Self-Directed Learning
Self-Directed Learning (SDL) is a foundational component of the University of Northern Colorado College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNC COM) curriculum. Students are expected to take ownership of their education and actively engage in learning activities beyond formal classroom instruction. Dedicated SDL time is incorporated into the first and second years of the curriculum to support the development of critical thinking, problem-solving and lifelong learning skills essential to medical practice.
Through Self-Directed Learning, students explore topics in greater depth, integrate knowledge across disciplines and develop habits of continuous inquiry. Faculty provide guidance in setting learning goals, identifying appropriate resources and evaluating progress. This structured yet flexible approach prepares students to adapt to the evolving practice of medicine and reinforces the osteopathic principles of holistic care, intellectual curiosity and professional growth.