.com/gauedugy

Emergency Numbers

Guyana

Emergency hotline: 911

GAU Contact Number (08:00 – 14:30hrs): + 592 226 1275

GAU Contact Number (evenings and holidays): +592 231 6578

USA

Emergency hotline: 911

GAU contact number Ga.: +1 404 348 4891

GAU contact number Fl.: +1 954 328 3511

GAU contact number Ma. +1 240 938 0893

GEORGETOWN AMERICAN UNVESITY

Hippocratic Oath (Modern version)

I swear to fulfill, to the best of my ability and judgment, this covenant:

I will respect the hard-won scientific gains of those physicians in whose steps I walk, and gladly share such knowledge as is mine with those who are to follow.

I will apply, for the benefit of the sick, all measures which are required, avoiding those twin traps of overtreatment and therapeutic nihilism.

I will remember that there is art to medicine as well as science, and that warmth, sympathy, and understanding may outweigh the surgeon’s knife or the chemist’s drug.

I will not be ashamed to say “I know not,” nor will I fail to call in my colleagues when the skills of another are needed for a patient’s recovery.

I will respect the privacy of my patients, for their problems are not disclosed to me that the world may know. Most especially must I tread with care in matters of life and death. If it is given me to save a life, all thanks. But it may also be within my power to take a life; this awesome responsibility must be faced with great humbleness and awareness of my own frailty.

Above all, I must not play at God.

I will remember that I do not treat a fever chart, a cancerous growth, but a sick human being, whose illness may affect the person’s family and economic stability. My responsibility includes these related problems, if I am to care adequately for the sick.

I will prevent disease whenever I can, for prevention is preferable to cure.

I will remember that I remain a member of society, with special obligations to all my fellow human beings, those sound of mind and body as well as the infirm.

If I do not violate this oath, may I enjoy life and art, respected while I live and remembered with affection thereafter. May I always act so as to preserve the finest traditions of my calling and may I long experience the joy of healing those who seek my help.

IMPORTANT LINKS AND CONTACT INFORMATION

Student Management System:

Email Access:

Research Portal – Non-communicable disease Survey:

Contact Information

Department and Posit
Management and Staff
Academic Office	592 226 1375 592 226 3858	academics@gau.edu.gy
Finance Office		finance@gau.edu.gy
Student Affairs Office		student.affairs@gau.edu.gy
Clinical Sciences (USA) – Dr. Isis Anderson	404-348-4891	isis.anderson@gau.edu.gy
Clinical Sciences (Guyana) – Dr. Higgins		onica.higgins@gau.edu.gy
Diversity and Equality Committee: Ms. Cassia Baxter	592 226 1375	cassia.baxter@gau.edu.gy
Occupational, Safety and Health Committee: Dr. Isioma Oside		academics@gau.edu.gy
Student Organization
Student Honor Council – ST Dr. Bancroft – St. Dr. Alfred		jahmai.bancroft@student.gau.edu.gy (GY) aruna.charran@student.gau.edu.gy (GY) cynthia.dah@student.gau.edu.gy (USA)
GAU Student National Medical Association		willie.carter@student.gau.edu.gy (USA) seona.wray@student.gau.edu.gy (GY)
Student Events		cassi.jhingoree@student.gau.edu.gy (GY) sarah.ince@student.gau.edu.gy (GY) cynthia.dah@student.gau.edu.gy (USA)
GAU Alumni Association President – Hayaat M. Amara, MD		gaunationalalumni@gmail.com

INTRODUCTION

The student handbook serves to provide the basic guidance you may need to help you to make the most of the opportunities at Georgetown American University. This handbook must be used for a full understanding of the policies and procedures governing the institution and the services that are provided to make your experience at GAU productive and meaningful.

MISSION STATEMENT

VISION

The vision of the GAU is to:

Educate and retain a diverse health care provider workforce needed to help address the underserved patient care needs
Develop a platform for an expanded biomedical health and clinical sciences research program to advance knowledge in the medical sciences;
Contribute internationally by enhancing the clinical delivery system through relationships with community hospitals, physicians, and other healthcare providers, as well as attracting and training new healthcare providers

CORE VALUES

Our Core Values are:

Believe in quality
Be Innovative
Bring passion
Build team spirit

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

Our emergency notification system can be accessed by signing into our students’ portal online. Important notices will automatically be forwarded to students official university’s email (firstname.lastname@student.gau.edu.gy) and if urgent, to email, social media and WhatsApp groups. Students are advised to ensure that they update both their email and cell phone number on their student portal account to ensure they receive important notifications sent by the university.

SAFETY FIRST

Commencing Fall 2019, all classes/sessions at GAU will begin with a safety moment. We have updated our safety policy to ensure all stakeholders at GAU are aware of all procedures in place to ensure their safety at the University.

