Revised microbiology core knowledge objectives for modern undergraduate medical education

Defining the core content for each scientific discipline in a modern preclinical medical education curriculum is critical to ensure optimal student learning and application of foundational knowledge for clinical practice. Attendees of the Association of Medical School Microbiology and Immunology Chairs (AMSMIC) Educational Strategies Workshop recently highlighted the need for updated medical microbiology learning objectives, given the shift in medical education toward less time for preclinical coursework and more integrated learning. Herein, we describe the process of developing a comprehensive, educator-driven set of knowledge objectives for medical microbiology. These objectives emphasize common pathogens, as well as pathogens associated with severe disease, organized by clinical presentation and disease processes. They also recognize newer pathogen identification methods used in clinical laboratories and provide flexibility to address emerging pathogens. Educators can use these objectives to refine curricula and define core content expected to appear on major medical licensure examinations.