Department of Anatomy

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Introduction

Anatomy is one of the basic science departments housed in the College of Graduate Studies. We provide an integrated anatomical sciences curriculum for the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. This three-quarter sequence blends together the classic anatomical disciplines of gross anatomy, microanatomy (histology), embryology, and neuroscience into a single integrated course each quarter. We also provide an integrated two-quarter anatomical sciences curriculum for the College of Veterinary Medicine. For other programs we provide individual courses in the classic anatomical disciplines tailored to the needs of the program. Our expertise and facilities are available for many exciting outreach events. The research of our faculty reflects the diversity of our teaching programs with members specializing in everything from anthropology to neuropathology. Please see the individual faculty pages for detailed descriptions.

AZCOM anatomical sciences curriculum

For the AZCOM anatomical sciences curriculum, lectures are grouped with dissection workshops and ultrasound workshops for most units. The curriculum still follows a region-based approach that begins with the back, followed by body cavities (thorax, abdomen, pelvis), limbs, and head and neck. The dissection schedule is coordinated with the AZCOM clinical medicine course so that both courses teach the same region of the body at the same time. The study of anatomy is particularly germane to osteopathic medicine because the relationship between structure and function is a fundamental tenet of osteopathic philosophy. Direct observation of human structure at gross and microscopic levels is the essence of the anatomical sciences curriculum. In dissection workshops, students participate in the dissection of the cadaver under the guidance of faculty and student TAs. Dissection is supplemented by the study of surface anatomy, models, osteologic specimens, radiographs, and transverse sections. In ultrasound workshops, students apply their anatomical knowledge in a clinical format under the guidance of faculty and student TAs. The microscopic structure of cells and their organization into tissues and organs are presented at the same time as the gross anatomy. Gross and microscopic anatomy are best understood in the context of embryology, where students study the normal pattern of human development with an emphasis on the development of specific organ systems. Neuroscience content focuses on the sensory and motor systems and uses case studies to apply and reinforce clinical concepts.