Students:

Are responsible for your own personal health and safety
Must comply with any and all reasonable directions (such as safe work procedures, wearing personal protective equipment) given by the university for health and safety with the intent of avoiding injury to self and others
Must wear personal protective equipment and clothing where necessary
Must not misuse or interfere with anything provided for health and safety
Must report all accidents and incidents on the job immediately, no matter if they appear trivial. The safety rule is no one will be penalized for violating safety rules, so feel free to make a report by filling out a note to the OSH
Must report all known or observed hazards to your instructor or member of the OSH Committee
Must always be prepared share a safety moment with your class or within any gathering at the Don’t hesitate to interrupt any session to share a safety movement if the instructor of that session fails to start with a safety moment.

Please take a few minutes to read through the University’s OSH Policy that will be emailed to you during the first week of the school term and is also made available to students through the various student groups and social media platform.

GEORGETOWN AMERICAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL PROGRAM

Our Learning Environment

GAUSOM and its affiliated hospitals and clinics are firmly committed to fostering a culture of mutual respect and trust. It is the strong and consistent policy of GAUSOM to treat all members of our community with respect, to provide an education conducive to the personal and professional development of each individual and is committed to maintaining an academic environment free of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, political affiliation and any other legally protected classes in the relevant jurisdiction that complies with the local law. GAU will not tolerate, condone or allow discrimination or harassment, whether engaged in by fellow students, faculty members, or non-faculty employees. All members of the GAU family are expected to create a learning environment where students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders treat each other with respect.

During enrollment into the GAU program students are required to:

Sign a Code of conduct form
Sign a Student Contract

A copy of the Code of conduct pledge is outlined below:

Course and Examination Requirements

The requirement for entering the Premedical Program Premedical Program

High School Diploma
High School Transcript
1. USA: SAT score 1110 and above
2. CARICOM: 6 CSEC Subjects (2 Science, Mathematics, English) Grades I – III
3. Commonwealth: 6 GSCE Subjects (2 Science, Mathematics, English) Grades 9 – 4 or equivalence
4. Personal Essay – Why you want to study Medicine?
2 Letters of Recommendation from medical or academic professionals who know of student interest in

The requirements for enrollment into the Preclinical Sciences Program:

Undergraduate GPA with at least 2.7 from a recognized university or college; or GAU pre-medical student: GPA of

2.9 in the premedical sciences program with Premedical Committee Evaluation score of > 8; or MCAT score of

>500

Proof of any Medical experience and professional work history, volunteering experience will be an
Personal Essay expressing your interest in studying Medicine
Letters of Recommendation from medical or academic professionals who know of student interest in
Students pre-selected will be invited for an interview. A successful interview automatically qualifies for entry into the

The requirements for transferring to GAUSOM program:

Credit for transfer

Students transferring into GAUSOM programs must fulfill the entry requirements (as stated above) for each program. Credits are only accepted from institutions that are recognized by the International Federation of Medical Schools. These credits will be identified on GAU transcript as Transferred Credits (TC).

Students transferring will only be exempted (and credits accepted) from courses that share the same structure of the courses in the GAU curriculum. These courses must have assigned the same instructional hours or more and must fulfill the format of delivery required by the GAU curriculum eg. Laboratory hours, clinical experience etc.

Transfer into Premedical Sciences

Students must spend no less than 1 full term in the premedical sciences program and must complete the following courses even if taken in the previous institution

Health Assessment
Professional Development

Transfer into Preclinical Sciences

A student must transfer into at least the last 2 trimesters of Preclinical Sciences, MD 4 and MD 5. Students transferring into year 2 must complete the NBME Step 1 Comprehensive exam which will determine placement. You must complete the following courses even if it was previously completed at your previous university:

Professional Development
Block 8: Neurosciences II

Transfer into Clinical Sciences

Students transferring into Year 3 of GAUSOM must complete Block 10 and the Comprehensive NBME Step 1 Exams prior to enrollment into Clinical Sciences program. Transfer students must enroll in GAU and complete at least 52 weeks of the Core Clinical Sciences courses and the 8 weeks’ final year project of the MD program to be eligible to Graduate from GAU.

Pre-clerkship (Preclinical Sciences)

In order to participate in clinical courses at the GAUSOM affiliated hospitals and clinics, all students must complete certified training sessions in Basic Life Support (BLS; recertify every two years) and OSHA requirements; have an annual TB test; and provide certification that required immunizations are up-to-date. Students may need to meet other hospital-specific requirements as well, such as mandatory flu vaccines. Students must meet these requirements prior to beginning the Doctor of Medicine course.

Pre-clerkship course requirement

Years 1 & 2

Courses	hours per week	week per block
Block 1	183hrs	8 weeks
Genetics and Biochemistry	28
Anatomy and Embryology	31
Histology	81
Physiology	8
Microbiology and Immunology	20
Clinical Skills	10
Pharmacology	5
	183

Block 2	159hrs.	9 weeks
Embryology and Anatomy	40
Histology	45
Physiology	36
Clinical Skills	32
Pharmacology	6

	159

Block 3	111 hrs.	8 weeks
Embryology and Anatomy	34
Physiology	30
Biochemistry	15
PBL	32
	111
Block 4	105hrs.	5 weeks
Embryology and Anatomy	42
Physiology	10
Pharmacology	2
Clinical Skills	36
USMLE Step 1 Review	15
	105

