Committee on Medical Education

outside view of HEC building

The Committee on Medical Education (CME) is a standing committee of the Faculty of Medicine. CME evaluates, reviews, and makes recommendations concerning overall goals and policies of the two medical education programs, the University Program (CWRU) and the College Program (CCLCM). 

Background

The first meeting of the Western Reserve University School of Medicine Committee on Medical Education took place on October 30, 1950. Chaired by T. Hale Ham, the CME was organized to effect the new curriculum revision as an active representative of the general faculty.

Today, according to the CME charge amended on August 19, 2019, membership consists of:

  • the Chair
  • twelve elected faculty members
    • at least three from clinical science departments
    • at least three from basic science departments
  • two faculty members appointed by the Dean
  • five student members, each elected by their class (2 UP, 2 CP, 1 MSTP)
  • two Associate Deans for Curriculum (UP & CP)
  • the Vice Dean for Medical Education
  • the Executive Dean for the College Program
  • the Assistant Deans for UP & CP
  • the Associate Dean for Graduate Medical Education
  • one representative of the Society Deans for UP & CP

The privilege of voting is accorded to the chair, twelve elected faculty members, the two appointed faculty members, the Executive Dean for CP, the two Associate Deans for Curriculum, a Society Dean for UP and CP, and three student representatives (1 UP, 1 CP, 1 MSTP).

Responsibilities 

The CME encourages the expression of all viewpoints by faculty, students, and administrators in its attempt to improve existing policy and create innovative programs. According to its charge, the CME has the following responsibilities:

  • defining the overall objectives of medical education
  • reviewing class cohort performance on board qualifying exams
  • evaluating the overall content and appropriateness of the educational program and curriculum leading to the MD degree (including the MD portion of joint degree programs) by defined expectations and on a regular basis
  • assuring that the quality of teaching is reviewed on a regular basis
  • promoting the integration within and among all phases of the educational program and curriculum
  • ensuring the appropriateness of the representation of each discipline within the curricular content
  • suggesting, promoting, and evaluating new approaches to medical education
  • reviewing the implementation of education policy