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The Directed Study Pathway is built for students who prefer independence but still want structure, accountability, and faculty support.

At Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, this pathway allows students to manage their own schedules for independent learning while following clear expectations, learning objectives, scheduled weekly meetings and assessment timelines.

Watch a Short From the Directed Study Pathway

Key Takeaways

• Directed Study emphasizes independent learning with defined checkpoints
• Students manage their daily schedules for independent learning
• Faculty lead basic and clinical science meetings to help students consolidate information
• Faculty provide learning objectives, quizzes, exams and guidance
• Accountability is built through regular assessments
• Students in Directed Study must be disciplined and comfortable organizing their own flexible daily routine

What a Typical Day Looks Like

In the Directed Study Pathway, there is no traditional daily lecture schedule. Students attend one to two faculty led DSP meetings per week to consolidate basic and clinical science. Students determine when and how they study, guided by published learning objectives and upcoming assessments.

Faculty meetings, quizzes, and exams occur on a defined schedule. Outside of those requirements, students work independently, reviewing material at their own pace.

This allows students to allocate time where they need it most while still staying aligned with curriculum expectations.

How Learning Is Structured

Although students study independently, the pathway is not unstructured. Faculty provide learning objectives, assigned readings, and assessments that define what students need to know and when.

Quizzes and meetings help keep students accountable and provide feedback. Faculty also clarify complex topics and highlight high-yield material.

This balance allows independence without isolation.

Shared Foundations Within a Flexible Structure

While the Directed Study Pathway allows for a high degree of independence, students at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine also share core elements of the curriculum across all learning pathways.

All students complete Osteopathic Principles and Practice (OPP) and History and Physical Examination (H&P) together during the first two years of medical school. These courses span all four semesters of the preclinical curriculum and include both lecture-based instruction and hands-on laboratory experiences.

This shared structure ensures that every student develops the same foundational clinical skills, physical examination techniques, and osteopathic approach to patient care. While most of the remaining coursework is delivered through each student’s selected pathway, these core courses create a consistent clinical foundation and a common experience across the class.

Accountability and Self-Discipline

Success in the Directed Study Pathway depends heavily on self-motivation to learn and study independently for assesments. Students must stay organized, track deadlines, and ensure consistent progress through the material.

Assessments serve as checkpoints, helping students identify gaps and adjust their study approach. For students who understand they learn best independently, this pathway can be highly effective.

Who Thrives in Directed Study

Students who are independent learners and who prefer controlling their own learning schedules often find Directed Study appealing. This pathway works well for individuals who are disciplined, organized, and comfortable managing their time.

It also suits students who appreciate faculty guidance without requiring daily lectures.

Watch the Full Video: LECOM Medical School Pathways Explained

Final Perspective

Directed Study reflects the reality of lifelong learning in medicine. Physicians must continually educate themselves, often independently.

For students who are prepared to take ownership of their education while meeting clear expectations, this pathway offers flexibility without sacrificing rigor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Directed Study Pathway completely self-paced?

No. Students follow a defined schedule of assessments and required meetings.

Do students receive faculty support?

Yes. Faculty provide learning objectives, quizzes, meetings, and clarification when needed.

Is Directed Study harder than other pathways?

The difficulty depends on the student’s ability to manage time and stay disciplined to keep up with the content and their independent preparation.

Does this pathway prepare students for boards?

Yes. All pathways deliver the same curriculum and prepare students for board examinations.