Block 5	95hrs.	5 weeks
Embryology and Anatomy	30
PBL	20
Clinical Skills	30
USMLE Step 1 Review	15
	95

Block 6	118 hrs.	9 weeks
Microbiology	34
Immunology	16
Pharmacology	14
Doctoring	18
USMLE Step 1 Review	36
	118

Block 7	196hrs	8 weeks
Pathology	72
Pharmacology	32
Clinical Skills	20
Doctoring	48
USMLE	40
	212

Block 8	92 hrs.	5 weeks
Behavioral Sciences	32
Epidemiology	15
Clinical SKILLS	20

USMLE Step 1 Review	25
	92

Block 9	212hrs	8 weeks
Pathology	72
Pharmacology	32
Clinical Skills	20
Doctoring	48
USMLE Step 1 Review	40
	212

Block 10	126hrs
Clinical Sciences	96	6 weeks
USMLE Step 1 Review	30
	126

Clerkship Courses

Years 3 & 4

Clerkship Courses	No Weeks	Credit	No. Hours
CCI
Medicine	8	8	320
Emergency Medicine	4	4	160
Surgery	4	4	160
Pediatrics	4	4	160
Family Medicine	4	4	160
Neurology	2	2	80
CCII
Internal Medicine – Primary Care	2	2	80
Family Medicine – Primary Care	2	2	80
Obstetrics-Gynecology	6	6	240
Psychiatry	6	6	240
Surgery	4	4	160
Pediatrics including adolescent medicine	2	2	80
Radiology-imaging	2	2	80
Community service project	2	2	80

Selective	4	4	160
Elective	20		800
Research	8		320
			3360
40 hrs. per week =1 credit
80hrs per week = maximum duty hours

Transfer students:

Please note above (pages 5-6) the compulsory courses that must be completed when transferring into the program

Examinations requirement for Graduation

The following exams, in addition to individual course assessment, must be passed in order to receive an MD from GAU

Professional Development Weeks/Assessment Exercises – Years 1-2
GAU Comprehensive OSCE Exams Years 2 & 3
NBME Comprehensive Exams Year 2 & 4

Student Assessment in the Premedical Sciences Program

Two types of assessments are done at GAU. The main type of assessment is formative. This serves as a form of feedback for students with information that identify their strengths and weaknesses, thus facilitating their independent growth and development on the path toward becoming a physician.

The next form of assessment is summative, which focuses on determining whether students have met the standards identified by instructors and department directors. Examples of summative assessments used in premedical sciences are weekly quizzes, end of term exams etc. Student performance on summative assessment are translated into Honors, High Pass, Pass and Fail grade for Clinical Sciences.

Student Assessment in the MD Program

The main type of assessment in the MD program is formative. The Professional Development Weeks/Assessment Exercises in Years 1-2 is a form of formative assessment. Mid-block evaluations and completion of question banks during core rotations are also examples of formative assessment.

The next form of assessment is summative. Student performance on summative assessment is translated into Satisfactory or Fail grades for pre-clinical and Honors, High Pass, Pass and Fail grade for Premedical and Clinical Sciences. In the pre- clinical curriculum, assessment methods and formats include written exams (e.g., closed book, open book, multiple choice); practical exams; oral exams and observations of simulated patient interviews.

In the clinical clerkships, student assessment methods include direct observations of clinical work; reviews of patient write- ups; written exams; oral exams; Standardized Patient (SP) exercises referred to as Objective Structured Clinical Exams (OSCEs); simulation sessions; and standardized National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Subject Exams (“shelf exams”).

Professional Development Weeks: MD students participate in two Professional Development Weeks (PDWs) – one in the preclinical Year I and the other in Year II: These weeks include several elements: cumulative assessment activities focusing on integration and application of course-based material and on critical thinking; clinical skills testing in the form of OSCEs; time for student reflection and advising; development and implementation of Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs); and

remediation activities, as needed. Assessment during PDWs is strictly formative, offering feedback to students and allowing them opportunities to work with their advisors to identify strengths and challenges and to develop plans for continuous development and growth.

At the completion of Preclinical, all GAU MD students take the Comprehensive Examination I (Comp Exam I). The Comp Exam I is taken after completion of Block 10 – ICM and tests students’ physical examination and patient interview skills along with their ability to incorporate basic sciences principles in solving clinical cases.

The Comp Exam II is a six-station OSCE designed to examine students’ clinical and communication skills and their ability to diagnose and demonstrate clinical reasoning and to discuss the most commonly encountered entities in the major clinical disciplines. Students must pass the Comp Exam in order to matriculate into the Clinical Sciences Program.

MD Program Objectives

By the time of graduation, all students will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of established and evolving basic, clinical, behavioral and social sciences.
Apply their basic, clinical, behavioral and social sciences knowledge to problems in clinical
Assimilate basic, clinical, behavioral and social sciences into everyday care of patients and towards improving the health care in their
Critically analyze clinical cases and derive solutions to the improvement of health by providing evidence-based, compassionate care for patients that are appropriate for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of illness and the promotion of health,
Apply the skills necessary for continuous personal growth and lifelong
Work effectively as part of a healthcare team to ensure safe and efficient patient

COURSE DELIVERY

GAU is working towards advancing the delivery of education by using two modern teaching methods. The pilot program begun summer 2018 and with full installation in 2019.

