The curriculum for the M.D. degree at the UC Davis School of Medicine is a four-year program providing comprehensive preparation for graduate medical training (internships and residencies) and the practice of medicine. It offers a highly integrated approach to basic science training and clinical experience with opportunities for research. The I-EXPLORE (Integrated EXplorative Patient & Learner Oriented Education) curriculum utilizes a competency-based medical education that emphasizes the achievement of knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitudes through a variety of experiences that span all four years of the program. Competencies are assessed through a variety of methods that include both formative and summative events. Competency-based education is designed in a collaborative and integrative manner that allows students to grow and evolve throughout their educational experience. For more information, see UC Davis School of Medicine M.D. Program.