College of Medicine MD Curriculum

Scholarly Pathway: Academic Leadership

Silhouetted group of hikers standing together on a mountain peak above the clouds, representing leadership, teamwork and reaching shared goals.

Purpose

The aim of the Scholarly Pathway of Excellence in Academic Leadership is to provide medical students with structured opportunities to explore and develop expertise in the principles and practice of academic leadership. Woven across the curriculum, the pathway supports applied, longitudinal learning through a series of electives, including foundations of academic leadership, leadership in academic systems, applied leadership in clinical and academic settings, and culminating in a capstone and transition-to-leadership experience. The program emphasizes mentorship, reflection, and research, while also introducing students to meaningful community engagement. Additionally, it fosters opportunities for cross-class dialogue, enabling students to share and learn from diverse leadership experiences.

Pathway Co-Directors

Headshot of Dr. Eric R. Carlson

Eric R. Carlson, M.D., D.M.D., Ed.M.

Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Affairs 
Professor of Surgery

Headshot of Dr. Jeremy J. Laukka

Jeremy J. Laukka, Ph.D.

Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education
Professor of Medical Education & Neurology

Capacity

Number of Students Accepted into M1 Cohort: 5

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Last Updated: 5/8/26