Blended Learning

Blended learning, with its mix of technology and traditional face-to-face instruction, is a great approach. Blended learning combines classroom learning with online learning, in which students can, in part, control the time, pace, and place of their learning.

Flipped Classroom

Video lectures and presentations will be delivered online using the Student Learning System. The Student will study these materials at their own pace prior to attending the scheduled classes. The classroom sessions should be used to:

Explain concepts
Answer questions students may have about the online presentations and videos viewed
Use role play and problem-based learning methods (clinical cases etc.) to emphasize the concepts

Policy on Teaching and Learning

Georgetown American strives to make a contribution to society at large. The University commits itself to an outward- oriented role within Guyana and globally, as an academic institution of excellence and a respected knowledge partner. The University further commits itself to foster a campus culture that welcomes a diversity of people and ideas and that promotes growth and development.

Excellence is the underlying value in all learning and teaching programs at the University. The University’s vision for the field of teaching is formulated as follows:

A university characterized by quality teaching, by the constant renewal of teaching and learning programs, and by the creation of effective opportunities for learning/study.

The University thus places a high premium on the promotion, acknowledgment, and reward of good, accountable teaching practice and acknowledges the central role of the teaching staff in the realization of our vision.

Changes in the higher education arena have compelled us to respond accordingly. Indeed, recognizing the benefits of the innovative use of technology to support learning, our student Learning Management System is used as a tool for incorporating digital materials into the learning process. Videos, audios, power-point presentations and 3D technologies are used to aid in the teaching process. Virtual laboratory sessions are also incorporated in most of the natural sciences based courses and a few of the health sciences courses. This system facilitates hands-on experience in various areas, including clinical exposure from Term One of the medical program. It also augments the types of skills that are required in the work environment.

Student Records

Grade report can be accessed on the SMS
To request a transcript, a copy of the transcript form must be collected from the academic office. It will also be made available on the new student portal. The student must be in good financial standing with the University to request a copy of an up-to-date
GAU does not release non-directory information to a third party without the consent of the student unless required by law. Kindly review student record

Access to Educational Records

GAU fully respect students’ rights to privacy and thus third person request for student’s record is not allowed without formal approval from the Student.

Course Evaluation

At the end of each trimester or block, students are asked to evaluate each course in their trimester, and for each of the members of the faculty involved in the teaching of the coursework. In addition, students may be asked periodically to complete surveys evaluating specific functions and services that GAU provides. This input is important in assessing the perceptions and needs of our students.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Timeline and Schedules

Academic year schedule 2019 – 2020

Commencement of Fall 2019 – August 26, 2019
GAU CPR Day – September 11, 2019
GAU Students meet and greet – September 13, 2019
Year Book Photoshoot schedule – September 20, 2019
Student Government General Meeting – September 20, 2019
GAU White Coat Ceremony – September 27, 2019
GAU Student Assessment Week – October 2019
2019 Graduation Ceremony – November 23, 2019, @Guyana Marriott (16:00hrs – 18:00hrs)
Fall Final Exam week – December 2- 6, 2019
Commencement of Winter 2019 – January 6, 2020
Safety Day – January 15, 2020
Career Guidance Seminar – January 31, 2020
Winter Exam Week – April 13 – 17, 2020
Commencement of Summer 2020 – May 4, 2020
Summer Final Exam week August 10 – 16, 2020

Safety Schedule

Management Safety walkthrough – last Friday every month
Toolbox talk – Second Monday every term
Safety Drill – once per term (exact date to be announced, will be posted on message board, social media platforms and sent to students’ official University email)

Campus Hours

Monday to Friday: 08:00 hrs. To 17:00 hrs.

Important Contact Information

Student Affairs: (592) 226 1375; student.affairs@gau.edu.gy

Academic Office: (592) 226 1375; academics@gau.edu.gy

Finance Office: (592) 226 3858; finance@gau.edu.gy

Clinical Sciences Office: 1 404-348-4891; clinicals@gau.edu.gy

Please ensure you are a part of the GAU Family WhatsApp group and GAU Student Government Association Facebook page so that you can stay up-to-date with all correspondences coming out of the University. To gain access to WhatsApp and Facebook group please consult with Student Government Association members.

GRADING AND ASSESSMENT

Attendance

Attendance accounts for 10% of the final grade for all programs at GAU.

90% attendance for classes is required. Students failing to fulfill this requirement will not be allowed to sit the final exams. The rule may not be applied if absent due to a medical
In the case of a medical emergency, you are required to submit a medical certification from your doctor. Any other cause of lateness will be to the discretion of the instructor. If for some reason the student feels they were unfairly treated they can lodge a complaint at student
The instructor may determine whether or not he/she will accept late attendees into the class. Lateness accounts for

0.75 out of 1.0 if registered as present. The assessment of attendance is as followed:

100% attendance with 100% punctuality = 10
100% attendance without 100% punctuality = 8
90 – 99% attendance with 100% punctuality = 7
90 – 99% attendance without 100% punctuality = 5
Less than 90% attendance = 0 (students will automatically have to retake the course)

Grading Scale

Georgetown American University’s grading scale is as followed: Preclinical Sciences

Satisfactory 70 – 100

Fail less than 70

Premedical Sciences and Clinical Sciences

Honors (H) 90 – 100

High Pass (HP) 80 – 89

Pass (P) 70 – 79

Fail less than 70

Assessment Category

Premedical Sciences and Preclinical Sciences

Attendance

GAU requires that all students attend at least 90% of the classroom session to fulfill the requirements of the program. Attendance can be done using the faculty portal account. This will account for 10% of the final marks for each course.

Workbook

Each course will be assigned a workbook to be used as a summative assessment tool. The workbook will account for 10% of final grade

Presentation

The use of Presentation allows students to develop the ability to synthesize a significant amount of material and develop concise, effective arguments in their own voice. To fulfill the objectives of the curriculum there should be at least 1 student presentation assigned to the course. The presentation will be assessed using a Rubric grading scale and will account 10% of the final mark.

Assignment

An assignment in the form of an essay of project document must be assessed for each course. It is recommended that an assignment should be given to student during the first week of the academic term with specific instructions on the content requirement, grading, and deadline. Assignment account for 10% of the final marks.

In-class quizzes

Classes scheduled for Monday to Thursdays are only for lectures, presentations, and problem-based learning sessions and summative assessments only. Fridays are reserved for formative assessments eg. Quizzes. Quizzes account for 10% of the final grade.

Final Exam

Exams account for 50% of the grade. For premedical sciences, there should be a midterm and an end of term cumulative exams. Preclinical sciences exams are done at the end of each block and should be in the form of written exam (25% of exam marks) and OSCE exam (25% of exam marks).

Clinical Sciences

Preceptor’s Assessment – 60% final grade for core clerkship; 80% elective clerkship
Logbook – 10 % final grade for core and elective clerkship
NBME Subject Exam (the only accepted exam for core clerkships courses) – 10% for core clerkship only
Question Bank completion – 10% for core clerkship only
Attendance – 10% for core and elective clerkship

Credit Calculation

Premedical Sciences: Course credit = total instructional hours per week

Preclinical Sciences Course credit = at least 16 hrs. per instructional weeks per block Clinical Sciences Course credit = at least 40 hrs. per instructional week

Transcript and Enrollment Statement

Students may request transcripts of their records or statements certifying their registration at GAU at the Registrar’s Office. An official letter must be addressed to the Registrar:

Dr. Norman Ng-A-Qui Registrar

Georgetown American University 81 Croal Street, Georgetown

A transcript form will be given upon the formal receipt of the request for a transcript. Please allow 5 -7 business days for processing a request.

WITHDRAWAL, DEFERRAL, DISMISSAL

Withdrawal from courses or program

There are 2 types of withdrawals, Voluntary withdrawal and Administrative withdrawal.

Administrative Withdrawal

Students are subject to Administrative Withdrawal if they:

Do not register for program by the prescribed deadline determined by the University
Do not return to campus to check-in during the designated check-in period prior to the start of the semester. Check- in period is determined by the University
Fail to report to a clinical rotation on the first day of the rotation (for CFC and Clinical Clerkships).
Do not return at the time specified as the end of an approved absence or take an unauthorized
Are not scheduled for a clinical rotation for a period of 180 days or more and have not applied for and received an AA.
Do not sit for the Comprehensive NBME within three consecutive
Do not submit missing file documentation within one trimester of being admitted, including but not limited to transcripts and immigration
Students who are absent without approved leave of absence (LOA) from classes for more than 26 weeks are subject to administrative withdrawal. Students who fail to return after an LOA will be subject to administrative withdrawal effective their last date of All gaps of enrollment longer than four weeks in duration (with the exception of scheduled breaks), including LOA, are reported in the Medical Student Performance Evaluation submitted to the National Residency Match Program. Please speak with your Student Finance staff for the impact on financial aid.

Voluntary Withdrawal

The student makes a decision that he or she no longer wishes to participate in the program.

Students may voluntarily withdraw from enrollment. They must then apply for readmission if they wish to return to GAU, and will be subject to the tuition policy for withdrawals. Readmission is not guaranteed but applications will be reviewed by the Registrar’s office. Readmitted students will typically be subject to all academic policies and tuition and fees in effect at the time of re-enrollment. Student withdrawals are governed by the following policies:

Application for Withdrawal: Students may not withdraw from a single course/block during a trimester; they must withdraw completely from GAU. Within the Foundations of Medicine curriculum, students may begin the withdrawal process by completing an Application for Withdrawal form from the Associate Dean’s office. They must then obtain all required clearances and

Transcripts: Students withdrawing from GAU will receive “W” (if no exams were taken), “WP” or “WF” on their transcripts depending on whether they were passing or failing a block at the time of their withdrawal. All approved withdrawals must then be submitted to the University

Refunds

Refunds, if required, will be determined by the last academically-related activity.

Readmission

Readmission with “WF.” Students who receive “WF” in any block at the time of withdrawal will be reviewed by the Registrar office to determine whether they are eligible for readmission.

Deferrals

Prior to the start of classes, students admitted to a specific trimester may request to defer their admission to a subsequent trimester. The following policies apply to deferrals:

This privilege is limited to no more than the upcoming two trimesters. Students who do not begin enrollment during that period are considered deactivated and must re-apply for admission.
Applications and Requirements. Applications for deferrals must be made to the Admissions Office. Students deferring to a future semester must meet all the requirements in effect for that
Week One Deferral. Entering students who, following their initial check-in on campus, wish to defer their enrollment to the following trimester may do so through Student Affairs. This option is only available during week one of the
On occasion, students who are admitted for a given trimester do not arrive on campus to check-in for that trimester, and they do not request a deferral. These students are administratively withdrawn and are considered to have deactivated their applications. They must re-apply for admission.

Disciplinary Dismissals

GAU may implement disciplinary actions for non-academic infractions that may result in suspension or dismissal. Students may be dismissed from GAU for poor academic performance, violations of the Honor Code, or for disruptive or unprofessional behavior (for further examples, please see the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Actions).

As a general GAU policy, students who are dismissed will not be considered for readmission. Dismissal of this kind during an academic trimester does not warrant reduction of tuition and fees.

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

Advising and Career Guidance

During your first two years of medical school, you’ll assess your interests and your skill development. You’ll get more immersed in the various specialties your third year. Some recommendations for Premedical and Preclinical Sciences students:

Attend the Career Seminar: These are 1-hour seminars organized throughout the academic term that introduce students to the medical You’ll hear talks and participate in Q&A with faculty, community physicians, and visiting physicians.
Arrange a mentoring or shadowing experience with clinical faculty. Get a list of contacts for shadowing or mentoring opportunities (link is external)
Volunteer at Clinics and Hospitals.
Look for a medical student interest group in the areas you are interested

In your third year, you’ll get an in-depth exposure to many of the medical disciplines during your clinical clerkship.

You’ll also receive mentoring from clinical faculty serving as Faculty Career Advisors. These are faculty chosen by their departments who receive special training in this role.

Library

The required reading texts and review books are available in Digital format for all courses. Students will be given access to a copy of each of the text at the beginning of the course.

Virtual Laboratory

Premedical Sciences and Year -1 Preclinical Sciences students will receive a Virtual Laboratory account.

CONDUCT AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Policy on Student Conduct

All students must abide by the Student Code of Conduct. At registration, a Code of Conduct form will be given to all enrolled students. This form must be signed and return to the Academic Office. The Code of Conduct is printed below.

Honor Pledge

The Honor Code applies to every student who is enrolled at GAU. Accordingly, every student shall be required to verify acceptance of the Honor System by signing the following Honor Pledge:

“As a student at GAU, I, (student name), do hereby accept the Honor System. I have received the Student Handbook and am fully aware of the Honor Code and Constitution and the Student Code of Conduct contained within. I agree to read and become familiar with the Honor Code and Constitution.

Student Code of Conduct

Accordingly, I resolve to refrain from conducting myself in a manner that is unbecoming of a medical professional. I acknowledge that, in support of the Honor System, it is my responsibility to report any violations of the Honor Code or Student Code of Conduct. I understand that with any violation of the Honor Code or Student Code of Conduct, a plea of ignorance will not be acceptable, and the violation may result in my permanent dismissal from GAU.

I pledge that I shall endeavor at all times to create a spirit of honor of my chosen profession by upholding the Honor System myself and helping others to do the same.”

Registration as a student at GAU is not complete until signed verification of the Honor Pledge is on file, and no grades can be recorded until this is done. If the Pledge is not signed by the end of the fourth week of the trimester, the student’s matriculation may be canceled and all fees paid will be forfeited in accordance with the withdrawal policy described in this handbook. The ultimate responsibility for signing the Honor Pledge rests with each individual student. On the first day of classes each trimester, students receive a link to the Student Handbook and this pledge by incorporation.

Disciplinary Action and Honor Council

The Honor Council is a judicial body designed to try specific cases brought to it regarding possible violations of the Honor Code. The Honor Council president is elected at large by the entire student body from among currently enrolled students. The ten other members, consisting of two representatives from each academic year (premed, MD first, second, third and fourth year), are elected by currently enrolled students in the respective academic year.

The Honor Council may receive complaints directly from community members or may have cases forwarded from Student Affairs or other administrative offices.

Disciplinary Action and Management

Complaints made that is not reflective of the violation of the Honor Code is brought to the attention of the Dean’s Office. Upon receiving the complaint, the Dean’s office will assign a judicial body to address the complaint.

Sanctions

In keeping with GAU’s commitment to creating a safe and productive learning environment, we have implemented the disciplinary process to discourage conduct inconsistent with the high standards held by most of our students. Following a disciplinary action, GAU may impose appropriate sanctions, varying according to the severity of the offense, that we hope will protect those dedicated to learning this challenging profession and encourage ethical conduct among their peers.

Sanctions are determined by the Deans office following the resolution of a disciplinary action. This may be an informal resolution, such as a Complaint settled through mediation; or a hearing following an infraction of the Honor Code or Code of Conduct. The latter two are held before the Honor Council and Grievance Committee, who may also recommend sanctions.

There follows a list of the most commonly imposed sanctions, but GAU may also choose to impose other sanctions, not listed here, depending on the severity of the misconduct. We strive to find a balance between encouraging those that deserve a second chance while still protecting the rights of the majority of our students, who deserve an orderly learning environment.

Available Sanctions

Warning or Admonition. A warning or admonition is the issuance of an oral or written reprimand. These are generally given to alert a student in danger of more serious sanctions if academic, attendance, conduct or other compliance issues are not promptly
Required Compliance/ Remediation. When a student is out of compliance with enrollment or admission requirements, GAU will inform the student of the area needing attention, and how the situation may be In the event of a delay in compliance, GAU may impose one or more of the following sanctions, and perhaps other appropriate measures as required, until the student becomes fully compliant.
1. Restricted campus privileges until compliance are
2. Collection of monies or property where restitution is
3. Counseling and education in the area of
4. Participation in psycho-educational groups and/or assigned educational initiatives designed to assist the student towards

Filing a Complaint

The first step in resolving any dispute is to communicate with the person of whom you have the dispute with. If you are unable to come to a resolve lodge a formal complaint. All formal complaints made by students must be filed through

the Student Affairs Office. You will be able to lodge a complaint through the management system by filling out the complaint form. If this method is not available, you can uplift a form and return i to the Student Affairs Officer. The Student Affairs Office will be in regular contact with the student in regards to the complaint made until the issue has been resolved.

If a student wishes to file a complaint anonymously he or she can send a postal mail to the Students Affairs office or the President of the Honor Council.

Students Attire

Students at Georgetown American University SOM are required to dress professional at all times. As of Fall 2019, students are not required to wear scrubs to premedical and preclinical sciences classes. The following dress code is in full effect as of September 1, 2019.

All GAU SOM students are to wear professional attire (Casually formal) while on campus or attending any event in which he or she is representing
Enclosed shoes; no flip flops or sandals
The student id must be visible at all times while on-campus or at any training facilities
Lab coats with the GAU embroidered Logo must always be worn while at training facilities and during Clinical Skills presentations and assessments

Student Mistreatment Policy

As described by the Association of American Medical Colleges, mistreatment occurs when “behavior shows disrespect for the dignity of others and unreasonably interferes with the learning process. It can take the form of physical punishment, sexual harassment, psychological cruelty, and discrimination based on race, religion, ethnicity, sex, age, or sexual orientation.” Each member of the GAU community is entitled to respect and all professional relationship, regardless of status, should be treated respectfully and courteously. All individuals, despite of their culture, ethnicity, background or sexual orientation, should feel welcome in the learning environment

GAU will have zero tolerance for:

Situations where there is physical abuse or violence
Humiliating of students whether verbally or physically as justified by reasonable thinking persons
Threats to fail, give lower grades, or submit a poor evaluation based on gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, or refusal to grant personal favors
Exclusion from learning opportunities without justifiable reasons

GAU takes allegations of student mistreatment very seriously. The steps for making a complaint:

A student fills out the complaint form attached to the management system. The student can also receive a copy of the complaint form from the student Affairs The student Affairs officer will address the complaint as urgent, moderate or mild.
1. If the complaint is considered urgent, all measures will be taken to address the complaint within 24
2. If the complaint is labeled as moderate, all measures will be taken to address the complaint within 48 – 72 hours.
3. If the complaint is labeled mild, all efforts will be taken to address the complaint within 5 business In the instance where an investigation is needed to resolve the complaint, the additional steps will be taken.
Student affairs will forward the complaint to the Associate Dean within 48 working hrs. of receiving the
The Associate Dean should first approach the Head of Department (HoD) for the affected program with the intent of rectifying the inequity within 48 working hrs. of receiving the
The HoD will investigate the situation and provide a report to the Associate Dean describing the violation and indicating how the situation has been remedied within 72 working hrs. of receiving the
If a final decision is not made within 72 working hours of the HoD with make contact with the Associate Dean to update on the current state of the If a final decision is not made within 5 working days of the Clinical Sciences Director receiving the complaint, the Dean will be notified to make an executive decision. The dean can choose whether to take the complaint to the Conflict Resolution committee.
In the instance where a student does not accept the final decision, the student has a right of appeal to the Conflict Resolution Committee.

Disability/Medical Accommodations Statement:

GAU is committed to supporting the educational goals of students with disabilities in the areas of admissions, enrollment, academic mentoring, tutoring, assistive technologies, and testing accommodations. If you have or think you may have a disability, you may be eligible for reasonable accommodations or academic adjustments. You may also request services for temporary conditions or medical issues under certain circumstances. If you have questions about your eligibility or would like to seek accommodation services or academic adjustments, please contact the Student Affairs Office at the University or via email: studentaffairs@gau.edu.gy. You can also download a request form online https://gau.edu.gy/students-with- disability/

FINANCIAL OBLIGATION

Tuition Outline

GAU tuition for local and International students is outlined below.

Program/Year	Cost
Premedical Sciences (16 months program)	$7500
MD – Preclinical Sciences Year 1	$7500
MD – Preclinical Sciences Year 2	$7500
MD – Clinical Sciences Year 3	$9000 (Rotations in Guyana); $29700 (Rotations in USA)
MD – Clinical Sciences Year 4	$9000 (Rotations in Guyana); $29700 (Rotations in USA)

Students who register as International students at the commencement of studies cannot be changed to local students during their period of studies at GAU even though their immigration status changes.

The additional required fees are:

Registration Fee – this is a 1x payment made during the first term at GAU
Student Government Association dues – $20 US per term is made payable to the Student Government Association
Health Insurance in Guyana and USA – $800US
Liability Insurance is a requirement for clinical rotations in the USA. The annual cost is $1200
Examination fee – $200 US

Refund Policy

Application fees and Registration fees are Non-refundable. There is a refund policy for Tuition fees that are paid in full per term or per year. Tuition is non-refundable for students who are on monthly payment plans.

Time Frame	Refund
Prior to commencement of classes	100% Refund
1 Week of Classes	50% Refund
2^nd Week of Classes	25% Refund
After 2^nd Week of Classes	0% Refund

Financial Aid

Students who have received a scholarship and other forms of financial aid will be required to sign an additional form which will specify the terms and conditions for receiving financial aid. Kindly contact the Student Finance Office at (592) 226 3858 for more information on the available financial aid available for students.

STUDENT HEALTH

The learning and practice of medicine involve exposure to infectious agents. Personal risk can be minimized by intelligent attention to immunization, Standard Precautions, and other preventive measures.

Immunization

GAU students must present evidence of vaccination against measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis and hepatitis B in order to commence any clinical training at GAU. Clinical training commences during the first term in premedical sciences during the Essentials in Health Assessment Course. Thus all students must, during the first week of the academic term present documentations confirming immunization.

Required Health Training

Students are also required to take the Infectious control course and BLS course during their first year at the University. Without these certifications, they will not be allowed to matriculate into the clinical sciences program.

Health Insurance

Health Insurance is not a requirement for students in Guyana. Students in need of medical treatment can receive free healthcare at the Georgetown Public Hospital. Students who may require private medical care must take out a medical health insurance policy.

Students in the USA are required to have health insurance. Billing for insurance will be added to your annual invoice.

INSURANCE

Liability Insurance

Liability Insurance is not a requirement for students in Guyana. Students on rotations in the USA and UK must have liability insurance. Billing for insurance will be added to your annual invoice.

STUDENT SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

Student Services

Student Affairs Office
- For counselling and advise on issues affecting student
- Seek resolve to problems that affects student performance at the institution
- Assistance in planning and organizing student led activities
- Arbitration to resolve conflict between student and other stakeholders at the University

Administrative Office
- To request basic academic information eg. Timetables
- To enquire about general resources applicable to students eg. Access to internet, student email access, student id, student badges
- To schedule meetings with Management, faculty etc. who may not be available to students to approach directly
- To confirm any changes to regular scheduled activities at the university, including faculty make up classes, delay in class
- Request general information on activities related to the University

Academic Office
- Request student grades, course material, transcripts, teaching aids and other academic related information
- Request for Leave of Absence

Clinical Sciences Office
- Communicate all matters relating to clinical education which includes, lectures, clinical placement, preceptors’ evaluation,
- Preparations for GAU clinical sciences assessment and board exams

Finance Office
- Tuition and related matters
- Inquiry about student aid

Georgetown American University Student Associations

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association was established by the Student Body of GAU in order to provide an effective organization for the administration of student activities, to promote academic freedom and academic responsibility, to establish and protect student rights, to foster awareness of the student’s position in the campus, national and international communities, and to provide a liaison between the student body, faculty, and administration.
The Membership of the Student Government Association consists of all enrolled students who have paid the Student Activities Fee at
There are several subcommittees within the Student Government

Medical Students Associations help expose medical students to information and exercises not generally covered in traditional curricula. The main associations are:

Honor Council – the disciplinary society elected by the student body to enforce and maintain the University honor code.
American Medical Students Association – GAU Chapter
National Association of Medical Students – Guyana Chapter
Journal Club
GAU Sports Society

The general requirements for graduation from the Doctor of Medicine Program

Students must complete all requirements prior to graduating from the university. Each candidate must have:

Successfully complete the required courses and assessments prescribed for their chosen curriculum (see pages 6 – 8)
An approved audit on file with the academic office for each academic program in which enrolled
File a graduation application on or before the deadline

In order to be eligible to participate in a commencement ceremony and to be listed in the commencement program, all degree candidates’ must be eligible for graduation.

Students who have not completed eligibility for graduation before the commencement ceremony should still be entitle to uplift transcripts and certification upon completion of all requirements. These students will be eligible to participate in a commencement ceremony proceeding their graduation from the program.